In many areas of Ontario, the built heritage extends beyond the individual buildings to include the spaces between the buildings, the surrounding natural and man-made landscape, roads, footpaths, fences, lighting, street furniture and other features which collectively contribute to the area's special character.

Part V of the Ontario Heritage Act provides for the designation of heritage conservation districts. Following approval of a local designation by-law (and confirmation by the Ontario Municipal Board) any alterations, additions and demolition to property within a heritage conservation district requires a permit from the local municipality. The approval or denial of a permit will usually be determined in accordance with approved guidelines and district plan.

Ontario's heritage conservation districts (HCDs) are diverse in scale and character. The Square at Goderich (commercial); the First and Second Street Districts in Oakville (residential) and the Upper Doon Village in Kitchener (rural) are some examples of heritage conservation districts designated because of their special character as well as for the distinctive architectural quality of individual buildings.

The Square at Goderich

Currently, there are over fifty designated HCDs and over twelve areas under consideration or awaiting by-law approval.

Staff in the Ministry of Citizenship, Culture and Recreation, Cultural Programs Branch provide active assistance and advice to LACAC's, municipal staff and local residents regarding the designation process, design and conservation guidelines and administration procedures affecting heritage districts.

 

Advice and information is available in the ministry publication: "Heritage Conservation Districts: A Guide to District Designation Under the Ontario Heritage Act".

View the current list of Ontario's Heritage Conservation Districts.

For further information, please contact:
Paul King
Culture Services Advisor
Program and Services Branch
Ontario Ministry Culture
Telephone: (416) 314-7134
Fax:(416) 212-1802
E-mail: paul.king@ontario.ca

Andrew Jeanes
Culture Services Advisor
Program and Services Branch
Ontario Ministry Culture
Telephone: (416) 314-7127
Fax:(416) 212-1802
E-mail: andrew.jeanes@ontario.ca