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Everything Matt & Ryan need to quote, plan, and build custom garages in Calgary.
Whether it's from the website form, a referral, or a phone call — move fast and be prepared.
Open the Measure Tool, paste their address, and check the lot on satellite. Look at total lot size, existing structures (house + any outbuildings), and available footprint. Calgary caps total coverage at 45-55% — the garage has to fit within that.
Do they already have a garage that needs to be demolished? Is there a shed, deck, or other structure taking up coverage? This changes the scope and cost significantly.
Check satellite view for back lane access. Most detached garages in Calgary are lane-accessed. If there's no lane, it's a different conversation (front-drive garage or shared access).
Speed matters. The faster you call, the more likely they say yes. If they don't pick up, leave a voicemail and send a text. Follow up the next morning if no reply.
The goal of the call is to get a date on the calendar to see the property. Don't try to quote over the phone — you need to see the lot, the lane, and the overall setup.
Keep it simple. You're having a conversation, not giving a sales pitch.
"Hey [Name], it's Matt from Ridgeline Renovations. You reached out about building a garage. Just wanted to chat about what you're thinking."
Vehicle storage? Workshop space? Suite-ready for a future rental above? This changes the build type, insulation, electrical, and budget completely.
"What are you mainly looking to use the garage for?"
A single detached (12x20) vs a double (24x24) is a completely different project. Most people want a double. Ask about vehicle count and what else they want to store.
"How many vehicles are you looking to fit? Do you need any extra space for storage or a workbench?"
Heated garages need insulation, a heater (gas or electric), and sometimes upgraded electrical. It adds $5K-$10K but most people who ask about it want it.
"Are you thinking heated? A lot of our clients want that, especially if they're using it as a workshop."
Don't dodge the money question. Give them a range based on what they've described.
"A double detached garage typically runs $60K to $90K depending on size and finishes. If you want it heated or suite-ready, it'll be a bit more. I'll know a lot more after I see your property."
Get a date and time. Confirm the address. Send a text right after confirming so they have your number.
"I'd love to come take a look at your lot and see what we're working with. When works for you this week?"
Bring a tape measure, a level, and your phone for photos. This is your data-gathering visit.
Know these rules cold. Getting permits wrong wastes months.
Required if you're changing land use or the garage exceeds the allowed size for the district. Not always needed for a standard replacement garage, but check the land use bylaw for the specific property.
Always required. No exceptions. You need stamped drawings, a site plan, and foundation design. Submit through the City of Calgary's online portal.
1.2m from the rear property line and 1.2m from side property lines. These are minimums — some districts require more. Always confirm with the land use bylaw for that specific address.
6.5m maximum if there's no suite above. This covers most standard garage builds including pitched roofs. Suite-ready structures may have different height allowances.
45-55% total — that's the house + garage + all structures combined. Use the Measure Tool to calculate this before you quote. If they're already near the limit, the garage has to be smaller.
Below frost line — 4 feet (1.2m) in Calgary. This is non-negotiable. Shallow foundations will heave and crack. Every garage needs a proper footing below frost line.
Pro tip: Check the City of Calgary's land use bylaw map before every site visit. The rules change by district. What's allowed in R-C1 is different from R-C2 or R-CG. When in doubt, call 311 and ask.
Use these ranges for quoting. Actual price depends on site conditions, finishes, and scope.
| Garage Type | Size | Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| Single Detached | 12×20 | $40,000 – $60,000 |
| Double Detached | 24×24 | $60,000 – $90,000 |
| Triple / Oversized | 28×30+ | $80,000 – $120,000 |
| Add-On | Description | Additional Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Suite-Ready Structure | Reinforced foundation & framing to support a future suite above | + $15,000 – $25,000 |
| Heated Garage | Insulation, heater (gas or electric), upgraded electrical | + $5,000 – $10,000 |
| Design Fee | Architectural plans, engineering, permit-ready drawings | $3,000 – $6,000 |
The site visit and initial assessment are free — that's your hook. But design and drawings are paid work. Don't start drawing plans without a signed agreement and a deposit. If they proceed with the build, credit the design fee toward the project total.
Every garage project follows these steps. Use this as your checklist.
Check lot coverage, verify lane access, review property on satellite.
Intro, find out what they need, give a ballpark, book the site visit.
Measure lot, check setbacks, assess lane access, note utilities, check grade and soil.
Client signs design contract and pays deposit. Begin architectural drawings and engineering.
Submit building permit (and development permit if needed) to the City of Calgary.
If there's an old garage to tear down, demo it and haul away debris. Not every project needs this.
Dig for the new foundation. Below frost line (4 feet). Set up forms.
Pour footings and foundation walls. Cure time before framing begins.
Walls, trusses, roof sheathing. The structure takes shape.
Shingles or metal roof installed. Get it weather-tight as soon as possible.
Exterior cladding to match the house or per client's choice. James Hardie, vinyl, or wood.
Single or double door(s). Insulated if heated. Opener and hardware.
Panel, outlets, lighting, opener wiring. Extra circuits if it's a workshop.
Walls and ceiling insulated. Vapor barrier installed. Only for heated garages.
Interior finishing if requested. Some clients want bare studs, others want it finished.
Pour and finish the garage floor slab. Slope toward the door for drainage.
City inspection passed. Keys to the client. Garage is done.
Know which type fits the client's needs so you can guide the conversation.
Lane-accessed, basic vehicle storage. Single or double. Standard foundation, basic electrical (lights + opener). The bread and butter of garage builds in Calgary.
Insulated and heated. Extra outlets and dedicated circuits for power tools. Workbench area. Better lighting (LED panels). Often requested by hobbyists and tradespeople.
Engineered foundation and framing designed to support a second floor later. Costs more upfront ($15K-$25K extra) but saves $30K+ if they add a suite down the road. Great upsell.
Designed to match the main house — matching siding, roofline, trim, and colors. Higher design fee but the result looks like it was always there. Popular in inner-city neighborhoods.
Copy and paste these for your marketing channels. Edit as needed.
Post on your GBP weekly to stay visible in local search. Link to the garages page.
Post in Calgary renovation groups and your business page. Include before/after photos if you have them.
Send to past clients and leads. Great for referrals — everyone knows someone who needs a new garage.