Calgary's Rezoning Debate: Separating Fact from Fear
Concerns are mounting across Calgary neighbourhoods regarding the city-wide rezoning policy, effective August 6, 2024. Many residents fear the new rules are eroding community character, straining aging infrastructure, and worsening traffic and parking challenges, all without delivering on promises of greater housing affordability.
The city's "Home is Here" Housing Strategy 2024-2030, approved last year, directly responds to Calgary's acute housing crisis. Data shows nearly one in five households couldn't afford housing in 2021, a figure projected to reach 100,000 by 2026. The rezoning, which allows diverse housing types like semi-detached and rowhouses in areas previously restricted to single-family homes, was enacted to streamline development approvals, reduce costs, and accelerate the delivery of new homes. While individual land-use hearings for these specific types of infill are no longer required, all projects still necessitate development permits and must adhere to existing Land Use Bylaw regulations for height and setbacks.
Proponents argue this strategic shift is crucial for long-term affordability, combating urban sprawl, and making better use of existing infrastructure. With Calgary leading Canada in housing starts for 2024 and Q1 2025, officials reiterate the policy's role in increasing supply and diversifying housing options to meet the city's growing needs.
