Guide
The Calgary rezoning repeal, explained
What changed
- 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.
What each change means in practice
One suite type per property
A property may have a secondary suite or a backyard suite, not both. If a home already has a basement suite, the backyard suite question is settled unless that changes.
No backyard suites on semi-detached properties
Semi-detached properties are excluded. This is the first thing to establish when you look at a property.
Parking requirement returned
Parking is a site-planning constraint again, and it competes with setbacks and the required outdoor amenity area for the same rear yard.
Permitted in R-G, discretionary elsewhere
R-G is where a backyard suite is a permitted use. Other zones — including R-CG and H-GO — are discretionary and require verification with the City. Do not treat any zone other than R-G as an automatic yes.
What to do about it
Re-screen any property you were considering: run the feasibility screening, then read the current rules and permit process. Confirm everything against the City's own rezoning project page.
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.
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.