Town of Olds Extends Secondary Suite Compliance Incentive Until February 2026

The Town of Olds has extended its compliance incentive for existing secondary suites until February 28, 2026, giving property owners additional time to bring their suites up to code under simplified requirements. This is a significant opportunity for anyone with a non-compliant secondary suite to legalize it with fewer barriers—supporting safer, more affordable housing in our community.

“We’ve made this process easier and more accessible because we want to work with property owners, not against them,” said James Crozier, Manager of Planning & Infrastructure. “This extension allows landlords to act now, under simplified requirements.”

Here’s What You Need To Know:

1. The program has been extended: Until February 28, 2026, homeowners can legalize their existing secondary suite with reduced paperwork and cost. After that date, enforcement of existing regulations will resume.
2. Non-compliant suites have been identified: Town staff connecting with property owners whose homes are known to have secondary suites that are not currently registered.
3. Enforcement begins in February 2026: All non-compliant suites must be brought into compliance or removed from the rental market before this date.

“We’re seeing other communities deal with the consequences of illegal suites after emergencies like fires,” said Fire Chief Justin Andrews. “If someone is hurt or killed in an unregistered basement suite, the homeowner can face serious legal consequences. These changes are about protecting everyone—tenants and landlords alike.”

What Should Homeowners Do?

If you have an existing non-compliant secondary suite, now is the time to act:

• Submit a development permit application to register your suite and meet current safety standards, or;
• Cease renting the suite until it meets legal requirements.

This incentive period is about working together to ensure our housing stock is safe and secure for everyone who calls Olds home.
For more information on how to apply, visit www.olds.ca/secondarysuites or contact the Town’s Planning and Development team at planning@olds.ca

Media Contact:

Jillian Toellner
Supervisor – Communications & Engagement
Town of Olds
communications@olds.ca
Direct: 403-507-4857

View the News Release as a PDF