North Grenville, ON —The Municipality of North Grenville is excited to announce the launch of its Additional Residential Unit (ARU) Initiative, part of the $5.2 million Housing Accelerator Fund (HAF) introduced in March 2024. 

This innovative initiative aims to expand housing options for current and future residents by offering a $10,000 grant and providing shovel-ready architectural blueprints for three customizable ARU designs where local planning rules permit their use.

The designs include one-bedroom, two-bedroom, and a barrier free option, ensuring there is a choice to meet the needs of all property owners.

 “Additional Residential Units can empower property owners to create valuable rental income, offer affordable housing options for young families, and provide opportunities for seniors to age in place,” said Mayor Nancy Peckford. “Where they align with residential zoning and related planning provisions, these thoughtfully designed small homes can enhance our community and provide a solution property owners will be proud to implement.”

The ARU initiative can offer a practical and accessible solution to diversifying housing and meeting the evolving needs of local residents where their construction is permitted by planning rules.

By reducing financial and design barriers that often hinder the construction of secondary units, the program makes it easier for property owners to contribute to the Municipality’s housing goals.

How the ARU Initiative Works
The initiative plans to fund the construction of 10 ARUs each year for three years, totaling 30 ARUs. Additionally, eligible property owners will have access to professionally designed architectural plans, specifically created to optimize the functionality of small homes.

Applications for the ARU Initiative will open February 17, 2025, with quarterly intake periods throughout the year. 

Each application will be reviewed based on a set of criteria, including proof of ownership of property on residential lands, plans to offer affordable rental options, alignment with local planning rules, and the demonstration of financing that will enable the ARU to be built within the timeline outlined in the grant agreement.

The construction of ARUs in North Grenville involves a structured application and approval process, including detailed design plans, building permits, financing considerations, and compliance with all zoning by-laws, building codes, and health and safety regulations.

Learn More and Get Involved
The Municipality will host a series of informational open houses for community members to learn more about the ARU Initiative. The first of these open houses will be held on Monday, February 24^th (5:00 - 7:00 pm) at the Municipal Centre and will include members of the Planning and Building Department who will be on hand to answer questions. 

A virtual session designed for builders, realtors, and other stakeholders will also be part of these open houses and will be announced at a future date. 

Requests for information can be directed to the Housing Accelerator Program Manager at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. 

For applications and further information, please visit www.northgrenville.ca/housing.

-30-

Media Contact:

Kyna Boyce, Director of Communications
Municipality of North Grenville
Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Connect with us!