Calgary Council Explores Bylaw Targeting Low-Value Shoplifting

Calgary city council is taking steps to change how the city handles minor shoplifting incidents, specifically thefts valued under $100. In a 13–2 vote, council approved a motion directing city administration to study alternative approaches used in other Canadian municipalities and report back with recommendations by summer 2026.

The notice of motion, co-sponsored by Ward 10 Councillor Andre Chabot and Ward 2 Councillor Jennifer Wyness, comes in response to a growing number of low-value theft calls that rarely result in charges. Calgary police have handled more than 23,000 theft-related calls since 2023, with most cases involving items worth less than $100. Only 17 per cent of these calls led to criminal charges.

Chabot explained that the current system, which treats all shoplifting as a Criminal Code offense, ties up police resources and frustrates businesses. Some store owners have resorted to hiring private security to manage theft incidents.

Mayor Jeromy Farkas clarified that council is not yet committing to a new bylaw. “This motion today didn’t lock us into having a bylaw against shoplifting,” Farkas said. “It simply asks us to explore what’s working in other cities. Calgary has an opportunity to be a leader.”

The original proposal suggested establishing a municipal offense with a $250 fine and potential referrals to community service or support programs. While the language has been moderated, the concept of a ticket-based approach remains under consideration.

Police say the change could free up significant time for officers. Currently, processing a low-value shoplifting case can take over two hours. Under a ticket-based system, the process could take as little as ten minutes.

“Ten minutes versus just over two hours would be massive savings for the Calgary police to attend other calls,” said Sgt. Geoff Hoover of the Calgary Police Service. Officers also note that minor theft cases often never make it to court, leaving repeat offenders largely unaccountable. A municipal ticketing system combined with community court options could create faster, more consistent consequences.

Importantly, any new bylaw would still allow police to pursue Criminal Code charges for more serious or repeat offenses.

City administration is expected to return to council with a comprehensive analysis this summer, including comparisons to approaches in other Canadian cities and a recommendation on whether Calgary should adopt a ticketing system for thefts under $100.