Before beginning most building and/or renovation projects, you need a building permit from the Municipality of Chester.
You should also review the following documentation for a more descriptive account of building by-laws and conditions within the Province and the Municipality.
- Building By-law
- Nova Scotia Building Code Regulations
- Nova Scotia Building Code Act
- Work Within Highway Right-of-Way Permit application (information brochure)
When do you need a building permit?
- New houses, relocations of homes including modular homes, mini homes, and mobile homes
- New additions made to any home or building
- Single storey garages or accessory buildings more than 215 square feet
- Structural repairs or renovations
- Material renovations exceeding $5,000 in value
- Structures requiring power connection
- Changes in the use of an existing building (i.e. single family residence to multi-unit residence or residential use to commercial)
- Structure demolitions
Before construction or renovations, please call Building at (902) 275-3080 to check if you need a building permit. Applications are available at 186 Central Street, Chester.
NOTE: Construction that requires a Building Permit also requires a final inspection. After final inspection of work is approved, an Occupancy Permit is issued to the property owner.
Building and Demolition Permits expire after 18 months. At this time, you will receive a renewal form in the mail. At no charge, sign and return the renewal form to the Office, and the Permit will be renewed for an additional 18 months. For applications and further information, please contact us at (902) 275-3080.
NOTE: If constructing in a zoned area, you also need a Development Permit please call (902) 275-2599 for information. Even if you do not need a Building Permit, you may still need a Development Permit.
