Secondary suites
What is the intent and purpose of allowing secondary suites?
The demand for affordable housing is unprecedented. The ability to consider secondary suites in certain neighbourhoods has been a priority of Council and administration. Secondary suites offer an innovative, cost-effective way to increase the amount of affordable housing options in Strathcona County.
This innovative housing option helps meet the lifestyle and social needs of lower income County residents, particulary for those looking for rental housing.
- Secondary Suites Grant Program
- Neighbourhoods where suites are allowed
- Suites in Sherwood Park and hamlets
- Basement suites
- Garage suites
- Suite within or attached to house
- Suites on acreages and small farms
- Suites on agricultural land
- Obtaining the necessary permits
- Before you get started
What is a secondary suite?
The two main types of secondary suites are a suite within an owner-occupied house such as a basement suite or a suite located above or attached to a garage.
Types of secondary suites
- Within an owner-occupied
home, such as a basement
suite or a new addition to
an existing house. - A suite located above or
attached to a detached
garage.
Secondary suite sizes
Maximum sizes:
- Within the urban services area (Sherwood Park and other hamlets): 80 square metres (861 sq. ft.)
- All other areas: 100 square metres (1,076 sq. ft.)
NOTE: maximum size in all cases cannot exceed 40 per
cent of the gross floor area of the main house.
Minimum sizes: - In all areas: 30 square metres (323 sq. ft.) and must contain at least two rooms in which a bedroom, cooking facilities and bathroom are provided.
Are secondary suites allowed in my neighbourhood?
We can consider secondary suites in many Sherwood Park and Hamlet neighbourhoods as well as on acreages and farms (outside the Heartland Area Structure Plan and 3 km Heavy Industrial Transition Overlay).
What do I need to know before I get started?
Before you decide to proceed with renovations to your property to accommodate a secondary suite.
What permits will I need and how do I obtain them?
We would like to discuss your project with you prior to your submission of permit applications. You can visit our office or call 780-464-8080 to speak to an Information Officer.
Is there grant funding available to assist in creating a secondary suite in my home?
Yes, qualified residents can apply for a maximum grant of $15,000 to create a new secondary suite or a maximum grant of $10,000 to renovate an existing suite. The applicant must have an approved development permit for the project before applying for a grant.
Last updated: Tuesday, April 13, 2010
Page ID: 2916