In most cases, yes.
In general, HCD designation does not:
- Restrict the use of property
- Interfere with renovations or alterations to the interior of a house (such as installation of modern conveniences or contemporary designs on the interior)
- Interfere with renovations, alterations or additions to the exterior of a house that are not visible from the street
- Prevent renovations or alterations to the front of a house that are in keeping with the heritage character of the HCD
- Impose onerous obligations or undue expenses to maintain property
- Restrict the sale of property
No Heritage Permit is required for the following types of projects:
- Interior renovations or alterations
- Exterior renovations, alterations or additions not visible from the street
- Exterior painting of wood, stucco or metal surfaces
- Repairs of existing exterior features using the original types of materials
- Installation of eaves troughs or weatherproofing
- Seasonal installation of removable storm/screen windows and doors
- Installation of exterior lights.
A Heritage Permit is required for:
- Any renovations, alterations or additions that are visible from the street and are not listed above.
- Repairs using a different material than the original or the existing material.
- Renovations that have an impact on the building’s heritage attributes, or involve demolition.
For more general information, see the Toronto Heritage Preservation Services website at: www.toronto.ca/heritage-preservation/heritage_questions.htm
Requirements under the Ontario Heritage Act are in addition to requirements in municipal building codes or by-laws.
For information on Heritage Permits, see the Permit Process section of this website or refer to the question on Heritage Permits below.