Community Improvement Plan (CIP)

One of the key functions of the Township’s economic development role is to ensure existing businesses are supported and well positioned to maintain and grow their employment opportunities and support a competitive business environment.

The CIP is a planning tool to support strategic community investment priorities. A CIP provides a framework for public investment opportunities in the public realm and the provision of incentive programs to assist the private sector to stimulate redevelopment and to facilitate property improvements.

CIP applications are accepted in two intake windows during the year. The Fall 2025 intake window is now closed, stay tuned for Spring 2026. Keep scrolling to learn more!

Community Improvement Plan

Notice of Amendments to CIP Private Sector Incentive Program

Today, like many communities across Ontario, Muskoka Lakes is experiencing growing pressure on its housing supply, with a particular need for more attainable and workforce housing options to support residents, businesses, and the overall vitality of the community.

Seeking to address critical housing needs, the Township has proposed amendments to the CIP program that introduce new incentive programs focused on housing that would be available for property and business owners across the Township of Muskoka Lakes.

Interested in helping shape the future of this program? Click the button below to learn more.

Planning Committee | Public Meeting Notice (December 11, 2025)

As part of the amendment process, the Council for the Corporation of the Township of Muskoka Lakes will be considering an application for a proposed Amendment to the Official Plan pursuant to Section 17, 22 and 28 of the Planning Act, R.S.O., 1990, Chapter P. 13, as amended. Read the official meeting notice.

CIP Updates | Project Page

Revitalization Projects

Urban Design Guidelines

A street in the Township with people walking along the sidewalks

Streetscape Plans and Designs

Business Incentive Programs

Private Sector Incentive Programs

The Township has officially launched the business incentive programs for the private sector to encourage reinvestment in privately owned properties located in the CIP areas, especially where it will enhance the public realm and make a positive contribution to the overall vitality of the downtown areas.

Applications for the Fall 2025 intake are now closed, stay tuned for Spring 2026.

Incentive Program Streams:

Attainable or Employee Housing

This will help to increase the number and quality of dwelling units available for workers and residents of the Township.

Tools available:

Fee Rebate
Construction Grant
- Grant for up to 25% of eligible costs to a maximum of $40,000 per property. The minimum grant amount to be awarded under this incentive program is $20,000.
Tax Increment Grant
- Tax increment grant valuing between $150,000 and $900,000, payable over a period of 5 years.

Shoreline Structure

This will encourage the development of additional day-use docking and/or boat slips for operators of pleasure craft and boat taxis travelling to the Community Improvement Plan area.

Tools available:

Fee Rebate
Construction Grant
- Grant for up to 50% of eligible costs to a maximum of $10,000 per property. The minimum grant amount to be awarded under this incentive program is $2,000.

Building Structural and Mechanical Upgrades

This will support upgrades and investment in structural and mechanical components of commercial properties to enhance business viability, building integrity, and year-round use.

Tools available:

Fee Rebate
Construction Grant
- Grant for up to 50% of eligible costs to a maximum of $25,000 per property. The minimum grant amount to be awarded under this incentive program is $10,000.

Building Accessibility and Facade Upgrades

This encourages building owners to improve accessibility for persons with disabilities and to enhance the exterior façade of their building.

Tools available:

Fee Rebate
Construction Grant
- Grant for up to 50% of eligible costs to a maximum of $25,000 per property. The minimum grant amount to be awarded under this incentive program is $5,000.

Ecological Space Improvements

This helps to improve the landscape between commercial business properties and public properties, highlighting environmental sustainability, natural beauty, and local culture.

Tools available:

Construction Grant
- Grant for up to 50% of eligible costs to a maximum of $10,000 per property. The minimum grant amount to be awarded under this incentive program is $1,000.