Which Waterloo Heritage Properties Should Be Protected from Demolition?
Official title: Waterloo Heritage Register Review for Bill 23
Ontario's Bill 23 forces cities to either formally designate heritage properties or remove them from protection by 2027. Waterloo has 152 listed properties at risk. The city is reviewing which ones deserve permanent heritage designation to prevent demolition.
Why This Matters
Live in or near a historic Waterloo neighbourhood? This affects which buildings stay and which could be torn down. Heritage designation protects a property's character but also limits what owners can change. If you value Waterloo's historic streetscapes—or own one of these properties—this decision matters.
What Could Change
Up to 152 properties could receive formal heritage designation, which legally protects them from demolition and major alterations. Properties not designated by January 2027 lose their listed status entirely—meaning owners could demolish without heritage review. The first 14 properties are being considered for designation in February 2025.
Key Issues
- Which of the 152 listed properties should be prioritized for heritage designation?
- Do the 14 properties in Part 1 merit formal heritage protection?
How to Participate
- Review the Staff Report on the 14 properties proposed for designation to understand which properties are being considered first.
- Share your comments on this consultation page using the Questions and Comments section.
- Contact staff directly at dominik.simpson@waterloo.ca with questions or feedback.
Events
| Date | Event | Location | Actions |
|---|---|---|---|
| February 24, 2025 | Council Meeting - Notice of Intention to Designate 14 Properties (Part 1) | — |