Complete Guide to Building a Detached Garage in Toronto | Build4Outdoors

Thinking about adding a detached garage to your Toronto property? You're not alone. Whether it’s for storing vehicles, creating a workshop, or simply gaining some extra space, a well-built detached garage can add serious value to your home—and make daily life a lot easier.

But building one in Toronto comes with a few important things to know. Let’s walk you through it, step by step.

Why Build a Detached Garage in Toronto?

A detached garage offers more than just a place to park your car. It’s flexible, functional, and adds lasting value. Toronto homeowners love detached garages because they:

• Protect vehicles from harsh weather (hello, ice storms and snowbanks).

• Add valuable storage for off-season items, bikes, and outdoor gear.

• Offer flexible spaces—think workshops, gyms, or even rentable studios.

• Boost curb appeal and resale value, especially in tight urban neighborhoods.

In a market like Toronto, where space is always at a premium, a detached garage is a smart move.

Key Steps in Building a Detached Garage

Building a detached garage isn’t just about pouring concrete and calling it a day. It takes careful planning. Here's how the process typically looks:

1. Plan Your Vision:
Think about how you want to use your garage. Strictly parking? Storage? A workshop? Knowing your needs upfront helps design a space that actually works for you.

2. Budget Realistically:
Garage costs can vary widely based on size, materials, and features. We'll cover pricing later, but it’s good to start with a flexible budget in mind.

3. Hire a Local Garage Builder:
You want a team that knows Toronto’s building codes inside and out. (That’s us.) Working with an experienced builder saves time, money, and stress.

4. Design & Approval:
We'll help you create a design that matches your home’s look, and handle all the city approvals and permits for you.

Permits and Zoning for Detached Garages in Toronto

Yes, you’ll need a permit to build a detached garage in Toronto. And yes, the rules can be... complicated.

Here’s a quick breakdown:

• Setbacks: Your garage must be a certain distance from property lines.

• Height Limits: Detached garages generally can’t exceed a certain height.

• Maximum Size: Depends on the size of your lot.

• Laneway Garages: Different rules apply if you're building on a laneway.

Good news: when you work with Build 4 Outdoors, we handle all the zoning checks, permit applications, and inspections for you. You won’t have to deal with City Hall headaches.

How Much Does a Detached Garage Cost in Toronto?

Every garage is different, but here’s a general idea:

• Basic Single-Car Garage: Starting around $35,000–$50,000.

• Double-Car Garage: Expect somewhere between $55,000–$75,000.

• High-End Custom Garages: $80,000+ for larger builds with custom finishes.

Factors like insulation, electric hookups, windows, roofing styles, and smart garage systems will affect the final price.

We always provide a transparent quote upfront—no surprises halfway through.

Popular Detached Garage Designs in Toronto

Your garage should fit your home’s style, not look like an afterthought.

Some Toronto favourites:

• Modern Flat Roof Garages: Clean lines, minimalist style.

• Traditional Gable Roofs: Matches older homes perfectly.

• Laneway Garages: Smart space-saving garages built on back alleys.

• Custom Storage Add-Ons: Built-in shelves, EV chargers, attic storage.

Not sure what design fits your home best? We'll show you examples and help customize something perfect.

Timeline |  How Long Does It Take?

A lot depends on the permitting process and the weather, but most detached garages take around 8–12 weeks from permit approval to completion.

Planning in early spring? That’s ideal. You’ll have a brand new garage ready before winter hits again.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Skipping the permit process (and facing huge fines later).

• Going with the cheapest bid (and getting stuck with poor workmanship).

• Underbuilding — always think ahead for future storage or workspace needs.

At Build 4 Outdoors, we build garages meant to serve you today—and for years to come.

Why Choose Build 4 Outdoors for Your Garage Construction?

We’re more than just builders. We're Toronto homeowners too. We know the city, its quirks, and what it takes to get a garage done right.

• Deep experience with Toronto permits and zoning laws.

• Fully customized designs tailored to your needs.

• Transparent pricing with no hidden fees.

• Friendly, professional service from start to finish.

When you work with us, you’re getting more than a garage. You’re getting a space designed around your life.

Ready to Build Your Garage?

If you’re ready to add value, storage, and peace of mind to your Toronto property, we’re ready to help.

📞 Call us at 647-236-4220
📧 Email: [email protected]
🛠️ Request a Free Quote Here

Let’s build something great together.