Daycare Construction in Calgary

Calgary is one of Canada’s fastest-growing cities, with a rising number of young families and working parents. As demand for quality childcare continues to increase, so does the need for professionally built, safe, and fully licensed daycare facilities. Whether you’re planning to open a new childcare centre, convert an existing commercial space, or renovate a home-based daycare, daycare construction in Calgary requires expert planning, strict compliance, and experienced execution.

ARA Projects specialize in code-compliant, child-safe, and functional daycare construction and renovations in Calgary, ensuring your project meets all City of Calgary bylaws and Alberta Child Care Licensing standards—without delays or costly mistakes.

Growing Demand for Daycare Construction in Calgary

Calgary’s expanding suburbs, increased immigration, and dual-income households have created a strong demand for licensed daycare and early learning centres. Entrepreneurs, educators, and investors are increasingly exploring opportunities to open:

• Commercial daycare centres

• Preschool and early learning facilities

• Montessori schools

• Home-based daycare conversions

However, daycare construction is not like standard commercial renovation. It requires specialized knowledge of safety regulations, spatial planning, and child-focused design.

Understanding Daycare Construction Requirements in Calgary

Before any construction begins, daycare projects must comply with multiple regulatory bodies. At ARA Projects, we manage these requirements from day one.

City of Calgary Zoning & Development Rules

• Proper zoning approval for daycare use

• Parking and drop-off area compliance

• Community impact and location suitability

Alberta Child Care Licensing Regulations

• Minimum indoor space per child

• Maximum child capacity rules

• Age-based room separation

Building Code & Fire Safety Compliance

• Emergency exits and fire-rated assemblies

• Fire alarms, sprinkler systems, and extinguishers

• Safe stairways and exit signage

Accessibility & Safety Standards

• Barrier-free access

• Washroom accessibility

• Safe entry and exit controls

Failing to meet any of these standards can delay licensing or result in rejected inspections.

Types of Daycare Facilities We Build in Calgary

ARA Projects delivers custom daycare construction solutions based on your space, budget, and childcare model.

Commercial Daycare Centres

Purpose-built or renovated commercial spaces designed to accommodate higher child capacity while meeting strict safety and licensing requirements.

Home-Based Daycare Renovations

Converting basements or main floors into licensed daycare spaces with:

• Proper fire separation

• Emergency exits

• Child-safe layouts

Preschool & Early Learning Centres

Learning-focused environments designed for structured education, play, and rest.

Montessori & Private Childcare Facilities

Specialized layouts tailored to Montessori or private learning philosophies.

Daycare Design & Planning Considerations

Daycare construction is about more than walls and flooring—it’s about creating a safe, stimulating environment for children.

Key Design Elements Include:

• Age-appropriate room layouts for infants, toddlers, and preschoolers

• Dedicated learning and activity areas

• Nap rooms with controlled lighting and acoustics

• Child-sized washrooms and diapering stations

• Secure entry systems and controlled access points

Outdoor Play Areas

Calgary’s climate requires smart outdoor design:

• Slip-resistant surfaces

• Proper drainage and snow management

• Durable play equipment rated for cold weather

Calgary-Specific Construction Challenges & Smart Solutions

Daycare construction in Calgary comes with unique regional considerations.

Cold Climate Construction

• High-performance insulation

• Energy-efficient windows and doors

• Proper vapor barriers

HVAC & Indoor Air Quality

• Efficient heating systems for winter comfort

• Fresh air circulation for healthy indoor environments

• Temperature zoning for different rooms

Durable, Low-Maintenance Materials

• Scratch-resistant flooring

• Easy-to-clean wall finishes

• Moisture-resistant materials for washrooms and kitchens

  
  

ARA Projects selects materials that are safe for children and built to last in Calgary’s climate.

Daycare Construction Permits & Approvals in Calgary

One of the biggest challenges for daycare owners is navigating permits and approvals. ARA Projects handles this entire process for you.

Required Approvals Typically Include:

• Development Permit (if required)

• Building Permit

• Electrical, plumbing, and mechanical permits

• Fire inspection approval

• Alberta Child Care Licensing inspection

Our team coordinates directly with City of Calgary inspectors to ensure smooth approvals and minimal delays.

Safety, Compliance & Child-Friendly Materials

Child safety is at the core of every daycare project we build.

Safety Features We Prioritize:

• Rounded corners and protected edges

• Non-slip, cushioned flooring

• Tamper-proof electrical outlets

• Secure storage for cleaning supplies

Health & Environmental Considerations:

• Low-VOC paints and finishes

• Non-toxic materials

• Proper ventilation and air filtration

These details not only ensure compliance but also create a healthier environment for children and staff.

Timeline for Daycare Construction in Calgary

Every project is different, but a typical daycare construction timeline includes:

1. Consultation & Planning – Design, feasibility, budgeting

2. Permits & Approvals – City and provincial approvals

3. Construction Phase – Framing, mechanical, finishes

4. Inspections & Final Touches – Compliance checks

5. Project Handover – Ready for licensing and opening

ARA Projects provides clear timelines and regular updates so you always know where your project stands.

Cost of Daycare Construction in Calgary

Daycare construction costs vary depending on several factors:

• Size of the facility

• New build vs renovation

• Compliance upgrades required

• Mechanical and fire safety systems

• Custom design features

Renovation vs New Construction

• Renovations are typically more cost-effective but may require structural upgrades

• New builds offer design flexibility but involve higher upfront costs

ARA Projects works closely with clients to optimize budgets without compromising safety or quality.

Why Choose ARA Projects for Daycare Construction in Calgary

Choosing the right contractor can make or break your daycare project.

What Sets ARA Projects Apart:

• Extensive experience with Calgary bylaws and inspectors

• Turnkey daycare construction solutions

• Strong focus on safety, durability, and compliance

• Transparent pricing and clear communication

• Proven expertise in basement conversions, commercial renovations, and childcare spaces

We don’t just build spaces—we build inspection-ready, licensing-approved daycare facilities.

Our Daycare Construction Process

At ARA Projects, we follow a structured, stress-free approach:

1. Initial Consultation – Understand your goals and requirements

2. Design & Planning – Child-focused layouts and budgeting

3. Permits & Coordination – We handle all approvals

4. Construction & Quality Control – On-time, code-compliant execution

5. Final Inspection & Handover – Ready for licensing and operations

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does daycare construction take in Calgary?

Timelines vary, but most projects take several weeks to a few months depending on scope and permits.

Can I convert a basement into a daycare?

Yes, but it must meet fire separation, exit, and licensing requirements. ARA Projects specializes in daycare basement conversions.

Do I need permits before starting construction?Yes. Building and sometimes development permits are mandatory.

What is the minimum space requirement per child?

This depends on the age group and Alberta Child Care Licensing regulations.

Build a Safe, Compliant Daycare in Calgary with ARA Projects

Opening a daycare is a meaningful investment—but only when it’s done right. From planning and permits to final inspections, ARA Projects delivers reliable, fully compliant daycare construction in Calgary, helping you open your doors with confidence.

Ready to Start Your Daycare Construction Project in Calgary?

Contact ARA Projects today for a consultation and let our experienced team turn your vision into a safe, functional, and licensed childcare facility.