The Ontario Heritage Act (OHA) turns 50 this year! Enacted in 1975, the OHA provides municipalities and the provincial government with tools to identify, protect, and conserve cultural heritage resources. A key part of this process involves various reports that assess heritage value and the impact of proposed developments.
As part of the legal mechanisms enacted to safeguard heritage, there are several reports that may have to be completed to evaluate the potential effects of proposed developments on cultural heritage resources. These documents help municipalities, heritage professionals, and stakeholders assess cultural heritage value and implement conservation strategies.
TRACE is a team of heritage professionals with lots of experience working with clients and municipalities to complete these reports.
Let's break a few of them down!
Want to Know if a Property Has Heritage Value?
Cultural Heritage Evaluation Report (CHER)
A CHER determines whether a property has cultural heritage value, often as part of the heritage designation process. It includes:
- Historical Research – Examining records, maps, and archives.
- Architectural Analysis – Assessing design, construction methods, and style.
- Contextual Significance – Evaluating its relationship to its surroundings.
- Designation Evaluation – Applying Ontario Regulation 9/06 criteria.
Planning a Development on a Heritage Property?
Cultural Heritage Impact Statement (CHIS)
A CHIS evaluates the impact of proposed developments on designated heritage properties, properties listed on the municipal register, or those in a Heritage Conservation District (HCD). This includes:
- Heritage Significance – Identifies the property’s historical and architectural importance.
- Scope of Work – Details planned alterations, demolitions, or new construction.
- Impact Assessment – Evaluates potential effects on heritage attributes.
- Mitigation Strategies – Recommends ways to minimize heritage loss.
Heritage Impact Assessment (HIA)
Similar to a CHIS but more comprehensive, an HIA assesses multiple heritage properties or broader cultural landscapes. Required for planning approvals, it includes:
- Identification of Heritage Resources – Determines if the site contains or is near heritage properties.
- Heritage Significance Evaluation – Uses Ontario Regulation 9/06 criteria.
- Impact & Mitigation Strategies – Ensures development aligns with heritage policies.
- Policy Compliance – Aligns with the Ontario Heritage Act and planning regulations.
Assessing Heritage in Large-Scale Infrastructure Projects?
Cultural Heritage Assessment Report (CHAR)
A CHAR evaluates heritage resources affected by major infrastructure projects, such as highways and transit expansions. This includes:
- Identification of Heritage Resources – Surveys and historical research.
- Evaluation of Heritage Value – Applying Ontario Regulation 9/06.
- Impact Analysis – Direct and indirect impacts of the project.
- Mitigation Strategies – Design modifications, documentation, or relocation.
What’s Similar & What’s Different?
These reports aim to assess heritage value, identify impacts, and recommend mitigation strategies within the framework of the Ontario Heritage Act and municipal policies. However, each serves a different purpose:
- CHER – Determines if a property should be designated as a heritage site.
- CHIS & HIA – Evaluate the impact of development, with an HIA being broader in scope.
- CHAR – Assesses heritage resources in large-scale infrastructure projects.
The Ontario Heritage Act (OHA) has played a crucial role in protecting the province’s cultural heritage for 50 years. Whether you’re a property owner, developer, or planner, understanding these reports ensures that heritage conservation remains a priority while balancing responsible development.
TRACE is there to help. Contact us today!
Happy 50th, OHA!
