How to check
Use the Find heritage sites gallery to see if your property is on the City's Heritage Register. Enter your address to find out if your property is a Designated Heritage Property or a Heritage Inventory Property.
What is the difference?
Designated Heritage Property
A designated property has historical, cultural, or architectural significance. It is legally protected under the Ontario Heritage Act. The City must approve any changes that could affect its heritage value. A legal interest is registered on the property's title. This stays with the property if you sell it.
Heritage Inventory Property
These properties are identified as having heritage value and potential for future designation. They are not yet legally protected by a designation by-law. No interest is registered on the title. You can still apply for incentives and plaques.
Rules and permits
If your property is designated, you must get a Heritage Alteration Permit for certain exterior changes before you start work. This includes adding or changing windows, doors, porches, siding, chimneys, and character-defining features. You still need regular building permits as well.
For properties on the Heritage Inventory, a Heritage Alteration Permit is not required. However, you must still follow standard building and zoning by-laws.
Demolition of both designated and inventory properties requires City Council approval. The City also protects broader heritage areas, such as the Downtown Historic District established by By-law 2026-045, which covers the original mill town grid around Mercer, Tamsin, Mill, and Water Streets.
Financial incentives
The City encourages the conservation of heritage properties through the Heritage Incentive Policy. Eligible properties can apply for financial support during the annual application window from November 1 to February 28.
- Property tax exemption: Designated property owners may receive an exemption of up to 50% of eligible conservation work costs for a maximum of 10 years. Inventory properties are not eligible for tax exemptions.
- Maintenance grants: Up to $5,000 for designated properties and up to $2,500 for inventory properties to cover routine upkeep.
- Major rehabilitation grants: Up to $50,000 for designated properties (50% of eligible costs) and up to $50,000 for inventory properties (25% of eligible costs).
Owners of eligible properties may also apply for a free Heritage Plaque to mark their property's significance.
Get in touch
If you have questions about the registration process, permit requirements, or incentive applications, contact the Arts & Heritage Planner at [email protected]. The City typically reviews initial applications within 30 days.