Subdivisions
Download the Subdividing Land Brochure
What is a Subdivision?
A subdivision is the division of any area of land into two or more parcels and can include a re-subdivision and/or a consolidation of two or more parcels. There are three types of subdivision plans: preliminary, tentative, and final. The Subdivision Bylaw (P-600) is in effect for the entire Municipality, and regulates how land may be subdivided. For information on subdivision fees, please visit Planning & Development Fees.
Procedure
- The applicant discusses the requirements for subdivision of land with the Development Officer by calling 902-883-3387. This is necessary because different areas throughout the Municipality require different lot sizes and frontages depending on their location and zone.
- At the Planning and Development Office, a completed subdivision application is made for approval along with one digital copy and 6 hard copies of the surveyed plan of subdivision. This plan is to be prepared by a registered Nova Scotia Land Surveyor. Digital submissions can be made by emailing planning@easthants.ca. At the time of digital submission, please inquire about applicable fees and payment options.
- Contact the Municipal Department of Infrastructure and Operations to determine whether the lot can be serviced by sewer and/or water. If sewer services are not available, the lot must meet Nova Scotia Environment requirements for installation of an on-site sewage disposal system. You will need to hire a qualified person to assess the lot and determine the minimum lot size. That report will need to be submitted to the Provincial Department of Environment for final approval, along with a copy of the proposed plan of subdivision. Review NSE Checklist for Subdivision Application Information Required.
- Contact Nova Scotia Public Works or the Municipality for driveway access approval (depending on whether the road is provincially or municipally-owned).
- The application is sent to other provincial agencies for their approval/comments ( Department of Environment, Department of Transportation, Land Registration Office).
- Two copies of the plan, the Notice of Subdivision Approval, along with registration fees and documents as required, are sent to the Provincial Registry of Deeds for registration, when the plan meets all municipal requirements.
- When the Notice of Approval is returned from the Registry of Deeds, the approved plans are ready to be returned to the applicant.
- The length of time required to grant subdivision approval can vary depending on location and approvals required from other department or agencies. Generally, the process takes about four to six weeks.
Note
Large scale subdivision plans involving new roads or phased development require additional submissions, including a concept plan, engineered street and service designs, storm drainage plans, etc. Please contact the Development Officer at 902-883-3387 or planning@easthants.ca for more information.
Departmental Contacts
Nova Scotia Department of Environment (NSE)
30 Damascus Road, Suite 115
Bedford, N.S.
902-424-7773 (phone)
902-424-0597 (fax)
*Lot requirements, septic tank and disposal field, on-site sewage disposal application.
4 Ivey Lane
West Hants Ind. Park
Windsor, N.S.
902-798-2369 (phone)
902-798-2927 (fax)
*Access to provincial roads
396 Main Street, P.O. Box 39
Lawrencetown, N.S.
902-584-7185 (phone)
902-584-7256 (fax)
*Registration of final subdivision approval
Municipal Department of Infrastructure and Operations (I&O
15 Commerce Court
Elmsdale, N.S.
902-883-2299
*Access to Municipal Roads
*For Municipal water and sewer connection approval