Heritage Permits
Owners of designated properties, both individually designated and those located in Heritage Conservation Districts, are required to submit an application for a heritage permit prior to making changes to their property. The purpose of the heritage permit process is to ensure any changes are compatible with the heritage character of the property or district.
Our Heritage Permitting Guidelines outline the process for applying for a heritage permit as well as what changes do and do not require a permit. You are encouraged to meet with staff prior to submitting an application to discuss your proposed project. When you are ready to submit your permit application, use our Heritage Permit Application form.
Heritage Resources
Colour Palette
Sign Guidelines
Businesses located in individually designated properties and heritage conservation districts, including Downtown Lindsay, are required to follow our sign guidelines found in the Heritage Permitting Guidelines and receive a heritage permit before installing your new sign. You must apply for and receive both a heritage permit, using the Heritage Permit Application form, and a Sign Permit from our Building Department prior to installing new signage.
Heritage Applications Policy
The City's approach to heritage applications is guided by our Council adopted Heritage Applications Policy (CP2021-040). This policy provides high level guidance to City staff, the Municipal Heritage Committee and Council regarding the receipt and processing of various types of heritage applications received by the City.
Heritage Permitting FAQs
Unsure as to whether or not you need a heritage permit or where to start on your application? Our Heritage Permitting Guidelines walk you through how the application process works, when you need a heritage permit and additional guidance you might need to know as you plan your project.
Heritage Impact Assessments
A Heritage Impact Assessment (HIA) is a study to determine the impact of a proposed development on a heritage property and recommend strategies to mitigate the impacts of new development on the property's cultural heritage value.
An HIA may be required when a proposed development has the potential to impact a heritage property. HIAs should be prepared in accordance with the City's Heritage Impact Assessment Terms of Reference.
Cultural Heritage Evaluation Reports
A Cultural Heritage Evaluation Report is a study to determine if a site has cultural heritage value and are important tools to help identify and evaluate heritage properties in the community which may have historic value.
A CHER may be required when a proposed development includes a historic property which has not yet been evaluated for its heritage value. CHERs should be prepared in accordance with the City's Cultural Heritage Evaluation Report Terms of Reference.
Resources for Property Owners
We offer a range of resources to assist property owners in the conservation of their heritage properties.
The City has a number of fact sheets on heritage in the municipality which are available for you.
The Standards and Guidelines for the Conservation of Historic Places in Canada is a federal document that outlines best practices in heritage conservation. It was developed by Parks Canada to provide practical and helpful advice for approaching heritage conservation projects.
The Canadian Register of Historic Places in an online database of historic sites across Canada.
The Ontario Heritage Trust is the provincial body that protects and promotes heritage in Ontario. The Trust provides important resources relating to heritage conservation, including a database of designated properties and conservation advice. It also owns and runs a number of historic sites in Ontario and organizes various events related to our history in the province.
The National Trust for Canada is a national organization dedicated to the promotion and preservation of historic sites across the country. It provides education, advocacy, resources and support for Canadian historic sites.
Want to learn more about our heritage? Explore more...
Our historic places define our communities, tell our stories, and provide opportunities for the future. The City is undertaking a comprehensive inventory of its historic places, buildings, and landscapes through identifying and documenting the many heritage resources in our communities to understand what resources are present, their significance, and how best to preserve them.
We conserve our heritage resources through heritage designation. Designation recognizes and celebrates important historic properties in Kawartha Lakes and helps manage change to ensure that the important buildings in our communities retain their historic character.
Step back in time and experience the rich tapestry of heritage in Kawartha Lakes by getting involved with an event, workshop, or award presentation. Join us as we celebrate the heritage organizations in our communities dedicated to conserving and displaying the artifacts and archives that tell the rich story of our heritage.
Contact Us
Kawartha Lakes
P.O. Box 9000, 26 Francis Street
Lindsay, ON, K9V 5R8
Telephone: 705-324-9411
Toll free at 1-888-822-2225
After-hours emergencies: 1-877-885-7337
