Development Permits

Development within the Municipality, including construction, renovation, demolition, or change of use, may require one or more permits from the Municipality. The permits you need will depend on the location and scope of the project. Application forms for all permits are available at the Community Development Office, or can be downloaded from this website and dropped off at our office.

When you need a Development Permit:

The zoning of your property determines what types of development are permitted, and whether or not a development permit is required. Generally, more rural areas have less stringent requirements, whereas more built up areas have stronger development controls. For example, most signage or commercial operations in the Village of Chester require a development permit, even if no other construction work is taking place. For some uses in some areas of the Municipality, a development permit will only be issued through a site plan process or development agreement.

The current fees for processing Development Permit applications are:

Free for projects of construction value of $5,000.00 or less

$10.00 for projects of construction value over $5,000.00.

Additional Requirements:

In addition to the permits needed from the Municipality, there are other applications for provincial permits that may be required for your project.

A permit for on-site sewage disposal may be required from Nova Scotia Environment if an on-site septic system is being installed.

If you are in an area of the Municipality with Central Sewer, you may need to apply for a municipal sewer connection.

If constructing driveway access to a public road, a roadside permit may be required from Nova Scotia Transportation and Infrastructure Renewal.