What is a Heritage Inventory? A Heritage Inventory is a list of properties and sites that potentially have heritage significance. However, further evaluation is necessary before being considered by Council for addition to the Surrey Heritage Register. Sites are identified and added to this list by: Council or the Heritage Advisory Commission; The public through the development process or the "Hunt for Heritage Places"; As identified through the Neighbourhood Concept Plan process; and Site inspection.
What is a Heritage Register? A Heritage Register is a list of properties and sites with qualities or characteristics that are recognized as significant and contribute to the City's heritage. Placement on the Heritage Register requires a thorough evaluation of the building, feature and/or site along with photographs and documentation and archival research. Adding any building, structure or feature to the Heritage Register, as well as its removal, requires Council approval. Site evaluation may take into consideration factors such as architectural details, historical connotation, association with persons or events, cultural significance, architectural integrity, overall context, landmark value, structural condition and potential for continued use or adaptive re-use. Each of these contributes to the overall heritage value or heritage character.
How was the Surrey Heritage Register established?
The Surrey Heritage Register has evolved over time. It was initially established by a resolution of Council in May 1997. At that time, it consisted of 26 buildings, structures and features, which were already protected by a heritage designation by-law. Since then it has grown to include a total of 226 sites. Most of these sites date back to the early 20th century. The oldest building on the Heritage Register is from around 1875, while the most modern is from 1959. (It is generally recognized in heritage circles that 20 to 30 years is a minimum age to be considered "heritage".) Each building, structure or feature was carefully evaluated to determine its architectural, historical, cultural or natural significance. A Heritage Evaluation Worksheet was prepared which summarized the various components that contributed to the heritage value or heritage significance of the site. In addition, City staff and the Heritage Advisory Commission consulted with owners. This included public Open Houses and one-on-one meetings with owners. What are the implications of owning a building that is on the Heritage Register? The Heritage Register is not the same as heritage protection or "designation". A building or structure that is on the Heritage Register can only be protected by some other means, such as a designation by-law, heritage revitalization agreement or heritage covenant. If a building or structure is on the Heritage Register, the owner may redevelop the site or make alterations to the building, provided that these changes are within the limitations of other by-laws and regulations. If a demolition or alteration is proposed for a building or structure on the Heritage Register, the City can place an order for temporary protection for up to 60 days. During this time, the site can be evaluated in more detail, and discussions can take place with the owner. A report would be required for Council to consider before the temporary protection expires. How does the Heritage Register help to plan communities? It encourages an organized approach to planning, which takes into account a community's heritage resources. This can be as part of the preparation of Neighbourhood Concept Plan, the creation of a Heritage Conservation Area, or as individual sites.
What is a Protected Heritage Site? Properties listed on the Surrey Heritage Register may also become protected heritage properties. Properties may become protected on a voluntary basis through an agreement between an owner and the City or on an initiative of Council. Council initiated by-laws are mainly directed toward public lands or buildings, City roads and institutional buildings such as churches, schools and community halls. Guidelines apply for the maintenance and alteration of protected heritage buildings or heritage features. Not all properties or buildings would necessarily have the same guidelines or requirements. A notice goes on title for protected properties and owners of protected heritage sites are eligible to apply for financial incentives available from the City.
Where are Surrey's Heritage Sites? Surrey's heritage sites are located throughout the City. View a map showing Surrey's Heritage Inventory, Register, and Protected Sites here. | | 
Newcombe Barn
Listed on Surrey's Heritage Inventory
Ocean Park Community Hall
Listed on Surrey's Heritage Register
Crescent Park Annex
Listed on Surrey's Heritage Register
Listed on the Canadian Register of Historic Places
Clova Theatre
Listed on Surrey's Heritage Register
Listed on the Canadian Register of Historic Places
Colebrook United Church
Protected by Heritage Revitalization Agreement
By-law, 2000, No. 14014
Listed on the Canadian Register of Historic Places
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