Waterfronts & Crown Lands
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Crown land is land owned by the Province and administered by the Department of Natural Resources. Most of the submerged lands (the sea bed) along the Province's coastline are also considered provincial Crown lands.
Certain recreational and economic activities are allowed on Crown Lands. However, permits are required for many types of coastal (marine) waterfront development below the ordinary high water mark.
For waterfront development in fresh bodies of water, see requirement for watercourse approval.
| Requirement | Act / Regulations |
|---|---|
| Avoid offences under the Crown Lands Act | Section 38 to 41 Crown Lands Act |
| Attain a Crown Lands Deed or Grant: Water Lot Grant (excluding areas of fresh water) to obtain ownership of submerged land in coastal waters to permit the construction of large wharves, causeways, infills or breakwaters. More Information |
Section 16(1)(a) Crown Lands Act
Beaches Act Environment Act |
| Attain a Crown Lands: Right-of-Way agreement to have permanent rights of passage across Crown Lands to private land in Nova Scotia. More Information |
Section 16(1) Crown Lands Act
Beaches Act Environment Act |
| Requirement | Act / Regulations |
|---|---|
| Attain a Mooring Permit - Submerged Crown Land to place a permanent or semi-permanent mooring on submerged Crown land (excluding bodies of fresh water) in Nova Scotia (unless owner of the waterfront property). More Information |
Sections 5, 38 and 39 Crown Lands Act |
| Attain a Wharf Repair Permit - Submerged Crown Land to repair an existing wharf on submerged Crown land (excluding bodies of fresh water). More Information |
Section 5, 38 and 39 Crown Lands Act
Beaches Act Environment Act |
| Attain a Wharf, Skidways, Boat Ramp: Permit - Submerged Crown Land to build or extend or enlarge a wharf, skidway or boat ramp on submerged Crown land in Nova Scotia (excluding bodies of fresh water). More Information |
Section 5, 38 and 39 Crown Lands Act
Beaches Act Environment Act |