Adding a shed or greenhouse can be a smart way to maximize your backyard — but for most homeowners, these structures are only one piece of a much bigger vision. At Soares Landscaping, we help clients create outdoor living spaces where everything — from pergolas and patios to pavilions and pools — works together seamlessly.
With Ontario’s updated shed regulations, understanding what’s allowed is important. But equally important is how these rules fit into the design of your entire backyard retreat, so you don’t make short-term decisions that limit your long-term plans.
Ontario’s Updated Shed Regulations
When planning a new shed, cabana, or greenhouse, there are three main things you’ll want to know:
Under 160 sq. ft. (15 m²): In most municipalities, a permit is not required, but local zoning bylaws (setbacks, lot coverage, and height restrictions) still apply.
Over 160 sq. ft.: A building permit is typically required. You’ll need to review municipal zoning rules to ensure compliance.
Utility Connections: Any shed or accessory structure with plumbing or electricity requires a permit, regardless of size.
These rules may seem straightforward, but they’re just the starting point. The bigger question is how a shed or accessory structure fits into the overall flow of your outdoor living space.
If you’d like to review the entire building code, you can find it here: Ontario Building Code.
More Than a Shed: Designing Your Entire Backyard
Ontario’s regulations may define what’s possible — but design defines how your backyard will feel. A shed, greenhouse, or pavilion shouldn’t be treated as an afterthought. Instead, these structures should be thoughtfully placed and styled to complement your home, garden, and patio.
At Soares Landscaping, we create outdoor living spaces where storage, shade, and style all work together seamlessly.
Pergolas, Greenhouses, and Cabanas — Done Right
Our team specializes in high-end outdoor living. From Toja Grid pergolas we build in-house to cabanas, greenhouses, and pavilions coordinated with trusted partners, every structure is designed to match your home’s architecture and built with lasting quality.
Luxury outdoor living means more than compliance — it means balance, beauty, and performance.
Common Mistakes Homeowners Make
Too often, we see homeowners rush into building a shed without considering the long-term vision for their backyard. Here are the most common missteps:
Adding a shed without a master plan – This often creates awkward layouts and reduces usable space for future patios, gardens, or pools.
Ignoring zoning setbacks and coverage rules – These oversights can lead to costly adjustments or, in some cases, removal.
Choosing prefab without integration – Prefab sheds and greenhouses can be convenient, but when they don’t align with your home’s style or scale, they lower curb appeal and property value.
The best solution is to start with a professional backyard design that includes not only the shed or structure you’re planning now, but also the patios, gardens, and living areas you’ll want in the future.
The Shed Is Only the Beginning
Most homeowners who start with a shed or greenhouse are really envisioning a lifestyle upgrade — a place to gather, to garden, or to relax year-round. That’s why Soares Landscaping goes beyond sheds.
We design and build complete outdoor living spaces — patios, pergolas, cabanas, and more — tailored to your style and backed by industry-leading warranties.
Final Thoughts
Ontario’s new shed regulations are important to understand, but they’re only one step in creating a backyard that truly feels like home.
For homeowners who want more than compliance — who want craftsmanship, luxury, and a complete outdoor retreat — Soares Landscaping is the partner who makes it possible.
Have questions?
If you have any questions, feel free to send us a message. Have a no-obligation conversation with us about your outdoor living space. If we can’t help you, we’ll find you someone that can help you.
