Property owners looking to revitalize vacant buildings in Winnipeg will soon have access to new financial incentives intended to encourage redevelopment and bring unused properties back into productive use.
Beginning July 1, the City of Winnipeg will accept applications for the Renovation Fee Waiver Program and the Vacant Building Exemption Program. According to the city, both initiatives are designed to support owners who are actively repairing, redeveloping, occupying, or demolishing long-vacant buildings.
City officials say vacant buildings can create significant challenges for neighbourhoods, including increased fire risks, public safety concerns, and opportunities for illegal activity.
“Every vacant building is a property that could be doing more for the neighbourhood as a home or a business,” Mayor Scott Gillingham said. “When an owner has a real plan and active permits, we should help that work move forward.”
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Fee waivers tied to redevelopment work
Under the Renovation Fee Waiver Program, eligible property owners can receive dollar-for-dollar credits toward vacant building fees based on either the value of a City-issued renovation grant or the cost of a City construction permit used to improve the property. The credits may be applied to both new and outstanding vacant building fees.
To be eligible, owners must apply for the waiver within 12 months of receiving the grant or closing the applicable construction permit.
Exemptions available during active projects
The Vacant Building Exemption Program will allow qualifying owners to avoid vacant building fees while they hold active development, building, and construction permits related to a redevelopment project.
Councillor Evan Duncan, chair of the city’s Standing Policy Committee on Property and Development, said the program is intended to encourage redevelopment while ensuring owners remain accountable.
“This program will help reduce barriers for owners who are actively redeveloping vacant properties while maintaining accountability,” Duncan said. “Ultimately, we want to see fewer vacant buildings, safer neighbourhoods, and more properties returned to productive use.”
Property owners granted an exemption must still keep buildings secure, comply with city bylaws, maintain clean sites, and ensure the property is occupied or demolished before development permits expire.
Focus on safer, stronger neighbourhoods
Councillor Vivian Santos, chairperson of the Standing Policy Committee on Community Services, said the measures are aimed at addressing longstanding issues associated with abandoned properties.
“Too many neighbourhoods have experienced the negative effects of long-term vacant buildings, from safety concerns and fires to missed opportunities for housing and economic growth,” Santos said. “Every vacant building that is redeveloped, occupied, or removed is a positive step toward creating safer, stronger, and more vibrant communities for Winnipeggers.”
Applications for both programs open July 1.