So, you’re thinking about building a garage suite in Calgary and aren’t too sure about how the permitting process works. Not to worry, as we’d love to share with you what that process looks like and what steps are involved each step of the way.

If you’re not looking forward to taking the time to obtain the permits on your own, don’t worry, as our team of professionals would be more than happy to assist you. At Garage Suites Calgary, we offer a full-service that takes care of the design, permits, and construction for you, so you can focus on work, family, and other more important things in life. Contact us anytime to chat about your laneway home goals!

Here’s what you need to know about backyard suite permits in Calgary, with more details on each part of the process and what they mean for you.

#1 – Development Permit

The first permit you’ll need to build a garage suite in the Calgary area is a development permit (DP). The cost for a DP is currently $0 (discounted by the city to encourage applications) through 2025, making it a great time to complete one.

What is under review by the city during the DP submission, you might ask? Factors such as zoning, setbacks, suite size, number of residences on the property, and other considerations which are outlined in the municipality’s Land Use Bylaw.

To apply for a DP, an architectural design must be completed by a designer or architect and then submitted to the municipality for review. This permit typically takes between 2.5 and 3.5 months to receive back from the city, assuming all goes well and no changes are required.

If your DP has challenging circumstances such as a power pole on the same side of the alley or a small lot that requires relaxation for setbacks to get approved, the permit can take much longer than the time frame mentioned above. Other factors that can delay your DP timeline is what time of the year it is (the city slows down significantly during December and early January), as well as the involvement of third-party utility providers (if Enmax has to evaluate and sign off on the power pole or transformer box connection and clearance, as previously mentioned), among others.

#2 – Building Permit

After your development permit is completed, your designer or architect will move on to the building permit (BP) application, sometimes in tandem with the builder or on their own. The BP currently costs just over $1,300 with the City of Calgary, and requires a number of drawings and layouts as part of the submission. These include, but are not limited to:

  • BP architectural drawing package
  • Joists/trusses layouts for the main and upper floor
  • Structural engineering calculations and stamped letter
  • Engineered foundation plan
  • Lumber package

While the BP review itself with the city can take 2-6 weeks (depending on various factors), the time required to receive your engineering, joist, and truss layouts, etc., can range from one to four weeks or more, depending on the timelines of the third party. Therefore, it is not unusual for BPs to take anywhere from four to eight weeks or more.

During the review period, the city planning department assesses whether the building complies with safety codes and building regulations. An example would be to ensure that there is proper fire-rating separation between the garage space and the suite above, as well as on any exterior doors and to the mechanical room. Another example would be to ensure there is proper dual access to the suite, not just a single entrance.

#3 – Sub-Trade Permits


After suite construction begins, several sub-permits are required for various stages of construction. These permits are part of the inspection process, ensuring that the suite is built properly within builder codes, and include (but are not limited to):

Electrical: Required for any new electrical installations, alterations, or connections, including lights, overhead doors, and wiring within the suite, usually pulled by the electrician.

Plumbing: Necessary for any plumbing installations or extensions, such as the sewer and water lines run to the house or out to the city, usually pulled by the plumber.

Mechanical: Required by a licensed HVAC contractor for heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems.

Gas: If you plan to install gas appliances or lines within the suite, a permit from a licensed gas fitter is needed, also usually pulled by the plumber or gas fitter.

#4 – Occupancy Permit

Last but not least, once your suite is ready for occupancy, the builder will apply for an occupancy permit.

Once your garage suite construction and all associated trade work are complete, the final milestone is obtaining occupancy approval from the City of Calgary. This step, sometimes called “permission to occupy,” certifies that your garage suite has passed all necessary inspections and complies with safety codes, the Alberta Building Code, and local bylaws. Final inspections will review important features such as fire separations, alarms, egress windows, and overall suite access to ensure everything is built to standard.

To receive occupancy approval, all construction and sub-trade work must be finished and inspected by city officials. Your builder typically requests this approval after the last inspection is passed—no separate application is needed from the homeowner. Once granted, this official sign-off means your suite is legally recognized by the municipality and can be safely lived in or rented out. The City of Calgary recommends registering your suite with its Secondary Suite Registry, which publicly marks your property as legal and may help attract tenants.

The occupancy permit is essential, as it’s official confirmation that your garage suite is safe, up to code, and ready for use. Without it, the suite cannot be lawfully rented or occupied. This process provides peace of mind for homeowners, ensures compliance with all government requirements, and protects your investment in Calgary’s growing residential accessory dwelling market.

Questions about Garage Suites in Calgary?

contact garage suites Calgary today

If you have questions about your backyard suite build, don’t hesitate to contact us today anytime at 403-797-4918 or info@garagesuitescalgary.ca and we will be happy to assist you! We look forward to connecting with you to discuss your garage suite goals!