Secondary suite

A self-contained dwelling unit within a single-detached house. In Calgary this is usually a basement suite.

Backyard suite

A detached secondary dwelling in the rear yard — includes garden and garage suites.

Development Permit (DP)

The City permit that approves a proposed use of a property, such as adding a second dwelling.

Building Permit (BP)

The City permit that approves the construction itself and triggers inspections.

Land use district

The zoning classification of a parcel (R-CG, R-G, R-C1, etc.) that determines what uses are allowed.

Legal non-conforming

A suite that predates current bylaws and is grandfathered even though it doesn't meet current standards.

Egress window

A basement window sized and positioned so an occupant can escape and a firefighter can enter.

Fire separation

A rated wall or floor assembly (typically 45 minutes) that slows fire spread between the suite and the main dwelling.

STC (Sound Transmission Class)

A rating for how well an assembly blocks airborne sound. STC 50 is the target between suites.

Secondary Suite Registry

The City of Calgary's public list of legal, inspected secondary suites.

R-CG / R-G

The base residential districts adopted city-wide in 2024 that permit secondary and backyard suites.

HRV (Heat Recovery Ventilator)

A fresh-air appliance that recovers heat from exhaust air. Increasingly used to meet suite ventilation requirements.