How To Get a Legal Basement in Brampton

Having a second dwelling unit in your house such as a finished basement is a great idea for anyone who wants more space. These second units are allowed  in detached, semi-detached and townhouse dwellings. In fact, it’s such an awesome add on that there are currently over 25% of houses across Canada with these types of units.

If you are considering basement finishing, and want to make sure it is legal in Brampton, it must be registered with the city of Brampton.

The conditions under the Zoning By-law are as follows to qualify: 

1) Only one second unit is allowed in a two unit dwelling.

2) No additional parking is required for the creation of a secondary dwelling. The lot must have the minimum number of parking spots required by the General Residential Provisions (Section 10.9) of the Zoning By-law.

3) The second unit dwelling must have a smaller floor space than the primary unit. 

4) The second unit's entrance can be positioned in the side or rear yard as long as there is a 1.2m clear line of travel to the main entrance, which is wholly on the subject property.

A landing serving a second unit entry must be less than 0.6m above ground level and can only be 0.9m long and wide. Steps must be provided at both the front and back of the landing.

Two-unit dwellings are not permitted on land zoned Open Space, Floodplain, or inside the Downtown Floodplain Regulation Area. 

When the Zoning By-law compliance is verified during the pre-application review, you can then submit the building permit application for Change of Use of to a Two-Unit Dwelling and must include your application forms, construction drawings and registration permit fees.

Once you've applied for your building permit, the city of Brampton permit office will call to let you know that it is ready and waiting. Any outstanding permit fees are paid before the permit is issued. It is recommended to pick up the paperwork in person.