Planning a Basement Suite in Chestermere? Start Here
When buying a new home in Chestermere, it helps to think beyond your immediate needs and consider how your home could work for you in the years ahead. For many homeowners, that means exploring the possibility of a basement suite, whether for extended family, additional living space or potential rental income.
If a basement suite is part of your future plans, understanding the City of Chestermere’s requirements can help you make a more informed decision when choosing your new home and lot. The good news is that side entrances are permitted in Chestermere, giving homeowners more flexibility when planning for their future.
WHAT TO CONSIDER WHEN BUYING YOUR HOME
One of the first things to consider is how and when you’d like to develop your basement. You may choose to work with your builder to include a basement suite in your home’s initial design, or purchase your home with the intention of developing the basement yourself later on.
Either way, it’s worth thinking about your preferred layout, lot type and entrance options from the start. Understanding the City’s requirements can help you plan ahead and have more informed conversations with your builder.
The City of Chestermere outlines its regulations for secondary suites and separate exterior basement entrances in its Land Use Bylaw. Chestermere City Council recently approved Bylaw #034-26, which updates these regulations.
So, what does this mean for homebuyers? A side entrance can be included in your home’s regular building permit, however, developing a secondary suite is a separate step with its own set of requirements. Under the amended rules, residential lots with at least 10.97 metres of frontage are eligible to apply for a secondary suite, and each application is reviewed by the City.
As requirements can vary depending on the property and proposed design, we encourage prospective homeowners to review the City’s Land Use bylaws and policies to better understand the applicable guidelines before making decisions about their home. The City’s Secondary Suites page is also a helpful starting point for permits and requirements.
Explore New Homes in Bridgeport and Dawson’s Landing
If you’re looking for a new home in Chestermere with future basement development in mind, Bridgeport and Dawson’s Landing offer a variety of home styles, lot options and builders to explore. In both communities, you can compare floor plans, think through your long-term needs and speak directly with builders about your plans for the basement.
Find Your Fit in Bridgeport
Bridgeport offers a variety of new homes to suit different lifestyles and stages of homeownership. Explore available homes, compare floor plans and connect with the builders to discuss your preferences and future plans.
Builders in Bridgeport:
Discover Dawson’s Landing
Whether you’re buying your first home or looking for more room to grow, Dawson’s Landing offers a variety of new-home options to consider. With six builders serving the community, you can explore different layouts and available lots.
Builders in Dawson’s Landing:
Build for Today, Plan for Tomorrow
Your home should work for you today while leaving room for your plans tomorrow. If a basement suite is something you may want to consider down the road, exploring your options before choosing a lot and home design can help you plan with greater confidence.
Connect with the builders in Bridgeport and Dawson’s Landing or visit their showhomes to learn more about your options. For specific information about secondary suites and exterior basement entrances, the City of Chestermere’s official bylaws and policies remain the best place to start.