Calgary city council has initiated the process to overturn the city's controversial blanket rezoning policy, marking a significant shift in the municipality's approach to residential development. Councillors voted Monday to advance a proposal that would scrap the comprehensive zoning changes approved by the previous council.
Council Vote Sets Stage for December Showdown
The notice of motion to reverse the land use bylaw amendment passed its initial technical review with a 13-2 vote, setting the stage for a crucial debate and final vote at the December 15 council meeting. The motion was introduced by Ward 10 Councillor Andre Chabot and gained support from multiple council members, including Mayor Jeromy Farkas and councillors Dan McLean, Kim Tyers, Rob Ward, Mike Jamieson, and Landon Johnston.
Only Ward 8 Councillor Nate Schmidt and Ward 7 Councillor Mike Atkinson voted against advancing the motion, highlighting the continued division on council regarding housing policy.
Background of the Controversial Policy
The blanket rezoning policy, approved by the previous council in May 2024, made residential grade-oriented infill (R-CG) the city's default residential zoning district. This controversial change allowed for the development of duplexes, fourplexes, and rowhouses in areas previously zoned exclusively for single-family detached housing without requiring individual land use redesignation.
The policy was a key component of Calgary's 2023 housing strategy, which aimed to increase both market-rate and below-market housing supply by 2030. City staff had defended the approach as necessary to create more attainable housing options throughout the city.
Public Opposition Drives Reconsideration
Council members indicated that public feedback played a crucial role in their decision to reconsider the zoning changes. "We heard loud and clear from Calgarians that they wanted us to reconsider the decision that was previously made," Chabot stated after the meeting.
Mayor Farkas echoed this sentiment, emphasizing that "Calgarians have told the vast majority of us, including myself as mayor, that blanket rezoning hasn't been the approach to build the housing that's affordable in the right places with community support."
The original zoning change proved highly divisive among residents, with many current council members campaigning during the recent election on promises to repeal the policy. The initial approval came after what was recorded as the city's longest public hearing, demonstrating the intense public interest in the matter.
Next Steps and Financial Implications
If council supports the notice of motion next month, the repeal process will proceed to a public hearing in March 2026, as required by provincial legislation for amendments to the city's land use bylaw. City administration reminded council that the initial public hearing for the blanket rezoning policy cost just over $1.2 million, indicating the significant financial resources involved in such comprehensive zoning changes.
The upcoming December 15 meeting will determine whether Calgary reverses course on one of the most significant urban planning decisions in recent years, with implications for housing development patterns across the city for decades to come.
