Chestermere City Council has given an early nod to new rules that could open the door to more secondary suites across the city. On May 12, council unanimously gave first reading to Bylaw #015-26, which aims to clarify and expand definitions for different types of secondary suites. The move sets the stage for a public hearing on June 9, 2026, where residents can have their say before any final decisions are made.
The proposed changes, detailed in the Secondary Suites Definitions Land Use Bylaw Amendment, would broaden the kinds of secondary homes allowed in certain residential areas. That includes principal dwelling suites, attached suites, accessory building suites, basement suites, and garden suites. It is part of a broader push by cities across Alberta to boost housing availability and affordability.
Chestermere has been working on secondary suite rules for more than a year. An earlier set of changes, Bylaw #040-25, was given final approval on April 14, 2026. Those rules focused on where suites could go, strengthened parking rules, and kept suites out of lakeshore and golf course areas. The latest bylaw picks up where that left off, adding new housing forms like garage and garden suites to the mix.
The public hearing is scheduled for 11:00 a.m. on June 9 in Council Chambers. Both council and city administration encourage residents to attend and share their thoughts. After the hearing, council will decide whether to move the bylaw forward to further readings and possible adoption.
