2. Residential Conversion Grant
Status: Accepting Applications- 3rd installment
Program Dates: April 20 to June 1, 2026
Supplementary Funding: Up to $4,000 is available for applicants who get their building permit by September 30, 2026
What is the goal of this initiative?
This initiative aims to support the community's goals for housing and beautification, as noted in the 2021 Official Community Plan. It will help convert underutilized properties and buildings into homes by providing funding directly to property owners.
How will we achieve this goal?
The Residential Conversion Grant program is a HAF initiative that will give property owners access to grants to convert their underutilized, vacant, or non-residential properties into dwelling units. This could mean replacing an abandoned single-family home. It could also mean turning upper-story office space into an apartment or creating a caretaker's residence on an industrial lot.
$40,000 is available per new dwelling, up to a maximum of $120,000 per applicant for multi-family housing.
How many homes do you expect this program to create?
We expect this initiative to lead to the construction of 10 new dwellings.
How do I apply? When will this be happening?
Applications for the program are due by 4:30pm on June 1, 2026, by email to housing@watsonlake.ca. Download application forms here.
How do I qualify for the grant?
You are eligible to apply for this program if you meet the following criteria:
1. Your property is located within the municipal boundary of the Town of Watson Lake.
2. Applicants own the property on which the dwelling is to be constructed.
3. The property must have been underutilized or vacant for at least 12 months before this policy came into effect.
4. The property and proposed development(s) follow the Town’s Official Community
Plan, Zoning Bylaw, and the National Building Code.
5. Property taxes for the property are paid, and the property is in good standing.
What are the conditions of funding?
Key conditions:
- Grant funding will be provided at 50% completion of the project and at 100% completion of the project.
- A building permit must be obtained from Yukon Government before December 31, 2026
- Awarded projects must be suitable for year-round habitation as determined by the Town of Watson Lake and applicable building codes.
- Dwellings built using Watson Lake HAF funding may not be used as short term rentals
* Other conditions may apply - see the Residential Conversion Grant Policy for further details
If you are interested in learning more about this initiative, please contact housing@watsonlake.ca