Secondary Suites and Accessory Dwelling Units

Secondary suites and accessory dwelling units (ADUs) provide additional housing options within existing neighbourhoods.

They make efficient use of land and infrastructure while supporting diverse housing needs in Sooke.

Both housing types are regulated by the District of Sooke Zoning Bylaw and must also comply with the BC Building Code to ensure safety, livability, and accessibility.

The District has updated its zoning bylaw to align with provincial Small-Scale Multi-Unit Housing (SSMUH) legislation, which allows most residential lots to include multiple housing units—such as secondary suites and ADUs—depending on lot size, location, and servicing.

What's the Difference?

Secondary Suite

A self-contained dwelling unit located within a single-family home, such as a basement or lower-level suite.

It shares the same water, sewer, and electrical connections as the main home.

Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU)

A separate, smaller dwelling located on the same lot as a principal residence. ADUs can include:

Garden suites or carriage houses (detached units)
Above-garage suites
Laneway homes (where permitted)

Under Sooke’s updated Zoning Bylaw, eligible lots may contain both a secondary suite and an accessory dwelling unit, subject to zoning, servicing, and building requirements.

General Information

When a Suite or ADU Is Permitted

Most residential zones in Sooke permit secondary suites and accessory dwelling units, consistent with provincial SSMUH legislation.

Before starting design or construction, confirm your property’s zoning by reviewing the Zoning Map and applicable Zone Schedules in the Zoning Bylaw.

Some lots may have site-specific restrictions related to:

Parcel size or configuration
Slope or natural hazards
Water or sewer servicing capacity

Key Requirements

All suites and ADUs must comply with:

BC Building Code standards (fire separation, exits, ventilation, energy efficiency, ceiling height, etc.)
Zoning regulations (density, lot coverage, setbacks, and parking)
Water and sewer servicing requirements
Separate entrance, kitchen, and bathroom facilities
Building permit and final inspection approval prior to occupancy

If the property uses an on-site septic system, review and approval from Island Health is typically required.

Parking Considerations

Each property containing a suite or ADU must provide sufficient off-street parking, as outlined in the Zoning Bylaw.

Typically:

One space for the principal dwelling, and
One additional space for the suite or ADU.

Steps to Add a Suite or ADU

Step 1. Confirm Zoning

Review your property’s zoning to confirm eligibily.

Step 2. Prepare Design Plans

Ensure plans meet Zoning Bylaw and BC Building Code requirements.

Step 3. Apply for a Building Permit

Submit the application, design plans, and fees to Building Services.

Step 4. Book Inspections

Schedule inspections during construction to verify code compliance.

Step 5. Receive Final Occupancy Approval

The suite or ADU may be occupied only after receiving final approval.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a building permit to add a suite or ADU?

Yes. A building permit, in accordance with teh BC Building Code, is required for any new secondary suite or ADU, or when converting an existing space into a dwelling unit.

Can I rent out my secondary suite or ADU?

Yes. Both secondary suites and accessory dwelling units (ADUs) may be rented, provided they:

Are permitted by zoning on your property
Meet BC Building Code requirements
Have received final inspection approval from the District

The Provincial Home Suite Home Guide is a helpful resource to learn more and better understand if building a secondary suite or an ADU is right for you.

Can I build both a suite and an ADU?

Yes - in most residential zones. The number and type of units permitted depend on factors such as:

Lot size and dimensions - Under provincial SSMUH regulations and Sooke’s zoning, most residential lots can accommodate:
- Up to 3 units on lots 280 m² or smaller
- Up to 4 units on lots larger than 280 m²
Location within the District
Available water and sewer servicing capacity
On site parking availability

Refer to “Secondary Suites” and “Accessory Dwelling Units” of the Zoning Bylaw for more details.

Thinking about a Secondary Suite or ADU?

Building a secondary suite or accessory dwelling unit can create long-term rental housing, support multi-generational living, and add flexibility to your property.

Learn More Before You Start: Home Suite Home Guide (Province of BC)

Is a Suite or ADU Allowed on Your Property?

What you can build depends on zoning, lot size, setbacks, and site conditions.

Zoning regulations determine whether secondary suites, ADUs, or both are permitted and outline size, height, and siting requirements.

Zoning

Building Code and Safety Requirements

Secondary suites and ADUs must meet BC Building Code requirements to ensure safety, fire separation, and livability.

Building permits and inspections are required. Code requirements may affect layout, exits, ceiling heights, fire protection, and sound separation.

Learn About Building Code Requirements Before You Begin