What's Happening in Calgary, AB…

Skateboarders in Calgary may soon find it easier to indulge in the activity they enjoy right in their own backyards.

The city council is looking in to the feasibility of allowing homeowners to construct skateboard ramps on their own properties. Under the current system of bylaws, which has been in place for 30 years, it is not permissible for people to build sport ramps on their residential properties.

The community and protective services committee for the city discussed making amendments to the current bylaw that would make it acceptable for ramps six meters long, five meters wide and with a height of up to 1.5 meters to be built without needing a permit to do so. It is felt by the committee that this will be a good compromise, as it will make it permissible for people to enjoy a recreational activity without having a visual impact on their neighbors. Should the changes be adopted, a booklet printing service will be able to provide publication that give further information to the public about the new policies.

The chair of the Calgary Association of Skateboarding Enthusiasts, Paul Derksen noted that his group advocated the change, but reminded the public that should it be adopted, it would be important to respect the rights of their neighbors. He explained that they could do so by carefully choosing where their ramp will be located and not allowing the noise to bother them.

The next step for the proposed amendment is review by city council.