Markham Secondary Suite Guide
Markham is the most restrictive GTA municipality for secondary suites — only select areas qualify.
Permit Fees
$3,000–$4,500
Timeline
3–4 months
Region
York (GTA)
Overview
Markham is the most restrictive GTA municipality for secondary suites. Unlike Toronto or Brampton, Markham only permits them in select areas: Markham Centre, Cornell, and Cathedraltown. Most older subdivisions in Unionville and Markham Village are NOT eligible.
Typical cost: $50,000–$125,000. Federal and provincial programs provide up to $120,000 in incentives, but check your zoning first — many Markham properties simply don't qualify.
Markham Requirements
| Requirement | Standard | Notes |
|---|---|---|
Ceiling Height | 1.95 m (6'5") minimum | OBC standard applies. |
Fire Separation | 1-hour fire-rated assembly | Type X drywall required. |
Egress Windows | 0.35 m² openable per bedroom | Window well required for below-grade. |
Parking | 1 space required | Markham requires 1 space per suite. |
Electrical | Separate 100A panel + ESA permit | ESA inspection mandatory. |
Plumbing | Separate meter + backwater valve | Backwater valve required. |
HVAC | Independent system OR zone control | HRV required if upgrading insulation. |
Zoning | Select areas only: Markham Centre, Cornell, Cathedraltown | Most restrictive in the GTA. Older subdivisions (Unionville, Markham Village) are NOT eligible. Verify with Planning at 905-477-5530. |
Ontario Building Code Standards (Apply Everywhere)
These OBC requirements apply to all secondary suites in Ontario, regardless of municipality.
Fire Separation: 1-hour fire-rated ceiling assembly (Type X drywall)
Required between dwelling units. 2024 OBC update: smoke-tight barriers may replace full fire separations in some configurations. Inspected before occupancy permit.
Egress Windows: Min 0.35 m² openable area per bedroom
Bottom of opening max 1.5 m above floor. Must be rescuable from outside.
Electrical: Separate 100A panel minimum
ESA inspection mandatory. AFCI breakers required for bedrooms.
Plumbing: Separate water meter + backwater valve
Drainage must meet Part 7 standards. Backflow prevention required.
HVAC: Independent heating system OR zone control
Ventilation: min 10 L/s per occupant. HRV recommended.
Permit Process
Step-by-step guide to getting your Markham building permit
Total Timeline
3–4 months
Permit Fees
$3,000–$4,500
Pre-Consultation
1–2 weeksFree meeting with Markham Building. CRITICAL: confirm your address is in an eligible area before investing in drawings.
Submit Application
1 dayUpload drawings via portal.
Plan Review
3–6 weeksCity reviews for compliance.
Permit Issuance
1 weekPay fees and receive permit.
Construction + Inspections
8–14 weeksCity inspects at key milestones.
Occupancy Permit
1–2 weeksFinal approval.
Incentives & Rebates
Federal and provincial programs that can help fund your secondary suite project. See all rebates available in Markham
Canada Secondary Suite Loan
Up to $80,000 at 0% interest
Federal forgivable loan.
Ontario Secondary Suite Incentive
Up to $40,000 forgivable
Must rent at 80% of market rate.
Pro tip: You can stack federal and provincial programs for up to $120,000 in combined funding. Apply for federal programs first, then provincial.
Markham-Specific Tips
- MOST RESTRICTIVE in the GTA — only Markham Centre, Cornell, and Cathedraltown areas are eligible.
- Verify your address with Planning (905-477-5530) BEFORE investing in design drawings.
- Parking: 1 space required per suite.
- If your property is not in an eligible area, consider a minor variance — but success is not guaranteed.
Official Resources
Secondary Suite Guides for Nearby Cities
Compare requirements and incentives in other Ontario municipalities.
Related Services
Common trades and services for basement apartment projects.
Complete Guide
Province-wide secondary suite guide with all requirements.
Learn moreUnderpinning
Excavate to lower floor and meet ceiling height requirements.
Learn moreWaterproofing
Fix moisture issues before finishing basement apartment.
Learn moreElectrical
Panel upgrades, separate meters, and ESA permits.
Learn morePlumbing
Drain capacity, backwater valves, and separate water meters.
Learn moreCommon Questions
Get a Quote for Your Markham Basement Apartment
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