Multi-Unit Incentive Pilot Program

The Multi-Unit Incentive Program is a targeted pilot designed to accelerate the delivery of diverse and affordable housing in Airdrie. By offering financial incentives for eligible multi-unit residential projects located near existing transit routes, employment hubs, and schools, the program promotes livable, connected communities where residents can easily access daily needs. All developments will continue to meet the standards of the Land Use Bylaw (LUB), ensuring traffic impacts and parking requirements are carefully monitored and regulated to maintain neighbourhood functionality. This initiative also reduces complexities around approval processes, reducing red tape for developers while upholding quality and safety standards. The pilot will provide valuable insights into market response and community benefits, guiding future housing policy and investment strategies.

Eligibility

The program is open to registered property owners or authorized agents proposing multi-unit residential developments.

Eligible projects must:

• Be 4 storey mixed use (with ground floor commercial) or 5+ storey residential building.
• Be located near existing or planned transit routes or within a future transit-oriented development area.
• Be able to obtain a Start Work – Early Building Permit by Dec. 31, 2027.
• Meet all Land Use Bylaw requirements, including traffic impact and parking standards

To start the application process, connect with our team and we will work with applicants directly. 

Available Incentives

The Multi-Unit Incentive Pilot offers practical supports to help eligible projects move from concept to construction faster and with lower upfront costs:

• Expedited Reviews: Faster processing of development and building permit applications to reduce delays and streamline approvals.
• Development Officer Decision Authority: Eligible applications can be approved directly by a Development Officer, helping shorten decision timelines.
• Fee Reimbursements: Reimbursement of development permit fees and portions of traffic impact assessment costs.
• Deferral of Voluntary Contributions: Voluntary contributions (where applicable) can be deferred until construction is complete, easing early-stage cash flow.

Incentives may be eligible to be stacked with other CHMC programs or provincial grants. 

This is a timelimited pilot with formal evaluation and public reporting. Results will help determine whether to scale, adjust, or discontinue the program.

Airdrie is experiencing a shortage of affordable and diverse housing options, especially in areas well-served by transit and daily amenities. Rising development costs and approval complexities also slow down housing delivery. This pilot reduces financial and regulatory barriers to encourage more homes in the right places while maintaining quality, safety, and Land Use Bylaw (LUB) standards.

The Multi-Unit Incentive Pilot program aims to create more affordable homes for residents at a range of incomes. 

Other benefits include:

• Livable, connected neighbourhoods with better access to transit, services, and jobs.
• Better urban outcomes, including walkability and reduced transportation costs.
• Economic and social inclusion through diverse housing opportunities.
• Community vibrancy, especially in areas like the Downtown.

Safeguards to ensure quality and community protection 

All projects must meet: 

• Full compliance with the Land Use Bylaw.
• Traffic impact and parking assessments.
• Affordability covenants and reporting requirements.
• Rigorous intake and evaluation standards.

Applications reviews occur within the intake window and follow a structured triage and evaluation process. Applicants will receieve periodic updates throughout the application process on the status of their application.