As Edmonton and the surrounding area continues to grow, Home Builders are always looking for ways to maximize the available space. Past regulations required that each house had a specific amount of empty space on either side, creating awkward side yards that often went unused.
Today, there is an innovative concept called a “zero lot line” home. This term refers to a residential property that comes up to or sits on the home’s property line. Instead of placing the home in the middle of a property with setbacks on both sides, a zero lot line home is aligned with the edge of one of the property’s side boundaries. There is still a minimum of 1.5 metres (five feet) between each building.
BENEFITS OF ZERO LOT LINE HOMES
There are multiple advantages to buying a zero lot line home, including:
Maximizing the Space
Zero lot line building is attractive because less land is lost to setbacks and you gain more control over the footprint of your home. For example, if ample indoor living space is your top priority, you can allocate more of your property toward your ideal floor plan.
Building A Bigger Home
The home’s placement on the lot allows you to reclaim the extra space that would traditionally be allocated to the side yard. You now have the flexibility to expand your home’s inside layout to suit your needs.
Saving Money Compared to a Regular Lot
A zero lot line home can be more economically priced than a home on a standard lot. You can get a great deal on a new home by saving on the price of the lot, without having to sacrifice anything when it comes to the size of the home. You can then put your money toward extra upgrades to enhance your home’s interior.
Having Less Yard Maintenance
These homes are a great option for busy families, as the reduced yard space requires less maintenance. The narrow side yards in traditional layouts can present an impractical burden — they have to be maintained, but can’t really be used because of their dimensions. With a zero lot line home, you’ll only have to tend to a single side yard, which means less time working outside and more time with the family.
SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS FOR ZERO LOT LINE HOMES
The first step as a zero lot line homeowner is to review the parameters related to your land title. This will ensure that you fully understand your rights and responsibilities. Here are some of the key facts:
Registered Easement
With one side of the home on the property line, permission is needed to maintain and access the side of the home that is only accessible via the neighbour’s side yard. To handle this, the developer registers a formal agreement called a “maintenance access easement.” This grants you access to your neighbour’s lot to maintain your house or garage without having to ask permission.
Keeping the Side Yard Clear
To allow access, exterior items such as an air conditioner, storage container, shed, deck, or hose reel cannot be kept in the side yard. Tools to conduct maintenance (such as a ladder) may be temporarily brought into the area.
Fencing Parameters
To maintain unobstructed access, a fence cannot be built across the easement — only within the backyard. It is recommended to wait until the construction of your neighbour’s home is complete before adding a fence. The developer can provide a diagram to guide your fence and gate placement.
Other Minor Limitations
There are a few additional details to know about a zero lot line home, such as:
- There will be some restrictions about adding a side entrance. A door is allowed on the easement side of the property, as long as it meets the appropriate fire safety rating.
- There are a few limitations about adding windows to the zero lot line side of the home, to maintain privacy between the neighbouring buildings.
- The basement layout must be configured so that the furnace and mechanical room are accessible from the side yard.
- The side of the home that is on the property line cannot have any faucets, plugs or vents.
Overall, zero lot line homes offer many distinct advantages, whether you’re a first-time buyer, a young family looking to maximize indoor space, or an experienced homeowner looking for a lower-maintenance yard. With a zero lot line home, you can save money and have everything you want in your new home.
