Backyard & Garden Suites
Backyard suite Calgary
Detached backyard suites and laneway homes — a high-value way to add a legal dwelling on your existing Calgary lot.
Key Facts
- Backyard suites are separate dwellings on an existing residential lot.
- Calgary updated zoning rules in 2023 to allow suites on more lots.
- Utility connections are separate from the main dwelling — higher cost than basement suites.
- We built 5 backyard suites last year and know the Calgary permit process inside out.
What’s Included
- Lot feasibility assessment and zoning review
- Architectural drawings and development permit
- Foundation — slab, crawl space, or full basement
- Full framing, insulation, and exterior envelope
- Separate utility connections (electrical, gas, water, sewer)
- Full kitchen, bathroom, and interior fitout
- Exterior: siding, roofing, windows, and entry door
- Landscaping tie-in and grade restoration
- City registration and final occupancy
Free, No-Obligation Estimate
We visit your site, assess the scope, and give you a detailed estimate — no pressure, no cost.
Book a Walkthrough
Common questions
Frequently Asked Questions
A secondary suite is contained within the main dwelling (e.g., a basement suite). A backyard suite — also called a laneway home or garden suite — is a separate, detached dwelling on the same lot. Backyard suites require their own utility connections and a development permit in addition to a building permit.
Eligibility depends on your zoning designation and lot dimensions. Calgary expanded backyard suite permissions in 2023. R-C1 and R-C1N zones generally allow them. We do a free lot assessment to confirm eligibility before any commitment.
Backyard suites typically cost $200,000–$350,000 depending on size, finishes, and utility connection costs. Separate service connections (gas, electrical, water, sewer) add $15,000–$40,000 above a basement suite. The investment is significant, but so is the return — comparable to buying a condo without the strata fees.
Calgary requires a short-term rental license ($172/year for primary residence, $510/year for non-primary). If you received the Secondary Suite Incentive Program grant, there's a 2-year restriction on short-term rentals. Long-term rental has no restrictions for registered suites.
Ready to start your backyard & garden suites project?
Titan Pro Developer — licensed, insured, and free estimates. Serving Calgary and surrounding municipalities.
Licensed & insured across Calgary and the surrounding region