This page shows how to access info about regulations for residential properties. 

Before planning new units it is helpful to learn about the property you want to build on. This page shows how to look up a property (also known as a lot or parcel) in Toronto. And notes the important regulations that will impact a potential multi-unit project there. Most cities will have similar resources available. Also, many of the rules described below are similar to those you’ll find in other cities.

Navigate the Map Page

The city of Toronto has a map page  where you can look up the zoning rules for your lot You can type the address of a home. The map shows the footpring of buildings and the property lines that surround it You can zoom in click on on a building or its lot and a smaller window will pop up.

Navigate the Zoning bylaw

This small window includes links to the zoning bylaw chapter that applies to your lot. It also includes a link to Bylaw exceptions. If this seems complicated you can watch this video that explains how to navigate this page, access the bylaw, and understand the the rules that are most relevant to check This last diagram shows what the bylaw looks like. We‘ve highlighed in blue the sub-chapter in the zoning bylaw that describes buidling setbacks. We’ll describe these in a bit more detail below.

Sideyard Setback
To see if you can build on the side of a home, you’ll need to check your side yard setback. Once you locate your parcel on the zoning map, you can track this down in the zoning bylaw.

Rearyard Setback
To see if you can build behind your home, check your rear yard setback. You can also find this in the zoning bylaw. 

In Toronto there are rules to protect mature trees, and to protect natural areas such as ravines. Check this resource to learn more about tree protection areas, and here to learn about rules for lots that are next to a ravine, or other protected natural condition.