Members of the public are invited to an Open House to learn about and provide input on  Markham’s proposed new policy on second suites:

What is a second suite?

A second suite is a common name for a basement apartment, an accessory apartment or another form of secondary residential unit in a house that contains no more than one other residential unit.
 
What is Markham’s current policy for second suites?

Houses with second suites are generally not permitted in Markham, except in specific areas where the zoning permits them, or where a second suite existed on November 16, 1995 and is recognized as a permitted use under provincial legislation.

A house containing a second suite must be registered with the Town and comply with building and fire safety codes and property standards.

What is Markham’s proposed new policy for second suites?
In February 2008, Council decided to hold an Open House to receive input from the public on a proposed new policy for second suites that would include:

• Zoning: Equitable zoning permission for second suites in single detached and semi-detached houses across Markham, subject to specified zoning and property standards, and compliance with the Town’s new by-law to control extended driveways.
  
• Safety: Improved life safety and landlord accountability by requiring registration of houses with second suites every three (3) years (or upon change of ownership), to maintain compliance with all building and fire safety codes, property standards, etc.
  
• Education: A public education program providing information on how to register a second suite and comply with building and fire safety codes and property standards.

Those interested in second suites (basement apartments) are strongly encouraged to attend.