Heritage Guelph (formerly known as the Local Architectural Conservation Advisory Committee) exists to advise our city staff and municipal council on matters relating to the conservation of architectural and natural features in our community that are considered to be of historic or cultural value.

In practice, the work of Heritage Guelph involves a wide range of activities. In Guelph, the terms of reference and objectives of Heritage Guelph come under seven general headings which form the basis of the Committee's work.

1. To undertake, with review of existing inventories and resource data, suitable research preparatory to designation and conservation of worthy and significant Guelph properties and districts under the Ontario Heritage Act.

2. To consult with City of Guelph Staff and City Council and to make recommendations to City Council to designate selected properties and districts under the provisions of the Ontario heritage Act and to consult with and make recommendations to City Council and civic departments regarding the adequate maintenance and conservation of designated properties and districts.

3. To consult with and advise property owners relative to designation or conservation projects as well as consulting with property owners regarding projects which may relate to the architectural, landscape, street scape and neighborhood character of the city.

4. To provide public information concerning projects and objectives of the Committee, to support civic interest in heritage conservation, and to encourage community organizations to undertake projects related to the interests and concerns of the Committee.

5. To develop a program for the adequate identification of significant and designated properties and districts, and where possible to co-ordinate similar projects sponsored by community organizations or government agencies.

6. To administer, on behalf of the City of Guelph, provincial and municipal grants to owners of designated properties.

7. To contribute to the City of Guelph planning processes through consultation in all planning matters where issues of heritage conservation may arise.