Can you put a secondary suite in a bi-level house, or does the ceiling height not meet code?

Yes, you can absolutely put a secondary suite in a bi-level house in Calgary, and ceiling height is typically not an issue. Most bi-level homes built from the 1960s onward have basement areas with 7-8 foot ceilings, which easily meet Alberta's minimum requirement of 1.95 meters (6 feet 5 inches) for habitable rooms in secondary suites.

Understanding Bi-Level Layout Advantages

Bi-level homes are actually excellent candidates for secondary suites because they're designed with the lower level as livable space rather than a traditional basement. The lower level typically has larger windows, better natural light, and ceiling heights of 7.5-8 feet or more. This makes creating a comfortable, code-compliant suite much easier than in homes with traditional basements.

The key is that your lower level needs to meet all secondary suite requirements under the Alberta Building Code, not just ceiling height. You'll need proper egress windows in each bedroom (minimum opening of 0.35 square meters with no dimension less than 380mm), fire separation between the suite and main dwelling (typically 1/2" drywall to the underside of the subfloor above), and interconnected smoke alarms throughout both units.

Calgary-Specific Requirements and Process

In Calgary, secondary suites are permitted city-wide, but you'll need a development permit from the City of Calgary even if you're not changing the exterior. The suite must have a separate entrance (can share a common vestibule), adequate parking (typically one space per suite), and meet setback requirements if you're adding exterior stairs or entrances.

Your bi-level will also need separate utilities metering if required by your utility companies, proper sound separation between units, and compliance with Calgary's residential parking requirements. The lower level needs to be designed as a complete dwelling unit with kitchen, bathroom, living area, and at least one bedroom.

Professional Requirements and Next Steps

You'll need building permits for any electrical, plumbing, or structural work. All electrical and plumbing work must be done by licensed contractors and inspected by Safety Codes Officers accredited through the Safety Codes Council of Alberta. Start by consulting with an architect or designer familiar with Calgary's secondary suite requirements to assess your specific bi-level layout and create compliant plans.

Contact the City of Calgary at 311 or visit calgaryplanningpermit.ca to begin the development permit process. Most bi-level conversions run $40,000-$80,000 depending on the extent of kitchen and bathroom work required.