ARU Public Meeting – December 9, 2025
Members of the public are invited to a Public Meeting on Tuesday, December 9, 2025 at 5:00 p.m. at Town Hall (56 Queen Street).
This meeting is being held to discuss proposed changes to the Zoning By-law that would make it easier to develop housing options in Port Hope through Additional Residential Units (ARUs) and creative housing options (mobile homes, modular homes, and tiny homes).
What are ARUs?
ARUs are self-contained living spaces, on the same property as the main home. They can take many forms, such as a unit within the main house (for example, a basement apartment or an addition above ground), or a small, separate building in the backyard
The development of ARUs in Port Hope could help increase housing choices, improve affordability, and make better use of existing properties.
What changes are being proposed?
The changes being proposed by the Municipality are to make it easier for residents to build different types of housing on their property, which is part of the Municipality’s Housing Action Strategy. The proposed changes would allow for more options for affordable and attainable homes. Changes include:
- Clearer Definitions: Make it easier to understand what counts as a home and the different types of homes allowed.
- New Housing Types: Allow modular homes, tiny homes, and other creative housing options to be both main homes and extra units on a property.
- More Flexibility for Additional Residential Units (ARUs):
- Allow bigger ARUs and more lot coverage.
- Permit taller ARUs in detached buildings.
- Adjust setbacks for taller ARUs.
- Allow more bedrooms in ARUs.
- Reduce parking requirements for ARUs.
Participation in the meeting
The Public Meeting is taking place in-person at Town Hall (56 Queen Street). There will be an opportunity for public comments at the meeting. If you wish to submit a comment in advance, please email our Planning Division, or call 905-885-2431 ext.2516. If you do not wish to participate in the meeting, it will also be live-streamed on the Municipal YouTube Channel.
Additional Information
Additional Information regarding these amendments is available on the Municipal Website and on the Engagement Project Webpage. You can also enquire in-person, during business hours at the Development Team office located at 5 Mill Street.
2025-11-27