In 1973, the government of Quebec designated part of the territory of the City of Percé as a natural district because of the aesthetic, legendary and picturesque interest of its natural heritage. In October 2012, this statute was modified following the adoption of the law on cultural heritage which replaced the previous law on cultural property.

Today, the protected territory is called the Percé Heritage Site . According to this law, a heritage site is defined as “a place, a group of buildings or, in the case of a declared heritage site, a territory which is of interest for its archaeological, architectural, artistic, emblematic, ethnological value. , historical, identity, landscape, scientific, town planning or technological ” (Article 2).

This designation, in the same way as the status of borough was, constitutes an exceptional measure of legal protection used by the Government of Quebec to protect a unique territory. By virtue of its preservation functions, the status of heritage site benefits citizens who live in an exceptional living environment, a priceless heritage to be passed on to future generations. In addition, the community benefits from the economic dynamism generated by tourism stimulated by heritage, grandiose landscapes and the uniqueness of the place.

The designation of the Percé heritage site is an undeniable privilege. Although this status calls for special requirements, particularly with regard to construction and building renovation work, these should be received as essential elements for the harmonious development of the sector and the long-term preservation of its identity characteristics.

To learn more about the characteristics of the Percé Heritage Site, consult the statement of significance .

To learn more about the different protection statuses that the Cultural Heritage Act allows, consult the document About the Cultural Heritage Act , produced by the MCC.

Finally, to find out about the various properties protected under the CPA in Quebec, consult the Directory of cultural heritage in Quebec .

In 1973, the government of Quebec designated part of the territory of the City of Percé as a natural district because of the aesthetic, legendary and picturesque interest of its natural heritage. In October 2012, this statute was modified following the adoption of the law on cultural heritage which replaced the previous law on cultural property. Today, the protected territory is called the Percé Heritage Site.

Cultural development agreement

To meet the protection objectives related to this status, the Ministry of Culture and Communications (MCC) works jointly with the City of Percé to exercise control over the development of the territory, both in terms of landscape and buildings. . In order to support the City in the day-to-day management of the Heritage Site, in 1991 the MCC signed a first agreement with the City for the management, enhancement and conservation of the exceptional heritage of Percé. Over the years, this agreement has been renewed and it still persists today, although it has been amended several times to meet the realities of both parties.

These agreements significantly increase the responsibilities of the City and require more rigor in the application of the Act. The special status of the heritage site inevitably generates precise procedures for any citizen wishing to carry out work on his property. In this sense, the municipal administration is fully aware of its role as protector of the natural and built heritage of its territory. Also, the City asked the Ministry for additional support which resulted, in 2008, in the hiring of a heritage protection officer dedicated exclusively to the territory of the Percé heritage site. This person, actively involved in the community, makes sure that the characteristics and advantages for the Percé sector of being designated a heritage site are better known and appreciated, supports owners when they request construction or modifications, and disseminates information. with regard to the joint financial support programs of the City and the Ministry and also ensures a quality follow-up with the Ministry.

THE CULTURAL DEVELOPMENT AGREEMENT CURRENTLY UNDERWAY In 2015, for the first time, the cultural development agreement is renewed on an annual basis, rather than over 3 years as before. The partners have agreed on a certain number of objectives and means to be put into action during the year 2015. Among others:

• Ensure the preservation and enhancement of cultural heritage through targeted actions initiated by the City or by citizens.
• Promote the improvement of the living environment in the process of cultural development of the territory.
• Promote the cultural heritage of Percé and make citizens aware of its importance.
• Support projects initiated by artistic and cultural circles.