Chestermere City Council will take another look at the rules governing secondary suites and separate exterior basement entrances when a proposed bylaw returns for consideration on September 15.
Council directed administration to prepare the new bylaw during its September 1 meeting after concerns were raised by representatives of the development industry. The discussion took place as council considered a broader collection of housekeeping amendments to the City’s Land Use Bylaw.
Although the exact wording of the new proposal has not yet been released, the issue could affect homeowners, builders, renters and residents living in Chestermere’s growing neighbourhoods.
The City updated its secondary-suite regulations in June through Bylaw #015-26. Those amendments expanded and clarified the types of suites that may be considered, including suites within a principal dwelling, attached suites, suites in accessory buildings and detached garden suites.
The changes also introduced a restrictive provision covering separate exterior basement entrances.
Under the current regulation, a new entrance providing independent exterior access to a basement may not be permitted unless it serves a walk-out basement on a lot designed for that purpose, is clearly incorporated into the original design of the home, or is approved under circumstances considered exceptional by the City’s development authority.
The restriction appears intended to preserve the appearance of single-family homes and ensure that secondary suites are developed in a manner compatible with surrounding properties. Developers and homeowners, however, may find that the rule limits their ability to create safe and practical entrances for basement suites in homes that were not originally designed as walk-outs.
The September 15 proposal is expected to address those concerns, but it remains unclear whether administration will recommend removing the restriction, revising its wording or creating additional circumstances under which an exterior entrance could be approved.
Secondary suites have become an increasingly important part of the housing discussion in Chestermere and across the Calgary region. They can provide more affordable rental housing for seniors, young adults, workers and families while helping homeowners manage mortgages and rising household expenses.
They can also generate neighbourhood concerns involving parking, traffic, garbage collection, noise and the possibility of multiple households occupying properties originally designed for one family.
Any changes will need to balance the need for additional housing with safety requirements and the expectations of existing neighbourhoods.
A secondary suite is not automatically legal simply because it has a separate entrance. Homeowners must determine whether the use is allowed under their property’s land-use designation and obtain the required development and building permits. Suites must also meet provincial building and fire-safety requirements, including provisions for exits, windows, smoke protection, heating and ventilation.
Until council approves another amendment, the existing regulations remain in effect. Homeowners considering a basement renovation or secondary suite should consult the City before beginning construction.
The proposed bylaw is expected to appear on the agenda for the September 15 regular council meeting. Once released, the wording should provide residents and the development community with a clearer indication of how far council is prepared to change the current rules.