How much further your lot can grow — remaining footprint, height, and GFA capacity under current zoning.
The capacity analysis below compares your existing building against the maximum permitted envelope. Rear, side, and vertical addition opportunities are identified along with program yield — what the additional area translates to in rooms and bedrooms.
Here’s what fits on your lot.
Massing computed from setbacks, lot geometry, and zoning height limits — a conservative envelope before architectural massing optimisation.
Where you can expand.
Dimensions are estimated from lot geometry, zoning setbacks, and the existing building footprint. Confirm with a survey and site-specific review before proceeding.
Vertical Addition
Build above the existing house within the permitted height envelope.
Rear Addition
Expand behind the existing rear wall while staying inside the buildable footprint.
Side Addition
Side-yard expansion appears narrow and likely needs design review.
Projects similar to yours.
Nearby permit records within 300m and Committee of Adjustment records within 250m from the last 24 months.
Proposal for second-storey addition, interior alterations, and a new basement suite.
Minor variance application for a partial rear one-storey addition with deck and rear cantilevered second-storey addition.
Revision to structural work for a ground and second floor rear addition.
Existing vs. max envelope.
| Metric | Existing | Max Permitted | Remaining |
|---|---|---|---|
| Footprint | 474 ft² | 793 ft² | +319 ft² |
| Height | 17 ft | 28 ft | +11 ft (~1 storey) |
| GFA | 474 ft² | 1,586 ft² | +1,112 ft² |
Some standards may vary depending on unit configuration, frontage conditions, window placement, and lot geometry.
Floor-by-floor GCA estimate.
| Level | Est. GCA (m²) | Est. GCA (ft²) |
|---|---|---|
| Ground Floor | 74 m² | 793 ft² |
| Level 2 | 74 m² | 793 ft² |
| Total Est. GCA | 147 m² | 1,586 ft² |
GCA estimates are based on the computed buildable footprint at each floor level. Actual achievable floor area depends on core / corridor placement, structural design, and final unit mix. Professional massing optimization typically improves these numbers 8–15%.
Three credible programs for your lot.
Each is a starting point — a real design pass will refine unit count, mix, and circulation against site-specific constraints.
- —620 ft2 addition
- —1 storey
- —Lowest variance risk
- —Keeps main floor expansion simple
- —1,180 ft2 addition
- —2 storey partial scope
- —Best value balance
- —Adds bedrooms without full rebuild
- —1,850 ft2 addition
- —Major structural scope
- —Highest construction cost
- —Full family-home transformation
What might slow you down.
These factors may significantly affect achievable unit count, floorplate efficiency, and overall development feasibility.
What you'll file with the City.
Permit and approval requirements vary depending on the final building design, unit count, parking configuration, and servicing conditions.
This is a snapshot.
Let's make it real.
Proceed with an architect-led feasibility review before committing to design drawings. The best first pass is to test two options: a compliant rear addition and a rear-plus-second-storey concept. That comparison will show whether the added construction cost of vertical work is justified by the extra bedrooms and long-term value.
LotMore provides preliminary zoning and development insights for informational purposes only. We do not guarantee accuracy or compliance with applicable by-laws, codes, or regulations. All use of this website is at your own risk. Users should consult a qualified professional before making any development or construction decisions.