Building

Check out the St. Mary's pdf Building Brochure 2020 (261 KB)  and pdf Building Permit 2020 (215 KB)  before you build or renovate.

A building/development permit is required for all types of construction including:

  • New buildings and structures
  • Additions to existing structures
  • Non-structural repairs exceeding $2500
  • Fences more than six feet high
  • Decks and verandas
  • Relocation of existing building
  • Demolition of existing structure

Exemption: New buildings containing less than 200 sq. ft. of floor space do not require a building permit but must conform to the National Building Code and Municipal By-laws. However, a Development Permit will be required to ensure compliance with the Municipal Land Use By-law.

New building lots must be approved by the Nova Scotia Department of Environment for  pdf on-site sewer disposal (332 KB)  and the Nova Scotia Department of Transportation for pdf driveway access permit (103 KB)  unless services are already available on the lot.

You may apply for a variance using the  pdf Application for Variance Form (111 KB) .

All industrial, commercial and public building plans require approval by the Fire Marshall's Office prior to the issuance of a building permit.

Civic Addressing

To request a new civic number contact Building Inspector/Civic Addressing Coordinator Glen Stirling at 902-533-3705 ext 235 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. 

You may verify your civic address by calling the Municipal Office (902) 522-2049.

For information on civic addressing in Nova Scotia visit:

Demolition

Be sure to submit a pdf Demo Permit Application (84 KB)  if you are removing a dwelling from your property. This information is sent to the Assessment office to ensure any required adjustments to your property assessment are made.

Planning & Development

The Planning Department is responsible for all aspects of municipal land use planning and subdivision approvals for the Municipality, including amendments of existing planning documents when required. This Department is also responsible for the issuance of development permits to ensure all new development meets the requirements of the applicable pdf Land Use Bylaw (2.35 MB)  for that particular area.

For further information contact:

Debbie Torrey
Development Officer
(902) 533-3705 ext. 222
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