Community Improvement Plans

Community Improvement Plan (CIP) is a tool used by municipalities to incentivize private and public sector investment within a prescribed area. The Town of Penetanguishene has two CIPs, namely the Downtown CIP (2020) and the Affordable and Sustainable Housing CIP (2024), which provide financial incentives to support improvement projects in the Town.  

Each CIP and individual program has unique eligibility criteria to qualify for funding. See the Downtown CIP Information Guide or the Affordable and Sustainable Housing CIP Information Guide to help determine eligibility. For a full description of eligibility criteria, refer to the relevant CIP documents found above, or contact Town staff. 

In addition to the specific eligibility criteria, the project must represent an improvement over existing conditions. Lifecycle replacements or similar projects will not be considered. 

It is highly recommended that you consult with Town staff before applying by contacting the Planning and Community Development Department at planning@penetanguishene.ca or 705-549-7453. For a full list of application requirements and how to submit an application, refer to the Application Form and Guidelines. 

The CIPs extend to a range of applicants including property owners, tenants (with property owner authorization), developers, and the non-profit sector.   

No, improvement projects that are already fully or partially completed will not be considered for funding. The CIP application must be approved prior to any work commencing. 

Applications are accepted through semi-annual, 30-day intake periods in the spring and fall. Once the intake period closes, it can take approximately 4 weeks for an application to be approved. Select programs (Signage Improvement Program, Façade Improvement Program, and Additional Dwelling Unit Program) are exempt from the application intake period and are accepted year-round. It can take 2 to 4 weeks for these applications to be processed. 

Once approved, the applicant must enter into an agreement with the Town to confirm the approved works and the amount of funding. The agreement may include terms and conditions for the financial incentives, such as obtaining building permits or evidence of insurance. Once the agreement is fully executed, the improvement project can begin. 

Funding is issued upon project completion. The applicant must provide photos or other documentation confirming the project is complete and a copy of paid invoices for the total cost of the project. Funding is provided through an electronic fund transfer using the applicant’s direct deposit information. It can take approximately 2 to 4 weeks to receive funding following project completion.