Small Projects & Quick Questions
Planning a deck, shed, or simple renovation? We're here to help you understand what's required and point you in the right direction.
What we help with
These common projects often have straightforward permit requirements. Let us point you in the right direction.
Decks
Attached or detached decks, including sizing and height requirements.
Sheds
Storage sheds, workshops, and outbuildings under typical size limits.
Garages
Detached garages and carports, setback and size considerations.
Simple Renos
Interior updates, bathroom remodels, and non-structural changes.
Fences
Property line fences, privacy screens, and height regulations.
Quick reference guide
Key rules and thresholds for common DIY projects in Nova Scotia. Always confirm with your local municipality.
Decks
Attached decks require footings below frost line. Submit site plan showing distance to property lines.
Sheds & Accessory Buildings
Even permit-exempt sheds must follow zoning bylaws for location and height. Check your zone on ExploreHRM.
Detached Garages
NS Power requires a permit number before connecting power. Location certificate may be required if within 10 ft of property line.
Renovations
Usually NO permit needed:
- Replacing roofing with similar materials
- Replacing siding with similar materials
- Drywall repair (non-fire separation)
- New flooring, paint, trim work
- Replacing fixtures (same location)
- Adding insulation
Permit IS required:
- Structural changes (walls, beams)
- New window/door openings
- Adding or moving plumbing
- Electrical panel upgrades
- Converting garage to living space
- Finishing basement with bedroom
Creating a bedroom requires egress (window min 0.35m² or sprinklers). Fire separations require permits.
Fences
Fence must be on your property. Shared fences should be discussed with neighbours. Some heritage areas have restrictions.
Before you start any project
Step 1: Know your property
- Find your PID — Use ViewPoint.ca (free) to look up your property's Parcel ID number
- Check your zone — Use ExploreHRM to see what's allowed on your property
- Measure setbacks — Know distances from property lines to existing structures
Step 2: Check requirements
- Call 311 — Halifax's service line can answer permit questions
- Check heritage status — Heritage districts have extra rules
- Review your land use bylaw — Each plan area has specific rules
Step 3: Prepare your application
- Draw a site plan — Show property lines, existing buildings, and proposed work
- Get construction plans — Floor plans, elevations, sections as needed
- Calculate fees — Based on project value ($5.50 per $1,000 in HRM)
Why we offer free guidance
Not every project needs professional permit services. We believe in helping our community navigate the basics.
Building community trust
When you need help with a larger project down the road, you'll know who to call. Good relationships start with generosity.
Respecting your time and money
Small projects often don't justify professional fees. We'd rather help you succeed on your own than sell you something you don't need.
Setting you up for success
Understanding the basics helps you avoid common mistakes. Even simple projects benefit from knowing the rules upfront.
When you might need professional help
Some projects that seem simple actually require engineering or design expertise. Watch for these signs.
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Structural changes: Removing or modifying load-bearing walls, changing roof lines, or adding openings in exterior walls.
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Adding living space: Converting a garage, finishing a basement, or building an addition that adds square footage.
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Separate dwelling units: Creating a basement suite, garden suite, or any space with its own kitchen and entrance.
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Electrical panel upgrades: Service changes, new panels, or significant electrical additions require licensed professionals.
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Height or setback issues: Projects close to property lines or exceeding typical height limits often need variance applications.
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Heritage or special zones: Properties in heritage districts or near watercourses have additional requirements.
Helpful resources
Official permit portals and tools for Nova Scotia municipalities.
Halifax Permits
Building permit applications and requirements for HRM.
ExploreHRM Zoning Map
Interactive map to check your property's zoning and what's allowed.
NS Building Code
Official provincial building code regulations and requirements.
ViewPoint (Free)
Look up your PID, property boundaries, and lot dimensions for free.
Other Nova Scotia Municipalities
Have a bigger project in mind?
If your project involves structural changes, adding living space, or multiple units, we can help with the full permit process.