What are community benefits charges?
When a developer applies to rezone a property for a large residential project, the City may ask for a community benefits charge. This fee helps fund the parks, community centres, and public spaces that new residents will use. The charge is set out in Ontario’s Community Benefits Charge Act, 2010 and is applied through the City’s Official Plan and Zoning By-law 2016-040.
When does the charge apply?
The charge applies to new residential developments that add ten or more dwelling units on a single site. It also applies to townhouse and stacked townhouse projects that exceed a total floor area of 4,000 square metres. Small projects, secondary suites, and laneway houses are exempt.
How is the charge calculated?
The charge is based on the assessed value of the development at the time the rezoning is approved. The current rate is 2.5 per cent of the total development value, up to a maximum of $10,000 per dwelling unit. If the developer provides on-site parkland or a community facility instead of paying cash, the value of that contribution can be credited against the charge.
Where does the money go?
All community benefits charges are held in a dedicated fund. Council directs these funds to projects that directly benefit the neighbourhood where the development occurs. Recent projects funded through this programme include playground upgrades at Riverside Flats Park, new washrooms at the Tamsin Valley Leisure Centre, and trail improvements along the Corvid Creek Ravine. You can see a list of funded projects in the annual report.
How do I learn more or provide feedback?
If you are a developer or consultant working on a rezoning application, the charge is reviewed during the planning application process. If you are a resident, you can review draft charge policies and provide input during community engagement sessions. For questions about a specific property, contact the Planning and Development department.
Contact
Planning and Development
Wrenford City Hall, 100 Mercer Street, Wrenford, ON N4Q 1A1
Phone: 519-555-0100
Email: [email protected]