Residents of Amherst, Nova Scotia, can now apply for building and development permits from their computers or phones. The Town of Amherst launched a new online permitting platform on September 8, 2026, letting people skip a trip to town hall for many common applications.
The new system covers building permits, development permits, home occupation permits, renewable energy permits, and demolition permits. Users create a free account, upload plans and supporting documents, and track their application status in real time. The platform also handles complaints about dangerous or unsightly premises, which are managed by Dangerous and Unsightly Premises Administrator Emily Wainwright.
Paper applications will still be accepted during the transition. The town says it will give notice before any changes to paper application availability. Building Official Marc Buske remains the contact for permit questions, and complete applications are targeted to be processed within two weeks.
The new online portal joins a broader move toward digital permitting in Nova Scotia. Four South Shore municipalities launched a shared online building permit portal in July 2026, using the same OnCamino software that Amherst has adopted.
Amherst is the largest town in Cumberland County, with a population of 9,800. Mayor Rob Small is in his third four-year term.
