Victoria County Introduces Separate Fire Protection Rate on Tax Bills 

Posted on:
June 23, 2026

Residents may notice a change to their 2026 property tax bill, with fire protection services now shown as a separate line item. The fire protection rate is the portion of a property tax rate that is used to fund fire services in our municipality.  

Previously included within the general tax rate, the fire protection rate is being displayed separately to provide greater transparency and help residents better understand how property taxes support municipal services and is common practice across the province. 

This is not a new tax or fee. Victoria County’s investment in fire protection services has always been funded through property taxes. The change simply makes that cost more visible on the tax bill. 

There is no change to the level of fire protection service being provided and separating the fire protection rate does not increase taxes. The 2026–27 tax rate remains unchanged from the previous year.  

The fire protection rate funds Victoria County’s investment in fire services and includes: 

• direct grants to 11 volunteer fire departments and 3 substations 
• hydrant and water supply costs 
• shared equipment and infrastructure 
• training support  
• municipal coordination of fire services 
   

The 2026–27 fire protection rate is $0.114 and applies to residential, commercial and resource properties. For more information about the property rates and how to calculate taxes, read the Fire Protection Rate Frequently Asked Questions.  

Residents with questions can contact the Victoria County revenue department during business hours, Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Please note, the payment counter closes daily at 4 p.m. 

Phone: (902) 295-3231 
Email: countytax@VictoriaCounty.ca 

Mailing Address: 495 Chebucto Street, Baddeck, NS B0E 1B0 

Related Links 

• Property and Taxation Services