Cranbrook breaks record number of building permit activity in single quarter

Cranbrook is switching its development efforts into high gear to match the city’s growing population, with a record-breaking number of building permits filed this year.

The City set an all-time high of just over $100 million worth of permit values in 2025.

This year, staff shared that building activity in Cranbrook has totalled more than $243 million from January to March alone.

“This data is exciting and shows there is strong, renewed interest in the development and growth of Cranbrook,” said Mike Matejka, director of engineering and development services. 

“While we are seeing plenty of applications and preliminary assessments, these tend to be quite fluid and plans can change. But even if most of these applications and projects get off the ground, it would be significant.”

Staff told Council Monday night that the shift is due to major growth in institutional projects and multifamily development.

Nearly 150 new housing units have also been approved by the end of February, with 576 units in the process.

“The significant growth in purpose-built rental accommodations will address the greatest housing need identified in the Housing Needs Assessment for the City, providing more housing options in Cranbrook and relieving the tight rental market conditions for renters,” said Mayor Wayne Price.

The largest project early this year is the F.W. Green Home, followed by 252-unit apartment buildings and a 102-unit townhouse development across the city.

The City is also expecting continued momentum in commercial and industrial development for the rest of the year, including a new Finning facility next to Kal Tire.

Programs such as the Downtown and Victoria Corridor Revitalization Tax Exemption Bylaws have helped generate attraction to the area by offering property tax exemptions to those investing in eligible projects.

City council adopted those bylaws in June 2025.