The City of Saint John has introduced the Large-Scale Development Incentives Program, a new initiative designed to encourage high density residential growth in the uptown and inner harbour areas.

This policy is aimed at supporting major development projects that will help transform and grow our community, while ensuring the process remains open, fair, and accountable. It guarantees that new growth benefits residents directly by balancing community improvements with financial responsibility.

To qualify, projects must meet specific requirements. Developments must have a minimum total building cost of $40 million, include at least 150 residential units, and achieve a density of 400 units per net hectare. Applicants must also demonstrate financial viability and meet construction timelines to receive funding. Grants are contingent on compliance with agreements and ongoing monitoring.

Incentives will be distributed over a ten-year period upon completion of the project. Additional support may be available for projects that incorporate affordable housing, 3-bedroom units, deliver community benefits such as parks or transit infrastructure, or address site accessibility challenges. Applications are reviewed by the Development Incentive Review Committee and forwarded to Common Council for approval. To keep the program competitive and responsive, it will be reviewed every three years to reflect changing market conditions.

For full details, application forms, and program guidelines, visit saintjohn.ca/en/largescalegrant or contact the City of Saint John Customer Service Centre at (506) 658 4455 or service@saintjohn.ca.

Source City of Saint John