A laneway home is a self-contained living space built on the same lot as your primary single-family home. These detached suites are typically located above or beside a detached garage, or as standalone garden suites.

Each laneway home includes all the essentials:
✔️ Kitchen
✔️ Bathroom
✔️ Living and sleeping space
✔️ Independent utilities

And it’s all separate from your main house—but still under the same property title.

• Generate Passive Income
  Rent out your laneway suite to create a steady source of income—perfect for long-term tenants, students, or short-term stays.

• Add Value to Your Property
  A professionally designed and constructed laneway home increases your property’s livable space and resale value.

• Flexibility for Family
  Provide private living quarters for aging parents, adult children, or guests—while maintaining privacy for everyone.

The City of Winnipeg allows one detached secondary suite per property, but your property must meet the following key conditions:

Basic Zoning Requirements:

• You must live in an R1 or R2 zoning district with a single-family home.

• Your lot must be at least 325 m² (3,500 sq. ft).

• You must have access via a corner lot, through lot, or back lane.

• Your property must provide 2 off-street parking spots.

Size & Location:

• Suites must be between 350–600 sq. ft.

• Maximum height:

  • 15’ if built on grade

  • 25’ if built over a garage

• Must be at least 10 ft away from the main house.

• Must have a clear path from the front curb (at least 2’6” wide).

Utilities & Permits:

• Utilities can be extended from the main house or connected directly from the street (with City approval).

• Requires a Development Permit and Building Permit.

• Must comply with the Manitoba Building Code and local bylaws.

Laneway by Dwell will guide you through every step, from zoning checks and permits to design and construction.

🛠️ Design-Builder Expertise
As an extension of Dwell Design Builders, we bring over a decade of experience delivering high-end residential spaces.

📐 Custom Design
We tailor your suite to match your lot, your lifestyle, and your long-term goals—whether that’s revenue or multi-generational living.

📋 Permit-to-Keys Support
From city applications to finishing touches, we handle everything so you can sit back and watch your investment come to life.

Q: How much does a laneway home cost?
A: Costs vary based on size, finishes, and site conditions. We offer transparent pricing and can help you model potential rental income vs. investment.

Q: Can I build a laneway home if I live in a duplex?
A: No. Detached secondary suites are only allowed on properties with single-family homes in R1 or R2 zones.

Q: Do I need a back lane to build a laneway home?
A: Yes, unless your lot is a corner or through lot, your property must abut an improved public lane for access.

Q: Can I rent out the laneway suite?
A: Absolutely. Laneway homes are designed to be fully livable rental units, ideal for long-term tenants.

Q: Can the laneway home be sold separately?
A: No. Detached secondary suites cannot be subdivided and must remain under the same property title as the primary dwelling.

Q: What if my lot doesn’t meet the exact requirements?
A: You may still qualify with a Conditional Use or variance. We’ll assess your site and advise on what’s possible.

Q: What are the size limits for a laneway home?
A: The suite must be between 350 and 600 sq. ft in total floor area.

Q: Is a separate entrance required?
A: Yes, your laneway home must have its own private entrance and be fully self-contained.

Q: Will I need to hire an architect or designer?
A: No, Laneway by Dwell offers full design-build services to help you meet zoning, building, and aesthetic requirements.

Q: Are laneway homes suitable for short-term rentals like Airbnb?
A: Yes, but local rental regulations may apply. We can help you plan for flexible use cases, including long-term tenants or Airbnb setups.