Halifax Water is seeking regulatory approval for a substantial increase in the regional development charges paid by new developments to connect to the municipality’s water and wastewater systems, with fees for a typical single-family home rising by more than 650% for water service and approximately 265% for wastewater service.
The Halifax Regional Water Commission has filed an application with the Nova Scotia Regulatory and Appeals Board requesting approval of revised Regional Development Charges (RDCs) for water and wastewater infrastructure, along with amendments to its Schedule of Rates, Rules and Regulations. A public hearing is scheduled to begin December 7, 2026.
If approved, the water RDC for a new single-unit dwelling, townhouse or row house would increase from $1,921.82 to $14,417 per unit, an increase of roughly 650%. The wastewater charge for the same type of development would rise from $6,126.84 to $22,388 per unit, representing an increase of about 265%.
The utility attributes the proposed development charge increases to growing demand on local infrastructure, noting the RDC hasn’t had a major update since 2019. In addition to a growing population, Halifax Water has also cited the spike in the costs of fuel, materials and labour.
Subscribe to our Newsletter!
The latest environmental engineering news direct to your inbox. You can unsubscribe at any time.
The proposed increases would also affect multi-unit residential developments. Water charges would increase from $1,290.77 to $9,683 per unit, while wastewater charges would rise from $4,115.04 to $15,037 per unit.
For non-residential construction, Halifax Water is proposing to replace the current per-square-metre charges with higher rates expressed on a per-square-foot basis. Proposed water charges would be $4.25 per square foot for industrial developments, $7.58 for commercial buildings and $11.56 for institutional projects. Wastewater charges would be set at $6.61, $11.77 and $17.95 per square foot, respectively.
In addition to the fee increases, the utility is proposing to change when the charges are collected. Rather than requiring payment when a development permit is issued, Halifax Water wants to collect the RDCs at the time of meter connection.
The Nova Scotia Regulatory and Appeals Board noted that, following its review, it may approve the application as submitted, increase the proposed rates, or reduce them. Members of the public may participate by speaking at the hearing, submitting written comments or applying for intervenor status within the deadlines established by the Board.
