Calgary's Secondary Suites Surge: Building a New Housing Future
Calgary recently reported a significant rise in approved secondary suites as the city intensifies efforts to address housing affordability. The City of Calgary's interactive map, which tracks permits from 2008 to 2025, shows nearly 21,000 secondary suite permits issued, with a surge of approximately 9,000 in the last two years alone. This trend marks an evolution in Calgary's residential landscape, offering a much-needed supplement to constrained housing supply.
The uptick in secondary suite developments provides dual benefits: easing financial burdens for homeowners and expanding rental options in a tight market. Programs like the Secondary Suite Incentive offer up to $10,000 for eligible homeowners, promoting safe and legal suites aligned with Alberta's Safety Code standards. Yet, some community members voice concerns about neighborhood character and parking congestion, illustrating the ongoing balancing act between growth and preserving Calgary's unique residential heritage.
This Article Contains information licensed under the Open Government Licence – City of Calgary.
