ActivitiesDevelopment within the Municipality, including construction, renovation, demolition, or change of use, may require one or more permits from the Municipality. The permits you need will depend on the location and scope of the project. Application forms for all permits are available at the Community Development Office, or can be downloaded from this website and dropped off at our office.
When you need a Building Permit:
A building permit ensures buildings are constructed using the proven safety standards and materials of the National Building Code. A building permit addresses how a structure is built and is required in all zones, regardless of whether a development permit is needed. A building permit may be required for any construction projects in the Municipality, including:
- 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
Once a building permit is issued, building inspections will be required at various stages of construction. Once the final inspection is completed, an occupancy permit is issued to the property owner.
Building and Demolition Permits expire after 18 months. Close to that time, you will receive a renewal form in the mail. Sign and return the renewal form to the Office, and the Permit will be renewed for an additional 18 months at no charge.
The current fees for processing building permit applications are based on the value of construction.
Additional Information on building regulations:
- Building By-law #81 (municipal)
- Nova Scotia Building Code Regulations (provincial)
- Nova Scotia Building Code Act (provincial)
Additional Requirements:
In addition to the permits needed from the Municipality, there are other applications for provincial permits that may be required for your project.
- A permit for on-site sewage disposal may be required from Nova Scotia Environment if an on-site septic system is being installed.
- If you are in an area of the Municipality with Central Sewer, you may need to apply for a municipal sewer connection.
If constructing driveway access to a public road, a roadside permit may be required from Nova Scotia Transportation and Infrastructure Renewal.
