Should Calgary Update Its Floodplain Maps and Building Rules?
Official title: Calgary River Valleys Project
Calgary is updating its floodplain maps and regulations for river valleys. This third phase focuses on new flood mapping, updated building rules, and groundwater flood risks. The city wants to know what you think before finalizing these changes.
Why This Matters
Live near the Bow or Elbow River? These maps determine what you can build on your property—or whether you can build at all. New groundwater risk data could affect insurance rates and property values. If you're buying, selling, or renovating in Calgary's river valleys, this matters.
What Could Change
Updated floodplain boundaries could expand or shrink where building restrictions apply. New regulations may limit basement development or require flood-proofing in more areas. Groundwater flood zones could be mapped for the first time, creating new requirements for affected properties.
Key Issues
- Are the updated floodplain maps accurate for your area?
- What building regulations should apply in flood hazard areas?
- How should groundwater flood risk be addressed in land use planning?
How to Participate
- Complete the Phase 3 survey to share your feedback on the draft floodplain maps and regulations.
- Register for an online information session to learn more and ask questions.
- Review background information on the Calgary River Valleys Project page and the Flood Resilience Plan.