What you can do
Property owners on the Wrenford Heritage Register can apply for financial assistance to restore, repair and maintain historic buildings. The City offers matching grants and a property tax exemption to help cover eligible conservation costs. Grants are paid after the work is inspected and approved.
How to apply
Applications are open annually from November 1 to February 28. You can submit your application through the Planning & Development portal or pick up a packet at City Hall. You will need to submit a completed application form, a detailed scope of work, cost estimates from licensed contractors, and photographs of the proposed work. The Heritage & Archives Coordinator will review your submission and may request additional drawings or a site visit. Applications are processed on a first-come, first-served basis until the annual budget is fully allocated.
Grant limits and rules
The Heritage Incentive Programme offers three types of matching grants. All grants cover up to 50 per cent of eligible costs.
- Maintenance Grants cover routine upkeep of character-defining elements, to a maximum of $5,000. Available for designated and inventory properties.
- Major Grants cover large-scale restoration, masonry or structural repairs, to a maximum of $50,000. Available only for designated properties.
- Conservation Plan Grants cover the cost of hiring a qualified heritage consultant to draft a phased conservation plan, to a maximum of $3,000.
Property tax exemption: Owners of designated properties may receive an exemption equal to 50 per cent of eligible conservation work costs for a period of up to 10 years. You can combine a grant and a tax exemption, provided the total value does not exceed 50 per cent of the project cost.
Permits and approvals
A Heritage Alteration Permit is required for all exterior changes to designated heritage properties. This permit ensures that repairs and additions protect the building's heritage value. You still need a regular building permit where applicable. The Heritage Alteration Permit application is included in the grant application package. Work must not begin until you receive written approval.
Permits are required for work such as repairing or replacing original windows and doors, repointing masonry, removing or altering character-defining interior features, and installing new additions or signage. Routine maintenance, painting and interior repairs that do not affect heritage attributes do not require a separate heritage permit.
Contact
For guidance on eligibility, grant guidelines or permit questions, contact the Heritage & Archives Coordinator.
Gwen Lachance, Heritage & Archives Coordinator, 100 Mercer Street, Wrenford, ON N4Q 1A1.
Phone: 519-555-0100. Email: [email protected].
Find more information on the Old Mill Museum & Archives or contact the Economic Development team.