Canadian Design and Construction Report staff writer
The Alberta government is directing Edmonton to restore previous rules for high-density infill development, including housing types, building heights, density and minimum on-site parking requirements, while Calgary will be required to identify areas where earlier low-density zoning has been reinstated.
The measures, announced Oct. 8, give Edmonton three months to amend its zoning bylaw to restore residential development parameters that were in place before its 2024 changes and parking requirements that existed before 2020.
Calgary, which repealed blanket rezoning in April 2026, must establish an overlay identifying properties returned to their previous low-density residential zones. The direction is intended to maintain existing requirements for housing types, building heights and parking while the city continues its broader land-use review.
“Responsible infill development must be appropriately scaled and supported by adequate utilities and water infrastructure,” said Premier Danielle Smith. “We can build more homes without asking people to give up the things that make their neighbourhood a place they want to call home.”
Both municipalities will also review their land-use bylaws, consult the public and work with industry on a more balanced approach to high-density infill. Edmonton will have 18 months to complete its review, while Calgary’s review is scheduled for completion in 2027.
The provincial direction also establishes expectations that infill development be appropriately scaled, supported by adequate utilities and water infrastructure, and suited to local conditions.
“Over the last several months, we’ve heard directly from Albertans who want predictable and thoughtful growth in their neighbourhoods, while reaffirming the necessity for meaningful public engagement,” said Municipal Affairs Minister Dan Williams. “Under this new provincial direction, Albertans can expect an approach that promotes new housing growth that is balanced with Albertans’ goal of home ownership in safe, affordable and livable communities.
“This direction provides an opportunity for municipalities pause, reset and create stronger communities that grow responsibly without dividing neighbours.”
The province has concerns about parking pressures, traffic, building scale and compatibility with surrounding neighbourhoods as reasons for intervening in high-density infill development.
The Edmonton Infill Action Campaign took the concerns of thousands of residents straight to the province asking for help, and they’ve heard us. We look forward to the focus being put back on well-built homes that contribute positively to their communities.”
“Infill is necessary,” said Jesse Watson, representing the campaign. “Infill is important. Responsible, contextual infill is how we build Edmonton right.”
One in four new homes built in Canada is in Alberta, according to the province.
Edmonton’s Zoning Bylaw 20001 took effect Jan. 1, 2024, reducing the city’s residential zones from 16 to six and expanding the types of housing permitted across the city.
Calgary’s updated land-use bylaw took effect Aug. 6, 2024, redesignating most low-density residential lots as Residential – Grade-Oriented Infill. City council voted April 8, 2026, to repeal the rezoning and restore pre-2024 zoning for affected properties, effective Aug. 4, 2026.
