Introducing the New Aging In Place: Additional Residential Units (ARUs) Guide

The Township of Essa is excited to announce the release of our new Additional Residential Units (ARUs) Guide! This guide has been created to help residents and homeowners navigate the process of incorporating ARUs into their properties, providing valuable information to make the implementation as smooth and straightforward as possible.

ARUs offer an excellent opportunity to increase housing availability while also providing residents with additional rental income or multi-generational living solutions and are permitted uses throughout all Residential Zones, including Agricultural and Rural Zones. 

Our comprehensive guide covers essential information about the zoning requirements, building codes, permits, and step-by-step instructions on how to successfully design, plan, and execute an ARU on your property while also providing information on how ARUs can be registered and built legally, with accessibility and support for residents who may want to age-in-place. Whether you’re considering an ARU for the first time or looking to ensure your current unit meets all local regulations, this guide is here to support you. The comprehensive guide is now available online.

To further assist residents, we are hosting a series of free information sessions at our local libraries. These sessions will provide a hands-on opportunity to learn about the ARU process, ask questions, and receive personalized advice from the Township's Building and Planning Departments. Workshop dates and locations are as follows:

Thornton Public Library

Date: Monday March 24th, 2025 

Time: 3:00 p.m. 

Location: 34 Robert St, Thornton, ON L0L 2N0

Registration link: Aging in Place: Building Additional Residential Units for Seniors | Thornton Branch

Angus Public Library

Date: Tuesday March 25th, 2025 

Time: 3:00 p.m. 

Location: 8505 County Rd 10 Unit 1, Angus, ON L3W 0A7

Registration link: Aging in Place: Building Additional Residential Units in Essa Information Session | Angus Branch

For more details or any questions, you can email aburmy@essatownship.on.ca or call 705-424-9917 ext. 137. 

To view the full guide and begin planning your ARU project, visit the ARU website page here. 

We look forward to supporting you in creating more diverse and accessible housing solutions in Essa Township!