Winnipeg ADU & Secondary Suite Licence - Bylaw Guide

Housing and Building Standards Manitoba 3 Minutes Read · published February 11, 2026 Flag of Manitoba

In Winnipeg, Manitoba, landlords planning to licence a secondary suite or accessory dwelling unit (ADU) must comply with municipal zoning, building permit, and licensing rules that protect health and safety while allowing rental housing options. This guide explains the typical steps to obtain required approvals, who enforces the rules, common compliance issues, and how to appeal or request a variance. Use the official City of Winnipeg planning and permits pages when preparing plans and applications.Official ADU guidance[1] and the City Zoning and bylaws provide the controlling standards and application pathways.Zoning By-law No. 200/2006[2]

Overview of required approvals

Most ADUs/secondary suites in Winnipeg require:

  • Zoning confirmation that an accessory residential unit is permitted in the property zoning.
  • Building permit for alterations, fire separation, and egress to meet the Manitoba Building Code as adopted by the City.
  • Inspections for plumbing, electrical, and structural work.
Check zoning early to avoid redesign or refusal.

Penalties & Enforcement

The City of Winnipeg enforces compliance through its Planning, Property and Development department and By-law Enforcement where zoning or licensing contraventions occur. Specific monetary fines, escalation amounts, and exact non-monetary orders vary by the controlling bylaw or regulation and may be set in multiple instruments.

  • Fine amounts: not specified on the cited page.
  • Escalation for repeat or continuing offences: not specified on the cited page.
  • Non-monetary sanctions: orders to stop occupancy, compliance orders, demolition or removal orders, and court action are possible depending on the contravention.
  • Enforcer and inspection pathway: Planning, Property and Development and By-law Enforcement handle complaints and inspections; official contacts and complaint forms appear on the City website.Building permit and inspection contacts[2]
  • Appeals and reviews: appeals, variances, or hearings are handled per city procedures or the City’s board/committee processes; specific time limits for appeal are not specified on the cited page.
  • Defences and discretion: compliance may be achieved through permits, approved variances, or staged remediation when allowed by the approving authority.
If an occupant's safety is at risk, contact inspections immediately.

Applications & Forms

Typical forms and filings include the Building Permit application and any development or zoning variance application required by the City. The City publishes permit application details and submission instructions; exact form numbers and fees are not specified on the cited pages and applicants should consult the official permit pages and the Zoning By-law for required documentation.[2]

How to

Practical action steps to licence a secondary suite/ADU in Winnipeg.

  1. Confirm zoning: check the property zoning and whether an accessory residential unit is allowed; request a zoning confirmation if needed.
  2. Prepare plans: get floor plans showing unit size, egress, fire separation, and plumbing/electrical layouts per the Manitoba Building Code.
  3. Submit building permit: file the Building Permit application with required plans and fees; await review and conditions.
  4. Complete inspections: schedule and pass plumbing, electrical, and final occupancy inspections as required.
  5. Pay fees and obtain licence/approval: pay permit fees and any licensing fees when invoiced; receive final sign-off before occupancy.

FAQ

Do all secondary suites in Winnipeg need a permit?
Yes. Secondary suites and ADUs generally require zoning confirmation and a building permit; specific exceptions are not specified on the cited pages.
Who inspects and enforces compliance?
Planning, Property and Development and By-law Enforcement handle inspections and complaints in Winnipeg.
What if my property is not zoned for an ADU?
You may apply for a zoning variance or explore alternative compliance options; outcomes depend on the application and city decision-making processes.

How-To

  1. Verify zoning and permitted uses for your address.
  2. Hire or prepare detailed plans showing compliance with building code and safety standards.
  3. Submit the Building Permit and any development applications to the City.
  4. Complete required inspections and correct any deficiencies noted by inspectors.
  5. Obtain final approval and keep records of permits and inspection reports.

Key Takeaways

  • Always confirm zoning before designing an ADU.
  • Building permits and inspections are mandatory for most suites.
  • Contact Planning, Property and Development early for guidance.

Help and Support / Resources

  1. [1] City of Winnipeg - Secondary suites and accessory residential units guidance
  2. [2] City of Winnipeg - Zoning By-law No. 200/2006 and permit contacts

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