Secondary Suite Incentive Program

Additional Support for Accessibility and Energy Efficiency

Calgary’s Secondary Suite Incentive Program not only provides funding for building and registering secondary suites but also offers additional financial support to homeowners who prioritize energy efficiency and accessibility. These enhancements help create safer, more comfortable, and sustainable living spaces for all residents.

Funding for Energy Efficiency and Accessibility

• $1,250 for Energy Efficiency: Homeowners can qualify for up to $1,250 in additional funding for ENERGY STAR certified egress windows and split heat or separate air conditioning systems, ensuring energy-efficient solutions that benefit both the environment and residents' comfort.

• $5,000 for Accessibility: Homeowners can access up to $5,000 in funding for making spaces more accessible for individuals with mobility issues. This helps ensure that secondary suites are functional for everyone, offering safer living spaces for those with specific mobility needs.

About the Secondary Suite Incentive Program

Launched in 2023, the Secondary Suite Incentive Program was approved by Calgary City Council and is funded through the Municipal Budget and the Housing Accelerator Fund. The program aligns with the city’s Housing Strategy, Home is Here, aiming to make housing more inclusive and affordable for all Calgarians.

Before You Apply

To qualify for the incentive, homeowners must first secure a building permit number for their secondary suite. Whether you're building a new suite or upgrading an existing one, it’s essential to review the required guidelines before applying for your building permit. Once you have your permit number, you can apply for the incentive at apply.calgary.ca.

Important Note: You must apply for the incentive program before beginning any construction related to your building permit. Work completed prior to applying will not be eligible for funding.

Contributing to Urban Transformation

By participating in the Secondary Suite Incentive Program, homeowners contribute to positive urban transformation in Calgary. The program supports housing choice and improves affordability, benefiting the broader Calgary community.

Application Process and Review Timelines

Applications for the incentive program are now being accepted. Processing times vary based on application volume, so please be aware that review times may take longer during busy periods. For example, applications submitted during the holiday season may experience delayed cheque processing, with no cheques being issued from December 19, 2024, to January 1, 2025. Processing will resume after January 2, 2025.

• Application Review: Currently processing applications submitted on December 22, 2024.
• Photo Verification: Processing photos submitted by December 15, 2024.
• Receipt/Payment Verification: Processing receipts submitted by November 11, 2024.

To ensure your submitted documents are processed efficiently, ensure that invoices and receipts clearly display payment dates, customer names, suite addresses, and payment markings like "PAID."

eLearning Course Requirement

To qualify for the Secondary Suite Incentive Program, homeowners must complete a mandatory online eLearning course. This course covers the necessary safety elements and regulations needed when constructing a safe secondary suite. After finishing the course, be sure to register your successful completion to proceed with your application.

Building a Safe Secondary Suite

It’s crucial to ensure that your secondary suite meets all safety requirements as outlined by the National Building Code – 2023 Alberta Edition. A registered secondary suite offers added protection from liability and reduces the risk of legal complications. By following the correct permitting process and meeting safety codes, you’re ensuring a safer living environment for residents and mitigating potential risks.

For more information on secondary suite safety, permits, and how to register your suite, visit calgary.ca/secondarysuites.

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