Alter a Heritage Property
What's on this page
↓Overview
↓Who is this for
↓Determine your property type
↓Listed heritage properties
↓What you need
↓When a heritage permit is required
↓When a heritage permit is not required
↓How to apply
↓After you apply
↓Demolition of a heritage property
Overview
The Town of Milton values heritage conservation and works with property owners to help preserve the cultural heritage value of listed and designated heritage properties. If you are planning renovations, additions, repairs, or demolition work on a heritage property, different approval requirements may apply depending on whether the property is listed or designated under the Ontario Heritage Act.
Before starting any work, determine whether your property is listed or designated and review the applicable permit requirements. Understanding the requirements early can help avoid project delays and ensure the heritage value of the property is protected.
This information is for:
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Owners of listed heritage properties
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Owners of designated heritage properties
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Property owners planning alterations or additions
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Property owners considering demolition of a heritage property
The approval process depends on whether your property is listed or designated under the Ontario Heritage Act.
If you own a listed heritage property, you do not need to obtain a heritage permit for alterations or additions.
If you own a designated heritage property and wish to change or alter the property, you must apply for a heritage permit under the Ontario Heritage Act.
The heritage permit review process assesses the impact of proposed changes and helps ensure the conservation of the property's heritage value. Designation does not prevent you from maintaining or repairing the property, provided the work does not alter its heritage attributes.
Before applying for a heritage permit, gather:
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Completed heritage permit application
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Plans and drawings showing the proposed work
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Details describing the extent of the proposed alterations
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Supporting documentation, if required
A heritage permit is typically required for:
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Adding to a building or accessory structure
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Replacing or changing windows or doors
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Removing or installing decks, fences, porches, verandas, canopies, gates, trellises, arbours, gazebos, or chimneys
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Changing trim, roofing, or cladding
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Painting the exterior
You generally do not need a heritage permit for:
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Routine maintenance and minor repairs that do not change the exterior of the building, accessory structures, or landscaping
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Re-roofing using similar materials and colour
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Repairing or replacing eavestroughs and downspouts, unless they are ornamental or integral to the building's heritage appearance
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Repointing brick
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Repairing chimneys
Before submitting an application, contact Development Services staff for advice on how to preserve the heritage value of your property.
Once you are ready to apply:
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Complete the heritage permit guide and application.
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Submit your completed application package, including all supporting documents, to:
Town of Milton - Development Services
150 Mary St.
Milton, ON L9T 6Z5
Town staff will review your application and supporting documentation to assess the impact of the proposed work on the property's heritage attributes.
If additional information is required, staff will contact you during the review process.
Proposals to demolish buildings or structures listed on the Heritage Register are subject to review.
To fully understand the potential impact of the demolition, the Town will typically require a heritage impact assessment in accordance with the established terms of reference. This review helps inform decision-making and evaluate the heritage significance of the property.
If you are planning to demolish a listed heritage property, you must provide Council with 60 days' notice before demolition. This process may be initiated through a demolition permit application.