Calgarians interested in adding a backyard suite to their property will soon have financial help, as the City prepares to launch a new incentive program next week.<\/p>\n
According to the city, the initiative is designed to make building secondary units more affordable and expand housing options amid growing demand.<\/p>\n
The Backyard Suite Incentive Program will offer up to $15,000 toward general construction costs, including accessibility features and work on designated heritage properties. Homeowners may also qualify for up to 40 per cent of underground infrastructure costs, to a maximum of $20,000, if their project meets specific criteria.<\/p>\n
City officials say backyard suites remain \u201cone of Calgary\u2019s most under\u2011used housing options,\u201d despite strong public interest. The city says a 2025 online survey found that 88 per cent of nearly 700 respondents were interested in building a suite on their property. <\/p>\n
Officials argue that increasing the number of backyard units will help address housing pressures while giving families more flexibility, whether for aging parents, young adult children, or rental income.<\/p>\n
The program is backed by $10 million from the federal Housing Accelerator Fund and will open to applicants on March 2. Funding is limited, and applications will be processed on a first\u2011come, first\u2011served basis.<\/p>\n