What is a Detached Accessory Dwelling Unit (DADU)?
A self-contained dwelling unit, detached from and clearly accessory to a single-family residential dwelling. Other names for DADUs include garden suite, backyard cottage, granny flat or laneway house.
I'm interested in building a DADU. What should I do next?
Read the Detached Accessory Dwelling Unit (DADU) guide to learn about costs, permits, timelines and the DADU approval process. Please consider:
- DADUs are only permitted in the rear yard.
- The maximum DADU size permitted is 65 m2 (700 ft2).
- The size of DADUs and other structures is also limited by maximum lot coverage and setback regulations.
- The owner of the property is required to live in either the DADU or the principal dwelling.
- No stratification of DADUs is permitted.
You may set up a meeting with a Planner to discuss your proposal by calling Development Services.
Resources:
Short term rentals
- The Township of Esquimalt does not allow short-term rental of any part of a residential dwelling.
- The Township does not issue business licenses for short-term rentals as they are prohibited.
- The Township expects to review its regulations around short-term rentals in the coming year. Please contact council@esquimalt.ca if you would like to provide input.
