A secondary suite, often referred to as a basement suite, in-law suite, or granny suite, is a self-contained living space in the same structure as a detached house. It includes its own entrance, kitchen, bathroom, and sleeping area. In Strathmore, legal suites must follow the Land Use Bylaw 14-11 and the Alberta Building Code.

As of June 2020, secondary suites are classified as Discretionary Uses in the following Land Use Districts: 

• R1, R1N, R1S 

• R2 

• CR 

• CB 

• AG 

If your home is not zoned accordingly, a Land Use Amendment (rezoning) is required before proceeding. TRACE helps you verify your zoning and navigate the full process.

Developing a legal basement suite in Strathmore, Alberta involves three key steps: 

Step 1: Land Use Approval 

We confirm your zoning is appropriate or assist with rezoning if needed. 

Step 2: Development Permit 

Because secondary suites are Discretionary Uses, the Town circulates your application to adjacent homeowners before granting approval. 

Step 3: Building & Utility Permits 

Once your Development Permit is approved, we apply for the required Building, Electrical, Plumbing, and Gas permits in compliance with the Alberta Building Code and Safety Codes Act. Once approved, your suite is added to Strathmore’s Secondary Suite Registry and your home will display a door sticker for emergency services awareness.

To meet Strathmore's bylaw: 

• You must provide at least one on-site parking stall for the suite, in addition to what’s required for the main dwelling. 

• Tandem parking may be permitted. 

• Street parking does not count toward this requirement. 

TRACE will help you incorporate this into your site plan during the design phase.

Whether you’re looking to house family, downsize, or generate income, a legal basement apartment in Strathmore offers many benefits: 

For Homeowners 

• Supplement your income and pay down your mortgage 

• Keep extended family nearby 

• Age in place by downsizing within your own home 

• Increase your property’s resale value 

For Residents 

• Ground-level suites with yard access

•  Convenient locations near schools, parks, and amenities 

• Legal, registered suites that meet all fire and safety codes 

For the Community 

• Maintains neighborhood population 

• Brings children and families back into mature communities 

• Supports diverse housing options in Strathmore

As a licensed general contractor in Wheatland County, TRACE provides full-service support from concept to completion. We specialize in: 

• Basement layout & design: Custom plans that comply with and exceed Alberta code 

• Permit preparation & submission: We handle everything with Development Services 

• Construction & finishing: Framing, drywall, waterproofing, kitchens, bathrooms, flooring, egress windows, and more 

• Separate basement entry design: Includes excavation, concrete, grading, and safe stair access

Q: Can I build a suite if I’m not in the right zoning? 

A: If your property isn’t in a listed zone, we can help you apply for a Land Use Amendment (rezoning) before moving forward. 

Q: Is the suite registered with the Town? 

A: Yes. All legal secondary suites in Strathmore are added to a public registry and marked with a door sticker for emergency use. 

Q: What if I have limited space for parking? 

A: You still need one dedicated on-site parking stall, but tandem parking may be approved by the Development Authority. 

Q: Do I need a separate utility meter? 

A: No. A single meter is allowed. For waste services, contact the Utility Department to request an additional bin for the suite. 

Q: Will this increase my property value? 

Q: Yes. Legal suites often require significant investment, which adds to the value, especially with the income-generating potential.

TRACE Wheatland Construction & Design Inc. is proud to serve: 

• Strathmore 

• Chestermere 

• Langdon 

• Lyalta 

• Calgary

• Wheatland County 

• Rural residential properties in surrounding areas

From zoning checks and permit drawings to full construction, we ensure your Strathmore legal basement suite is built right, built safe, and built to last.

If you're ready to build a legal basement apartment in Strathmore, TRACE is your trusted partner. We know the process inside and out, and we’re local, experienced, and committed to quality. Contact us today to book a free consultation.