Coastal Protection

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Consultation has concluded

The Municipality of the District of Lunenburg (MODL) is developing new rules that will impact how development occurs along our coast. MODL has a responsibility to its residents and our environment to ensure that new homes, businesses, and other structures are not placed in areas that could be at risk of coastal flooding or erosion, while protecting our natural assets from potential harms caused by development. The new regulations are intended to meet two primary objectives:

  1. Protecting our communities from our coast: Keeping human activity away from the risks posed by coastal erosion and flooding.
  2. Protecting our coastline from

The Municipality of the District of Lunenburg (MODL) is developing new rules that will impact how development occurs along our coast. MODL has a responsibility to its residents and our environment to ensure that new homes, businesses, and other structures are not placed in areas that could be at risk of coastal flooding or erosion, while protecting our natural assets from potential harms caused by development. The new regulations are intended to meet two primary objectives:

  1. Protecting our communities from our coast: Keeping human activity away from the risks posed by coastal erosion and flooding.
  2. Protecting our coastline from us: Protecting our sensitive coastal ecosystems from the impacts of human activity and development.


Why is MODL doing this?

Regulations controlling where and how coastal development can occur in MODL are needed now. We are facing a climate emergency that is causing rising sea levels and an increase in extreme weather events. At the same time, development pressures and land values have resulted in unsustainable forms of development along our coast. In some cases, due to their size and location, substantial levels of rock armouring or other hardened shoreline treatments are required to protect these properties, potentially causing negative impacts on local ecosystems and public spaces.

Much of the unsustainable development currently occurring is being driven by a lack of existing regulations. Most coastal communities in MODL have no regulations on how close structures can be to the coastline or coastal wetlands, or how elevated above sea level new structures must be built. While the Province of Nova Scotia passed the Coastal Protection Act four years ago, regulations to implement this legislation have still not been introduced. In the absence of provincial action, MODL is moving forward to fill this gap.

What regulations are being proposed?

The Municipality is considering regulations to ensure that new development is not placed in areas that are at risk of coastal erosion, coastal flooding, or that would cause harm to sensitive ecosystems such as coastal wetlands or sand dunes. More specifically, regulations could introduce special requirements or limit new building in the following areas:

1. Areas at risk of coastal erosion

Regulations to protect structures such as houses from the risks of coastal erosion are typically in the form of horizontal setbacks from the water or edge of a cliff. The goal of the setback would be to ensure that new structures are located in areas that are safe and where they could remain in place for the lifespan of the structure (typically 70-100 years). There are different methods to establishing these horizontal setbacks that range from one-size-fits-all approaches to site-by-site evaluations. To learn more about coastal erosion click here. To help shape the regulations you would like to see please fill out our survey here.

Example of a horizontal setback related to erosion risk.

2. Areas at risk of coastal flooding 

Regulations to protect structures such as houses from the risks of coastal flooding are typically in two forms:

1. A vertical elevation requirement for new buildings, or

2. Limiting building within areas deemed to be at risk of coastal flooding.

The goal of these regulations would be to ensure that new structures are located in areas that are safe. It would also be intended to ensure those buildings could remain in place for the lifespan of the structure (typically 70-100 years), and to ensure human lives and emergency responders are not put at risk. There are different methods to establishing these regulations, but all of them take into account the impacts of sea level rise and storm surge. To learn more about how vertical elevations deal with coastal flooding click here. To help shape the regulations you would like to see please fill out our survey here.


Example of a vertical setback related to coastal flooding.Example of a vertical elevation or setback related to coastal flooding.


3. Areas within or near sensitive coastal ecosystems 

Regulations to protect sensitive coastal ecosystems such as coastal wetlands and dunes are typically in the form of conservation zones that limit development, and setbacks from the edge of these features to lessen the impact of nearby development. The goal of these regulations would be to help protect the integrity and function of these important natural assets and to preserve them into the future. To learn more about sensitive coastal ecosystems click here. To help shape the regulations you would like to see, please fill out our survey here.

Example of a coastal wetland that is part of a sensitive coastal ecosystem. 


Where will these regulations apply?

All properties directly bordering either the ocean or along the LaHave River (to the border with the Town of Bridgewater) are currently being considered within the project area. In addition, environmental features such as coastal wetlands or sand dunes that have a direct function which relates to the ocean are also being considered as part of the project area. However, the exact geography of where any new rules would apply has not yet been determined, as this partly depends on the type of regulatory approach used.

When will the regulations be approved?

The Municipality is looking to introduce these new regulations as soon as possible, while also ensuring that the process gives ample time and opportunity for public input and education. The current timeline aims to have the regulations approved by the end of 2023.

Consultation has concluded

  • Information Session for Industry Professionals

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    Builders, developers, surveyors, real estate agents, and other industry professionals are invited to join the Planning and Development Services staff of the Municipality of the District of Lunenburg to learn about the new Coastal Protection Regulations over a free breakfast at the Best Western Hotel.

    Wednesday, November 27, 2024

    7:45am Doors open

    8:00am Buffet breakfast and presentation focused on the topics/issues that are most relevant to people in the industry

    8:30am Q&A

    9:00am Event ends

    Please RSVP to Carin.Mahon@modl.ca by Thursday, November 21, 2024.

  • Project is Complete

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    This project is now complete and the coastal protection regulations are in effect.

    For more information, please visit the dedicated Coastal Protection webpage on the MODL website by clicking this link. There you can find the new Municipal Planning Strategy and Land Use By-law, additional information pertaining to the coastal protection regulations, and a link to the updated Zoning Map.

  • Notice of Approval - Coastal Protection Regulations

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    The amended Municipal Planning Strategy and new Municipal-Wide Land use By-Law pertaining to Coastal Protection Regulations were reviewed and approved by the Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing on Friday, August 9, 2024. These regulations came into effect on August 13, 2024, when the official notice was posted on the municipal website.


    To inspect the amended Municipal Planning Strategy and new Municipal-Wide Land Use By-Law, visit the MODL Municipal Services Building at 10 Allée Champlain Drive, Cookville, NS from Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. or access the documents online at www.modl.ca/zoning. If you have any questions, please email planning@modl.ca.


    Tina Robichaud-Bond

    Acting Municipal Clerk



  • Council Passes New Coastal Protection Regulations

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    In April of 2023, the Municipality of the District of Lunenburg (MODL) began developing new land use regulations that would impact how development occurs along our coast.


    Since this time, MODL Council and staff have engaged with the community and experts to shape these regulations. The regulations are intended to protect development on the coast from the effects of climate change and to protect the coast from human development by addressing concerns such as coastal erosion, flooding, and the preservation of sensitive ecosystems.


    At a Special Council meeting on Tuesday, June 18, 2024, Council passed the Second Reading to amend MODL’s Municipal Planning Strategy and introduce a revised Municipal Planning Strategy and a new Municipal-Wide Land Use By-law that includes coastal protection regulations. These regulations are now in effect.


    "Today marks a significant step forward in safeguarding our coastal communities for future generations," said Mayor Carolyn Bolivar-Getson. "These new coastal regulations reflect our commitment to addressing the challenges of climate change and ensuring that our coastlines remain resilient and protected. We have worked closely with our residents and experts to develop these regulations, and their input has been invaluable in shaping a sustainable future for the Municipality of the District of Lunenburg."


    The new Municipal Planning Strategy and Municipal-Wide Land Use Bylaw can be found in the Background Documents section of the project website by clicking this Link.

  • Upcoming Public Hearing Information

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    A Public Hearing on the proposed Coastal Protection regulations will be held on Thursday, June 13, 2024.

    At the Public Hearing, the public can make a formal oral submission to Council. Interested members of the public are highly encouraged to attend the Public Hearing as this is a critical part of the decision-making process. Regardless of any feedback you may have previously given, this is the key and final opportunity to provide input that will formally be considered by Council. Once the Hearing has concluded, Council is not permitted to consider any additional information until they make a final decision on the regulations at Second Reading.

    The Public Hearing will consist of two separate sessions, with a break around 6:00 p.m. Residents do not need to attend both sessions. Those who wish to speak to Council at the Hearing will be allowed five minutes. Additional information will be given at the registration desk in the Municipal Office lobby.


    Registration Begins/Doors Open: Thursday, June 13, 2024, at 3:15 p.m.

    Hearing Starts: Thursday, June 13, 2024, at 4:00 p.m.

    Evening Session Starts: Thursday, June 13, 2024, at 7:00 p.m.

    Hearing Location: Council Chambers, located at 10 Allée Champlain Drive, Cookville, NS


    The Public Hearing will also be streamed live on YouTube. The public can access the stream by clicking on this Link.

    Finally, a Special Council Meeting has been scheduled for Tuesday, June 18, 2024, at 9:00 a.m. at which time Council will consider Second Reading and subsequent approval of the amended Municipal Planning Strategy and the new Municipal-Wide Land Use By-law.

    Copies of the proposed regulations and related reports are available to view at the Municipal Office at 10 Allée Champlain Drive, Cookville, during normal office hours (8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.) or found in the Background Documents section of the project website by clicking this Link.

    For further information, contact the Planning Department office at 902-530-2802.

  • Link to Virtual Information Session

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    Starting at 3:00pm today!

    Staff presentation and Q&A with residents. Presentation will be recorded and posted online.

    Click the Meeting link or email sarah.kucharski@modl.ca to receive a direct email invitation.

  • Public Hearing Notice - Revised

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    A Public Hearing will be held on Thursday, June 13, 2024 at 4:00 p.m. regarding the proposed amended Municipal Planning Strategy and the new Municipal-Wide Land Use By-law. The Public Hearing will break at 6:00 p.m. and resume at 7:00 p.m. This is regarding Coastal Protection regulations.

    The public may make formal written or oral submissions to Council. Written submissions will be received until 5:00 p.m. on Tuesday, June 11, 2024 by email to planning@modl.ca or by mail to April Whynot-Lohnes, Municipal Clerk, 10 Allée Champlain Drive, Cookville, NS B4V 9E4. Oral submissions may be received at the Public Hearing.

    The public is invited to attend the Public Hearing which will be held at the Municipal Services Building, 10 Allée Champlain Drive, Cookville. Learn more about this project at https://engage.modl.ca/coastal-protection

  • Dates and Times of Coastal Protection Regulation Public Information Sessions

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    Dates and times have now been confirmed for the Public Information Sessions regarding Coastal Protection regulations and will be held as follows:

    • Riverport Community Centre on Thursday, May 23rd, 2024 Doors to open at 6:30 p.m. and a staff presentation starting at 7:00 p.m.

    • Lahave and District Fire Hall on Tuesday, May 28th, 2024 Doors to open at 6:30 p.m. and a staff presentation starting at 7:00 p.m.

    • Big Tancook Island ferry wharf (on the island) on Wednesday, May 29th, 2024 starting at 12:00 p.m. An informal opportunity for residents to ask questions to planning staff.

    • Virtual public information session on Tuesday, June 4th, 2024 starting at 3:00 p.m. Staff presentation and Q&A with residents. Presentation will be recorded and posted online. Link and information will be posted at https://engage.modl.ca/coastal-protection

    A Public Hearing will take place following the Public Information Sessions on Thursday, June 13, 2024. More information on the Public Hearing can be found under the Community Events section on the right of this page.

  • PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE

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    On Tuesday, May 14, 2024, Municipal Council gave Notice of its intent to establish Coastal Protection regulations by amending the Municipal Planning Strategy and adopting a new Municipal-Wide Land Use By-law.


    The proposed regulations will guide how development occurs along the coast to ensure that new homes, businesses, and other structures are not placed in areas that could be at risk of coastal flooding or erosion, while protecting natural assets from potential harms caused by development.


    PUBLIC INFORMATION SESSIONS will be held prior to the public hearing to give residents opportunities to learn about the regulations and ask questions. Dates and times for these sessions will be posted at engage.modl.ca/coastal-protection shortly.



    A PUBLIC HEARING on the amended Municipal Planning Strategy and the new Municipal-Wide Land Use By-law will be held as follows:


    Hearing Starts: Thursday, June 13, 2024, at 4:00 p.m.

    Evening Session: Thursday, June 13, 2024, at 7:00 p.m.

    Hearing Location: Council Chambers, located at 10 Allée Champlain Drive, Cookville, NS


    The public can make formal written or oral submissions to Council. Written submissions will be received until 5:00 p.m. on Tuesday June 11, 2024 to April Whynot-Lohnes, Municipal Clerk, 10 Allée Champlain Drive, Cookville, NS B4V 9E4 or by email: planning@modl.ca. Oral submissions will be received at the time and place of the Hearing. Council can make a decision regarding the adoption of the amended Municipal Planning Strategy and the new Municipal-Wide Land Use By-law following the Public Hearing.


    Copies of the proposed regulations and related reports are available to view at the Municipal Office at 10 Allée Champlain Drive, Cookville, during normal office hours (8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.) or found in the Documents section of this page.


    For further information, contact the Planning Department offices at 902-530-2802.


    April Whynot-Lohnes, Municipal Clerk

    Wednesday, May 15, 2024

    Municipal Services Building,

    10 Allée Champlain Drive, Cookville, NS

  • Council First Reading for Coastal Protection Regulations

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    On May 14, 2024, during a regularly scheduled Council meeting, the Coastal Protection regulations will be brought forward to Council in the form of an amended Municipal Planning Strategy and a new Municipal-Wide Land Use By-law. The meeting will begin at 9 a.m. and will be held in Municipal Council Chambers at 10 Allee Champlain Drive, Cookville. Council meetings are open to the public and any interested residents are encouraged to attend. Click the following link to view Council's agenda for May 14, 2024: link

    The Municipality of the District of Lunenburg's (MODL) current Municipal Planning Strategy needs to be repealed and replaced with a new document that includes edits to older sections and the addition of new sections pertaining to the Coastal Protection policies. To view the proposed amended Municipal Planning Strategy, please click here.

    In addition, a new Municipal-Wide Land Use By-law document has also been prepared which contains Coastal Protection regulations. The document contains standard regulatory information such as title and purpose, definitions, administration, and a general provisions section that includes specific Coastal Protection regulations. To view the proposed new Municipal-Wide Land Use By-law, click here.

    An interactive map that residents can use to see where the new Coastal Protection regulations will be applied in their community is also available. To view the map, click here.

    A staff report is available by clicking here. Next steps in this process involve public information meetings and a formal public hearing. This website will be updated as soon as dates and times are confirmed.