Architectural Codes
The Village’s Architectural Codes (“Codes”) were created with the intention of producing buildings which are compatible with the historic architecture of Niagara-on-the-Lake. Created by renowned urbanist firm DPZ CoDesign, the Codes are a result of an intense public planning exercise and careful study of historic Old Town.
Exterior Changes & Improvements
All properties in The Village are bound by the Codes, and any exterior changes to properties must first receive approval. Residents can fill out the online form in the link above to start the process of obtaining approval for compliant changes and improvements and acceptable variances. Alternatively, residents may mail in a completed Minor Change Application (part of the Design Review Policy & Procedure document, linked below).
Once the submission has been received, a representative from The Village office will be in touch promptly to address any questions and move the process forward.
Code Compliance Certificate
Village residents can request The Village Architect complete an inspection of their home in order to confirm compliance with the Codes or provide a list of deficiencies and required remedial work. Such requests are almost exclusively requested during the selling process, and Buyer’s lawyers usually request a Code Compliance Certificate (“CCC”) or list of deficiencies at the last minute before Closing. To avoid any complications during the sale process, it is strongly recommended that residents request an inspection from The Village Architect during the listing period, instead of waiting until Closing in order to avoid potential issues.
Requests can be made using the form below. The cost of an inspection and CCC is $200 + HST.