Legal Secondary Suites in Calgary

Secondary suites, often referred to as basement suites or backyard suites, have become a popular way to maximize property space and create additional income streams for homeowners in Calgary. However, the process of establishing a legal secondary suite can be complex due to the stringent regulations and permit requirements set by the City of Calgary.

What is a Secondary Suite?

A secondary suite is a self-contained living space within a property, distinct from the primary residence. These suites typically include a kitchen, bathroom, and sleeping area, and can be located in various parts of a property, such as the basement, above a garage, or even as a standalone structure like a backyard suite.

Do You Have an Existing Suite?

Your home may already have an existing suite if it meets the following criteria:

Construction Date: The suite was built before 2018.
Facilities: It includes a bathroom, cooking facilities, and living areas.
Access: The suite can be accessed independently without passing through the primary dwelling unit.
Location: It is located within the same building as the main residence, not in a detached garage or as a separate structure.

How to Legalize a Basement Suite in Calgary

Calgary offers a Secondary Suite Amnesty Program, running until 2026, that allows homeowners with existing suites to bring them up to code. If your suite meets the eligibility criteria, you can take advantage of this program. However, you’ll need to upgrade certain aspects of your home to meet current building code requirements.

Here are the key steps the City of Calgary requires to legalize a secondary suite:

Upgrade Furnace/Mechanical Room: Add drywall to create a fire-resistant barrier in your furnace or mechanical room.
Install Smoke-Tight Barriers: Ensure shared stairways and hallways have smoke-tight barriers to prevent the spread of fire.
Proper Suite Entrance: Make sure there is an appropriate and accessible entrance to the suite.
Egress Windows: Install egress windows in the basement to provide a safe exit in case of emergency.
Hardwired Smoke Detectors: Install hardwired smoke detectors with at least one interconnection to the main residence.

The amnesty program provides some relief by exempting existing secondary suites from the more stringent requirements of the new building codes. You only need to ensure that the suite meets basic safety standards.

Legal Requirements for Secondary Suites in Calgary

Creating or legalizing a secondary suite involves adhering to several regulations aimed at ensuring the safety and well-being of tenants. The City of Calgary has laid out clear guidelines for what constitutes a legal secondary suite:

Building Code Compliance: Your secondary suite must meet specific building codes, including having proper egress windows, smoke-tight barriers, and separate heating systems. Ensuring compliance with the National Building Code – Alberta Edition is crucial.
Permits and Zoning: To legalize a secondary suite, you must obtain the necessary permits, including a basement development permit and building permit. The suite must also be in a zone that allows secondary suites, which can vary depending on the neighborhood.
Amnesty Program: Calgary’s Secondary Suite Amnesty Program, running until 2026, offers an opportunity for homeowners with existing suites built before 2018 to legalize them by meeting the basic safety requirements. This can save significant costs compared to building a new suite.
Suite Registration: Once the suite meets all legal requirements, it must be registered with the City of Calgary's Secondary Suite Registry. This registry provides a searchable database for potential tenants to verify that a suite is legal and safe.

Benefits of Legalizing a Secondary Suite

Legal secondary suites offer several benefits, making the investment in legal compliance worthwhile:

Increased Property Value: A legal suite can significantly enhance your property’s market value by offering potential buyers a ready-made rental income stream.
Additional Income: Renting out a legal secondary suite can provide a steady and reliable source of passive income.
Peace of Mind: Legalizing your suite ensures that it meets safety standards, protecting both you and your tenants from potential hazards and legal issues.

Challenges and Costs

While the benefits are clear, the process of legalizing a secondary suite in Calgary can be challenging. It requires careful planning, understanding of legal requirements, and sometimes substantial renovations to meet building codes. The cost of legalizing an existing suite can vary, but it’s generally less expensive than constructing a new one from scratch, with savings potentially reaching up to $20,000.

Why Choose a Licensed Contractor?

Given the complexity of the legal and construction processes involved, many homeowners opt to work with licensed contractors who specialize in secondary suite development. These professionals can navigate the regulatory landscape, ensuring that your suite complies with all legal requirements while minimizing stress and potential pitfalls.

Conclusion

Legal secondary suites are an excellent way to make the most of your property in Calgary, whether you’re looking to generate rental income, increase your property’s value, or provide housing for family members. However, it’s essential to understand and follow the legal requirements to avoid costly mistakes and ensure the safety and satisfaction of your tenants.

For more detailed information on permits and requirements for legal secondary suites in Calgary, consider consulting with ARA Projects or visit the City of Calgary's official website. Partnering with experienced contractors like ARA Projects Inc. can help streamline the process, making it easier to achieve your goals while staying compliant with local laws.

Also read: How to Build a Fence in Calgary?