Building Permits
It is a legal requirement in Nova Scotia to obtain a building permit for any construction project. This applies to all construction projects; from a new home to shopping mall renovations.
The building inspector will review the plans to ensure they meet all applicable National Building Code requirements, obtain approval from the municipal engineer, and where necessary, the Departments of Transportation and Environment and the Fire Marshall. The inspector will conduct on-site inspections at various stages of the construction project to ensure the building standards are met. The processing of an application takes an average of three weeks.
| Residential construction value is determined using the annual Altus Group Canadian Cost Guide or the contracted price of construction. All other construction prices will be based on the contracted price | 2022 Construction Cost = $260.00 Per Square Foot |
| Permit | Fee |
| Development Permit (zoned areas only) | $40.00 |
| Residential Construction: Including Modular and Mobile Homes (Part 9 National Building Code) | $40.00 + $2.00 per one thousand dollars ($1,000) of construction value |
| Commercial/Institutional/Industrial Construction (Assembly Buildings – Part 3 National Building Code) | $40.00 + $3.00 per one thousand dollars ($1,000) of construction value |
| Agricultural Buildings | $40.00 + $1.50 per one thousand dollars ($1,000) of construction value |
| Additions and Alterations | $40.00 + $2.75 per $1000 |
| Accessory Buildings (One storey in height and less than 55 sq. m) | $100.00 flat fee |
| Demolition Permit | $40.00 |
| Occupancy Permit | $0 |
| Refund for Unused Permit (within 30 days of issuance only) | 50% of permit fee |
| Permit Renewal Fee | $40.00 |
| All Construction/Repairs/Alterations commenced without benefit of permit | Double the standard fee |
Property Complaints
Section 344 of the Municipal Government Act, SNS. 1998, c18 states that every property in the municipality shall be maintained so as not to be dangerous or unsightly.
To lodge a complaint regarding a property which is dangerous or unsightly as described in the Municipal Government Act, or in violation of the requirements of the Municipality Land Use (Zoning) By-law, or in violation of the Nova Scotia Building Code Regulation, or in violation of the Nova Scotia Fire Safety Act, please complete the Property Complaint Form.