About the grant programme
The City of Wrenford offers financial support to property owners who want to preserve, restore, or improve designated heritage buildings and properties listed on our heritage inventory. These grants help keep our historic character alive while protecting your investment.
Grant types and amounts
- Maintenance grants cover routine upkeep and minor repairs. Owners of designated properties can receive up to $5,000. Inventory properties can receive up to $2,500.
- Major rehabilitation grants cover significant conservation work. You can apply for up to $50,000. Properties on the heritage inventory are eligible for a maximum of 25% of the project cost.
- Accessibility upgrades are eligible for higher funding levels. If your project improves access for people with disabilities, the City may cover up to 100% of capital costs, up to $150,000.
Who can apply
All properties listed on the Wrenford Heritage Register or the heritage inventory are eligible. If you are not sure if your building is listed, check our property search tool or contact our planning team.
To qualify, you must agree to place your building on the Heritage Register if it is not already there. You must also sign a restrictive covenant promising to maintain the property for at least ten years. This protects the building from demolition and ensures its historic features are preserved.
How to apply
- Review the Heritage Alteration Permit requirements. You must have a permit before you start any exterior changes.
- Download the application guide from the Arts & Heritage page.
- Submit your complete application during the annual window, which opens on November 1 and closes on February 28.
- Staff will review your submission and may ask for clarification or additional drawings.
- The Planning and Environment Committee will prepare a recommendation for Council.
- Council must approve the grant with a two-thirds vote.
Important rules
Do not start any construction or restoration work before you receive written approval from Council. Work completed before approval is not eligible for funding.
Once approved, you must complete the project according to the approved plans. After the work is finished, submit the Post Approval Grant Payment Checklist. Staff will inspect the site before issuing the grant payment.
If your property falls out of compliance with City by-laws for 30 days after written notice, the City may cancel remaining grant payments and refuse future funding applications.
Additional benefits
Designated heritage property owners may qualify for a property tax exemption covering up to 50% of eligible conservation costs for a period of ten years. This benefit applies automatically once your property is designated and your grant is approved.
All designated and inventory properties also receive free Heritage Plaque Programme markers to acknowledge their historic value.
Contact us
Have questions about the process or need help with your application? Email the Arts & Heritage team at [email protected] or call City Hall at 519-555-0100.