Discover Olds:

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Total Commercial Lands Available for Development

Commercial Development in Olds: Foundations of Tomorrow

Disclaimer: Note: Mixed-use, commercial at-grade developments are permitted in the C1 and CHA districts and discretionary (requiring Council approval) in the CH district. These developments require commercial uses on the ground floor with residential above. Developments that have a mix of commercial and residential both on the ground floor are not allowed on these parcels without LUB amendments.

Please note the above is not a conclusive list of property for sale or lease in Olds. We also have local property owners who are interested in selling but are not ready to list publicly. To source this option please fill in the Investor Property Requirement Form and a local realtor or Invest Olds will contact you.

Development Overview by Land Use District

DistrictPurposePotential Developments
R1Low Density Residential - primarily detached single-family dwellings with the possibility of secondary suites.Detached dwellings, secondary suites. Home occupations are allowed but must have minimal impact on the community.
R2General Residential - detached homes, duplexes, and secondary suites are part of the mix of these areas. Parcels are generally more narrow than in R1.Detached dwellings, duplexes, secondary suites, home occupations.
R3Medium Density Residential - this is the highest density of residential zoning in Olds. Intended for townhomes, multi-plexes, and apartments.Rowhouses, townhomes, multi-plexes, apartments. Multiple housing developments (several buildings on a parcel with cohesive overall plan).
R4Manufactured Homes - this district is intended for mobile home parks or similar. Subdivisions with titled lots are also possible.Manufactured homes, accessory buildings.
C1Central Commercial - this is the town centre of Olds, including the historic Uptowne district.Pedestrial-oriented developments such as retail, restaurants, bars, offices, personal services. Mixed use encouraged (commercal at grade, residential above).
CHHighway Commercial - this is for commercial development alongside Highways 27 and 2A.Car-oriented commercial including restaurants, retail, service stations, dealerships, drive-thrus. Mixed-use development allowed at Council discretion.
DC-MU1Direct Control - Mixed Use - this is a site specific district for a large area west of Cornerstone. Intended for a mix of commercial and high density residential uses.Mixed-use commercial at grade, apartments, C-SC type commercial. This district allows for a maximum height of 25m (82ft).

Note: the district and potential development lists shown are non-comprehensive. For a full overview of the Town’s land use districts and their permitted and discretionary uses, reference the Land Use Bylaw.

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Housing Needs Assessment (HNA) - Town of Olds

HNA Overview:

  • The HNA aims to address the town’s evolving housing needs, with a focus on introducing a broader range of housing types.
  • There’s a marked emphasis on multi-family housing solutions, including duplexes, townhouses, apartments, and condos.
  • The study encompasses the entire municipal boundary of the Town of Olds, home to an estimated 9,200 residents.

Population & Growth Dynamics:

  • The Town of Olds has witnessed consistent population growth, with forecasts indicating a continued upward trend.
  • This growth underscores the pressing need for diversified housing options.

Demographic Insights:

  • The town is experiencing a demographic shift with a rising percentage of residents aged 65 and older.
  • This trend emphasizes the demand for senior-friendly housing solutions.

Current Housing Landscape:

  • The predominant housing type in the Town of Olds is single-detached homes, making up 61% of all dwellings.
  • Notably, average home prices in the town are on the higher side when compared to similar Alberta municipalities, pinpointing a potential gap in affordable housing options.

Key Takeaways:

  • Housing Needs: A clear demand for diverse housing forms to cater to the town’s growing and aging population.
  • Housing Priorities: Addressing the need for both senior-specific and affordable housing options.

Dive Deeper: Download the full Housing Needs Assessment for a comprehensive understanding of the housing landscape and future opportunities in the Town of Olds

Latest News in Residential Development

Breaking Ground: Stay Updated with the Latest News in Residential Development

frequently asked questions (FAQ)

There are many things to consider when building in the Town of Olds. The following are a list of frequently asked questions and answers, however, to apply for permits and obtained further details please visit https://www.olds.ca/permit-licence-applications

The Interactive Development Map (GIS Map) is a great tool for realtors, property buyers, developers, etc., to help them find what utility lines, land use, Area structure plans, and so much more.

1. Fill out the application forms and submit all required plans to the Planning Department.

2. If you will be digging, request locates. Locates must be available on-site while work is being done.

3. If the project is commercial, complete a fire safety plan. This is not required for residential projects.

4. An invoice will be e-mailed to you for permit fees and security deposits. All fees must be paid before the permit is issued.

5. Depending on your project, it will be reviewed either by staff or by the Municipal Planning Commission (MPC).

6. If the permit requires a decision from the MPC, there is a 21-day appeal period.

7. If your permits have been approved, you will receive them along with a Plan Review. This is an overview of what has been approved and will describe when an inspection is needed.

8. Inspections will be performed by our certified Safety Codes Officer.

9. After work is completed to Town standards, any security deposits will be returned to you.

In some cases, a Development Officer or the Municipal Planning Commission may be able to grant a relaxation. You will need to fill out a Relaxation / Variance Form.

Once the Approval Authority makes a decision, there is a 21-day appeal period. Appeals can also be made to the regional Appeals Board. This is a separate group serving 18 different municipalities in Central Alberta.

Simple permits can be approved in a week by Planning & Development department staff. If your permit needs to be reviewed by the MCP, meetings are held once a month (on the third Tuesday of the month).

You have one year from the day your Development Permit is issued to complete the work.

An off-site levy is a fee charged by the Town to help pay for expanding municipal services, such as water, sewer, and roads.

Town Of Olds bylaw – Offsite Levies Schedule

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