About the Heritage Preservation Grants
Your home or business is part of Wrenford’s story. The Heritage Preservation Grants program helps owners of designated heritage buildings keep their properties safe, beautiful, and useful. Whether you need to repair a century-old façade or make your building more accessible, this program shares the cost with you.
What the grants cover
Grants are available for physical work that protects the heritage value of your property. Eligible projects include structural improvements, fire protection upgrades, energy efficiency retrofits, and accessibility improvements. Routine painting and basic upkeep are also covered under the maintenance category.
Grant amounts and limits
The City offers three types of grants based on your project needs:
- Major Grants: We cover up to 50 per cent of eligible conservation costs, up to a maximum of $50,000.
- Maintenance Grants: We cover up to 50 per cent of eligible upkeep costs, up to a maximum of $5,000.
- Accessibility Upgrade Grants: If your project includes ramps, wider doors, or accessible washrooms, we can cover up to 100 per cent of the capital costs, up to a maximum of $150,000.
Who can apply
Any property listed on the Wrenford Heritage Register is eligible. The Register includes buildings and structures that Council has formally recognised for their historical, cultural, or architectural significance. If you are not sure whether your property is on the Register, contact the Heritage Planning team for help.
To receive funding, you must agree to maintain the property according to heritage standards for at least ten years. This ensures that the heritage features you protect today remain intact for future generations.
How to apply
Submitting a complete application early helps avoid project delays. Please follow these steps:
- Contact the Heritage & Archives Coordinator to discuss your project and confirm eligibility.
- Prepare your application form, project description, and cost estimates.
- Submit your application to the Heritage Planning team. Work cannot start until you receive written approval from Council.
- Once approved, complete the work and submit your final report and invoices.
The Heritage Planning team reviews every application. We check how well your proposed work reinforces the building’s heritage value. If your application is supported, we will prepare a recommendation for Council. Final approval requires a two-thirds vote from Council.
Need help?
We understand that heritage conservation can be complex. The Heritage Planning team is here to guide you through the process, answer questions about eligible work, and help you navigate the application steps. You can reach us by email or pick up forms at the Old Mill Museum & Archives. You can also explore other community grants or learn more about our cultural services.