The designation of a heritage district allows for the regulation of character-defining elements that tie together an area. Each heritage district is unique, and so are its protections. Heritage districts do not necessarily impact individual houses. But, they often introduce guidelines for improvements and new developments that are compatible with the goals of preserving the character of the area. Property owners within the affected area must give consent to a designation by municipal bylaw that would be registered on title of each affected property within the district. Patterns of development on either side of area boundaries often become increasingly different after the designation of a heritage district is established.
