Calgary’s changing landscape isn’t just about new roads or buildings—it’s about how homes are built, used, and financed. With the City of Calgary introducing major updates to its Zoning Bylaw as part of the City Building Program, homebuyers and current homeowners may now find new opportunities—and new questions—when it comes to financing their property.
Let’s break down what the changes mean, how they can work to your advantage, and what mortgage options are available if you’re thinking of upgrading, expanding, or rebuilding.
What’s Changing in Calgary’s Zoning Bylaw?
The City is simplifying and modernizing how land is used and developed. Here are the key highlights:
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Fewer Zoning Categories: Down from 70 to 22 zones, and over 200 uses simplified to 60.
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More Housing Types Allowed: Including rowhouses and townhouses in more communities.
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By-Right Approvals: If your build meets the rules, you could skip the case-by-case approval process.
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Reduced Parking Requirements: Making better use of land and lowering build costs.
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Small Businesses in Residential Areas: Think daycares or corner shops nearby.
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New R-CG & H-GO Zones: Supporting gentle density in existing communities.
In short? More flexibility, more housing options, and more chances for Calgarians to live in the communities they love—with homes that suit their needs.
What Does This Mean for Buyers and Homeowners?
Whether you’re a first-time buyer, investor, or a current homeowner exploring renovations, here’s how the zoning changes might benefit you:
More Home Choices
With zoning now allowing for more townhouses, duplexes, and rowhouses in traditionally single-family areas, buyers may see:
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More affordable entry points into established neighbourhoods
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Options for multi-generational living
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Increased inventory and housing variety
Renovation & Rebuild Opportunities
Homeowners can now redevelop or extend their property to include secondary suites, laneway homes, or multi-unit builds more easily—especially in R-CG or H-GO zones.
How Mortgages Fit Into the Picture
Zoning changes open doors—but financing is what gets you through them. Here’s how Sheth Mortgages can help:
Purchase-Plus-Improvement Mortgage
Buying a home that needs work—or that you want to convert into a multi-unit home? This mortgage allows you to borrow extra funds for renovations, all within one mortgage.
Refinancing for Renovation
Already own a home and want to convert it into a duplex or add a legal suite? You may be able to refinance and access your home’s equity to fund the project.
Construction or Self-Build Mortgages
If you’re tearing down or building from scratch within new zoning guidelines, specialized construction financing can help fund your build in stages.
Rental or Investment Mortgages
Thinking of building a small-scale rental or multi-unit home? We can help you explore mortgage products designed for income-generating properties.
Things to Keep in Mind
Before jumping in, here are a few quick tips:
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Zoning doesn’t guarantee approval – your build must still follow the specific bylaw rules.
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Always work with a planner, architect, or builder familiar with Calgary’s new zoning map.
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Consult with a mortgage broker early to understand how your goals align with your financing options.
Let’s Talk Strategy, Not Just Mortgages
At Sheth Mortgages, we don’t just offer rates—we help you plan smarter. Whether you’re buying your first home, adding a suite, or building for the future, we’ll guide you through mortgage options tailored to Calgary’s evolving landscape.
📞 Thinking of buying, renovating, or rebuilding? Let’s connect.