Coastal Protection Act Country/Territory Canada Territorial subdivision Nova Scotia Document type Legislation Date 2019 Source FAO, FAOLEX Long titleAn Act Respecting Coastal Protection in Nova Scotia. Subject Environment gen., Sea Keyword Coastal zone management Marine area Hazards Risk assessment/management Flood Erosion Geographical area Americas, Arctic, Asia and the Pacific, East Pacific, North America, North Atlantic Entry into force notes This Act comes into force on such day as the Governor in Council orders and declares by proclamation. Abstract The purpose of this Act is to protect the Province’s coast for future generations by preventing development and activity in locations adjacent to the coast that (a) damage the environment by interfering with the natural dynamic and shifting nature of the coast; or (b) put residences and buildings at risk of damage or destruction from sea-level rise, coastal flooding, storm surges and coastal erosion. This Act is based on the following principles: (a) portions of the Province’s coast are dynamic and naturally migrate landward and seaward as a result of the interaction of natural forces such as tides, winds, currents and wave action with varying geological conditions; and (b) the modification of an existing structure that materially extends its footprint or height, in the Coastal Protection Zone unless the application for the permit is accompanied by a recommendation from an independent designated professional certifying that the proposed structure or modification and its location are in compliance with this Act and the regulations. Nothing in this Act prevents commercial fishing, aquaculture, harvesting or processing activity conducted legally under a permit, lease, licence or other approval pursuant to federal or Provincial fisheries legislation. Full text English Website nslegislature.ca