Whitevale Heritage Conservation District Guide

The Whitevale Heritage Conservation District was established to ensure the preservation and enhancement of the special character of Whitevale.

This guide, for use in conjunction with the Whitevale Heritage District Plan, summarizes the administration of the district, and describes development guidelines which will provide for contemporary needs, while respecting the unique character of the hamlet and its environs.

A property owner considering any demolition or construction project within the district should consult the guidelines contained herein, since they form the basis for issuance of Heritage District Permit approvals by the City of Pickering.

For further information on the District, or for assistance in applying for a permit, please contact the Planning & Development Department, City of Pickering, at 905.420.4617.

Table of Contents

1. Objectives of the Conservation District

2. District Character

3. Heritage Building Inventory

4. The Whitevale Heritage Conservation District

5. Conservation Guideline

5.1 Guiding Principles
5.2 Maintenance, Repair and Restoration of Heritage Buildings
• Foundations
• Structure
• Exterior Cladding
• Roofing
• Decorative Elements
• Windors and Doors
• Painting
• Energy Conservation
5.3 Alterations and Additions
• Non-Heritage Buildings
• Heritage Buildings
5.4 New Buildings
5.5 Accessory Structures
5.6 Site Development
5.7 Landscape and Infrastructure

6. Heritage District Permits
•Getting a Permit: Common Questions and Answers
•The Permit Approval Process

1: Objectives of The Conservation District

• To encourage the maintenance and conservation of heritage buildings
• To provide guidelines on sound conservation practices
• To maintain the rural character in and around Whitevale
• To maintain trees and the integrity of the area's landscape
• To avoid disruption to any archaeological sites
• To discourage land uses that are detrimental to the rural and/or residential character of the district
• To support existing uses, and adaptive reuse of existing building stock
• To discourage the demolition of heritage buildings and their replacement by new development
• To encourage new development which respects or otherwise complements the prevailing scale and character of the existing building stock

2: District Character

The hamlet of Whitevale is located in a scenic river valley along the banks of West Duffins Creek in the City of Pickering. Dominated by its rural setting and modest vernacular buildings, the hamlet has not changed significantly in character since the late nineteenth century. It had a small but thriving industrial centre until the 1870's, when a disastrous fire effectively destroyed most of the mill buildings except for the feed mill. With the depopulation of rural Ontario during the late 1800s and early 1900s Whitevale's role as a small service centre for the local farming community waned, resulting in the complete disappearance of its commercial enterprises on Main Street with the exception of the general store and the mill.

The building style in Whitevale is a mixture of typical rural Ontario vernacular architecture combined with Victorian influences and materials in common usage at the time of construction. The result is a distinctive cohesiveness of scale, mass, decorative detailing and building materials. Although many individual buildings and properties have been altered over the decades, the overall nineteenth century village character has been retained.

Most of the existing nineteenth century buildings have wood frame structures, and siding ranging from clapboard, shiplap to vertical board and batten. The majority of structures are one-and-a-half storeys in height with a three bay front facade and centre gable.

The rural character of Whitevale, with its narrow tree-lined streets, scenic views over the surrounding agricultural lands and the West Duffins Creek and its steep river valley, provides a distinctive context and setting for its buildings. The community has a rich and diverse character within a relatively small area. Archaeological remains located in and around Whitevale attest to its enduring attractiveness as a settlement area.

3:Heritage Building Inventory

The following inventory lists those properties in the Whitevale Heritage District which have been identified in the Background Report to the Whitevale Heritage District Plan as having heritage attributes.

For a description of the heritage characteristics of these buildings, reference should be made to the Whitevale Heritage District Plan.

Other buildings in the district, although not identified here as having heritage attributes, are nevertheless still subject to the requirements for a Heritage District Permit when making any of the changes to their property listed in part 5 of this guide, entitled Conservation Guidelines.

4: The Whitevale Heritage Conservation District

5: Conservation Guidelines

This part of the guide describes the general principles and specific recommendations which should be considered when constructing in the Whitevale Heritage District.

These guidelines apply to:

the maintenance and repair of existing heritage buildings

alterations and additions to the existing heritage buildings listed in part 4 of this guide

alterations and additions to other existing buildings in the district

new buildings

site development

landscaping

municipal infrastructure

These guidelines summarize the conservation, design and landscaping principles found in the Whitevale Heritage District Plan, and have been prepared for the purpose of convenience only. For accurate reference, the Whitevale Heritage District Plan should be consulted.

As an additional source of reference the following books provide information about maintaining and restoring heritage houses, and are available from the Pickering Public Library.

Hutchins, Nigel, (1998) Restoring Houses of Brick & Stone, Toronto: Key Porter Books

Hutchins, Nigel, & Hutchins, Donna, (1997) Restoring Old Houses, Toronto: Key Porter Books

Hutchins, Nigel, & Hutchins, Donna, (1999) Restoring Wooden Houses, Buffalo: Firefly Books

5.1 Guiding Principles

5.1.1	The Heritage Buildings described in part 4 of this guide are to be preserved. Adaptive re-use is encouraged. The demolition of these buildings is strongly discouraged.
5.1.2	Maintenance, repair and restoration of heritage buildings is encouraged.
5.1.3	The distinguishing characteristics of a heritage property should not be destroyed. The alteration, removal or concealment of the historical fabric and distinguishing architectural features is to be avoided.
5.1.4	Distinguishing architectural features should be treated with sensitivity and restored rather than replaced.
5.1.5	Where replacement of fabric and features is necessary, the replacement should match the original.
5.1.6	Documented evidence of original features, such as historical pictures and physical samples, should form the basis for constructing replacement parts. Borrowing of features from other buildings is to be avoided.
5.1.7	Contemporary design of alterations, additions and new construction is encouraged where they do not compromise distinguishing architectural features, and where they are of a scale, location and character which is compatible with the prevailing character of the building, streetscape and district.
5.1.8	New buildings should respect the prevailing character of adjacent buildings, streetscape and district through compatible location, height, setback, orientation, materials, colour, roof line, fenestration, scale and proportion.
5.1.9	Public Works must be carried out with sensitivity to the historic, residential, rural context of the District. Adverse effects on heritage buildings, walls, fences, trees, treelines and archaeological sites should be avoided.

5.2 Maintenance, Repair and Restoration of Heritage Buildings

5.2.1 Foundations

5.2.1.1	Maintain foundations in a sound, water resistant condition.
5.2.1.2	Monitor the foundation for conditions such as:  • moisture problems  • excessive settlement • displacement  Implement remedial measures.
5.2.1.3	Direct roof and surface drainage away from the building.
5.2.1.4	Avoid tree plantings close to the building.
5.2.1.5	Maintain ventilation in basements and crawl spaces.
5.2.1.6	Consult with an Engineer or Architect with special knowledge of heritage buildings prior to undertaking major foundation repairs.
5.2.1.7	Follow guidelines for masonry restoration for exposed foundation walls of brick, stone or concrete block.
5.2.1.8	Refrain from parging (mixture used to waterproof) the exterior of foundation walls.
5.2.1.9	Avoid the practice of 'over buttering' stone foundation walls.

5.2.2 Structure

5.2.2.1	Conduct any required foundation repairs prior to commencing work on the structure.
5.2.2.2	Assess the type of structure (log, timber, platform or balloon framing) and employ repairs consistent with structural system.
5.2.2.3	Monitor the structure for conditions such as: • rot • moisture problems • the presence of wood destroying insects Implement required remedial measures.
5.2.2.4	Where practical supplement existing structural elements rather than replace them.
5.2.2.5	Replace parts of the structure with wood of the same dimension and species.
5.2.2.6	Avoid removal or replacement of specialized joinery or engineering. Where replacement is unavoidable, consult with an Engineer or Architect with special knowledge of heritage buildings, and retain a skilled craftsperson to construct the replacement.

5.2.3 Exterior Cladding

5.2.3.1	The visual presence of a heritage building is to a large extent established by its exterior cladding. Existing cladding should be maintained and restored.
5.2.3.2	Conduct any required repairs to the foundation and structure prior to commencing work on the exterior cladding.
5.2.3.3	Monitor exterior walls for conditions such as: • moisture • infiltration • cracks • displacement • loose materials • the presence of wood destroying insects Implement required remedial measures.
5.2.3.4	Repair rather than replace existing wood siding. Where replacement is unavoidable, match the original in species, dimension, profile and installation.
5.2.3.5	Maintain a protective coating of paint or stain on all wood siding.
5.2.3.6	Do not install replacement synthetic cladding such as vinyl or aluminum siding.
5.2.3.7	Replacement brick or stone should be carefully selected to match existing. Consider the use of salvaged materials.
5.2.3.8	Repoint masonry only when significant deterioration has occurred. Retain a qualified person to carry out repointing.
5.2.3.9	Mortar used in repointing should: • match the existing in colour and texture • be compatible with the existing masonry • be tooled to match the existing joint profile • be weaker than the surrounding masonry Modern, hard mortars can be harmful to heritage buildings with softer masonry walls.
5.2.3.10	Use a hand chisel to clean out masonry joints.
5.2.3.11	Use cementitious grout to consolidate and stabilize stone walls.
5.2.3.12	Stucco is a feature of many heritage buildings and should be restored wherever possible.
5.2.3.13	Stucco repairs should: • match the thickness of the original • be applied to the substrate, not over the existing stucco • match the colour, texture and markings of existing • avoid painting if existing is unpainted • utilize non-ferrous hardware to prevent rusting
5.2.3.14	Surface cleaning of heritage structures should only be undertaken when accumulated dirt adversely affects the historical fabric of the building, and undertaken only by use of the gentlest means possible.
5.2.3.15	Avoid cleaning methods for masonry walls which employ sandblasting, strong chemicals or high pressure water.Cleaning of masonry should be carried out by a qualified person during a frost free period. The cleaning method should be tested in an inconspicuous location.

For further information on masonry restoration, consult the Annotated master specifications for the cleaning and repair of historic masonry, available from the Ontario Ministry of Culture and Communications, Heritage Branch.

5.2.4 Roofing

5.2.4.1	Monitor the roof for conditions such as: • evidence of leaks in the attic or ceilings • missing, loose or broken shingles • deterioration of flashing • deterioration of eaves troughs • soundness of masonry chimneys Implement required remedial measures.
5.2.4.2	Wood shingles are a recommended roofing material in the district.
5.2.4.3	Modern replacement roofing such as asphalt shingles or metal should not be of a colour or texture which creates a significant visual impact on the building or the streetscape.
5.2.4.4	Modern elements such as vents, skylights, metal chimneys and antennae should be located discreetly away from the streetscape, wherever practical.
5.2.4.5	Original roof features such as dormers, vents, cupolas and cresting should be retained and accommodated in any re-roofing.
5.2.4.6	Unsafe masonry chimneys represent a significant threat to heritage buildings. Annual inspections are essential in reducing the potential for fire loss. Install flue liners wherever the integrity of the existing flue is in question, and maintain the cap and flashing in good condition. See 5.2.3 for guidelines with respect to the repair and replacement of masonry chimneys.

5.2.5 Decorative Elements

5.2.5.1	Monitor the building ornamentation for conditions such as: • structural damage • moisture infiltration • decay • presence of wood destroying insects Implement required remedial measures.
5.2.5.2	Wooden decorative elements should be maintained; restored using compatible wood fillers wherever practical, and replaced with skilfully constructed copies where necessary.
5.2.5.3	Where no physical sample exists, reconstruction of decorative elements based on historical photographs and documents is preferable to repetition of common examples.
5.2.5.4	Protect decorative elements with regular painting.

5.2.6 Windows and Doors

5.2.6.1	Monitor windows and doors for conditions such as: • structural soundness • rot • broken panes • presence of wood destroying insects Implement required remedial measures.
5.2.6.2	Retain and repair existing frames, sash, glazing, hardware and door panelling wherever practical.
5.2.6.3	Repair using compatible wood filler or skillful joinery.
5.2.6.4	Do not alter the size of existing window or door openings, except to restore to a documented original condition.
5.2.6.5	Replacement windows and doors should match the existing heritage product, and should be wood construction and finish. Modern synthetic equivalents such as vinyl or metal are not recommended.
5.2.6.6	Repairs to an existing window or door, together with weather-stripping and installation of a storm unit, is preferable to replacement with a modern insulated window or door.
5.2.6.7	Maintain examples of craftsmanship in doors, windows, transoms, sidelights and surrounding framework.

5.2.7 Painting

5.2.7.1	Conduct any required repairs to exterior cladding, decorative elements and windows and doors prior to painting.
5.2.7.2	Prepare surface by sanding, scraping and application of a good quality primer.
5.2.7.3	Repainting of exterior surfaces is a recommended form of preventive maintenance.
5.2.7.4	If lead paints are suspected, obtain a chemical analysis and consult with a qualified professional prior to proceeding with any removal, preparation or repainting.
5.2.7.5	Choose a colour scheme based on historical documentation, either by: • obtaining original paint samples from the buildings • reviewing historical reference documents • reviewing contemporary trade magazines or paint catalogues

5.2.8 Energy Conservation

5.2.8.1	Energy conservation measures should not be implemented where they compromise the integrity or appearance of a heritage building.
5.2.8.2	Utilize energy conservation techniques which do not have a significant visual impact on a heritage building. Recommended measures include: • weather-stripping • caulking • concealed insulation • heating plant efficiency • unobtrusive storm windows and doors

For further information on energy efficiency in heritage buildings, consult Heritage Energy Conservation Guidelines, available from the Ontario Ministry of Culture and Communications, Heritage Branch.

5.3 Alterations and Additions

These guidelines provide a general framework to assist in design decisions. They are not a specific formula for constructing every alteration or addition.

5.3.1 Non-Heritage Buildings

5.3.1.1	The design and placement of alterations and additions to existing buildings should respect the prevailing building form of surrounding heritage buildings, including: • three bay width • side gable roofs with low to medium pitch • consistent setbacks
5.3.1.2	The design of alterations and additions should be such that any increased impact of the non-heritage building on the district is minimized.
5.3.1.3	Locate roof vents, skylights, dormers and other modern installations away from the streetscape whenever possible.
5.3.1.4	Locate additions to the rear, or stepped back from the street facade. Avoid widening the front facade.
5.3.1.5	Maintain the height of the existing roof and the predominant roof profile. New roof structures should reflect the predominant slope and configuration of adjacent heritage buildings. Low profile dormers at the side or rear would be an acceptable means of extending living space.
5.3.1.6	Exterior finish materials should match the existing building so as to lessen the overall impact of the structure on the district.

5.3.2 Heritage Buildings

5.3.2.1	The guidelines described in subsection 5.2 should be respected in any alterations or addition to a heritage building.
5.3.2.2	Locate additions to the rear or other less conspicuous side of the property, and limit in size and scale so as to complement the heritage building. Additions to the side should be set back from the plane of the front of the street facade. Heritage building faces which are symmetrical should not be brought into imbalance through the construction of an addition.
5.3.2.3	Additions are best designed in such a way that distinguishes between old and new and which avoids exact duplication of the existing heritage building style. Contemporary design of additions, including those which reference or recall design motifs of the existing building, are encouraged. Successful and compatible additions will complement the existing building in terms of scale, materials, ratio of solids to voids (wall to windows), texture and colour.
5.3.2.4	Historical building materials and architectural features should remain visible and be protected.
5.3.2.5	The street face and other significant elevations should not be radically altered.
5.3.2.6	Where the structure of any addition is supported on the existing building, the loads should be spread and uniform. Avoid concentrated point loads.
5.3.2.7	New roof configurations should respect existing rooflines and slopes.
5.3.2.8	Avoid demolishing unused chimneys - cap and repoint instead.
5.3.2.9	Roof vents, skylights, antennae, dormers and other modern installations should be located away from the street face.
5.3.2.10	Avoid blocking up existing windows and doors. Install new windows and doors at the rear or other inconspicuous locations.
5.3.2.11	Maintain existing entrances and porches.
5.3.2.12	New porch and entrance construction is acceptable if the construction is in accordance with physical or other historical documentation relevant to the building.
5.3.2.13	Locate exterior stairs to upper floors to the rear or other inconspicuous locations.

5.4 New Buildings

These guidelines provide a general framework to assist in design decisions. They are not a specific formula for constructing every new building in the district. Property owners are encouraged to develop creatively within the general context of the village, using contemporary design married to traditional building forms.

5.4.1	New buildings should be visually compatible with adjacent properties and the streetscape.
5.4.2	A maximum height of 1½ to 2 storeys is recommended. Other than agricultural structures, the overall height should be neither significantly higher or lower than adjacent buildings.
5.4.3	Maintain the rural settlement pattern to protect the integrity of this area, and to reinforce the distinct character of the hamlet. Infill buildings in the rural area should follow the existing pattern of wide spacing and considerable setbacks. Lining the approach roads with small lots is not recommended.
5.4.4	Residential infill in the hamlet should maintain the average existing setbacks of adjacent buildings. When the existing condition is variable so as not to provide a standard, new buildings should be located towards the front of the lot.
5.4.5	The street facing wall should be parallel to the road, except where an alternative building line has been established on adjacent properties.
5.4.6	A building form which is proportionately greater in width than depth and of a side gable design is encouraged. Extended rear sections to form the traditional 'T' shape are also encouraged where additional floor space is needed.
5.4.7	Roofs of new buildings should: • match those of neighbouring buildings in shape and pitch • be a side or end gable design • be low to medium pitch • utilize cedar or asphalt shingles Steep pitches, cross-gable, flat and mono-pitch roofs, and polygonal towers should be avoided. Concrete or clay tile roofs are not recommended.
5.4.8	Vents, skylights, antennae, and other modern installations are best located to the rear. Dormers should be similarly located.
5.4.9	Windows and doors in new buildings should: • be generally vertical and rectangular • be limited in size so as to be similar to heritage buildings in the proportion of openings to solid wall • avoid the use of snap in muntins, decorative shapes such as bulls-eyes, keystones, quoins and other decorative surrounds
5.4.10	Shutters are acceptable provided they are correct in size so as to appear functional.
5.4.11	The recommended exterior wall finish is wood clapboard or vertical board and batten. Brick is not the preferred finish material, particularly in the central core district.
5.4.12	Garages should not form a part of the front facade. A less conspicuous location is recommended.

5.5 Accessory Structures

5.5.1	Agricultural buildings are considered to be of heritage value and should be retained. Adaptive reuse is recommended rather than demolition.
5.5.2	The maintenance and repair of agricultural and outbuildings should be in conformance with the applicable recommendations in subsection 5.2.
5.5.3	The construction of new accessory buildings should be in general conformance with the applicable recommendations in subsection 5.4.
5.5.4	Garages and other new accessory buildings should be located to the rear of the property.
5.5.5	Accessory buildings should be lower in profile than the principal buildings, and generally of a like material and colour to it.
5.5.6	Signs should be simple in design. Avoid the use of plastic, vinyl or backlit signs.

5.6 Site Development

5.6.1	Parking spaces are best located inconspicuously.
5.6.2	Limit excavation so as to minimize potential damage to possible archaeological sites.
5.6.3	Maintain surface drainage such that water does not collect at or near any building.
5.6.4	The restoration of existing heritage fencing based on physical or historical documentation is encouraged. The installation of low, ornamental (as opposed to privacy) wood fences along property lines is recommended. Appropriate examples include picket fences in the hamlet, or post and wire or cedar rail fences in the rural area.
5.6.5	The use of modern fencing materials in visible locations, such as chain link or plastic, is not recommended.
5.6.6	Minimize interference or removal of native plants and trees on the building site.
5.6.6	Maintain hedgerows at property lines. Infilling with deciduous trees and shrubs is encouraged.
5.6.6	A planting mix of deciduous and coniferous trees in the front and rear yards is encouraged.

5.7 Landscape and Infrastructure

Public Works projects, such as road construction, sidewalks, storm drainage, street lighting and utility servicing, have the potential to cause profound disruption to the fabric of the Whitevale Heritage District. In order to minimize the adverse effects on the district, the following general principles should be considered prior to the design and implementation of public infrastructure works:

• the road character of the district should be preserved
• suburban development standards would be inappropriate in the district
• the narrow pavement, shoulder treatments and grass ditches are essential to the district character and should be maintained
• when projects in the interest of public safety must be undertaken, they should be reviewed carefully so that the scenic road quality is not sacrificed
• the removal or excessive pruning of significant tree plantings should be avoided

The rural landscape diversity in and surrounding the hamlet provides the essential context for the heritage buildings. Prior to undertaking any public works or community improvement projects, it is essential that section 3.4 "Landscape Conservation and Enhancement", in Part II of the Whitevale Heritage District Plan be consulted. The recommendations in these landscape improvement plans should be incorporated in any public undertaking.

6: Heritage District Permits

Getting a Permit Q & A

Q. When is a Heritage District Permit required?
A. A Heritage District Permit is required if you propose to:
• construct a new building
• construct an addition to an existing building
• demolish a building
• relocate a building, or
• make alterations to an existing building which affect the external appearance
Owners of all properties within the boundaries of the Whitevale Heritage Conservation District must obtain a Heritage District Permit prior to commencing the work described above.

Q. What is the purpose of the Heritage District Permit process?
A. It ensures that construction and development undertaken in the community is appropriate to the unique character of the area.

Q. What types of alterations do not require a Heritage District Permit?
A. A Heritage District Permit is not required for:
• interior Alterations
• exterior repairs not significantly affecting appearance
• installing storm windows and doors
• weather-stripping or concealed insulation
• eaves trough repair or replacement
• construction of backyard sheds 10 square metres in area or less
• decks and landscaping in the backyard
• painting (except for exterior masonry)
• other similar minor alterations

Q. How do I apply for a Heritage District Permit?
A. Applications are available from the building permit counter at the City of Pickering, Planning & Development Department, One The Esplanade. The application may be completed at the counter. Building Clerks are available to assist you with any concerns or questions.

Q. How much does a Heritage District Permit cost?
A. There is no charge. If a building permit is required, the usual building permit fees apply.

Q. What else do I have to submit with the application?
A. As well as filling out an application form, you must provide enough information to enable staff to determine that the proposal is appropriate under the conservation guidelines. Drawings are normally required which describe the proposed work, along with existing photographs of the building, where applicable. Whenever the proposal requires a building permit, the construction drawings submitted for a building permit are usually sufficient for heritage purposes.

Q. Do Zoning requirements apply to my Heritage District Permit application?
A. Yes.

Q. Should I check that my proposal meets zoning requirements before I make an application?
A. The Planning Department will check that your proposal complies with zoning requirements during the approval process. It is recommended, however, that you confirm that your proposed use and building configuration complies with the Pickering Official Plan, the Hamlet of Whitevale Development Plan and the provisions of Zoning By-law 3037, prior to making an application. The Planning Department will assist you in this regard. Verifying compliance prior to application will avoid potential delays in the permit approval process.

Q. Can I prepare my own drawings, or must I retain an architect or other professional person?
A. You can prepare your own drawings for any project relating to a detached residential dwelling. An architect and/or engineer is required by the Building Code, for certain larger buildings and assembly-type uses. When preparing your drawings, keep in mind that a clear, readable drawing can be quickly reviewed by plan examiners. Incomplete and sketchy drawings are commonly the cause of delays in the approval process.

Q. What are the conservation guidelines?
A. The conservation guidelines describe details relating to construction which are desirable in the District. A summary of these guidelines is contained in this guide. Planning Staff and the Heritage Pickering Advisory Committee use this guide, with reference to the more comprehensive Whitevale Heritage District Plan, in determining whether a permit can be approved.

Q. Who determines whether my proposal is OK? What happens if I disagree? After all, beauty is in the eye of the beholder.
A. The Heritage legislation, together with the City of Pickering's policies with respect to processing permits, provides for checks and balances to ensure that every applicant is given every opportunity to obtain approval. Planning Staff in the City will review the application, along with representatives from the Heritage Pickering Advisory Committee. If there are no concerns, the Heritage District Permit will be issued without further review. If there are areas of concern or suggestions, you will be contacted by Planning Staff, who will endeavour to resolve any issues with you. Most applications will be dealt with this way.
On occasions where there are unresolved issues after review by Planning Staff and the Heritage Pickering Advisory Committee, the application is forwarded to Council for consideration. Where Council does not approve the issuance of the Heritage District Permit, the applicant may appeal to the Ontario Municipal Board.

Q. Do I have to get a building permit as well as a Heritage District Permit?
A. A building permit is required for the construction, demolition or installation of any building greater than 10 square metres in area; for any addition, or for any significant material alterations to a building. The scope of projects to which building permits apply is not identical to those to which a heritage district permit applies. For example, painting the exterior masonry of a house will not require a building permit, but will require a Heritage District Permit; conversely, structural alterations inside a house would require a building permit, but not a Heritage District Permit.

Q. This sounds confusing! Can't something be done to reduce the red tape?
A. Yes. To address this concern, the City has adopted a coordinated approach to the issuance of building approvals. Regardless of which type of permit is required, applicants will fill out only one application. Building Clerks will process this application through the appropriate approval stages which the project requires. Building permit approvals from City Planning and Building examiners will be requested concurrently with the Heritage-related approvals, and one permit will be issued.

Q. What about site plan approval? Do I have to go through that process as well?
A. Site plan approval is not required where the work requires only a Heritage District Permit. Site plan approval is also not required for properties being developed for residential or agricultural purposes in the District. For other uses, such as commercial or industrial, or building additions for use as a domestic business, site plan approval must be obtained before a building permit can be issued. Application forms for site plan approval are available from the City's Planning Department. A site plan application can be made at any time before or during the building permit process.

Q. How long will it take to get a Heritage District Permit?
A. For minor items, such as new roofing or window replacement, you will obtain a permit immediately if Planning Staff have no concerns. For additions and new construction, the Heritage approval process will take place during the normal building permit application process, and would not usually extend the time required to obtain a permit. Most residential building permits which comply with zoning bylaws are processed within 4 weeks.
To provide for a faster approval process, Planning Staff are authorized by Council to approve and issue all heritage permits where there are no significant concerns. Only where the Planning Staff or the Heritage Pickering Advisory Committee have been unable to resolve concerns will the application be referred to City Council for consideration. In this latter case, Heritage legislation provides for a maximum of 12 weeks from the date of application until the Council decision.

Q. I need help in making an application. Who can I call?
A. Help is available. For information on any aspect of Heritage approvals, including assistance in conforming to the conservation guidelines, contact the Planning & Development Department at 905.420.4617.
For information on getting a building permit, including technical assistance on the building code, contact the Building Plan Examiner at 905.420.4631.
For information on zoning by-laws, including setbacks, coverage and height restrictions, or site plan approval matters, contact the Planning & Development Department at 905.420.4617.

Q. I've got my permit. Now I've changed my mind about some details, what happens then?
A. A building inspector will be conducting periodic inspections during the course of construction. Ask the inspector for advice on whether the changes require a revision to your permit, or contact the Planning Department at any time.