Accessory Dwelling Units

What is an accessory dwelling unit?

An accessory dwelling unit, or ADU, is an independent secondary housing unit located on the same lot or parcel of land as an existing single-family home. ADUs could be a separate dwelling, attached to or within an accessory building (such as an existing detached garage) or an in-law suite in an existing home. 

ADUs have separate entrances and independent living, cooking, and washroom amenities. 

What are the changes?

While the former Subdivision and Development Regulations permitted secondary dwellings under limited circumstances, they could only be temporary dwellings (up to 2 years). The changes will allow for these units to be approved for long-term housing use.  

Note: Accessory dwelling units may only be used for housing on a long-term basis, more than 30 days, and cannot be used as short-term rentals or tourism accommodations.

Does this apply to me?

The changes apply to areas of the province outside a municipality with an official plan and bylaws. To find a list of municipalities with official plans and bylaws, click here.

Do I need a permit?

Yes. Development and building permits are required to develop ADUs. Units must comply with the Building Codes Act and be approved by the Provincial Fire Marshal. If an ADU requires a new entrance or change to an existing entrance to a roadway, a permit under the Roads Act Highway Access Regulations will also be required. 

When do these changes come into effect?

The new Subdivision and Development Regulations will come into effect on Saturday, February 10, 2024.  

Why are you making this change?

These changes will allow for increased housing density across the province.

For more information:

Lands Division 

J. Elmer Blanchard Building 

 
31 Gordon Dr. 

Charlottetown, PE  

C1A 6B8 

 

Phone: (902)-368-5280 

Email: landsdivision@gov.pe.ca 

Lands Division 

Access PEI  

 

41 Wood Islands Rd.

Montague, PE  

C0A 1R0 

 

Phone: (902)-361-1273 

Email: landsdivision@gov.pe.ca 

Lands Division 

Access PEI 

 

120 Heather Moyse Dr.

Summerside, PE  

C1N 5L2 

 

Phone: (902)-432-2802 

Email: landsdivision@gov.pe.ca 

Lands Division 

Access PEI 

 

45 East Dr. 

O'Leary, PE  

C0B 1V0 

 

Phone: (902)-726-1408 

Email: landsdivision@gov.pe.ca 

Published date: 
February 1, 2024
Housing, Land and Communities

General Inquiries

Land Division
J. Elmer Blanchard Building
31 Gordon Drive
PO Box 2000
Charlottetown, PE C1A 7N8

Phone: 902-368-5590
Fax: 902-368-5526

landsdivision@gov.pe.ca