City opens property tax relief for July 1 storm-damaged properties

The City of Ottawa says property owners whose properties were significantly affected by the July 1, 2026 extreme weather event may be eligible for relief on part of their 2026 property taxes. The City says that if the event made a property substantially unusable, or if repairs prevented normal use of the property for at least three months, the owner may be eligible for a cancellation, reduction or refund of a portion of their 2026 property taxes. This is only a possible prorated adjustment, not automatic eligibility, automatic approval, or a full refund. Owners must submit an application by February 28, 2027, and the City says applications should be accompanied by pictures of the damaged areas and any other supporting documentation that is available. Applications can be made online through the City's Property taxes cancellation, reduction or refund page, by email to [email protected], by mail to City of Ottawa Revenue Services c/o Tax Adjustments Section, 100 Constellation Drive, 4th Floor East, Ottawa, ON K2G 6J8, or by fax to 613-580-2457. The City says an acknowledgment letter is sent once an application is received. Questions go to Revenue Services at 613-580-2444 (TTY 613-580-2401) or [email protected]. The program is citywide, so eligible Barrhaven and South Nepean owners affected by the July 1 event can apply.