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.
DOWNLOAD BUILDING PERMIT APPLICATION (58 KB)
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.
In areas where there is a Land Use By-law in effect, it is also necessary to obtain a development permit. This permit is required for all new construction and any change in use to an existing structure. It is confirmation the project is in compliance with the regulations of the Land Use By-law with regards to the use, lot requirements and any development requirements. Processing time for the development permit averages a week and it must be issued prior to the issuance of the building permit. Application for both permits may be made at the same time.
Building Permit fees
| Permit | Fee |
| Development Permit (zoned areas only) | $40.00 |
| Residential Construction: Including Modular and Mobile Homes (Part 9 National Building Code) | $40.00 + $0.16 per sq. ft. (Each Floor including basement) |
| Commercial/Institutional/Industrial Construction (Assembly Buildings – Part 3 National Building Code) | $40.00 + $0.20 / sq. ft. |
| Agricultural Buildings | $40.00 + $0.10 per sq. ft. |
| Additions and Alterations | $40.00 + $2.75 per $1000 |
| Accessory Buildings (One storey in height and less than 55 sq. m) | $50.00 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 |
David MacKenzie
Certified Building Official & Municipal Fire Inspector
Phone: 902-295-2900
Secondary: 902-295-8101
Fax: 902-295-3650