Planning
Planning Department
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The Planning Department is responsible for the planning and general design of the Town of Bridgewater. Land use planning enables the Town to establish both long and short term goals and objectives for growth and development, while considering social, economic and environmental implications. Through certain planning processes, interests and objectives of individual property owners are balanced with the greater interests and objectives of the Town.
The Planning Department must be contacted prior to the commencement of any development in Bridgewater, be it a residential deck addition or a large development. The Department is located on the first floor of the Town Hall and is operated by three personnel.
Planning Documents & Applications
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The following planning documents and applications are provided for your convenience. Hard copies of the applications are also available at the Planning Department (60 Pleasant St., 1st Floor).
Common Planning Questions
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What do I need before I build in the Town of Bridgewater?
Any person or party intending to erect, construct, add to, alter, replace or relocate any building or part of a building or structure; change or alter the use made of land, buildings or structures within the Town of Bridgewater should contact the Engineering & Planning Department at the Town of Bridgewater for information and further guidelines.
Do I need permits to build or install a deck, shed, pool or fence?
Yes - A Development Permit is required. It is the use of new structures and concerned with where they are placed on a lot in relation to property boundaries. As well, a Building Permit is needed for accessory buildings over 215 sq. ft., canopies, decks, pools and pool enclosures to ensure they are built to code.
Does an above-ground or inflatable pool need a permit?
Permits are required for all types of swimming pools. A swimming pool is defined as a water-filled enclosure, permanent or portable, capable of holding water to a depth of more than 24-inches. A copy of the Town of Bridgewater’s Swimming Pool By-Law and suggestions for filling can be obtained from the Engineering Department or viewed on the Pool and Deck Regulations page of our website.
How do I get a permit?
There is one Permit Application form that must be completed to apply for the necessary permit(s). The application form must be signed by the owner of the lot, (or have written authorization from the owner) and be accompanied by a plot plan showing where the structure(s) will be located. The application must also include details about how the structure will be constructed and payment (if required). This form can be mailed, faxed, picked up from the Engineering/Planning Department, or downloaded here in PDF format .
What additional details may be required?
Any additional details that may be required in part depend on the type of project and location. For smaller projects, a drawing of how the project will be constructed along with a list of materials may be sufficient. For larger projects, a complete set of blueprints or plans may be required. It is very important to provide as much detail as possible.
How much does a permit cost?
There is no charge for a Development Permit. Fees for a Footing / Building or Demolition Permit are calculated at $2.10 per $1,000 of construction costs (Min. $10 for projects valued at $5,000 and under). If you are building it yourself, labour must be calculated in the total cost.
Do I need a permit to remove a structure?
Yes - A Demolition Permit is required for the removal of any building or major part thereof. Contact the Engineering Department to apply. For details concerning demolition waste management, contact the Lunenburg Regional Recycling and Composting Facility at Tel: (902) 543-2991.
When can I start the project?
The project may begin after your permit is issued and you have been advised that the permit is ready. Especially during the construction season, it may take time for an application to be processed. Remember to apply early to avoid delays.
The project is complete - What now?
Your permit will detail what inspections are required at various stages according to the project. Please contact the Building Inspector for inspections so an Occupancy Permit can be issued.
We are happy to assist you with your building project. Please feel free to contact us with any questions:
ENGINEERING DEPARTMENT - Main Tel: 541-4370
Building Inspector - Tel: (902) 541-4371
Development Officer - Tel: (902) 541-4369
Active Transportation
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The Town of Bridgewater has recently made a commitment to promoting "active transportation" by completing its Active Transportation and Connectivity Plan.
Click here to see the new interactive "Active Transportation" map which explains the Plan in a visual way.
Downtown Plan
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The Town of Bridgewater has recently launched the Comprehensive Downtown & Waterfront Master Plan process.
Click here to see the part of the website dedicated to this planning process
Planning Review
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The Town of Bridgewater in in the process of a Comprehensive Planning Review. Click here to see the part of our website dedicated to providing updates and information on the planning review process.
Sustainable Bridgewater
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The Town of Bridgewater completed the Integrated Community Sustainability Plan in 2010. Click here to see the part of our website dedicated to providing updates on our ongoing sustainability work.
