Calgary proposes mass rezoning to ease tight rental market

Hundreds of Calgary householders got the chance to have their say on a proposal to allow more secondary suites, or mother-in-law suites, in four wards of the city.

Hundreds of Calgary householders got the chance to have their say on a proposal to allow more secondary suites, or mother-in-law suites, in four wards of the city. The city council wants to rezone the wards to double the number of properties that are permitted to add an additional dwelling. Currently 32,000 single-family homes in wards 7, 8, 9 and 11 are able to create a secondary suite, consisting of a bedroom, bathroom and kitchen in a self-contained unit; the new plan would make an extra 35,000 eligible. Although building and developments permits would still be required there would no need for homeowners to plead to the council for permission. The Calgary Herald reports that there were two open homes over the weekend for people to go along and have their say on the proposals and that many were in favour of the potential new homes. The proposals will need the approval of the Planning Committee which meets this month and the full council meeting in May before they can progress. Read the full story.