Do You Need A Permit For Garage Additions In Halifax?

Yes. Most garage additions in Halifax require some form of approval, and the exact requirement depends on whether the garage is attached or detached, as well as its size and height. Halifax regulates garages through zoning bylaws and the building code, and the distinction between attached and detached structures is especially important.

In Halifax Regional Municipality, attached garages are always treated as additions to the main dwelling, while detached garages are considered accessory buildings. Knowing which category your project falls into determines whether you need a full building permit or a more limited development approval.

Detached Garages in Halifax

Detached garages are classified as accessory buildings, and permit requirements are based on size and height.

A building permit is required if the detached garage:

• Is 20 square metres (approximately 215 square feet) or larger
• Is more than one storey high

Once either of these thresholds is met, Halifax requires full review of the foundation, structure, roof design, and overall compliance with the Nova Scotia Building Code. This is why most standard one- or two-car detached garages require a building permit.

If the detached garage is smaller than 20 square metres and one storey, a building permit is typically not required. However, zoning approval still applies, and Halifax will review:

• Setbacks from property lines
• Maximum accessory-building height
• Lot coverage limits
• Placement on the lot

Even small garages must meet these zoning rules before construction can begin.

Attached Garages in Halifax

Attached garages are regulated more strictly because they are considered part of the main house.

A building permit is always required for:

• Any new attached garage
• Any enlargement of an existing attached garage

There is no size exemption. The permit review covers both zoning and building-code compliance, including:

• Setbacks, lot coverage, and overall height
• Foundations and structural framing
• Fire separation between the garage and living space
• Fire-rated doors and self-closing hardware
• Carbon monoxide and smoke-alarm requirements

Because attached garages share walls or roofs with living areas, Halifax treats them as higher-risk structures and applies stricter review standards.

Documents Halifax Typically Requires

Whether your garage is attached or detached, Halifax expects clear documentation before issuing approval.

Most applications require:

• A site plan showing lot dimensions, the existing house, the proposed garage footprint, driveways, and distances to all property lines
• Construction drawings, such as floor plans and elevations showing height, materials, and structural details
• Foundation or slab details, especially for attached garages or larger detached garages

For larger or more complex projects, Halifax may also require engineered drawings to confirm structural adequacy.

Practical Rule of Thumb for Homeowners

If you are planning a garage project in Halifax, the following guidelines cover most situations:

• Any attached garage requires a building permit
• Detached garages 20 m² or larger, or more than one storey, require a building permit
• Small one-storey detached garages under 20 m² still require zoning approval

Confirming the requirements before you start building is far easier than correcting issues later. Proper permitting ensures your garage is safe, code compliant, and fully recognized by Halifax for insurance, resale, and long-term use.

Planning a Garage Addition in Halifax?

Work with Halifax General Contractors to design, permit, and build your garage the right way. From zoning checks and permit applications to construction and inspections, we manage the entire process so your garage is safe, compliant, and built to last.