Living and buying in Banff
Can I buy in Banff?
The short answer is yes, anybody can buy in Banff. However, there is a need to reside that people need to be aware of when it comes to owning property in the National Park.
When you buy a property in Banff, you aren't purchasing or owning the land beneath it. The land remains under the ownership of Parks Canada, which grants buyers a ‘leasehold’ interest in the property. This type of interest provides all the rights of freehold ownership, except for the land itself. In Banff, lease terms last 42 years and run with the title and are renewed at the end of this period. Renewals are typically straightforward, relatively low cost and can by done by any lawyer familiar with Parks legislation.
The following information is taken from the parks Canada Website, please visit the below links for further information:
Parks Canada Information
According to the National Parks Lease and License of Occupation Regulations an eligible resident is defined as:
(a) an individual whose primary employment is in the park,
(b) an individual who operates a business in the park and whose presence at the place of business is necessary for the day-to-day operation of the business,
(c) a retired individual who resides in the park and who, for five consecutive years immediately prior to retirement,
(i) was employed primarily in that park, or
(ii) operated a business in that park and whose presence at the place of business was necessary for the day-to-day operation of the business,
(d) a retired individual who resided in the park at the time of the individual's retirement and who resided in that park on July 30, 1981,
(e) an individual who is a student in full-time attendance at an educational institution that is located within the park and registered under the Income Tax Act or applicable provincial legislation relating to education,
(f) an individual who is a lessee of public lands in the park and who
(i) was the lessee of those public lands prior to May 19, 1911, or
(ii) is a descendant, by blood or adoption, of an individual who was the lessee of those public lands prior to May 19, 1911, or
(g) the spouse or common-law partner or a dependent of an individual referred to in any of paragraphs (a) to (f).
Banff Listings
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A, 328 Squirrel Street in Banff: Single Family for sale : MLS®# A2121953
A, 328 Squirrel Street Banff T0L 0C0 
$1,395,000Single Family- Status:
- Active
- MLS® Num:
- A2121953
- Bedrooms:
- 4
- Bathrooms:
- 4
- Floor Area:
- 2,463 sq. ft.
Welcome to your dream family home in the heart of Banff! This charming half duplex offers the perfect blend of convenience, comfort, and income potential.Located directly across the street from Banff Elementary School, your mornings will be a breeze as the kids simply walk across to start their day of learning. Imagine the joy of watching them play in the open school field with the breathtaking backdrop of majestic mountains.With three bedrooms upstairs, there's ample space for the whole family to unwind and rest. Plus, the added bonus of a 1-bedroom illegal suite in the basement provides a fantastic opportunity to offset your mortgage payments or accommodate extended family members.Situated just a stone's throw away from downtown Banff and a mere block from IGA, you'll have all the amenities you need within easy reach. Whether it's a quick grocery run or a leisurely stroll through town, everything is conveniently close by.Nestled in one of Banff's most desirable locations, this home offers more than just a place to live—it offers a lifestyle. From the proximity to schools and shops to the stunning natural beauty that surrounds you, this is an opportunity not to be missed. Make memories that will last a lifetime in this perfect family abode. (id:2493) More detailsListed by RE/MAX Cascade Realty
- DEAN COOPER & Luke Holland
- ROYAL LEPAGE SOLUTIONS
- 587-883-4013
- Sales@mountainliving.ca
Data was last updated May 10, 2025 at 06:45 PM (UTC)
Mountain Living Real Estate Team
710 - 10 Street, #101
Canmore, AB T1W 0G7
