FAQs

It is a proposed grant program that would support eligible properties in rural areas, including farms, rural businesses, and tourism operators. It aims to strengthen the rural economy and support local agriculture while protecting farmland.

No. The RPCIP does not change zoning, permitted uses, or growth boundaries. It only offers grants for projects that already comply with the County’s Official Plan, Zoning By-Law, and Provincial policy.

• Farmers and farm business owners with on farm diversified uses or farmers that are contemplating Additional Residential Units (ARUs).
• Commercial and mixed-use property owners in rural hamlets and villages.
• Rural tourism businesses and attractions located outside the three urban areas.
• Some grants are open to tenants with the written consent of the property owner.

Examples include:

• Exterior façade improvements.
• New or improved signage.
• Landscaping and private parking upgrades.
• Interior upgrades to convert or reuse buildings for eligible commercial or tourism uses.
• Upgrades needed for new farm-based housing units or residential units in mixed use buildings.
• Certain planning, building, or development related fees connected to eligible projects.

Each grant has a maximum amount and typically covers up to 50 percent of eligible costs, within a set limit. Council will set an annual program budget during the budget process.

The RPCIP does not change property tax rates. If you improve your property, the Municipal Property Assessment Corporation may reassess it in the future, as with any property improvements, which can affect assessed value. The plan’s goal is to help offset some upfront costs and support viable long-term operations.

An overview of the draft process is outlined in steps below. Once the plan is approved by Council, we will post the final process on the County’s website.

• Step 1: Contact staff for a pre application discussion.
• Step 2: Submit an application form and required documents.
• Step 3: Staff review and recommendation.
• Step 4: Council or delegated staff decision.
• Step 5: Sign a financial agreement and complete the work.
• Step 6: Final inspection and grant payment.

If Council approves the RPCIP, staff will confirm launch dates, application windows, and any intake deadlines. The current engagement is to refine the draft before it goes to Council.

The RPCIP only supports projects that align with the Official Plan and Provincial policy for agriculture. Large scale uses that generate high traffic or conflict with agriculture, such as major processors or large event facilities, are not eligible for support through this plan.

No. The RPCIP is planned to be funded using the existing Community Improvement Plan capital budget.

The list of eligible Tourism businesses in the plan is based on the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Gaming’s Directional signage program.