City Council approved the new rates today at Wrenford City Hall, setting the stage for how the city will fund growth over the next year. The updated charges take effect on January 1, 2025, and apply to all new building permits issued after that date.
Development cost charges are a standard funding tool in Ontario. They help pay for the roads, water mains, parks, libraries, and fire stations that new neighbourhoods need. When a developer builds a new home or commercial space, a portion of the cost goes into a dedicated fund to build the infrastructure that supports it. This ensures that long-time residents are not left paying for growth-related infrastructure through their own property taxes.
"As Wrenford continues to grow, it is vital that we have a clear and predictable way to fund the facilities and services that keep our community running," said Samuel Adeyemi, General Manager of Infrastructure and Planning. "These updated rates reflect the current cost of construction and ensure we can deliver the infrastructure our residents rely on every day."
The new rates were determined through the city's biennial development charge review process. Key rates for 2025 include:
- Single detached houses: $16,800.00
- Duplexes, townhouses, and apartments: $9,200.00 per unit
- Commercial and industrial space: $28.50 per square metre
- Child care facilities: $12.00 per square metre
These figures represent a modest increase from 2024, aligned with the provincial construction cost index and the city's approved capital plan. The rates will continue to be reviewed every two years to keep pace with inflation and infrastructure needs. The next review will begin in early 2026.
Developers and contractors should note that these charges are collected at the time the building permit is issued. If you are planning a project, you can estimate your costs using the building permit fee calculator on the city's website. All applicants can find the full rate tables, exemption criteria, and payment instructions on the development cost charges page.
Questions about how these charges apply to specific properties can be directed to the Planning and Development team at contact planning and development.