Up to Four Units
Fourplexes are permitted citywide under Toronto's multiplex framework, subject to the applicable residential zoning rules, property-specific restrictions and building permits.
TORONTO MULTIPLEX GUIDE
How Many Units Can You Build?
Toronto now allows four-unit multiplexes across the city in eligible residential zones. Some locations also permit five- or six-unit multiplexes. The exact number and building design depend on your property's zoning, lot dimensions, existing building and applicable exceptions.
Lakmé Homes Inc. helps homeowners explore the possibilities, from an existing-house conversion to a new purpose-built multiplex.
CITY OF TORONTO · CURRENT ZONING
Understand Your Options.
Toronto's rules are not the same for every property. Here are the main starting points.
Five or Six Units
Six-unit permissions are in force in the Toronto & East York District and Ward 23 (Scarborough North), subject to the applicable rules. Elsewhere, five- and six-unit permissions require an address-specific review.
Setbacks & Building Size
Front, side and rear setbacks, lot coverage, height, landscaping and other zoning requirements depend on the zone and any site-specific exceptions. There is no single setback that applies to every multiplex lot.
Parking & Entrances
Toronto generally does not require on-site parking for duplexes, triplexes or fourplexes. Multiple front entrances can be permitted; any parking provided must meet applicable standards.
Garden or Laneway Suite
A garden suite or laneway suite may be possible on the same lot as a multiplex when all applicable rules are met. It is not an automatic approval or a guaranteed number of additional units.
Permits & Safety
Building permits, code-compliant fire separation and exits, structural design, plumbing, servicing and other requirements must be addressed before a conversion or new construction can proceed.
BEFORE YOU INVEST
What Does the City Review?
01
Zoning
Permitted unit count, residential zone, setbacks, height, coverage and site-specific exceptions.
02
Existing Building
Foundation, structure, ceiling heights, stairs, entrances and practical unit layouts.
03
Building Code
Fire safety, sound separation, egress, ventilation and other Ontario Building Code requirements.
04
Site Servicing
Water, sanitary drainage, utilities, waste storage and access, as applicable to the proposal.
CONVERSIONS & NEW CONSTRUCTION
From One Home to Multiple Homes.
We work with owners considering bungalow conversions, detached multiplexes, semi-detached properties and combinations with backyard housing. A semi-detached property with separate suites is not automatically classified as one fourplex; Toronto's zoning definitions distinguish multiplexes from other building types.
OFFICIAL CITY INFORMATION
Check the Rules for Your Address.
For the most accurate answer, check the property's zoning and current City guidance before planning the number of units or estimating construction costs.
Multiplex Housing
Toronto's official overview of where fourplexes and sixplexes are permitted.
Read City guidance ↗Property Requirements
City explanations of zoning, setbacks, parking and garden-suite combinations.
Review requirements ↗Permit Applications
Review the City's drawing and documentation requirements for a multiplex conversion.
See permit guide ↗Information reflects City of Toronto guidance reviewed October 2026. Rules can change and differ outside Toronto. Feasibility and permit approval must be confirmed for each property.
START WITH YOUR PROPERTY
What Could Your Property Become?
Tell us your Toronto or GTA address and the number of units you have in mind. We'll discuss the next steps for a property-specific review.
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