What Are Additional Residential Units (ARUs)?
Additional Residential Units (ARUs) are separate living spaces that can be built inside, attached to, or separate from a main dwelling. They are often called secondary units, coach houses, basement apartments, or additional dwelling units.
A building permit is required to construct an ARU. All ARUs must follow the Township’s Zoning By-law, the Ontario Building Code, the Fire Code, and any other rules that apply.
General Requirements
The exact requirements can vary depending on the property and applicable requirements, but common things to consider include:
- Lot size
- Maximum number of ARUs allowed on the property
- Parking requirements
- Size and location of the ARU
- Water and wastewater capacity
- Safe access and entrance location
- Compliance with the Ontario Building Code and Fire Code, in addition to other requirements that may apply
A Planner can assist you in determining if your property’s zoning permits an ARU, though a full zoning review will take place during the building permit process. Please contact the Planning Department at planning@russell.ca or visit the front counter at Town Hall, 717 Notre-Dame Street, Embrun, Ontario. The Planning, Building and Construction Departments are located on the lower level of Town Hall.
For frequently asked questions on Additional Residential Units (ARU), please visit our Frequently Asked Questions page.