Photo courtesy Cal Spas

The city of Markham is set to review its existing bylaws governing 'outdoor rooms,' including backyard kitchens.

With the increasing popularity of the 'outdoor room' concept, the Toronto suburb of Markham, Ont., is considering regulating how homeowners use the trendy applications in their backyards.

More residents are enhancing the enjoyment of their swimming pool or spa through the use of sophisticated outdoor kitchens, fireplaces, barbecue islands, cabanas, gazebos and landscape lighting. In response, some Markham homeowners are questioning whether such enhancements are allowed under municipal bylaws.

According to York Region, in most cases, backyard structures comply with the town's municipal bylaws, some of which were drafted in the 1960s. Markham officials want to amend current bylaws to ensure homeowners enjoy their outdoor rooms without disturbing their neighbours' enjoyment of their property.

A town council workshop will be held to explain and discuss proposed standards with council members. This will be followed in the fall with a public meeting, where local residents can voice their opinions on the changes. Once changes are approved, existing structures will likely be grandfathered into the new system.

The nearby city of Vaughan, Ont., has already addressed this issue, with a bylaw stipulating accessory buildings and structures can cover a maximum of 10 per cent (or 67 m² [721 sf], whichever is lower) of a residential lawn. The bylaw also applies to sheds, pool setbacks, retaining walls and architectural and design elements.