Updated for 2026: This guide has been refreshed to reflect current zoning considerations, acreage bylaws, and practical factors when building an acreage in Mountain View County, Alberta.
You’ve worked hard, saved up, and now you’re ready to build a custom home on an acreage in central Alberta. If living away from city noise and congestion is a priority, choosing the right location is just as important as the home itself.
Mountain View County continues to be a popular choice for acreage living thanks to its wide-open landscapes, flexible land use, and proximity to both Calgary and Red Deer.
This expansive county sits between major population centres and includes communities such as Water Valley, Carstairs, Olds, and nearby towns like Sundre and Didsbury. While services are accessible when needed, population density remains low, offering privacy, space, and long-term flexibility.
Reasons to Build an Acreage in Mountain View County, Alberta
1) Freedom to design a truly custom home
Acreage living allows you to design a home that reflects how you actually live. Whether that means expansive living areas, large windows capturing distant mountain views, or specialized spaces like sunrooms or home offices, acreage construction offers far more flexibility than urban lots.
When you build an acreage in Mountain View County, the design process starts with understanding your lifestyle and planning a home around it, not around preset subdivision restrictions.
2) Room for oversized garages and storage
One of the biggest advantages of acreage properties is space. Many homeowners choose to build large garages to accommodate recreational vehicles, equipment, trailers, or workshop areas without sacrificing interior living space.
Whether you need room for hobbies, business equipment, or simply want additional storage, acreage zoning often makes these features possible.
3) Ability to add a shop or home-based business
With the appropriate zoning, many properties in Mountain View County allow the construction of shops or support buildings. This is ideal for entrepreneurs, tradespeople, or anyone looking to integrate work and home life on one property.
Permits and zoning approvals remain tied to the land, which can add long-term value and flexibility for future owners as well.
4) Lower property taxes compared to urban centres
Property taxes in Mountain View County are often lower than those in nearby cities. While assessed values and services vary by property, many acreage owners benefit from reduced municipal tax rates compared to similar homes in Calgary or surrounding municipalities.
Over the life of a mortgage, these savings can add up significantly.
5) Connection to open land and natural surroundings
Acreage living offers a level of space and quiet that is difficult to replicate elsewhere. Farmland, rolling hills, and open skies define much of Mountain View County’s landscape.
At the same time, nearby towns such as Carstairs, Olds, and Sundre provide access to schools, shopping, and services without requiring long commutes.
6) Opportunities to raise animals or produce food
Many acreage owners choose to raise animals or grow their own food. Depending on parcel size and zoning, properties may allow livestock, hobby farming, or small-scale agricultural use.
Before planning a farm-style setup, it is important to review county bylaws that regulate animal density and land use, particularly on parcels under 10 acres.
7) Access to sustainability and conservation programs
Mountain View County actively supports land stewardship and conservation. Programs such as the Green Acreages initiative provide incentives, education, and workshops focused on environmental responsibility.
These initiatives help protect water, soil, and wildlife while supporting long-term property value.
If you’re comparing counties or nearby towns, our guide to building across Central Alberta offers helpful insight into other locations.
Home Builders in Mountain View County, Alberta
Building an acreage home involves different considerations than building within town limits. Zoning, access, utilities, and long-term land use all play a role in planning a successful project.
Our team has extensive experience building throughout Mountain View County and understands the approvals, design considerations, and construction standards required for rural properties. Whether you are comparing acreage living with communities like Cochrane or planning closer to towns such as Carstairs or Olds, we can help guide the process.
If you are considering building an acreage in Mountain View County, reach out today to start planning a home that fits your land, lifestyle, and long-term goals.
