The Commercial and Heritage Façade Improvement Grant Program has announced its applications to improve streetscape and building appearance.
The program focuses on façade restoration and improvement, storefront enhancement, heritage conservation compliance, and streetscape beautification for commercial buildings, including corner properties and designated heritage properties.
The initiative provides financial assistance covering up to 50% of eligible project costs. Property owners or tenants may receive up to $10,000 per street-facing façade, while corner properties may be eligible for up to $15,000 for improvements across two façades. Designated heritage properties may qualify for an additional grant of up to $5,000. Certain expenses are also capped, including signage support up to $3,500 and permanent landscaping contributions limited to 15% of the total grant.
Eligible works include repair or replacement of exterior building materials, doors, windows, and architectural features, along with storefront enhancements such as display windows, entrances, awnings, and canopies. Improvements may also include façade painting, masonry repair, rehabilitation of architectural details, and permanent exterior upgrades that enhance visibility and safety.
Security-focused enhancements such as improved lighting, reinforced doors and windows, and alleyway activation measures are also covered where applicable. Permanent patio infrastructure, walkways, and other approved exterior improvements may be considered if they align with required municipal standards.
Eligibility is generally limited to street-facing façades of commercial or mixed-use properties, with additional allowances for certain back-of-house safety improvements and alley-facing activations where approved. All works on designated heritage properties must comply with recognized heritage conservation standards and applicable municipal design guidelines. Projects must also adhere to local signage regulations, including approval requirements for signage or mural-related installations, and all necessary permits must be obtained prior to work.
For more information, visit City of Waterloo.
