Healthy Lakes and Wetlands For Tomorrow - Species at Risk

APPENDIX D: Permits and Developmental
Restrictions
PERMITS
Listed below are some of the more common permits that may be required around lake shoreline
and wetland habitats. It is always best to call the appropriate departments early in the planning
stage. However, there is much you can do beyond legal requirements to enjoy your land and help
the species at risk that live in your backyard.
J. McKinnon
J. McKinnon
Permits Issued by Nova Scotia Environment
For more information please call 902-742-8985 or visit www.gov.ns.ca/nse/permits. This website lists
all of Nova Scotia Environment’s permit application forms.
Shorelines
The “Water Approval” permit is required prior to undertaking activities that modify the lake shoreline
and is required for all lake shoreline alterations below the ordinary high water mark.
Dock Building
Lake waters, lake bottoms, and the land up to the high water mark is crown land and owned by the
province. Contact your local area inspector at Nova Scotia Environment (Appendix C) to see if you
need to apply for the “Water Approval” permit before you start building your dock (In section 4 of
the permit, dock building falls under “Other Alterations”).
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The federal Fisheries Act protects fish habitat by prohibiting any work that results in the
harmful alteration, disruption or destruction of fish habitat (unless authorized first by
the Minister of Fisheries and Oceans Canada). It also prohibits the deposition of harmful
substances into water bodies containing fish.
Wetlands
The “Wetland Alteration Approval” permit is required to fill, drain, flood, or excavate any wetland
on your property. As wetlands represent sensitive habitats this permit will not be issued if there
are reasonable alternatives or the alteration is for aesthetic purposes only.
On-site Sewage Systems
The provincial Environment Act and the On-site Sewage Disposal Regulations govern all aspects
of installing and maintaining on-site sewage systems. Under these regulations, you must obtain
approval from Nova Scotia Environment before installing a sewage system and hire a qualified
professional. For more information contact your local Environmental Monitoring and Compliance
Division (Appendix C).
Agricultural Stream Crossings
A “Watercourse Alteration Permit” is required before building an agricultural stream crossing.
Permits Issued by Nova Scotia Department of Natural Resources
For more information call 902-424-5935, or visit www.gov.ns.ca/snsmr/paal/ndxdnr.asp. This website
lists information about permits issued by the Nova Scotia Department of Natural Resources.
Coastal Wharves
A permit is required to build a wharf or any other structure below the ordinary high water mark in
costal habitats. For more information visit www.gov.ns.ca/natr/land/policybeforeyoubuild.htm or
call 902-424-2494.
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