Local government parkland acquisition fees

In addition to revenue from other charges and property taxation, local governments can finance parkland acquisition using: development cost charges; contribution, or dedication, of parkland; and cash-in-lieu upon subdivision.

Funds from development cost charges and cash-in-lieu must be deposited to reserve funds for the purpose of acquisition of parkland.

Any local government currently charging parkland development cost charges or using the five percent dedication/cash-in-lieu provsions should consider the following:

• Avoiding double-charging
• Land versus cash-in-lieu
• Basis for the five percent calculation
• Selecting parkland within a subdivision
• Determining the cash-in-lieu value
• Park frontage costs
• Consideration for parkland needs
• Considerations for non-residential parkland requirements

Learn more about parkland acquisition best practices and development finance best practices:

• Parkland Acquisition Best Practices (4.7 MB)
• Development Cost Charges Best Practices Guide (PDF, 4.7 MB)