How to Get the Calgary Secondary Suite Grant: A Step-by-Step Guide

The Secondary Suite Incentive Program is a financial assistance program offered by the City of Calgary to help homeowners with the costs of bringing their secondary suites up to code. The grant focuses on essential safety upgrades and legal compliance to ensure tenants have secure living conditions.

• Maximum grant amount: Up to $10,000

• Eligible properties: Primary residences with an existing or new suite located within the main home (not detached backyard suites)

• Focus: Safety features such as smoke alarms, fire separations, exits, and egress windows

• Official application page: Calgary Secondary Suite Incentive Program

Who Is Eligible for the Grant?

Before applying, make sure you meet the following eligibility criteria:

• You own and live in the home where the suite is located

• The suite must be within the primary residence (basement or main level suites qualify)

• No outstanding property tax arrears

• The suite must be built legally and meet all safety codes

Not eligible: Detached backyard suites, investment properties, and homeowners with unpaid property taxes.

Step-by-Step Guide to Applying for the Grant

Step 1: Obtain a Building Permit

Before applying for the grant, you must ensure your suite complies with city safety regulations. Start by applying for a building permit through the City of Calgary’s Planning & Development portal, here.

If you already have an existing suite, check if it meets current building codes. If it doesn’t, you may need to make upgrades before proceeding.

Step 2: Complete the Mandatory eLearning Course

All applicants must complete an online training course that educates homeowners on safety regulations for legal suites. This course helps ensure that every suite meets fire safety and occupancy standards before tenants move in.

Step 3: Apply for the Secondary Suite Incentive Program

Once you have your building permit and eLearning course completion, you can submit your grant application online.

You’ll need to provide:

• Proof of homeownership

• Building permit details

• Contact information

• Plans for the suite (if applicable)

Step 4: Construct or Upgrade Your Suite

Once approved, it’s time to build or upgrade your secondary suite according to Calgary’s safety and building codes.

Required safety features:

• Egress windows (for emergency exit)

• Hardwired smoke and carbon monoxide alarms

• Proper fire separation

• Safe exits and stairways

The City of Calgary has detailed secondary suite safety standards that must be followed. Ensure that your contractor adheres to these guidelines to qualify for funding.

Step 5: Submit Paid Receipts for Reimbursement

Once all work is complete, submit proof of expenses (receipts and invoices) to the City of Calgary to receive your grant funding.

Tip: Keep all receipts and invoices properly documented to avoid delays in reimbursement.

Why This Grant is a Great Opportunity

If you’re looking to increase your property’s value, generate rental income, or provide affordable housing, this program is an excellent way to offset costs.

• Financial relief: Save up to $10,000 on necessary renovations

• Increased home value: A legal secondary suite adds resale value

• Rental income potential: Earn passive income from a legal rental suite

Final Thoughts

This Secondary Suite Incentive Program is an amazing opportunity for Calgary homeowners looking to build or upgrade a legal secondary suite.

If you’re unsure where to start or need mortgage financing advice for your renovation, feel free to book a free consultation with me! I can help you find the best financing options for your home improvement project.