Calgary launching backyard suite incentive program
Posted Feb 26, 2026 6:05 pm.
Last Updated Feb 27, 2026 5:41 pm.
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.
According to the city, the initiative is designed to make building secondary units more affordable and expand housing options amid growing demand.
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.
City officials say backyard suites remain “one of Calgary’s most under‑used housing options,” 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.
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.
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‑come, first‑served basis.
Information on eligibility and instructions for applying can be found here.
