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Have you noticed the buzz around Calgary lately? The city’s recent changes to development permits have sparked quite a discussion, especially regarding housing affordability. As appeals around these permits rise, many are left wondering: will these delays make it harder for people to find homes they can afford? In this article, we’ll explore the latest statistics on these appeals, what they mean for the housing market, and some potential solutions to keep things moving smoothly.
The Market Landscape: A New Era for Development Permits
According to the latest figures from the Subdivision Development and Appeal Board (SDAB), since Calgary’s city council implemented the new rezoning in May 2024, there have been 269 development permit applications.
These applications were previously bound to land-use changes. While a few have been withdrawn, 172 have been approved, showcasing a strong interest in developing new projects. However, with 33 appeals filed by the end of May 2025, there’s a growing trend that could impact housing supply in the city.
Fast forward to June 2025, and the total appeals have skyrocketed to 85, particularly in the RC-G zoning category, which permits various residential uses. The SDAB operates independently, acting as a quasi-judicial body that handles these appeals without direct oversight from city planners.
This independence is crucial for fair governance, but it can also lead to delays that could affect how quickly housing becomes available.
The Ripple Effect on Housing Affordability
So, what does this all mean for affordability? The effects of rising appeals extend far beyond the boardroom.
Delays in the development process can create financial strains for developers, and those costs often trickle down to potential renters and buyers. Industry experts estimate that each unresolved appeal can cost developers up to $500 a day, potentially resulting in losses of around $34,000 during the average appeal period.
These expenses inevitably lead to higher rents and property prices for everyday people.
City councilors are understandably worried that this surge in appeals could derail efforts to boost housing availability and lower costs. With the average wait time between an appeal notice and a merit hearing stretching to 68 days, it’s clear that swift resolutions are essential. To tackle this issue, many stakeholders are advocating for increased capacity within the SDAB to handle the growing number of appeals more effectively, ensuring that housing supply isn’t unduly hindered.
Looking Ahead: Trends and Future Prospects
As the SDAB maneuvers through this complex situation, it’s crucial to keep a close eye on the appeal process. Streamlining procedures and boosting board capacity could help relieve some of the pressure. In a recent statement, the SDAB chair acknowledged the uptick in appeals, highlighting the importance of adapting to these changes to meet the housing market’s needs.
Moving forward, Calgary’s housing landscape will heavily rely on how well the city can tackle the appeal backlog while ensuring a transparent and fair process. Striking the right balance between encouraging development and addressing community concerns is no easy feat. As Calgary continues to grow, it’s vital for all stakeholders to collaborate effectively to keep housing accessible and affordable for everyone.
