What are development charges?
Development charges are fees collected from new residential and non-residential construction to help pay for the capital infrastructure needed to support growth. Under Ontario's Development Charges Act, 1997, the City of Wrenford can only use these funds to build or expand facilities that serve new residents and businesses.
How we use your charges
Every dollar you pay goes directly into dedicated capital accounts. The Official Plan maps out exactly where growth will happen and what services each area will need. Your charges help fund:
- Parks and open spaces
- Public libraries
- Fire and paramedic stations
- Water and wastewater treatment plants and pumping stations
- Stormwater management and flood protection
- Roads and transit infrastructure
We do not use development charges to maintain existing neighbourhoods, pay for operating costs like staff salaries, or fund services that pre-existing residents already use. Those costs are covered through property taxes and user fees.
Who pays and how is it calculated?
Development charges apply to new builds, additions, and certain conversions. The charge is based on the type of development and its size:
- Residential developments are charged per housing unit.
- Non-residential developments (commercial, industrial, institutional) are charged per square metre of floor space.
The rate changes each year on January 1 to match the Consumer Price Index. You can check the current rates in the Fees and Charges By-law.
When and how do you pay?
Charges are collected when you apply for a building permit. If your project is approved, you will receive a breakdown of the total charge before the permit is issued. If your project is cancelled or does not proceed, you can apply for a refund within six months. If construction starts and is later paused for more than twelve months, you may be eligible for a partial refund.
Fee breakdowns and refunds
We provide a detailed charge breakdown for every application. To request a breakdown, contact the Planning & Development office. Refund requests must be submitted in writing to the City Manager. Processing takes ten business days. The City retains a small administrative fee of 2.5 per cent on all approved refunds.
Questions and appeals
If you believe a charge was applied incorrectly, you can request a review. Submit your request in writing to the Planning & Development department within thirty days of receiving your building permit. A senior planner will review the application against the approved growth plan and contact you with a decision.
For general questions about how charges are calculated or to view the current schedule, visit the Planning & Development page or contact the planning team at [email protected] or call 519-555-0100.