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RFP-26-08 Supply & Installation of an Automatic Emergency Generator(527 KB)
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RFP-26-08 Supply & Installation of an Automatic Emergency Generator - Addendum #1(527 KB)
Closing Date: September 16, 2026 - 2 P.M. local time
It is the vendor's responsibility to check for any changes or addendums prior to the closing date.
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RFP-26-09 Water Metering Upgrades(597 KB)
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RFP-26-09 Water Metering Upgrades - Addendum #1(299 KB)
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RFP-26-09 Water Metering Upgrades - Addendum #2 (340 KB)
Closing Date: September 22, 2026 - 2 P.M. local time
It is the vendor's responsibility to check for any changes or addendums prior to the closing date.
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RFP-26-07 Supply of Structural Firefighting Bunker Gear(506 KB)
Closing Date: July 23, 2026 - 2 P.M. local time
It is the vendor's responsibility to check for any changes or addendums prior to the closing date.
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RFP-26-06 Design-Build Amherst Stadium Refrigeration Plant(595 KB)
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RFP-26-06 Stadium Refrigeration Plant Replacement - Addendum #1(596 KB)
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RFP-26-06 - Design-Build Amherst Stadium Refrigeration Plant - Addendum #1 Q & As(306 KB)
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RFP-26-06 - Stadium Refrigeration Plant - Addendum #2 Q & As(295 KB)
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Operating Manual PV System(105 KB)
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Underground Infrastructure(536 KB)
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Mechanical-1(423 KB)
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Mechanical-2(431 KB)
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Mechanical-3(772 KB)
Closing Date: Extended to August 24, 2026 - 2 P.M. local time
It is the vendor's responsibility to check for any changes or addendums prior to the closing date.
Government of Nova Scotia - Procurement Opportunities and Public Notices
Access the Nova Scotia Procurement Opportunities and Public Notices page to see competitions for the entire province, including Amherst.
Complaints shall be received in written format by email or letter, or by using the online portal. Each complaint must include:
- The complainant's name
- Contact information
The complaint must be signed by the complainant. Anonymous complaints will not be investigated.
Complaints shall be considered confidential but are subject to Part XX of the Municipal Government Act, Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy.
Submit a Complaint or Concern
Complaints can be submitted online using the Town of Amherst Complaints and Concerns portal.
Minimum Standards for Residential Occupancies
Complaints pursuant to this bylaw must be submitted by the tenant in written format by email or letter, or by using the online Complaints and Concerns portal.
Any tenant who wishes to register a complaint with the Town regarding a lack of maintenance of their dwelling unit or apartment building must first advise the landlord in writing of their concerns. This allows the landlord an opportunity to address the maintenance issue.
If the concerns are not adequately addressed, a complaint can then be registered with the Town. The complaint must be accompanied by a copy of the written notice provided to the landlord, including the method and date it was provided.
Please ensure all required documents are provided when submitting your complaint.
Contact
Dangerous & Unsightly Premises Administrator: Emily Wainwright
Phone: 902-667-3352
Email:
Planning a construction, renovation or development project in Amherst? Depending on the type of work, you may need a building or development permit before getting started.
Use the information below to learn about permit requirements, fees and the application process, or apply online through the Town’s permitting portal.
Apply for a Permit
Building and development permit applications can now be submitted online through the Town of Amherst’s permitting portal.
The online portal allows you to complete your application, upload plans and supporting documents, receive updates and track the status of your application.
Do I Need a Permit?
A permit is required for many construction and development projects in Amherst, including:
- new construction;
- demolition;
- renovations;
- decks;
- signs;
- sheds; and,
- garages.
If you are unsure whether your project requires a permit, contact the Town before beginning work.
What Type of Permit Do I Need?
Depending on your project, you may require a Development Permit, a Building Permit, or both.
- A Development Permit confirms that the proposed development meets requirements such as permitted land use, setbacks and other requirements of the Town’s Land Use Bylaw.
- A Building Permit is required for applicable construction work and helps ensure construction meets applicable building standards and regulations.
The online permitting portal will guide you through the application process and identify the permits and information required for your project.
How the Online Process Works
1. Apply Online
Complete and submit your application through the Town’s online permitting portal.
2. Upload Documents
Provide the plans, drawings and other supporting information required for your project.
3. Town Review
Town staff will review your application and contact you if additional information or documentation is required.
4. Decision
You will be notified when your application has been approved, refused or otherwise processed.
5. Track Your Application
Log into your online account at any time to check the status of your application and receive updates.
Permit Fees
Current permit and application fees include:
- New Construction/Building Permit – Residential: $50 + $0.12 per sq. ft.
- New Construction/Building Permit – Industrial: $50 + $0.17 per sq. ft.
- Existing Construction/Renovation Permit: $50 + 0.25% of value
- Residential Decks, Sheds and Garages: $50 + $0.04 per sq. ft.
- Development Permit: $50
- Demolition Permit: $20
- Renewal: $50
- Amendments and Development Agreement Application: $200
- Site Plan Approval Application: $200
What You'll Need
The documents and information required will depend on the type and scope of your project.
As you complete your online application, the permitting portal will identify the documents you need to provide. These may include plans, drawings and other supporting information.
A site plan is required for new construction.
Providing all required information when you apply will help Town staff review your application as efficiently as possible. If information is missing, you will be contacted and asked to provide the additional information through the online portal.
Printable Applications
While online applications are encouraged, paper applications are also available during the transition to the new online permitting system.
Download and complete the appropriate application form and submit it by email to
Guides & Resources
The following resources can help you plan your project and understand development and building requirements in Amherst.
Development Guides
- pdf Get Started – What to Know About Developing in Amherst(2.10 MB)
- pdf Decks – Above Grade Wood Decks & Railings(5.05 MB)
Planning Documents
Frequently Asked Questions
How long will my application take?
Once a complete application has been received, the Town aims to process applications within two weeks.
Applications using a pre-approved design from the CMHC Housing Design Catalogue receive priority processing.
How do I check my application status?
Log into your online permitting portal account to view the status of your application.
Town staff can also communicate with you through the portal and by email if additional information is required or there is an update to your application.
What is my Submission Number?
Your Submission Number identifies your application within the online permitting portal.
Your Submission Number is not your permit number and should not be used as a permit number on official documents.
What happens if information is missing from my application?
Town staff will contact you through the online portal and by email if additional information is required.
You will be directed to the appropriate section of your application where you can provide or upload the missing information.
Can I still apply on paper?
Yes. Paper applications continue to be accepted during the transition to online permitting.
The Town intends to gradually move toward online applications. Residents will be provided with notice before any changes are made to the availability of paper applications.
Ready to Apply for a Permit?
Submit your application online through the Town of Amherst’s permitting portal.
Building Inspections & Permit Assistance
If you need help determining whether you require a permit, have questions about your application or need to arrange a building inspection, please contact:
Marc Buske
Building Official 2, Development Officer
Phone: 902-694-2318
Fax: 902-667-5409
Email:
For assistance with the online permitting portal, email
The public expects the highest standards of professional conduct from Members elected to local government. The purpose of the new Code of Conduct for Elected Municipal Officials Policy is to establish guidelines for the ethical and interpersonal conduct of Members of Council (“Members”). The Council is answerable to the community through democratic processes and this Code will assist in providing for the good government of the Town of Amherst.
The new Code of Conduct came into effect by the Province of Nova Scotia following the October 2024 municipal elections and was formally adopted by Council at the November 25, 2024 regular meeting of Amherst Town Council.
