Expedited Review for Builders Program
Expedited Review for Builders Program
The Expedited Review for Builders (XRB) Program allows qualified builders to obtain quicker approvals for single construction permit applications for new low-density homes in greenfield developments.
Program summary
The XRB Program is being launched as a pilot. This allows us to collaborate with builders to develop a program that benefits both The City and builders. As a pilot, it’s easier to test and adjust processes before making the program permanent.
To join the XRB Program, you must receive an invitation from The City. Qualifying builders are those that constructed roughly 100 single-detached or semi-detached dwellings per year in the last three years (2021–2023). They must have done so without issue, in the opinion of City officials.
To be accepted into the XRB Program a representative from your company must:
- Complete the eLearning course
- Sign the Qualified Builder Intake Acknowledgement Form
The eLearning course provides all the information you need to participate in the XRB Program. This includes program details, stock/master model approval requirements, and instructions for submitting XRB Single Construction Permit (SCP) applications.
XRB eligible homes and lots
The types of homes and lots that qualify for the XRB Program are limited. They must meet the following requirements:
| Single-detached or semi-detached homes that do not require a development permit. | Greenfield or masterplan lots in the developing area. | ||
| Lots that do not require a development permit. |
Homes within the XRB Program may:
| Be a zero lot line home in the greenfield area. | Have a secondary suite. | ||
| In the Airport Vicinity Protection Area (AVPA). | Outside of a 10-minute fire service area. |
The following lots currently do not qualify if they are:
Homes and lots that don’t meet the requirements above do not qualify for the XRB Program. They must follow the standard building permit application process. The City reserves the right to update the XRB Program eligibility criteria as required.
eLearning course
The eLearning course provides you with all the information you need to know to participate in the XRB Program. This includes information about the program, what’s needed to have your stock/master model approved, how to submit your single construction permits (SCPs) that qualify for the XRB Program and more.
Resources
- XRB Bylaw Checklist
Upload the completed checklist with your XRB Permit application. - Guide to a complete XRB application
This guide improves the quality and completeness of your XRB Single Construction Permit applications to avoid delays. You do not need to submit this to The City. - Stock Model Variations and Options Guide
This guide explains all the design options available for your stock model. It is intended to support you in preparing your stock model for submission.
Program updates
Starting April 15, 2025, the following types of lots now qualify for the XRB program:
- Lots within the Airport Vicinity Protection Area (AVPA)
- Lots outside the 10-minute fire response area
If your site falls within either of these areas, please follow the steps below when submitting your XRB-SCP application.
If you have any questions about these changes, please contact our Program Administrator at XRB@Calgary.ca. We’re here to help!
Step 1: New dropdowns on the Bylaw Checklist
- On the Bylaw Checklist, you’ll now see new dropdown fields for properties in the AVPA and 10-minute fire service area.
- Select “Yes” if your parcel is located within either area.
- Download an updated copy of the Bylaw Checklist file.
Step 2: Review the Guide to a Complete XRB Application
- Before submitting your XRB-SCP application, refer to the “Guide to a Complete XRB Application for XRB-SCPs” to make sure you know what code requirements you need to meet.
- Go to the section titled “Site Specific Documents” — it outlines what’s required in these additional documents if your site is in either area listed above.
Step 3: Upload the required site-specific document in VISTA
- In your VISTA application, click “Upload an optional document”.
- Upload the applicable document based on your site’s location:
- If your site is in the AVPA, upload: “Expedited Review for Builders AVPA Code Document”.
- If your site is outside the 10-minute fire response area, upload: “Expedited Review for Builders Fire Response Sprinkler Drawing”.
Frequently asked questions
What does greenfield mean?
A greenfield area is undeveloped land in a city or rural area considered for urban development.
What does ‘without issue’ mean?
‘Without issue’ means no complaints have been received by The City. It also means no warnings or orders (verbal or written) have been issued by The City.
What is a zero lot line home?
A zero lot line home is where one exterior wall is built right on the property line with a 0m limiting distance. The other side has a 1.5m minimum limiting distance. The adjacent houses on either side will be 1.5m away. The house at the property line is constructed with the soffit and eaves projecting over the property line.