Rowhomes in New Communities May Soon Be Exempt from Development Permits

BILD Calgary Region Bulletin 2025 – 23

On May 14, 2024, Council directed Administration to bring forward amendments that would exempt fee-simple rowhomes in new communities from requiring development permits (DPs), provided they meet the requirements of the Land Use Bylaw (LUB). The exemption is tied to specific criteria to ensure appropriate application.

BILD has collaborated closely with City Administration to ensure that the proposed amendments are practical for industry implementation. The proposed amendments will allow rowhomes that meet all bylaw requirements – have no relaxations, are in new communities, and address drainage requirements – to proceed directly to the building permit process. The changes are expected to reduce timelines and costs, streamline approvals, and support the delivery of diverse housing forms.

The LUB amendments can be found here. The proposed amendments outline the requirements that must be met to qualify for the exemption.

The proposed amendments were approved 6-0 at Infrastructure & Planning Committee on May 14. They are scheduled for Public Hearing on June 10, with implementation anticipated for September 15 pending Council approval.

For more information, contact Robert Chwyl (Robert.Chwyl@Bildcr.com).