Which London neighbourhoods are heritage conservation districts?
The City lists seven designated districts, plus one study area:
| District | Designated | Neighbourhood |
|---|---|---|
| East Woodfield | 1994 | Woodfield |
| Bishop Hellmuth | 2003 | Old North |
| Old East | 2006 | Old East Village |
| West Woodfield | 2008 | Woodfield |
| Downtown | 2013 | Downtown London |
| Blackfriars/Petersville | 2015 | Blackfriars-Petersville |
| Wortley Village-Old South | 2015 | Wortley Village (Old South) |
| St. George-Grosvenor | Study area, not designated | Old North |
See what is for sale in each today: Old North, Woodfield, Old East Village, Downtown London, Blackfriars-Petersville and Wortley Village.
When do I need a heritage alteration permit?
For a property inside a district, the City says permit approval "is required for alterations based on the Classes of Alteration identified in each Heritage Conservation District Plan." In other words, the plan for your district decides. A property that is individually designated under the Ontario Heritage Act has its own list of heritage attributes, and changes likely to affect them need a permit.
Before you buy, find out whether the house is in a district or individually designated, and read the plan's classes of alteration for anything you intend to change: windows, porches, roofing, additions, demolition or new buildings.
How does the permit process work?
The City's process has five stages:
- Consult a heritage planner. Describe what you want to change; the planner tells you whether a permit is needed.
- Apply. Complete the heritage alteration permit form with drawings, photos and product details.
- Confirmation. The heritage planner confirms the application is complete.
- Decision route. The planner decides whether it goes to Municipal Council or is approved under delegated authority.
- Outcome. Approval, approval with terms and conditions, or refusal.
The City's heritage team can be reached at 519-930-3500.
What should I check before buying a heritage home?
The same things as any older home, plus the heritage layer. Ask the seller for any past heritage permits, and have your home inspection look closely at original windows, masonry and roofing, because like-for-like repairs are what the plans usually favour. Budget time for permits into any renovation plan.
Before you move ahead
- Confirm whether the address is in a heritage conservation district or individually designated.
- Read the district plan's classes of alteration for anything you plan to change.
- Ask the seller for past heritage alteration permits.
- Call a City heritage planner before you firm up if you plan exterior work.
General information for Ontario buyers and sellers, current as of September 26, 2026. It is not legal, tax or financial advice. Rules and rates change, so confirm the details for your own purchase or sale with your lawyer, lender or accountant.