Plug & Play Multi-Residential Stormwater Design
Plug & Play Multi-Residential Stormwater Design
How The City supports effective stormwater management
Multi-residential developments with three or more units require on-site stormwater storage. These systems manage runoff and support Calgary’s broader stormwater system. While these systems help reduce impacts on surrounding lands and infrastructure, they can be complex to plan, design, construct and maintain.
To help simplify the process, The City has developed a suite of Plug & Play On-site Stormwater tools for property owners, developers, consultants and contractors. These tools support each stage of a project, from early planning and design to ongoing maintenance.
How the tools can help
The tools support users during planning, design, construction, operation and maintenance of the on-site stormwater system.
You can use them to:
- Understand on-site stormwater requirements
- Compare storage options
- Prepare project documents
- Estimate construction and operating costs
- Inspect and maintain completed systems
The tools provide clear and consistent guidance. They can help users make informed choices, support new housing and manage stormwater across Calgary.
The Storage Selection Guide helps users identify suitable on-site stormwater storage options for smaller sites that require a Development Site Servicing Plan (DSSP).
Users answer a series of questions about their site conditions and project. The guide then helps them compare options and find solutions that may work for the site.
Use this tool to:
- Explore different stormwater storage solutions
- Learn about key factors for each option
- Support DSSP planning and design activities
These templates provide standard drawings for common types of on-site stormwater storage systems.
Users can include the drawings in their design submissions and change them to suit the site. This can save time during the design and approval process.
Use this tool to:
- Save time when preparing design drawings
- Improve consistency in project submissions
- Support design documentation requirements
Coming soon
This template helps users prepare construction specifications for on-site stormwater storage projects after the system design is complete and products have been selected.
Users can adapt the outline to meet the needs of their project-specific requirements.
Use this tool to:
- Prepare project construction specifications
- Keep project documents consistent
- Support construction planning and purchasing
The Scalable Cost Estimator provides a high-level estimate of construction and installation costs.
The tool helps users compare storage options and better understand project costs during the planning and budgeting stages.
Use this tool to:
- Develop preliminary project budgets
- Compare storage options
- Support early project decision-making
Note: Estimates are intended for planning purposes only and should not be considered detailed construction cost estimates.
Coming soon
On-site stormwater systems must be kept in good working order. This helps Calgary’s broader stormwater system work as planned.
The Operation and Maintenance Manual provides general guidance for property owners responsible for an on-site system. It explains common maintenance tasks, inspections and good operating practices that can help support long-term on-site stormwater performance.
Use this tool to:
- Understand maintenance duties
- Support ongoing system operation
- Help extend the life of the system
The Operating Cost Estimator provides a high-level estimate of the ongoing operating and maintenance costs.
This information helps property owners understand long-term ownership costs and plan for future maintenance.
Use this tool to:
- Estimate annual operating and maintenance costs
- Compare lifecycle costs between storage options
- Plan for future costs and repairs
Note: Use these estimates for planning only. Actual costs will depend on the site conditions, system type and maintenance needs.
Coming soon
The Verification Form helps property owners through the process of inspecting their stormwater storage systems and record the results.
The completed form provides a record of the system’s condition and any maintenance work completed.
Use this tool to:
- Complete routine inspections
- Record the condition of the system
- Track maintenance and system performance
Frequently asked questions
Who can use these tools?
The tools are for anyone involved in planning, applying to develop, designing, building or maintaining a multi-residential on-site stormwater storage system.
This includes:
- Property owners
- Developers
- Consultants
- Contractors
Do I have to use these tools?
No. The tools are optional.
They can help users understand City requirements and complete project tasks. Applicants are still responsible for making sure their projects meet all applicable City requirements and standards.
Can the cost estimators be used for project budgeting?
Yes. The estimators can support early planning and budgeting.
Actual construction, installation, operation and maintenance costs may be different. Costs will depend on the site, system design, market prices and maintenance needs.
When is on-site stormwater storage required?
It is currently required for multi-residential developments with three or more units.
Applicants should review current City requirements and servicing standards. These sources will help identify the requirements for each project.