Building Permits, Inspections & Property Complaints

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.

Building Permit Fees

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 price2022 Construction Cost = $295.00 Per Square Foot
PermitFee
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 permitDouble 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.