Do I need parking for a basement apartment in Ottawa?

Yes, you typically need to provide parking for a basement apartment in Ottawa, but the requirements vary by zoning and location.

The City of Ottawa's Zoning By-law generally requires one parking space per dwelling unit, which includes secondary dwelling units like basement apartments. However, the specific requirements depend on your property's zoning designation and location within the city.

Ottawa Parking Requirements for Secondary Units

In most residential zones (R1, R2, R3), you'll need to maintain the original parking requirement for your main house PLUS provide additional parking for the basement apartment. This usually means:

• Single-family home: 1-2 spaces originally required
• Basement apartment: 1 additional space required
• Total: 2-3 parking spaces on your property

The parking space must meet City standards - typically 2.7m x 6m (9ft x 20ft) with proper access to the street. Tandem parking (one behind the other) is often acceptable if both spaces serve the same property owner.

Exceptions and Reductions

Ottawa does offer parking reductions in certain areas:

• Transit-Oriented Development zones: Reduced parking requirements near LRT stations and major transit routes
• Downtown core: Some areas have reduced or no parking requirements
• Heritage districts: May have different standards due to lot constraints
• Properties near frequent transit: Potential for reduced requirements

Getting Approval Through the Process

When applying for your secondary dwelling unit permit through ottawa.ca/building (613-580-2424), the parking requirement will be reviewed as part of your zoning compliance. If your property can't accommodate the required parking due to lot size or configuration, you may need:

Minor Variance Application - Apply to the Committee of Adjustment for relief from parking requirements (~$1,500 fee, 6-8 week process)

Site Plan Approval - For more complex situations requiring detailed review

What to Watch For

Don't assume you can skip the parking requirement - this is one of the most common reasons secondary unit applications get delayed or rejected. The City takes parking seriously because of neighborhood impact concerns. Some contractors or property owners try to proceed without proper parking compliance, which can result in:

• Permit application rejection
• Order to cease occupancy
• Difficulty selling the property later
• Neighbor complaints and bylaw enforcement

Getting Definitive Answers

Before investing in basement apartment renovations, contact City of Ottawa Planning at 613-580-2424 or submit a pre-consultation request through ottawa.ca. They can review your specific property and zoning to confirm exact parking requirements. This typically costs $200-400 but can save thousands in potential redesign costs later.

The parking requirement often determines whether a basement apartment project is feasible, so verify this early in your planning process before hiring contractors or applying for building permits.