Some of the most common questions we receive about Land Surveying in Calgary is about the Compliance and Encroachments process. Non compliance and encroachment issues often are a cause of concern up to the last minute in real estate transactions, and while they can cause alarm many times there is a fairly straightforward process to gain compliance. Most often the biggest headache compliance and encroachment concerns cause is around timing, with financial holdbacks being the most contentious issue for sellers who are moving into a new home. Below we break down the entire process into a step by step guide, so you can understand exactly what’s involved with the compliance and encroachment process in Calgary and can make an informed decision for your real estate transaction (Hint: Order your RPR early!)

A flow chart of the City of Calgary Compliance and Encroachment process.

The City of Calgary Compliance and Encroachment Process Explained in a Flowchart.

Step-by-Step Guide: City of Calgary Compliance & Encroachment Process

Step 1: Order a Real Property Report (RPR)

Start by hiring a certified Alberta Land Surveyor (like Arc Surveys) to prepare an updated RPR. This document maps all permanent structures in relation to the legal property boundaries.

đź’ˇ This is the foundation for both the Compliance and Encroachment review processes.

Step 2: Submit the RPR for a Certificate of Compliance

Once you have the RPR, submit it to The City of Calgary Planning Services to request a Certificate of Compliance.

The City will evaluate:

  • Building setbacks

  • Bylaw regulations under Land Use Bylaw 1P2007

  • Any structures built too close to, or over, a property line

  • Encroachments onto City land or easements

Step 3: City Reviews for Compliance

During this review, City planners determine if the property structures comply with municipal zoning bylaws.

Outcomes:

  • âś… Compliant: You receive a Certificate of Compliance.

  • ❌ Non-Compliant: The City flags zoning issues or identifies one or more encroachments.

If an encroachment is identified, the City refers your file to the Encroachment Department.

Step 4: Receive Notification and Encroachment Instructions

You’ll receive a letter from the City identifying the issue, along with instructions to:

  • Remove or relocate the structure, or

  • Apply for an Encroachment Agreement, if the structure may be permitted to stay

Step 5: Apply for an Encroachment Agreement (If Eligible)

You may apply for an Encroachment Agreement if your structure meets the City’s eligibility criteria.

To apply:

Step 6: City Reviews the Encroachment Application

The City’s Encroachment Team will:

  • Assess safety risks and public use impacts

  • Determine if the structure can remain

  • Approve or deny your request

⏱️ Approval can take several weeks. Apply early if part of a real estate transaction.

Step 7: Register the Agreement

If approved, the Encroachment Agreement:

  • Must be signed by the property owner

  • Will be registered on the property’s land title

This ensures future buyers and stakeholders are aware of the encroachment and the agreement in place.

Step 8: Resubmit for Certificate of Compliance

Once the Encroachment Agreement is finalized (or the structure is removed), submit the updated RPR and documentation to the City.

You’ll then receive a Certificate of Compliance, confirming your property complies with all bylaws and is cleared for sale or development.

Final Thoughts

Understanding the City of Calgary’s Compliance and Encroachment process helps you stay one step ahead—especially when dealing with real estate sales or property improvements. The key is starting with a Real Property Report and addressing issues early in the process.

At Arc Surveys, we help homeowners, builders, and real estate professionals through the entire process—from creating detailed RPRs to offering guidance on next steps if encroachments are found.

Need Help? Start with a Real Property Report

Let Arc Surveys make the process simple. We’ve helped thousands of Calgarians get their Certificate of Compliance without delay.

👉 Order your RPR today and keep your property compliant and stress-free.