

Properties deemed or declared vacant will be subject to a tax of 1.25% of the property’s assessed taxable value.
Empty Homes Tax due dates
Previous years' unpaid tax added to property tax bill: December 31, 2020
Declaration for 2020: February 2, 2021
Empty Homes Tax payment for 2020: April 16, 2021
Every owner of residential property is required to make a property status declaration each year to determine if the property is vacant and subject to the Empty Homes Tax.
Homes that are deemed vacant will be charged a tax of 1.25% of the property’s assessed taxable value.
Your property will be deemed vacant and subject to the tax, and you will be issued a $250 by-law ticket, if you fail to make a declaration by the due date.
Note The Empty Homes Tax is also known as the Vacancy Tax and is imposed under the Vacancy Tax By-law No. 11674.
Penalties and fines
Audit process
Note When submitting documentation for audit, all personal information in the City’s custody and control is protected in accordance with the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act (FIPPA).
- The Vacancy Tax Office will review the documents you submit and contact you if further evidence, information, or clarification is required.
- At the end of the audit process, a letter will be provided advising you of the determination.
- If you disagree with the audit determination, you will have an opportunity to dispute this by filing a Notice of Complaint.
Questions about the Empty Homes Tax?