What are the rules on junk, derelict cars, and unsightly property?
In the Regional municipality of Halifax, Nova Scotia, standards: Derelict building = vacant, neglected, poorly maintained, unsuitable for occupancy; ruinous/dilapidated, depreciates value, allurement to children, health/safety/fire hazard, or unsightly exterior; enforcement: Municipality may order owner within 120 days to make habitable or demolish; may secure building and enter to do work, costs collected as first lien; fines: $1,000-$10,000 (each day after 120-day period a fresh offence). Source: By-law D-300 Respecting Derelict Buildings, verified 2026-06-05.
Derelict building = vacant, neglected, poorly maintained, unsuitable for occupancy; ruinous/dilapidated, depreciates value, allurement to children, health/safety/fire hazard, or unsightly exterior
s. 2(d)
enforcement
Municipality may order owner within 120 days to make habitable or demolish; may secure building and enter to do work, costs collected as first lien
s. 3; s. 6; s. 8; s. 9
fine range
$1,000-$10,000 (each day after 120-day period a fresh offence)
s. 13(1)
scout note
Allows HRM to order demolition of vacant, neglected, dilapidated buildings. Complements the Dangerous and Unsightly Premises provisions of the HRM Charter (Part XV). Done and passed in Council June 12, 2007; amended 2012.
Dangerous or Unsightly Properties information page
Explains enforcement of dangerous/unsightly premises rules under HRM Charter Part XV. Information page, not a standalone by-law.