About the Heritage Conservation Grant Program
Wrenford's heritage buildings are a vital part of our community's identity. The Heritage Conservation Grant Program provides financial assistance to private property owners who are legally protecting their historic buildings. The program is funded by the annual operating budget and currently holds a $750,000 reserve.
How the grant works
The City matches your investment in heritage conservation. We cover 50% of the approved project cost, up to a maximum grant amount. You must provide the remaining 50% through your own funds, loans, or other grants. Work cannot begin until the City and Council have approved your application. Once the work is finished and inspected, the grant is paid out.
Grant limits and eligibility
- Residential properties: Up to $35,000 over a 15-year period. This includes single-detached homes, semi-detached homes, and duplexes. You can apply once every five years.
- Non-residential properties: Up to $150,000 over a 15-year period. This includes commercial, industrial, religious, and institutional buildings. You can apply once every five years.
- Accessibility projects: If your project includes upgrades for accessibility, the City may cover up to 100% of those specific capital costs, up to $50,000.
To be eligible, your property must be listed on the Wrenford Heritage Register or be in the formal process of being designated. If your property is not yet listed, you can start the designation process first.
Maintenance covenant
To protect the public investment, recipients must sign a 10-year maintenance covenant. This legal agreement ensures the building is properly maintained and prevents significant alterations that would damage its heritage character. The covenant is registered on the property title.
How to apply
Applications are reviewed on a first-come, first-served basis. You can submit your application at any time, but please allow at least 30 days for staff to review your submission before you need to start work.
- Contact the Heritage & Archives Coordinator to discuss your project scope.
- Download the Heritage Conservation Grant Application Form and the Applicant Guide.
- Submit your completed application, including preliminary cost estimates and photographs.
- City staff will review your application and prepare a recommendation for Council.
- Once Council approves the grant, you may begin your work.
For complex projects, we recommend hiring a heritage conservation consultant. You can find a list of qualified consultants on our Heritage register search page.
Provincial funding
The Province of Ontario also offers the Historic Resource Conservation Grant program. These grants can be combined with City funding to cover larger restoration projects. Visit the Ontario government website for eligibility and application details.
Contact us
If you have questions about the grant program, the application process, or your property's heritage status, please contact:
Gwen Lachance
Heritage & Archives Coordinator
Email: [email protected]
Phone: 519-555-0133 (Old Mill Museum & Archives)