What’s good in Northumberland? Tiny homes group sees room for granny suites, backyard homes, new housing options

As communities across Ontario continue searching for ways to address housing shortages, a Northumberland organization believes part of the answer may already exist in local backyards.

Think Tiny Homes Northumberland has launched a new website aimed at helping residents better understand tiny homes and additional dwelling units, often called ADUs. The site brings together zoning information, building code requirements and planning resources for all seven municipalities in Northumberland County.

The group’s goal is not to replace traditional housing, but to encourage more housing choices for seniors, young adults, families and renters.

Chair Monika Turner says many residents don’t realize they can legally add a second dwelling unit to their property.

Turner says those units can serve a variety of purposes, from housing aging parents to providing independent living space for adult children or creating rental opportunities.

She also hopes to clear up misconceptions surrounding tiny homes.

Turner says tiny homes are complete residences that comply with building, fire and safety regulations.

Beyond individual properties, Think Tiny Homes Northumberland is also advocating for future zoning changes that could allow tiny home micro-communities in the county. Such developments could include clusters of small homes organized around shared outdoor spaces and community amenities.

A real-world example (see image gallery below) is taking shape in St. Thomas, where the YWCA St. Thomas-Elgin is supporting a project that combines tiny homes and townhouse-style units as part of a broader affordable and supportive housing initiative.

Turner says many residents are attracted to the idea because it allows people to maintain independence while remaining socially connected.

She says the conversation ultimately comes down to providing more housing choices for Northumberland residents at every stage of life.

More information is available at tinyhomesnorthumberland.ca.

(Written by: Joseph Goden)