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Coastal Protection

Coastal protection regulations are now in effect in the Municipality of the District of Lunenburg. On June 18, 2024, Council passed the Second Reading to amend MODL’s Municipal Planning Strategy and introduce a new Municipal-Wide Land Use By-law that includes coastal protection regulations. These changes were approved by the Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing on August 9, 2024. The regulations aim to protect coastal development from the effects of climate change and to protect the coastline from human development by addressing concerns such as coastal erosion, flooding, and the preservation of sensitive ecosystems.   

If a development is proposed within the Designated Coastal Protection Area (see the Coastal Development Permit Area on the Zoning Map), it is subject to the regulations of the Municipal-Wide Land Use By-law.  

pdf Municipal Planning Strategy & Maps (5.29 MB)

pdf Municipal Wide LUB & Maps (2.72 MB)

The Land Use By-law primarily identifies development setbacks that are tied to different areas within the Designated Coastal Protection Area.  

Erosion Risk Area: The Coastal Erosion Risk Area is designed to protect properties from erosion and preserve ecosystems. Development cannot occur within 30 m from the top of the bank or the ordinary high watermark if the bank is indiscernible. No natural vegetation may be removed within 15m from the top of the bank or the ordinary high watermark.  

Flood Risk Area: The Flood Risk Area identifies coastal regions most vulnerable to flooding from tides, sea level rise, and storm surge, projecting total inundation by 2100. No buildings in these areas can have habitable spaces below 3.97m of CGVD 2013. Institutional uses are strictly prohibited within the Coastal Flood Risk Area, regardless of elevation.  

Wetlands: Development within 30 metres of Coastal Wetlands is prohibited.  

Looking to develop or renovate near the Coast? Take a look at the flow chart below to understand potential next steps: 

Flowchart for coastal protection regulations

For more information about how the regulations came to be, please visit Engage MODL.  

What is Planning?

Planning is the act of managing land uses in the present and into the future to help shape sustainable, equitable, and innovative communities. In a municipality, land use is guided by planning strategies and by-laws.   

Municipal Planning Strategy 

A municipal planning strategy guides the development and management of a Municipality. The municipal planning strategy has the long-term vision of community, sets the guiding principles on a variety of sectors, and is written in general terms. To further this purpose, the municipal planning strategy establishes: 

1. policies which address problems and opportunities concerning the land development and the effects of the development; 
2. policies to provide a framework for the environmental, social, and economic development within the Municipality; 
3. policies that are consistent with the provincial interest on drinking water protection, agricultural land conservation, flood risk mitigation, infrastructure management, and housing promotion; and 
4. specify actions necessary for implementing the municipal planning strategy. 

Secondary Planning Strategy 

Secondary planning strategies are supplementary to a municipal planning strategy and pertain to a specific community or topic within a municipality. 

Land Use By-law  

A land use by-law expands on the policy statements in a planning strategy. It is written in more detail and definitive terms so there is a clear understanding of what you can and cannot do with your lands. Land use by-laws typically identify zones that encourage certain land uses (e.g., residential, commercial, etc.). By-laws state one or more of the following for each zone: 

  • Lot area and frontage requirements; 
  • The location, size, and height of structures; 
  • Permitted signage, outdoor storage, parking; 
  • Erosion control standards such as setback from watercourses. 

 

Tax Installment Prepayment Plan Enrollment Form

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* The Tax Installment Prepayment Plan Enrollment Form must be signed indicating the plan/monthly amount to be withdrawn from your account. You will receive your regular bill for your records. By signing this Tax Installment Prepayment Plan Enrollment Application, you have authorized the Municipality of the District of Lunenburg to withdraw funds from your bank account to pay your property tax account. For joint accounts, both signatures are required. Please note that you are responsible for ensuring your taxes are paid in full upon due date. The balance owing (if any) will be subject to interest as per the Municipality of the District of Lunenburg’s late payment policy.

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Important Information Regarding the TIPP

To enroll:

Please complete the application on the attached page and return it (along with a void cheque or automatic payment form from the bank) to the Municipality of the District of Lunenburg (MODL) offices at least fifteen (15) days before the date of the potential first payment.

Terms and Conditions

  1. Within this Application, ‘I’, ‘me’, ‘we’, ‘you’, ‘our’ and ‘my’ refer to ALL property owner(s) who have signed below.
  2. If you choose to change or cancel this Tax Installment Prepayment Plan (TIPP), the Municipality of the District of Lunenburg (MODL) requires the TIPP Change Request Form at least fifteen (15) business days before the next scheduled payment date to change or stop the payment.
  3. To cancel your TIPP agreement when you sell your property, a notice of cancellation (using the TIPP Change Request Form) is required before the date of sale, otherwise, any processed TIPPs may not be returnable.
  4. This application and its related frequent payments will remain in effect and continue until MODL has received written notice (TIPP Change Request Form) from me requesting change or cancellation at least fifteen (15) business days before the next scheduled debit.
  5. Property taxes must be paid in the usual manner until we are notified that our TIPP application is in effect
  6. MODL will mail interim and final tax bills, and any outstanding amount owing will need to be paid over and above the amount previously paid by pre-authorized debiting.
  7. I understand with respect to the pre-defined and equal monthly payment plans, I will receive written notice from MODL of the amount and the date(s) of debiting, both initially and if/when the dates(s) or amount to be debited change. Notice shall be received at least ten days before the date of the first TIPP.
  8. If the total sum of the debiting results in an overpayment of property taxes, MODL will automatically apply the overpayment against next year’s tax amount. Monthly debits are based on an estimate only and are not a warranty or guarantee of the amount of taxes which may be levied.
  9. This application will terminate automatically if two pre-authorized payments fail to be honoured by my financial institution, resulting in NSFs. Each NSF results in $15.00 charge to the property owner(s).
  10. You have certain recourse rights if any debit does not comply with this agreement. For example, you have the right to receive reimbursement for any debit that is not authorized or is not consistent with this TIPP agreement. To obtain more information on your recourse rights, contact your financial institution or visit https://payments.ca.
  11. This agreement is non-transferable, and we must submit a new application for any new property acquired in the MODL.
  12. We acknowledge that all persons whose signatures are required to sign on the account have signed this application below.

I Have Read And Hereby Agree To The Above Terms And Conditions:

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Please contact Annette Nowe This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. with questions or to submit a form. Completed forms can also be dropped off or mailed to the address below.

10 Allée Champlain Drive, Cookville, Nova Scotia B4V 9E4

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Tax Installment Prepayment Plan (TIPP) - Change or Cancel TIPP Request Form

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PRO Fund

PRO Fund

What is PRO Fund?

Positive Recreation Opportunities for Adults! PRO Fund builds on the Municipality of Lunenburg's successful PRO Kids Program, and provides financial assistance to adults from the Municipality of Lunenburg who, due to lack of funds, are not able to participate in sport, recreation and cultural activities. This program strives to remove financial barriers to ensure every adult has an opportunity to participate.

We've made things easier!  You can now apply online. 

Please click here to complete the form.

Alternatively, you can download and complete the application form below:

*This form is a pre-fillable application form:

  • Click to open the form
  • Complete each box 
  • Save the form on your device
  • Then email it to us at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Note: 

  • All applications are handled in the strictest confidence.
  • MODL is working to identify barriers to full economic and social inclusion.  Data gathered from the application forms will be used to analyze the effectiveness of PRO Fund among diverse populations. 

PRO Fund Mission

To provide assistance to as many adults as possible who are unable to participate in sport, recreation and cultural activities due to financial limitations.

To foster partnerships with community organizations, businesses and individuals to provide the necessary support for adults in our communities to always have an opportunity to participate in sport, recreation and cultural activities.

PRO Fund Program Guidelines

Funding Use:

  • To be used for an activity associated with a recreation, sport, or cultural program offered by recognized organizations or an individual.
  • Registration fees will be given priority, equipment, uniform costs, and travel may also be considered.

Eligible Applicants:

Any person may apply on behalf of the individual participant, however the participant:

  • Must be over 19 years old; and
  • Must be a resident of the Municipality of Lunenburg.

Application Deadline:

  • Complete applications will be received throughout the year but should be received at least 3 weeks before the anticipated start date for processing.

Funding Frequency:

  • One application can be submitted on behalf of each participant once per season (Spring, Summer, Fall, Winter) per fiscal year.
  • Participants who have received funding in previous season(s) should not assume funding for each application.
  • Priority will be given to new participants.

Funding Amount Limit:

  • No limit per individual
  • Funds are available on a first come-first served basis, until the account is depleted.

Required Application Documents:

  • Completed and signed application form
  • Financial information
    • Applicants may provide a reference from a recognized agency or professional individual (clergy, teacher, coach, doctor, councilor) who is familiar with their personal and financial situation, who can verify financial assistance is required. This cannot be a relative or a friend. OR
    • Applicants may provide their Notice of Assessment (NOA) from the previous tax year.

Approval Process and Procedures:

  • Applications will be reviewed, and provided references contacted, by the responsible staff person.
  • If approved, the applicant will receive communication confirming the amount approved.
  • The approved amount will be forwarded directly to the program provider.
  • Reimbursement of approved equipment, uniform costs and travel will be made directly to the applicant (when applicable).

Where does the money come from to support our PRO Fund program?

In addition to Municipal funds, PRO Fund relies on the support of groups, organizations, schools, businesses and private individuals for continued support.

The success of PRO Fund is dependent upon fostering partnerships with community organizations and individuals who deliver art, culture, recreation and sport programs in the Municipality of the District of Lunenburg. 

Donations to PRO Fund can be made directly at the Municipal Office and an Income Tax Receipt will be provided for all financial contributions over $10.00

For more information regarding the PRO Fund program please contact:

PRO Fund Administrator

Phone: 902-541-1343
Fax: 902-527-1135
Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

 

MODL Carbon Emissions Calculator

Emission CategoryEnergy TypeUnitsEnergy ConsumptionEmissions (Kg-CO2e)
Home/Workplace Electricity (kWh) (Nova Scotia Power) Kilowatt-hour (kWh)
Electricity (kWh) (Riverport) Kilowatt-hour (kWh)
Electricity (kWh) (Renewable) Kilowatt-hour (kWh)
Fuel Oil Liters (L)
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Wood Kilogram (Kg)
Community Vehicles Gasoline Liters (L)
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Research and Innovation

Community Engagement

Local Food Security

What is Local Food Security?
Local food security means that everyone in the community has enough safe and nutritious food available to them, both physically and economically, to maintain a healthy and active life. This concept has four main aspects, known as pillars:
1. Availability: This refers to having enough nutrient-rich food accessible to all people.
2. Access: This means that everyone should have the physical and economic means to obtain the necessary food.
3. Stability: A resilient food system that can withstand challenges, whether they're economic or environmental.
4. Utilization: The efficient use of food resources without unnecessary waste.

Why is Local Food Important?
Local food offers various benefits for individuals and the environment:
1. Nutrition and Taste: Local produce often tastes better and contains more nutrients since it's allowed to ripen naturally due to shorter travel times.
2. Supporting the Local Economy: Purchasing local products contributes to the local economy and supports farmers and producers.
3. Safety and Environmental Concerns: Buying local ensures adherence to strict regulations on harmful chemicals, pesticides, and additives, promoting food safety. Additionally, it reduces carbon emissions associated with transporting food over long distances.

How is the Municipality Taking Action?
The Municipality of the District of Lunenburg (MODL) is taking steps to enhance local food security:
1. Baseline Assessment and Surveys:  In the summer of 2023, MODL conducted public surveys for both residents and businesses. These surveys will provide insights into local food consumption patterns. The "What We Heard" report, detailing the survey findings, is set to be published in the fall of 2023. 
2. Local Food Security Action Plan: MODL will develop a plan that outlines strategies and programs to address food security. This plan will focus on specific actions to be completed by 2030.
3. Exploring a Food Hub: MODL is considering the creation of a Food Hub to enhance local food options and streamline distribution. The food hub is a central facility that connects local farmers, producers, and consumers. This potential hub would promote collaboration and efficient distribution of local food, and could potentially play a significant role in improving food security.

Through these initiatives, the Municipality aims to enhance food security, support local producers, and promote a healthier, more sustainable community.

For further information and to stay updated on the project, please visit: https://engage.modl.ca/local-food-security

Sustainable Land Use Planning and Development

Natural Environment Protection and Conservation

Annual Tree Planting

This year, the Municipality of the District of Lunenburg is organizing a free tree giveaway event to promote a greener community. The tree giveaway is part of the Local Climate Change Action Plan 2030 (LCCAP 2030) in which the Municipality of the District of Lunenburg has committed to planting 10,000 trees by the end of 2030.

By prioritizing 500 community trees for planting by 2023, the Municipality is taking steps toward achieving its long-term goal. This event will contribute to the municipality's green canopy and empower citizens to actively participate in environmental conservation efforts. Planting trees is a meaningful way to combat climate change and enhance the community's overall well-being. Encouraging residents to plant trees on their properties can have several positive effects on the local environment. These benefits may include improved air quality, increased biodiversity, and enhanced aesthetics.

Here are some key details for the event:

Location: Municipal Activity and Recreation Complex (MARC), 33 Leary Fraser Road, Dayspring.

Date: September 9th, 9:00 am - 2:00 pm

Rain Date: September 10th, 9:00 am - 2:00 pm

The event will last for five hours, giving community members ample time to participate and collect their free trees. The Municipal Activity and Recreation Complex (MARC) is a convenient and accessible location for residents to attend the event.

Note: Each household can get a maximum of two free trees. This is only for residents of MODL.

 For further information and to stay updated on the project, please visit: https://engage.modl.ca/tree-planting

Community Solar Garden

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