About the program
The City of Wrenford is working to reach a goal of 1,200 new homes over the next decade. To help reach this target, we offer the Wrenford Housing Accelerator Fund Action Plan. This program provides capital grants, tax exemptions and pre-development funding to support the creation of affordable rental and ownership housing, as well as the legalization of secondary and backyard suites.
Who can apply
Developers, non-profit housing providers and property owners can apply. You do not need a development or building permit before you submit your application, but your project must follow our zoning and planning rules. If you are unsure about your property, check the Zoning By-law or contact Planning & Development early.
Available incentives
Backyard Suite Incentive Program
We offer grants of up to $20,000 for the construction or legalization of legal secondary suites and backyard suites in established neighbourhoods. The suite must be rented for the long term, not used for short-term stays like Airbnb, and must meet all building and fire safety standards.
Pre-Development Feasibility Grant
If you need funding to study the feasibility of a housing project, you can apply for up to $7,500. This covers site and infrastructure studies, energy modelling, accessibility planning and early design work. Grants are not paid for work already completed before your application date.
Non-Profit Housing Partnership Fund
Non-profit housing providers can access low-interest loans and capital grants to build affordable rental housing. Priority is given to projects that include on-site support suites and meet the city’s design and accessibility standards.
Missing Middle Corridor Pilot
Private developers can build four-unit buildings along designated main arterials under a new zoning update. These projects may qualify for streamlined reviews and access to the pre-development and capital grant streams.
How to apply
We encourage you to contact our Housing Team early at [email protected] or call 519-555-0100 to discuss project eligibility. You can drop off or mail your application package to:
Planning & Development, 3rd Floor
Wrenford City Hall
100 Mercer Street
Wrenford, ON N4Q 1A1
Complete the appropriate application form for your project type. You will also need to submit required documentation, such as a project description, zoning information, and a statutory declaration confirming your property is not in violation of city by-laws or tax arrears. The application fee is $0. Standard building permits and development charges still apply once construction begins.
Important deadlines and rules
Applications for new affordable rental and ownership housing must be received by July 31 to be considered for the current funding year. Applications received before April 30 will be evaluated first. Late applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis if funds remain. The city will review your application and contact you within three to four weeks. All funded projects must be completed within four years of funding approval, and affordable rental units must remain at or below maximum rental rates for at least ten years.
Need more help?
If you are a property owner or developer with questions about zoning, building standards or housing incentives, visit our Economic Development page or book a meeting with a planning staff member. You can also review the City of Wrenford Official Plan to see where intensification and housing targets are focused. If you need a building permit, you can apply online or visit City Hall.