Heritage Properties in Toronto: Permit Considerations
If your property is heritage-designated or in a Heritage Conservation District, you have extra steps before you can build.
Is Your Property Heritage?
Check the City of Toronto Heritage Register to see if your property is listed or designated. You can also search by address on the City's mapping portal.
Types of Heritage Protection
Designated (Part IV)
Highest protection. Individual properties designated under the Ontario Heritage Act. Any exterior changes require Heritage Permit approval.
Examples: Casa Loma, Old City Hall, many Victorian homes
Heritage Conservation District (Part V)
Area-wide protection. All properties in the district follow guidelines. Even non-contributing buildings may have restrictions.
Examples: Cabbagetown, Wychwood Park, Rosedale
Listed (Non-Designated)
Temporary protection. These are on the Heritage Register but not formally designated. Under Bill 200, the City has until January 1, 2027 to either formally designate legacy listed properties or remove them.
What Work Needs Heritage Approval?
Requires Heritage Permit
- Demolition or removal
- Exterior alterations (windows, doors, cladding)
- Additions visible from the street
- New construction on heritage lot
- Changes to heritage features listed in bylaw
Likely Approved (Permit Still Required)
- Exempt: Interior renovations (unless interior attributes are designated)
- Repairs using identical materials
- Painting wood features (Note: Painting unpainted brick is prohibited)
- Rear additions (Permit required to verify street visibility)
- Landscaping (most non-structural cases)
Note: Requirements vary by designation bylaw and HCD guidelines. Always check your specific designation.
The Approval Process
Pre-Consultation
Meet with Heritage Planning staff before designing. They'll explain what's allowed and required.
Submit Heritage Permit Application
Include drawings, photos, materials samples, and (if required) a Heritage Impact Assessment.
Staff Review
Heritage Preservation Services reviews for compliance with Standards and Guidelines for Conservation.
Decision
Minor alterations: Staff decision (2-4 weeks). Major changes: May go to Toronto Preservation Board (add 4-8 weeks).
Then: Building Permit
After Heritage approval, apply for a building permit as usual.
Heritage Impact Assessments (HIA)
For significant changes, you may need a Heritage Impact Assessment prepared by a qualified heritage consultant:
When is an HIA Required?
- •Major alterations to designated properties
- •New construction on or adjacent to heritage properties
- •Any demolition of heritage attributes
- •Development proposals in or near HCDs
HIA Cost
Expect to pay $5,000 - $15,000+ for a Heritage Impact Assessment, depending on property complexity.
Research Permits on Heritage Properties
See what work has been approved in your area.