All homes need to be built to meet minimum public health, fire and structural safety and property protection standards. Permits and inspections help to ensure that these standards are met so that your home will provide a safe and healthy environment.

Application Requirements
All applications for permits shall be submitted with:
• A full set of “construction drawings” to scale. The drawings shall include:
  - Foundation plan complete with columns, beams and floor joists.
  - Floor plan showing a layout of rooms and fixtures.
  - Cross section showing footing through to trusses.
• Informal site plan indicating proposed location on the property (setbacks to conform to the requirements of the Land Use Bylaw)
• Nova Scotia Environment Approval for an on-site septic system or Environmental Services/Village Sewer for connection permission
• Department of Transportation/Municipal Approval to erect a structure and install a culvert (requires a deposit to those departments of $300.00)
• Deed/ Land Registry Printout or Survey of Parcel

As of January 1, 2010 there are now energy and water conservation measures in the Nova Scotia Building Code Regulations. Please ensure you pick up or download our pamphlet or a copy of the changes at www.county.kings.ns.ca.

All applicable fees and deposits are required at time of application.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long will it take to get a permit?
With a complete application, every effort is made to issue a building permit within 5 business days.

How much will my permit cost?
The permit fee is based on the floor area for new residential construction. All livable floor space is 11 cents per square foot. All unfinished space such as an attached garage is 4.4 cents per square foot. All applications will have a base fee of $20.00.

Additional deposits and charges may apply if your residence will be serviced by municipal sewer and/or water systems or a new driveway is to be installed.

Does my permit expire?
Yes, a building permit is valid for one (1) year from the date it is issued and is renewable, provided the permit meets all the requirements of the Land Use By-Law and the Building Code requirements. The fee to renew a permit is $15.00 and can not be renewed more than 3 times.

How do I request an inspection?
An inspection can be requested by calling the inspector assigned to your project. Their contact information can be found on the issued permit you receive in the mail.

Where do I go to make an application?
Applications can be made at the Municipal office located at: 87 Cornwallis St. Kentville, NS (902) 690-6152