Heritage Revitalization Agreement

What is an HRA?

A Heritage Revitalization Agreement (HRA) is a formal and voluntary agreement between a property owner and a local government. Its purpose is to facilitate the conservation and preservation of properties with heritage value. The HRA allows local governments to override certain zoning regulations and provide incentives to encourage property owners to protect and maintain the heritage significance of their properties.

When an HRA is established, a bylaw is registered on the title of the property, ensuring long-term legal protection for the heritage features. This means that future owners and occupants of the property are bound by the terms and conditions outlined in the HRA.

The provisions for local governments to negotiate HRAs can be found in Part 15, Section 610 of the Local Government Act. These provisions outline the framework and guidelines for local governments to engage in the negotiation and establishment of HRAs. The specific details and requirements may vary depending on the jurisdiction and local regulations.

Overall, HRAs serve as a mechanism for balancing the preservation of heritage properties with the needs of property owners, providing a framework for collaboration between owners and local governments to safeguard the historical and cultural significance of such properties.

• Superseding Local Government Regulations: An HRA can override certain local government regulations, such as zoning restrictions, to accommodate the specific requirements of the heritage property.
• Varying Use, Density, Lot Size, and Siting Regulations: HRAs can modify the allowed uses, density, lot size, and siting requirements that would otherwise be imposed by local regulations. This flexibility enables property owners to adapt the property to meet their needs while still maintaining its heritage value.
• Varying Permits under the Local Government Act: HRAs can modify or vary permits issued under Part 26 of the Local Government Act, which deals with planning and land use management. This allows for adjustments that align with the objectives of heritage preservation.
• Varying Heritage Alteration Permit: An HRA may include provisions to modify or vary a heritage alteration permit, which is typically required for any alterations or renovations to a heritage property. This allows for flexibility in the scope and extent of alterations while ensuring the preservation of the property's heritage character.
• Detailing the Timing of Agreement Terms: HRAs can specify the duration and timing of the agreement's terms, outlining when specific actions or conservation measures need to be undertaken by the property owner.
• Setting Out the Level of Conservation: The HRA can define the level of conservation required for the heritage property, outlining the specific measures to be undertaken by the owner to preserve its heritage features and character.
• Including Other Conditions as Negotiated: HRAs can include additional conditions and require men ts that are negotiated between the property owner and the local government. These conditions could address factors such as public access, landscaping, building materials, or any other specific considerations relevant to the heritage property.

• Meet with the City for an initial Review of Scope: Our Heritage Building Consultants will meet with the city representatives to discuss the proposed scope of the HRA and obtain initial feedback. This step allows for an early understanding of the city's expectations and requirements.
• Survey: Coordinate with an outside consultant a detailed topographical survey is an essential step. This survey provides important information about the property and its surroundings, which is necessary for the HRA application and subsequent design and planning processes.
• Engage Heritage Consultant: A heritage consultant is hired to provide professional expertise and guidance throughout the HRA process. The consultant as sis ts in conducting the heritage assessment, preparing the necessary documentation, and developing the heritage conservation plan.
• Engage with Arborist: Coordinate having a tree survey complete to determine tree health for future removal/replacement.
• Preliminary Design Based on Heritage Consultant Recommendations: Based on the recommendations of the heritage consultant, a preliminary design is created. This design takes into account the conservation requirements while considering the property owner's objectives and needs.
• Meet with City Staff for Initial Plan Review and Buy-In: The preliminary design is presented to the city staff for review and to gain their support and buy-in. This step ensures that the proposed design aligns with the city's guidelines and requirements.
• Finalize Layout and Complete Presentation and Application Documentation

Application Documentation:

• Statement of Significance: Prepared by the heritage consultant, this document highlights the heritage value and significance of the property.
• Heritage Conservation Plan: This plan outlines the specific conservation work to be undertaken on the property and details the preservation measures.
• Design Rationale: Explains the design decisions made to preserve and enhance the heritage features of the property.
• Building Permit Drawings: Detailed drawings showing the proposed project's architecture, including site plan, elevations, cross-sections, and floor plans. These drawings typically focus on the exterior design.
• Proposed Materials and Parking Layout: The exterior elevations indicate the proposed materials, and the site plan includes the parking layout with stall dimensions, drive aisles, and other relevant details.
• Landscape Plan: A to-scale plan illustrating the proposed treatment of the site's landscaping, including the type, size, and placement of plant material, as well as the treatment of other surfaces.
• Statistical Table: This table provides a summary of how the proposed project aligns with the applicable zoning regulations, including setbacks, density, floor space ratio, height, parking requirements, etc. It also highlights any requested variances or deficiencies.
• Current Photos: Recent photographs of the building, site, and surrounding properties are included to provide visual context.

• Community Engagement: Public consultations allow the application team to engage directly with the community and demonstrate their commitment to open dialogue and transparency. It provides an opportunity to listen to community perspectives, address concerns, and build positive relationships with local residents.
• Stakeholder Input: Public consultations enable stakeholders, such as heritage groups, neighbourhood associations, and local authorities, to provide input and contribute their expertise to the HRA process. This input can help shape the project in a way that aligns with community values.
• Awareness and Understanding: Participating in public consultations allows the applicant team to communicate their project's objectives, the significance of the heritage property, and the proposed plans for revitalization. It helps increase public awareness and understanding of the project, promoting a more informed and constructive discussion.
• Mitigating Concerns: Public consultations provide an opportunity to address any concerns or misconceptions that community members may have about the project. By actively participating and engaging in dialogue, the application team can address these concerns and work towards finding mutually beneficial solutions.
• Building Consensus: Through public consultations, the client can gather valuable feedback and suggestions from the community, which can contribute to the development of a more comprehensive and successful HRA. Engaging in discussions and seeking consensus can help build support for the project and increase the likelihood of its approval.