Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs)

Whether you're building an accessory dwelling unit (ADU), laneway house, or garden suite our residential architectural drawing services will deliver plans tailored to your needs, preferences, and property restrictions. 

From modern to traditional designs, trust us to transform your laneway house, garden suite, or ADU seamlessly from concept to completion with our full-service design and building permit facilitation. 

We offer complete design and drawing packages for permit applications, including: 

• Stamped BCIN (Building Code Identification Number) certified architectural construction and structural drawings
• HVAC calculation and design drawings
• Schedule 1 forms—mandatory for all Ontario municipalities
• All other mandatory documents requested by municipalities

We have experience ranging from detached tiny homes up to large laneway houses. Throughout the entire process we will coordinate with necessary trades like structural engineers, HVAC designers, surveyors, and truss/floor manufacturers as needed.

Fine Line Drafting & Design is registered with the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing.

As a homeowner, whether you're looking for rental income or a multi-generational living space, adding a unit on your property can be a great solution. 

What is an accessory dwelling unit (ADU)? 

An accessory dwelling unit is a secondary dwelling built on a lot that is also occupied by a larger main home. Accessory dwelling units go by different terms in different municipalities, from garden suites in Toronto to accessory buildings in Aylmer. They are also commonly called tiny homes. 

There are two main types of accessory dwelling units: 

• Attached accessory dwelling unit (AADU): for example, an annex attached to the main residence or garage
• Detached accessory dwelling unit (DADU): for example, a stand-alone unit not adjoining the main home

The province is encouraging homeowners to build accessory dwelling units with the passing of Bill 23, also known as the More Homes Built Faster Act, which allows up to three residential units on any parcel of urban residential land. The Government of Ontario offers a comprehensive guide to help plan and build a second unit which can be read here. 

Municipalities across Ontario are also updating their policies to embrace accessory dwelling units. Some municipalities, such as the County of Lambton and the City of Toronto, even offer incentives to homeowners looking to add an accessory dwelling unit to their property. 

If you're considering adding an accessory dwelling unit to your property, contact us today for a quote.