In 2013, The Town of Newmarket passed
By-law 2013-13 (as amended) which requires all residences with Additional Residential Unit (ARUs) - previously known as Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) to register their units through a one-time application process.
What is an Additional Residential Unit (ARU)?
ARUs are two separate living units within one house. ARUs can be basement apartments, in-law suites, second suites or otherwise. ARUs are required to be registered with the Town of Newmarket's Legislative Services Department.
Each ARU unit must have:
- a private entrance
- a kitchen
- living quarters
- sleeping facilities
- bathroom facilities
If you rent a room in a house or a flat with a shared entrance, kitchen and/ or bathroom facilities, the ARU By- law does not apply to you.
Do I need a building permit?
For questions related to ARUs and building permits, consult the
Homeowners Guide to ARUs or contact the
Building Department.
Why do I need to register my ARU?
Registering your ARU is a matter of health and safety. When you register your ARU, you will receive a small "N" plate (N for Newmarket) to put on the front of your home which identifies that the residence has an ARU.
The ARU will also be assigned the letter "B" in the primary home address, to show it is a separate residence.
In case of emergency, the "N" plate and the "B" address will help emergency responders to know there are two units in the home - saving time and potentially saving lives.
Additionally, houses with an "N" plate are entitled to put out more garbage (from three bags per household to six) and recycling items on their collection weeks, which also improves overall health and safety in the home.
Registration means: responsible landlords and safe tenants.
To register your ARU, please visit this webpage for a
step-by-step guide on how to register your ARU. For more information, please
visit the ARU Frequently Asked Questions Page.
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