Public art bylaws and guidelines

Learn about the rules, permits and programs for placing public art in Wrenford's parks, streets and buildings.

Public art adds colour, history and character to Wrenford. Our by-laws and guidelines make sure every piece fits our streets, parks and buildings safely and well. Whether you are an artist, a developer or a resident, these rules help us plan, install and care for public art that everyone can enjoy.

Civic public art program

Each year, the City sets aside budget for new public art projects. We choose projects that match our civic priorities, like parks upgrades, infrastructure work and community needs. Current plans and past projects are listed on the Public Art Policy page. Residents can suggest locations or themes through our annual community engagement process.

Private development contributions

When a private developer renumbers or rezones a large site, the City requires a contribution to public art. This follows the Public Art Policy By-law 2026-092. Developers can choose to place artwork on their site or pay a cash contribution into the Signature Projects Fund. Cash contributions help us commission major works at key city sites. For full procedures, see the Private Development Public Art Guide. All projects must meet safety and maintenance standards before installation.

Murals and community art

We love seeing artists transform walls and fences across the city. If you want to paint a mural on a commercial building or in a public park, you need a permit. All murals must follow the City's design standards, use weather-safe paint and respect nearby homes. We review applications for scale, content and placement. Contact the Arts & Heritage team to start your application. Approved murals are maintained by the property owner or the City, depending on the site.

Donating artwork

You can donate a sculpture or artwork to the City for display on municipal property. Before you commission an artist, please email us to check if the piece fits our current priorities and space. We review donations carefully to make sure we can care for the work long term. The City does not accept large installations without a long-term maintenance plan.

Public art committee

The Public Art Committee advises City council, staff and developers on all public art matters. They review art plans, suggest locations and help pick artists through open calls. If you want to join the committee, applications open each year. The next intake closes on January 31, 2027. Committee members serve without pay and attend monthly meetings at City Hall.

More details are at www.wrenford.ca/recreation-culture/arts-heritage/explore-local-museums-and-galleries.

Resources and contact

  • Public Art Policy By-law 2026-092
  • De-accession guidelines (how the City removes old artwork)
  • Mural permit process and application forms

Contact the Public Art Coordinator at [email protected] or call 519-555-0100. Visit the Fallsview Arts Centre or Railside Gallery for gallery hours and local artist features.