REGINA — Regina city council has moved forward with discussions around creating a property tax subclass for nuisance and derelict residential properties, a tool that would allow the city to impose higher tax rates on neglected homes that are harming neighbourhoods.
The idea was discussed at council’s March 25 meeting as part of a broader review of how the city handles problem properties. It comes after months of review and debate among city councillors and administration. A report before council outlined that nuisance and derelict properties create unsafe conditions, including structural instability, fire hazards and unwanted activity, all of which negatively impact neighbourhood well-being.
City administration presented two options in its report: continue with its current proactive enforcement approach or create a new tax subclass for qualifying properties that would carry a higher tax rate as an incentive for owners to improve or sell them.
Administration did not recommend implementing the subclass at this time due to the need for additional assessment resources and the fact that proactive enforcement has already yielded results, including increased demolitions and property remediations after the city shifted its approach in 2024.
Still, councillors signalled interest in the concept, with Coun. Victoria Flores indicating plans to bring forward an amendment so the city can move ahead with the option. The issue remains under active consideration, with council planning further analysis before a final decision is made.
This discussion builds on earlier reporting that showed Regina’s executive committee was already looking at the nuisance property issue, including the potential subclass, as demolitions of derelict structures rose and enforcement activity increased.
The proposed tax tool is part of a larger effort to address properties that stand vacant or deteriorate over time, which can drag down property values and strain neighbours. Officials have also noted that similar programs in other cities, such as Edmonton, include tax penalties that encourage cleanup or redevelopment.
No final vote was taken March 25, and council is expected to continue debating the proposal as more consultation and analysis is completed.
