Accessory Suites
Accessory suites are self-contained dwelling units that are accessory to a main dwelling unit on a lot. This includes both secondary suites and backyard suites. Suites must follow Land Use Bylaw regulations and require both a Development Permit and Building Permit to be operational.
- Secondary suites are self-contained dwellings located within a single detached dwelling or a semi-detached dwelling.
- Backyard suites are detached self-contained dwellings on residential lots with single-detached dwellings. Backyard suites may be stand-alone buildings or attached to or above an accessory building (garage).
View the Town of Cochrane Accessory Suite Guidelines for regulations that need to be met under the Land Use Bylaw.
For information on building permits and inspections, and what requirements accessory suites need to meet under the Safety Codes Act and relevant codes, please visit Building Permits and Inspections or contact our Safety Codes department at safety.codes@cochrane.ca.
How do I apply for an Accessory Suite?
To apply for a development permit for an Accessory Suite, you will need to submit a completed Application Form and supporting documents to planning@cochrane.ca. Please refer to the Accessory Suite Application Checklist to determine what supporting documents must be submitted in order to provide a complete application. Incomplete applications will not be processed.
For further information on the development permit process, including application fees and timelines, visit our Development Permit Webpage.
Once your Development Permit has been released, you can apply for your building permit and, if applicable, electrical, plumbing and gas permits.