The City of Calgary is proposing the removal of minimum parking requirements for non-residential uses from the Land Use Bylaw in order to support the changing needs of society, create stronger alignment between the Bylaw and overarching city-wide policy documents, and to lay the foundation for Calgary’s comeback.
Presently, parking minimums in the Bylaw can result in an over supply of parking for different uses in varying locations throughout the city because the parking minimums required exceed the real demand for parking. Eliminating vehicle parking minimums for certain uses citywide will enable those who are most familiar with their own parking needs to determine the amount supplied. Known as “Open Option Parking”, this method of deregulating parking minimums for all uses was approved on a citywide basis by The City of Edmonton on 2020 June 23 (Charter Bylaw 19275).
This direction, given by members of Council at the July 15, 2020 Special Standing Committee on Planning and Urban Development, responds to a number of issues with minimum parking requirements:
Many parking minimums over-estimate the need for parking
Parking is costly, and that cost is indirectly passed onto consumers, businesses and tenants
Over-supply of parking can create an urban form that discourages walking, cycling and transit
Our spaces can end up being designed for vehicles rather than for people
Encourages driving over more active modes of transportation
Is not aligned with Calgary’s Climate Resilience Strategy
In light of these issues, The City of Calgary is proposing to allow businesses and developers to advise how much parking makes sense for their development, rather than relying on parking rates in the Land Use Bylaw. This change is expected to provide relief to businesses, create walkable and attractive communities and support Calgary’s climate goals.