Does the Calgary R-CG blanket rezoning mean I can build a backyard suite without a development permit in Bridgeland?

No, you still need a development permit for a backyard suite in Bridgeland, even with the R-CG blanket rezoning. The R-CG zoning enables backyard suites as a permitted use, but doesn't eliminate the development permit requirement.

The Calgary R-CG blanket rezoning that took effect in 2024 was a historic change that allows up to four units on most residential lots across the city, including established communities like Bridgeland. This zoning change means backyard suites (also called garden suites or laneway suites) are now a permitted use rather than requiring a discretionary approval, which significantly streamlines the process.

However, you still need both a development permit and building permit for your backyard suite. The development permit ensures your project meets setback requirements, lot coverage limits, and community design guidelines. In Bridgeland specifically, there may be additional heritage and character considerations since it's an established inner-city community with heritage inventory properties.

Bridgeland-specific considerations include the community's heritage character and the Bridgeland-Riverside Area Redevelopment Plan (ARP), which may have specific design guidelines for new development. The community sits along the Bow River and has flood risk considerations that could affect your foundation and utility design. Many Bridgeland lots are smaller heritage parcels, so meeting the required setbacks while staying under the 85 square meter (915 sq ft) maximum size requires careful planning.

The development permit process typically takes 6-12 weeks and costs $500-$1,500 depending on complexity. You'll need to show site plans, elevations, and demonstrate compliance with setbacks (typically 1.2m from side/rear property lines). The building permit follows once development approval is granted, adding another 4-8 weeks and $2,000-$5,000 in fees.

Next steps: Contact the City of Calgary at 311 or apply online at calgaryplanningpermit.ca. Consider hiring a designer familiar with Calgary's backyard suite requirements and Bridgeland's character guidelines to ensure your application meets all requirements on the first submission.