Program overview
The Wrenford Industrial Incentive Program helps developers and property owners bring new industrial projects to the city. If you are building or renovating a facility in a designated growth area, you may qualify for a five-year municipal property tax exemption and a site preparation grant. This program is designed to increase the supply of shovel-ready industrial land and grow the non-residential assessment base.
The program is administered under Industrial Incentives By-law 2026-078.
Who can apply
To be eligible, your project must meet all of the following criteria:
- Located in a designated industrial area on the City map (Industrial Park East, Copper Ridge, or Eastfield).
- Zoned for heavy or light industrial use under Zoning By-law 2016-040.
- Classified as non-residential by the Municipal Property Assessment Corporation (MPAC).
- Development has not yet commenced on the site.
- The property is not currently exempt from municipal property taxes.
If your property is not yet classified as non-residential but will be by January 1 of the following year, you may apply conditionally. Final approval depends on MPAC confirming the classification.
When and how to apply
You can submit an application at two different stages in your development process. Choose only one path.
Path 1: Subdivision stage
Apply if you have an approved subdivision plan and an executed development agreement with the City.
Path 2: Development permit stage
Apply if you have an approved development permit that requires payment of off-site levies, and you have either paid the levies or signed an agreement to pay them.
Applications must be submitted by September 30 to take effect on January 1 of the following year. Email your completed application and supporting documents to [email protected]. Our staff will review your package and confirm eligibility within fifteen business days. Contact economic development for a pre-consultation meeting.
Conditions and cancellation
To keep receiving the incentive, you must:
- Begin construction by November 1 of the first incentive year.
- Obtain a released building permit by November 1 of the first incentive year.
- Pay all required off-site levies according to your agreement.
- Continue to use the property for industrial purposes.
If you stop meeting these conditions, the tax exemption will be cancelled starting from January 1 of that year. You will be responsible for the full municipal property tax for that year. If the property changes ownership, the new owner must assume the development agreement and all remaining obligations to continue the incentive. Official Plan updates will guide future industrial zoning changes.
Contact the Economic Development team
Drop by the Economic Development desk in Room 203, Wrenford City Hall, 100 Mercer Street, Wrenford, ON N4Q 1A1, Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. You can also call 519-555-0100 or email [email protected] for a pre-consultation meeting.
Frequently asked questions
What happens if my application is denied?
If your application is denied, you have thirty days to file an appeal with the Wrenford Tax Incentive Appeal Board under Industrial Incentives By-law 2026-078. The City Clerk's office handles all appeal filings.
Can I combine this with other economic development grants?
Yes. The industrial tax exemption runs alongside the New Business Relocation Grant and the Facade Improvement Assistance Program, provided you meet the separate eligibility rules for each.
This page is for informational purposes only and does not replace the official by-law or legal advice. For binding interpretations, contact the City Manager's office or your legal counsel.