Banff Design Guidelines

The Banff Design Guidelines provide a framework for evaluating the aesthetic quality of development proposals. The intention of the guidelines is to ensure that the town's built environment reflects the spectacular surrounding natural environment while recognizing Banff's location in a national park and a World Heritage Site.

Banff's unique character and "Rocky Mountain Style" is rooted in its rich built heritage with common design themes including:

  • sensitivity to nature,
  • the use of rustic natural materials,
  • emphasis on structural expression and strong roof forms,
  • respect for the pedestrian environment,
  • use of decorative details and finishing that provide relief and texture.

The Banff Design Guidelines are an integral component of the Banff Land Use Bylaw.

The Town of Banff Green Site and Building Guidelines provide a framework for thinking about and understanding the concept of green buildings and their sites. Though the guidelines are not mandatory, it is hoped that they will provide some guidance on how to progress from the desire to build green to actually doing so.