The Town of Whitby has introduced a temporary development charge deferral program aimed at supporting industrial development applicants affected by U.S. tariffs.
Approved by Whitby Council, the program allows eligible applicants to defer the payment of town development charges—typically due at the time of building permit issuance—by paying in six equal installments. The first payment is due at the time of occupancy, followed by five annual payments on each occupancy anniversary date.
In March, council directed town staff to review the development charges policy framework in coordination with other Durham municipalities and propose a temporary installment program to support industrial development starts that may otherwise be delayed by tariffs. The town’s program aligns with the industrial development charges deferral program implemented by the Region of Durham.
A staff report indicates that deferring applicable development charges and allowing payment by installment “may provide necessary financial relief from tariffs,” such as increased cash flow, and encourage the timely development of non-residential projects in Whitby.