Discover what’s legal, what’s profitable, and how to build an income-generating garden suite.
Why Homeowners Are Turning ADUs Into Rental Income
With the growing demand for vacation stays, rural getaways, and local tourism, homeowners across Norfolk, Haldimand, and Brant Counties are asking:
Can I rent out my ADU on Airbnb? The answer? Yes—but with conditions.
Let’s explore how to legally rent your ADU, avoid costly mistakes, and maximize your return on investment.
Short-Term Rental Bylaws in Norfolk County (2025 Update)
Norfolk County allows short-term rentals, but specific rules apply—especially when renting out secondary dwelling units like garden suites or in-law suites.
Here’s what you need to know:
- A Short-Term Rental (STR) licence is required.
- You may need to provide parking, fire safety plans, and insurance.
- There may be restrictions on non-owner-occupied rentals.
- Each township within Norfolk (like Simcoe, Port Dover, or Delhi) may have unique nuances—always check locally.
Visit: Norfolk County Licensing for STRs
ADU Rental Checklist – Are You Ready?
Before listing your ADU on Airbnb or VRBO, make sure you:
✅ Have a legal, permitted ADU
✅ Comply with zoning and use bylaws
✅ Include fire separations, smoke detectors, and a separate entrance
✅ Confirm your insurance allows short-term rentals
✅ Register with Norfolk County if required
Want to avoid the red tape? Frontier Building Group can design your ADU to meet short-term rental standards from day one.
Which ADU Types Work Best for Airbnb?
The most popular income-generating ADUs include:
- Detached garden suites with private patios
- Garage conversions turned into studio-style apartments
- Above-garage lofts perfect for couples or solo travellers
- Basement suites with private entry access and full amenities
Pro Tip: Detached units often perform best on Airbnb due to their privacy and separation from the main home.
Is It Worth Renting Your ADU on Airbnb?
Let’s do the math. In rural areas like Norfolk or Simcoe:
- Average nightly rates range from $120–$180
- Occupancy rates for well-designed ADUs are 60–80%
- Monthly potential = $2,000–$3,500+
Whether you use it part-time for family and part-time for guests, ADUs can create real financial freedom.
🔗Related Articles You Might Like:
- Complete Homeowner’s Guide to ADUs in Rural Ontario
- 7 Costly Mistakes to Avoid When Building an ADU
- How to Apply for an ADU Permit in Brant County
- ADU Design Ideas for Aging Parents and In-Law Suites
- Can You Rent Out Your ADU on Airbnb in Norfolk County?
- Garage Conversion or Garden Suite: Which ADU is Right for You?
- The Future of Housing—Why Homeowners Are Adding ADUs in 2025
- How to Turn Your Backyard Into Passive Income in 3 Simple Steps – Toolkit
Thinking of Building a Rental ADU?
Frontier Building Group designs and builds legal, rentable ADUs across Brant, Norfolk, and Haldimand Counties—customized for your goals.
📍 Serving Brantford, Simcoe, Port Dover, Paris, and Hamilton
📞 Call 519.448.3946
🌐 www.frontierbuildinggroup.com
📅 Book a free ADU consultation for rental income today!
