Planning and Development

In Nova Scotia it is a legal requirement to obtain development and or building permits before construction of the site or buildings begin. The Municipality is a member of the Eastern District Planning Commission (EDPC). Through the Commission there is a team available to support you through the building and development process.

What is Planning?

Planning is used by municipalities to encourage the orderly development of land, in accordance with the Municipal Government Act (MGA).  Planners use two tools to guide development: policy and regulations.

Development policies are outlined in a Municipal Planning Strategy or Secondary Plan

Policies are intended to give broad-scope, big-picture direction for future development – they are the “where we are going” statements.  Policies can include intentions and goals for a community.  Future development layouts are planned using designations; broad categorizations of land uses such as “residential”, “commercial” or “industrial”.

Development regulations are outlined in a Land Use By-law

Regulations provide detailed instructions on permitted types of development, as well as sizes and standards for lots, setbacks, parking, signage, and building heights.  Regulations can be general for an entire Plan Area, or they can apply to only certain types of development using zones; categorizations of land uses that provide detailed rules on what can or cannot be developed where they are applied. A Land Use By-law is a subordinate document to the Municipal Planning Strategy/Secondary Plan.

Planning Services in Antigonish County are through the Eastern District Planning Commission, which is located at:

Eastern District Planning Commission
606 Reeves St., Unit 3
Port Hawkesbury, Nova Scotia
B9A 2R7

Ph: 902-625-5361
Fax: 902-625-1559
Toll Free: 888-625-5361

If you are looking up planning information about a property, you should check with Planning Staff to find out not only the zoning applicable to the property (what can be done now), but also the designation of the land (what is visioned for the future).

Permits & Inspections

For information regarding development and building permits contact Planning Staff at EDPC or visit the EDPC website for details and to view Municipal Planning Strategies and Land Use By-laws for your community.

Once you have an approved building permit and work has begun, inspections are required at various stages. Inspections must be arranged with Building Officials by the owner; the contractor; or the developer.

Introducing Our NEW E-Permitting Portal for Building Permits!

We’re excited to launch our new online e-permitting system, designed to make applying for building permits faster, easier, and more convenient. This modern platform allows you to:

• Submit applications online
• Track your permit status in real time
• Upload required documents securely
• Receive notifications and updates instantly

Our goal is to provide a streamlined experience for residents, contractors, and businesses. As we officially roll it out, we need your help!

We’re inviting community members to test the new system and share feedback to help us improve. Your input will ensure the portal meets your needs and works seamlessly.

How to Participate:

1. Visit the e-permitting portal at: E-Permitting Portal for Building Permits
2. Create an account and explore the features.
3. Submit your feedback through the built-in “Support request” button in the Portal or email us at denise.dunn@antigonishcounty.ca  

Why Your Feedback Matters

Your experience will help us:

• Identify any issues as we launch.
• Make the system more user-friendly.
• Ensure a smooth transition for everyone.