Council approves Industrial Property Tax Payment Deferral Program

By Staff

May 20th, 2025

BURLINGTON, ON

Council approved a six-month, interest-free property tax deferral program for local industrial properties affected by ongoing U.S. tariffs.

The application-based program allows for qualified industrial property owners to request additional time to pay their property taxes without incurring late payment penalties or interest charges.

Eligible property owners/applicants would have until Nov. 30, 2025 to pay remaining property taxes in full.

During debate on the issue, Councillor Galbraith, who was serving as the Chair of the Council while the Mayor was absent said: “I do support this. I think the Chamber has asked for it, and we definitely heard from several businesses that were struggling in the tariff Task Force. And I think it just sends the right message, whether there’s an uptick or not.  I think the message sent is that we are a business-friendly city.

“We have Economic Development out there trying to sell us as a business city.

Information regarding eligibility criteria and the application process is available on the City’s Rebates and Deferrals web page.

Mayor Marianne Meed Ward said she has “… spoken directly with business owners who are feeling the real strain of U.S. tariffs—many of them are major employers right here in our community. This targeted relief program sends a strong message: we’re standing with our local businesses. It offers them critical breathing room to adapt, stay competitive, and keep jobs and investment here in Burlington.”

Craig Millar, Chief Financial Officer

Craig Millar, Chief Financial Officer explained that: “While broader relief options for commercial and residential property owners were considered, the City is limited in its scope. This targeted program will help support businesses that have been hit hard by the U.S. tariffs and reflects the City’s commitment to supporting our local economy.”

The city issues approximately 70,000 tax bills annually. Industrial properties currently make up around one per cent of properties in Burlington, while four per cent are commercial and 95 per cent are residential.
This application-based program is available to eligible owners of industrial properties classified as I-T and L-T, as outlined on the City of Burlington’s property tax webpage.

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