Halifax Regional Municipality Charter Amendment Act
Nova Scotia's Halifax Regional Municipality Charter Amendment Act, sponsored by the Houston PC government in 2024, gives the province new direct authority over Halifax Regional Municipality planning and land-use decisions. Allows the provincial Minister of Municipal Affairs to issue Ministerial Zoning Orders overriding HRM zoning bylaws (parallel to Ontario's MZO power), establishes targets for housing starts in HRM, and authorizes provincial oversight of HRM development-charge rates. HRM Council and Mayor Andy Fillmore (who took office November 4, 2024) have raised concerns that the bill removes democratic accountability for land-use decisions in Atlantic Canada's largest city.
Status
Quick learn
Largest amendment to the Halifax Regional Municipality Charter since 1996. Updates HRM's planning powers, transit governance, and revenue tools to reflect the city's growth in population and built-up area.
Issues this bill touches
- Public Transit & Infrastructure
Largest amendment to the Halifax Regional Municipality Charter since 1996. Updates HRM's planning powers and transit governance.
Legislative history
- Introduced
Tabled in the originating chamber by the sponsor.
View source - Second reading
Debated in principle; vote sends the bill to committee.
View source
Official source
Read full text on Parliament of Canada