If you would like to alter the exterior of your heritage designated or inventoried home, please detail your request including design plans in a letter addressed to the Municipal Planner, the permit process is outlined below. To review the criteria for heritage designations please see the criteria page.

If your dwelling is heritage designated, you may also be eligible for a restoration grant from the Saanich Heritage Foundation. The Improvements and Restoration Guidelines below outline the types of projects which qualify for assistance, and the procedure for applying for a grant. If you have questions please call our secretary Shirley Leggett, at (250) 475-1775, local 3504 or e-mail

Improvements and Restoration Guidelines

• Restoration Guidelines
• House Grants Program Guidelines
• Photographic Guidelines 
• Colour Scheme Guidelines 
• Colour Schedule (PDF 6KB) - To be included with funding application for paint work) 
• Obtaining Project Estimates
• Estimate Checklist (To help decide on your project requirements) 
• Example of Completed Estimate Checklist  (PDF 11KB)
• Estimate Sheet (PDF 9KB - Blank for owner's use) 
• Declaration of Project Completion Form  (PDF 22KB)
• House Grants Program Application Form (PDF 24KB)

Building Permit Process for Heritage Designated Dwellings:

Owner applies for a Building Permit. Building Department advises owner that a Heritage Alteration Permit is required. Copy of Heritage Alteration Permit is forwarded to the Planning Department who refers it to the Foundation for review. The Foundation reviews the Permit application and submits comments to the Planning Dept for a report to Council. Planning Department prepares a report. Report is scheduled for a Committee of the Whole meeting. Applicant makes a presentation at the Committee of the Whole meeting. Council makes a decision.

Building Permit Process for Registered Dwellings:

Owner applies for a Building Permit. Copy of Building Permit is forwarded to the Saanich Heritage Foundation. The Foundation reviews the Building Permit application and makes a recommendation to the owner.