Calgary rules
Backyard suite rules in Calgary
Rules last reviewed August 31, 2026
Screening only — not an approval. This is a screening tool, not an approval. Nothing on this page confirms that a backyard suite can be built on a specific property — only the City of Calgary can do that through the development and building permit process.
Dimensional baselines
| Requirement | Baseline | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Minimum lot width | 9 m | 9 metres is the common minimum lot width. A width of 7.5 m can apply on certain corner or lane properties with three or more motor-vehicle stalls. Confirm your parcel with the City. |
| Rear setback | 1.5 m | Minimum distance from the rear property line. |
| Side setback | 1.2 m | Minimum distance from the side property line, subject to exceptions. |
| Separation from main dwelling | 5.0 m | Minimum separation between the backyard suite and the main house. |
| Maximum height | 7.5 m | Maximum building height for the backyard suite. |
| Outdoor amenity area | 7.5 m² minimum | Minimum outdoor amenity area, with no side of that area less than 1.5 m. |
| Maximum suite area | Commonly 75 m² | The commonly applied maximum floor area for the suite itself. |
| Application review timeline | 60 days | The City page states a 60-day review timeline. Timelines depend on application completeness and current volumes. |
Lot width: 9 m, or 7.5 m in one specific case
The common minimum lot width is 9 metres. A narrower width of 7.5 metres can apply on certain corner or lane properties that provide three or more motor-vehicle stalls. If your lot sits between 7.5 m and 9 m, that combination is the question to put to the City — not something to assume either way.
What changed on August 4, 2026
- Since August 4, 2026, a property may have one of a secondary suite or a backyard suite — not both.
- Backyard suites are not allowed on semi-detached properties.
- The parking requirement returned.
- Backyard suites are permitted in R-G. In other zones they are discretionary and require City verification.
In practice: R-G is the zone where a backyard suite is a permitted use. In other zones it is discretionary and requires verification with the City — being in R-CG or H-GO does not make a suite automatic.
Review timeline
The City page states a 60-day review timeline for applications. Actual timing depends on how complete your application is and current volumes.
Screen your own lot
The feasibility screening tool walks these same baselines question by question and tells you plainly where a lot is unclear and needs City review.
Facts on this page are drawn from current City of Calgary pages and were last reviewed August 31, 2026. Rules change and every parcel is different. Verify current requirements with the City of Calgary before making any decision.