How we protect heritage properties

We provide a range of management tools and incentives to support heritage conservation and ongoing care for Vancouver’s heritage.

Vancouver Heritage Register (VHR)

The Vancouver Heritage Register (VHR) is a list of 2,300 buildings and structures that Council has formally recognized for their heritage value.

Protecting a heritage building or landscape from alterations that could lead to a significant loss of character or value.

We've created regulations and companion design guidelines that preserve and protect Chinatown, Gastown, Shaughnessy, and Yaletown.

Properties on the VHR and properties identified as potential additions to it will undergo a heritage review.

This legally binding agreement could restore, preserve, and protect the property in return for development incentives.

We provide transferrable density as a heritage rehabilitation incentive.

Heritage and character buildings are an important component of defining neighbourhood identity and character.

Historic buildings in Vancouver that are protected by heritage designations or other legal agreements are marked by a special plaque or marker.