The Town of Milton does not assess property values or determine property taxes. If you are planning to build or register an additional residential unit (ARU), contact the Municipal Property Assessment Corporation (MPAC) to learn how your property assessment and taxes may be affected.
Learn About the ARU Program
What's on this page
↓Overview
↓Key information
↓Why registration is required
↓Who must register?
↓ARUs in Milton
↓Featured services or topics
↓Frequently asked questions
Overview
An additional residential unit (ARU), also known as an additional dwelling unit (ADU), is a self-contained living space located on the same property as a primary home. ARUs can help create more housing options in Milton while making efficient use of existing residential properties.
ARUs are permitted in both urban and rural areas of Milton, provided they meet applicable zoning and building requirements. Whether you are considering building an ARU, registering an existing unit, or renewing a registration, understanding the program’s requirements is an important first step.
The ARU registration program is currently operating as a three-year pilot that launched in 2025. At the end of the pilot, program requirements may change.
What is an ARU?
An ARU is a separate living space located on the same property as a primary residence. It can be:
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Inside the main house, such as a basement apartment
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In a detached structure, such as a tiny home or coach house
ARUs are designed to function as independent living spaces and include areas for sleeping, cooking, and bathing. They provide additional housing options for families, homeowners, and renters while supporting a wider range of housing choices in the community.
Types of ARUs
ARUs can take different forms depending on the property and available space. Common examples include:
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Basement apartments
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Units created within an existing home
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Attached additions to a home
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Detached structures, such as coach houses or tiny homes
All ARUs in Milton must be registered with the Town, including both new and existing units. There are no “grandfathering” exemptions. Registration helps ensure ARUs are:
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Safe and legal
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Compliant with applicable zoning requirements
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Properly documented to support Fire and Rescue Services during emergency response
The ARU registration program supports public safety, by-law compliance, and emergency preparedness across Milton. Unregistered units may be subject to enforcement action, including Fire Code violations, fines, or legal action.
All ARUs must be registered with the Town, regardless of who lives in the unit or whether it is used as rental accommodation. This includes ARUs that are:
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Rented to tenants
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Occupied by family members
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Not currently being rented
ARUs are permitted in both urban and rural areas of Milton. Eligibility requirements vary depending on the property location, zoning, servicing, and housing type. Detailed information about eligibility requirements, zoning standards, and building permit requirements is available on the Build an ARU page.
Learn about eligibility requirements, zoning regulations, building permits, and construction requirements before creating an ARU.
Register a new or existing ARU and learn about inspections, compliance requirements, and registration fees.
Maintain compliance by completing the annual ARU registration renewal process.
How will my property taxes be affected?
Does the Town of Milton handle landlord-tenant disputes?
No. The Town of Milton does not get involved in landlord-tenant disputes.
Issues related to rent, maintenance concerns, tenant rights, or evictions are governed by provincial legislation and managed by the Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB).
For information, dispute resolution, or to file a complaint, visit the Landlord and Tenant Board website.