Heritage Revitalization Agreements: Examples

Example 1

A family owns a heritage house situated on a large lot in a single-family neighbourhood. The owner wishes to subdivide their property into two legal-sized lots, which would require the relocation or destruction of the house.

To preserve the heritage building in its present landscaped setting, the owner and the City enter into a HRA with terms that allow for both the subdivision of the property and the retention of the house in its present location. The agreement varies the Subdivision Bylaw to allow subdivision into two lots, creating one lot narrower than permitted.

In return, the owner agrees to restore and continually protect and conserve the heritage house. Any future development of the narrow lot is subject to siting requirements. The proposal is in line with the permitted use and density, so a public hearing would not normally be required. However, the heritage designation also proposed for the heritage building means that a public hearing must be held. (source)

Example 2

In order to conserve an historic hotel and to construct a new building beside it, a significant investment in restoration work is required and certain variances are requested.

The property owner and City staff negotiate an HRA that describes the form of development, varies siting requirements, permits non-conforming uses and increases the allowable density on the site.

In return, the owner agrees to restore, maintain and protect the exterior of the building and the interior lobby, grand staircase and ballroom and allow public access for one day per year.

A Public Hearing is required because of the use and density variances requested. (source)

Example 3

The owner of a historic commercial building in a downtown core initiates discussion with the local government regarding the redevelopment potential of the site. In order to conserve the historic building and to build a new building on the site, a significant investment in the restoration of the historic building is required and the building siting requirements in the community’s zoning bylaw must be relaxed. The property owner and local government negotiate a heritage revitalization agreement to enable redevelopment of the site. The agreement allows relaxation of the siting requirements, permits additional uses such as multiple family dwellings to be accommodated on the site, and increases the allowable density on the site. In return, the owner agrees to restore and maintain the historic building, allow public access for interpretation one day per year, and agrees to the installation of an appropriate commemorative plaque on the property. (source)

This guide provides an overview of Heritage Revitalization Agreements through research and commentary. Application of this heritage conservation tool is not prescriptive, as it can be adapted to each situation. Local governments and regional districts wanting to implement the heritage conservation tools should seek legal counsel as required.

SPECIAL NOTE: It is intended this guide will develop through community input. If you have best practices and case studies that would benefit this guide, please contact Heritage BC.