Building Permits
A building permit is generally required for projects involving construction or structural changes and confirms compliance with the Nova Scotia Building Code. Examples include new construction, demolitions, structural repairs or renovations, and some changes in occupancy or use.
You may need a building permit if you are:
- building a new home, garage, or structure
- constructing an addition
- building or enclosing a deck
- installing a swimming pool deeper than 24 inches
- demolishing a building or part of a building
- making structural repairs or renovations
- relocating a building
- changing how a building is used
Building permits help ensure construction meets Building Code requirements and safety standards.
Some projects also require a development permit.
Type of Development Permit Application
Demolition: Use this application when removing or demolishing an existing building or structure.
Renovation: Use this application when making structural repairs or interior alterations to an existing building.
Addition: Use this application when increasing the size of an existing building.
Accessory Building (Residential): Use this application when constructing accessory buildings such as sheds, garages, or pool houses.
Deck: Use this application when constructing a new deck or replacing an existing one.
Swimming Pool or Hot Tub: Use this application when installing an above-ground or in-ground pool or hot tub.
Place or Locate a Structure: Use this application when placing a manufactured building or relocating an existing structure onto a property.
Conversion or Change of Use: Use this application when changing how a building is used, such as converting a dwelling into a business.
New Construction: Use this application when constructing a new residential, commercial, institutional, or industrial building.
Occupancy Only: Use this application when occupying an existing building or space without making structural changes, typically following a change in tenancy or a change in how the space will be used.
Is your project residential, commercial, or industrial?
Residential
Projects related to homes or living spaces.
Examples include houses, apartments, garages, decks, sheds, fences, and home additions.
Commercial
Projects related to businesses that provide goods or services to the public.
Examples include retail stores, offices, restaurants, salons, and service shops.
Industrial
Projects related to manufacturing, processing, storage, or large-scale operations.
Examples include warehouses, fabrication shops, processing facilities, and distribution centres.
If you are unsure what your project requires, please contact Kaila Reid, P. Eng., Planner/Development Officer, at