Eco-Roof Incentive Program

Overview of the Eco-Roof Incentive Program program:

The Eco-Roof Incentive Program is an environmental initiative from the City of Toronto aimed at encouraging the voluntary installation of green and cool roofing systems on residential, industrial, commercial, and institutional buildings. These roofing systems help manage stormwater, reduce urban heat, enhance biodiversity, and improve overall energy efficiency. This program supports the City's climate change strategy and urban water management policies, including the Wet Weather Flow Master Plan and TransformTO. Applicants can install either green roofs (vegetated systems that absorb rainfall and provide insulation) or cool roofs (highly reflective surfaces that reduce heat absorption). Incentives are awarded based on the size of the installation and the type of roof. Green roofs receive higher per-square-metre support due to their greater environmental impact. Funding is retroactive, meaning applicants must complete the installation before applying, and roofs must meet all technical standards as outlined by the City, including relevant green roof construction specifications or cool roof material reflectivity standards. This program is distinct from the Green Roof Bylaw in that it targets voluntary installations—those not mandated by the law. It supports both new constructions and retrofit projects. Applicants must submit technical documentation, cost breakdowns, and verification that the installation meets performance standards. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis until annual funding is exhausted. The program is part of Toronto’s broader effort to promote climate resilience, reduce energy consumption, and manage stormwater effectively through on-site infrastructure.

Benefits of the Eco-Roof Incentive Program program:

• Financial assistance to offset the cost of eco-roof installation
• Supports both green roofs and cool roofs
• Improves stormwater retention and urban heat mitigation
• Enhances building energy efficiency and climate resilience
• Increases biodiversity (green roofs) and reflects solar radiation (cool roofs)
• Can contribute to LEED and BOMA BEST certifications
• Available to both new and retrofit construction
• Encourages long-term environmental stewardship and sustainable design
• Adds visual and property value appeal
• Helps reduce GHG emissions and cooling demand citywide

Eligibility criteria of the Eco-Roof Incentive Program program:

• Location: Must be within the City of Toronto
• Eligible Applicants: Owners of residential, commercial, industrial, and institutional properties
• Roof Type: Must install a qualifying green roof or cool roof that meets Torontos Eco-Roof technical standards
• Project Status: Roof must be completed before applying
• Documentation: Must include detailed technical drawings, receipts, installation photos, and performance details
• Performance Requirements:
• Green roofs must meet minimum vegetation and waterproofing criteria
• Cool roofs must meet solar reflectance requirements (e.g., ENERGY STAR or equivalent)
• Expectations: Applicant must contribute to environmental goals like stormwater management, energy reduction, and heat island mitigation
• Additional Conditions: Funding is available only for voluntary installations not required under the Green Roof Bylaw