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Heritage Revitalization Agreements

What is a Heritage Revitalization Agreement?

Heritage Revitalization Agreements (HRA) are a flexible tool that allows for creative solutions to protect buildings and features with heritage value, while still allowing the redevelopment of a property. A HRA typically includes a property with a building or feature listed on the City’s Community Heritage Register. A HRA is a legally binding agreement negotiated between the City and a property owner.  The objective is to create a mutually beneficial HRA so that the property owner can develop a property with heritage value, and the City has the opportunity to secure the protection of heritage buildings or features. In accordance with Section 610 of the Local Government Act, the terms of the HRA can supersede land use regulations, such as varying use, density and siting. Every HRA is different from the next, and does not create precedent.

    Heritage Revitalization Agreement Process

    The steps involved in the HRA process are generally as outlined below:. 

    1. The property owner requests a pre-application meeting with City Staff to assess whether an HRA is suitable for the proposed development and to determine application requirements. The property owner must provide a heritage assessment prepared by a qualified heritage professional that evaluates the building’s current condition and identifies the proposed conservation and restoration work. 
    2. City Staff and the property owner review the proposal and negotiate the form of development and HRA terms.
    3. The property owner submits a complete Development Permit application, accompanied with a HRA application fee ($500).
    4. The property owner and their design team make a presentation to the Design Advisory Panel.
    5. The application is referred to other City departments and external agencies to provide comprehensive feedback. Revised plans and additional documents may be required.
    6. A HRA and corresponding bylaw are drafted. Details of the agreement between the property owner and the City, including sketches, photos or drawings, are attached to and form part of the bylaw.
    7. The property owner installs a public notification sign prior to council consideration (or public hearing, if applicable).
    8. The bylaw is considered by Council. If an HRA includes a change in use/density, a public hearing must be held.
    9. The property owner fulfills any conditions required by Council (e.g. legal documents, heritage designation). 
    10. The bylaw is adopted by Council and the property owner can proceed to the Building Permit stage. 
    11. Within 30 days of bylaw adoption, City files a notice with the Land Title Office and notifies the minister responsible for the Heritage Conservation Act (Heritage Branch).

    Contact Us

    Community Planning
    250-755-4464
    communityplanning@nanaimo.ca

    Current Planning Section
    250-755-4429 ext. 4509
    planning@nanaimo.ca

    Last updated: October 29, 2026

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