Backyard Suites Calgary
From Bedrock Construction
Looking to enhance your backyard with a functional and stylish addition? Consider a backyard suite!
Discover Your Ideal Backyard Suite and Secondary Suite Renovation with Bedrock Construction
Maximize Your Space with a Backyard Suite
Whether you're aiming to maximize your outdoor space, add a cozy guest house, or create a profitable rental opportunity, a backyard suite offers versatility and value to your property. Bedrock Construction excels in enhancing your home by expanding upon your available living areas, with backyard suites being one of our specialties.
Tailor-Made Backyard Suites and Secondary Suites
As a full-service construction contractor in Calgary, we provide tailor-made design solutions that cater to all sizes and budgets. Just as we transform spaces with custom decks, we apply the same expertise to develop backyard suites that extend your living space and enhance your property’s functionality and appeal.
Enhance Your Backyard with a Backyard Suite
Backyard Suites Calgary | Great Value | Profitable Rental | Maximize Your Outdoor Space | Add Value to Your Property
If you're considering adding a backyard suite in Calgary, you're in the right place. Whether you're thinking about a garden suite, converting your existing garage into a backyard garage suite, or exploring other secondary suite options like garage suites or laneway houses, your yard is a canvas of opportunity. These additions are perfect for accommodating guests, generating rental income, or creating a personal retreat right at home.
Unlock New Possibilities with a Backyard Suite
Adding a backyard suite in Calgary offers not only practical solutions but significant economic benefits as well. These versatile structures provide an excellent opportunity for homeowners to accommodate aging parents comfortably, ensuring they are close yet maintaining privacy for all. Additionally, backyard suites present a sound financial investment by boosting property value and providing potential revenue through profitable rental opportunities.
Backyard suites in Calgary have become increasingly popular due to their flexibility and the value they add to properties. They are perfect settings for hosting family and friends, expanding your living space, or even creating a dedicated office or studio to work from home. The possibilities are nearly endless, allowing you to tailor these spaces to your specific needs and lifestyle.
EXPERIENCED
Bedrock Construction has been a part of the Calgary scene for well over 20 years. We have been working with homeowners and businesses from all over the Calgary area. We specialize in home renovations of all shapes and sizes.
PASSIONATE
Bedrock Construction exhibits a level of excitement that is unsurpassed by most. Their energy and motivations are driven from their need to put smiles on faces and produce a product that will last through the years.
CREATIVE
Creating is what Bedrock Construction does best and it is apparent throughout the process. They go that extra mile for their clients and bring a level of creativity to its projects that make
them unique and unlike any other.
Our Experience is Your Experience
We believe in communication, transparency and partnership. Any type of home renovation is a huge undertaking and requires a level of trust and understanding from both parties.
Check out our About Us page to learn about Bedrock Construction and our core values.
THE QUALITY IS IN OUR HANDS
At Bedrock Construction, quality isn’t just a feature—it’s the foundation of every backyard suite we build. From design to completion, we deliver results that not only meet expectations but exceed them. Every detail is handled with precision to ensure your suite is functional, beautiful, and built to last. Whether it’s a garage suite, carriage house, or full secondary suite, we treat each project with the same dedication to craftsmanship. A backyard suite should feel like a natural extension of your home—one you’re proud to enjoy, not find fault with. That’s the Bedrock difference.
"The Bedrock team is top notch. Working with the team commercially went so well that I invited Bedrock into my home for a home renovation."
SD
"From our initial meeting, it was apparent how detailed Bedrock Construction is. The detail in their contracts give you peace of mind."
CL
"Corrie was a great partner to work with on design as he respected and supported my desire to maintain the mid-century character of my home."
LD
“Bedrock is more than trades people….they are artists. I have had Bedrock do two bathroom renovations and they re-tiled my basement too, helping shake off some serious seventies vibes across the board. If you need a design collaborator and a skilled company to work with Bedrock is the company to hire.”
Patti Derbyshire
Backyard Suite FAQ'S
A backyard suite, also known as a laneway house, garden suite or even garage suites, is a detached residential dwelling located on the same lot as a main house but separate from it. These units can serve various purposes, such as a rental property, a guest house, or additional living space for family members.
Yes, backyard suites—also known as garage suites, carriage houses, garden suites or secondary suites—are legal in Calgary. The city supports their development as part of its plan to increase urban density and expand housing options. To build a legal backyard suite, you must meet specific zoning requirements, include a private entrance, separate bathroom and ensure proper egress windows are installed for safety. A building permit is required, and the suite must pass building safety approval to be considered a legal suite.
In Calgary, the zoning laws pertaining to backyard suites have been designed to accommodate the growing interest in this type of housing while ensuring it integrates seamlessly into existing neighbourhoods. Key considerations include:
1. Zoning Requirements: Backyard suites are permitted in most residential districts that include R-1, R-C1, and R-C1L land-use districts among others. To find out if your property is zoned appropriately, you should consult the Calgary Land Use Bylaw or speak directly with a city planner.
2. Suite Size and Placement: The size of a backyard suite may not exceed a certain percentage of the lot area, and it must comply with specific setback regulations from property lines. This is to ensure privacy and maintain the aesthetic of the neighbourhood.
3. Parking: Typically, one additional parking spot is required per backyard suite. This requirement can vary based on the specific characteristics of the neighbourhood and proximity to public transit options.
4. Building Height and Coverage: The maximum height and coverage of backyard suites are also regulated to ensure that new structures do not overshadow neighbouring properties. This includes restrictions on overall height and how much of the lot can be covered by the suite.
5. Permits and Approvals: Building a backyard suite requires several permits, including a development permit, a building permit, and possibly others depending on the project's specifics. The development permit ensures that the suite's design complies with the Land Use Bylaw, while the building permit focuses on construction safety.
6. Community Consultation: Although not always mandatory, engaging with your community can be a beneficial step in the process. It helps gauge neighbourhood sentiments and can smooth the permitting process.
Bedrock Construction can guide you through the specific zoning and permitting requirements, ensuring that your backyard suite project in Calgary meets all legal criteria and is completed without any compliance issues.
Yes — Calgary does have a Secondary Suite Amnesty Program. Here are the key details:
The program allows homeowners with suites that existed prior to March 12, 2018, to self-identify, apply for permits, and legalize their suites at reduced cost, focusing on essential life safety upgrades.
Initially launched in June 2018, the program was unanimously extended by City Council and now runs through December 31, 2026.
What’s Included under Amnesty
Waived fees for both the Development Permit (normally $497) and Secondary Suite Registry ($244) are available until the end of 2026.
Homeowners still need to cover reduced Building Permit and related trade permits (electrical, plumbing, mechanical), which are relatively modest fees.
Yes - Calgary also offers a Secondary Suite Incentive Program that provides financial support for safety and accessibility upgrades. This includes:
Up to $10,000 per qualifying homeowner for safety elements like egress windows, smoke alarms, protected exits, and smoke-tight barriers.
Additional funding of up to $1,900 for energy-efficient improvements.
Up to $7,500 for accessibility modifications.
One year into the incentive program, the city received 5,703 applications, with 2,522 suites completed and added to the registry.
Applicants may be eligible for funding to improve essential components like egress windows, fire separation, and the overall suite amenity space.
Absolutely! Bedrock Construction provides full-service solutions, including design, obtaining necessary permits, and construction. We handle all aspects of the process, ensuring that your backyard suite meets all city regulations and your personal specifications.
Adding a backyard secondary suite structure to your land can provide numerous benefits, including potential rental income, increased property value, and additional space for guests or relatives. Secondary suites are an excellent way to maximize the use of your property without having to purchase additional land.
The cost of building a backyard suite or garage suite in Calgary can vary widely depending on factors such as size, design, materials, and finishes. Bedrock Construction offers customized solutions to fit various budgets, and we can provide a detailed quote based on your specific requirements.
The construction timeline for a backyard suite can vary, typically ranging from several months to over a year, depending on the complexity of the project and the permitting process. Bedrock Construction prides itself on efficient project management to ensure timely completion.
Bedrock Construction offers a wide range of customization options for backyard suites and garage suites. From basic functional layouts to high-end finishes and smart home features, we can tailor every aspect of your suite to suit your lifestyle and preferences.
To build a legal suite in Calgary, whether it be a backyard suite or garage suite, you’ll need a building permit, along with several separate permits depending on the work involved. These typically include a separate plumbing permit, separate electrical permit, separate gas permit, and a separate mechanical permit. Each permit ensures that the work meets current safety codes and is inspected accordingly. Obtaining the building permit application and the proper permits is essential for getting full building safety approval and ensuring your suite is fully legal and safe to occupy.
Visit the city of Calgary - Building a Backyard Suite for more information on permits, application requirements and rules.
To get started, contact Bedrock Construction for a consultation. We'll discuss your vision, assess your property, and provide guidance on the best options for your situation. We can also schedule a virtual quote to begin detailing your project right away. Let's bring your backyard suite goals to life! Contact Us Today! - Let's Chat.