Should These 152 Waterloo Properties Be Designated as Heritage Sites?
Official title: Waterloo Heritage Register Review for Bill 23
The City of Waterloo is reviewing 152 properties that could lose heritage protection. Why? A provincial law (Bill 23) requires cities to either formally designate these properties or remove them from the heritage register by 2027. Without designation, these historic buildings could be demolished.
Why This Matters
Own one of these 152 properties? This decision directly affects what you can do with your home. Live in a historic Waterloo neighbourhood? Designation could preserve its character—or limit redevelopment. Studies suggest heritage designation may actually increase property values, not decrease them.
What Could Change
Properties that get designated will have restrictions on demolition and exterior changes. Those not designated by January 2027 will be removed from the heritage register entirely, meaning owners could demolish or significantly alter them without heritage review. The city is also exploring tax relief and expanded grants for heritage property owners.
Key Issues
- Which of the 152 listed properties should be formally designated as heritage sites?
- How should the city balance heritage preservation with property owner rights and redevelopment?
- What financial supports should be available for heritage property owners?
How to Participate
- Review the Heritage Research & Evaluation Report to see which properties are being considered and the evaluation criteria.
- Share your thoughts using the Questions and Comments section on the consultation page.
- Contact staff directly at dominik.simpson@waterloo.ca with questions or to request designation for your property.
Submit Your Input
Questions Being Asked (3)
- Do you support or oppose the designation of specific properties on the heritage register?
- What is the value of heritage preservation to your neighbourhood?
- What financial supports should be available for heritage property owners?