Nova Scotia Public Housing Program
Building Homes. Strengthening Communities.
Program Overview
The Government of Nova Scotia, with support from the Government of Canada, municipalities, and community partners, is making its largest investment in rent-geared-to-income housing in 30 years. More than $250 million will go toward addressing housing needs, tackling challenges, and building stronger communities. This initiative is part of the More Housing, Faster strategy.
Since 2023, the Province has announced 222 new units, invested in 51 modular homes for rapid deployment, and in February 2025 committed to another 242 homes. These homes will feature energy-efficient designs and a mix of traditional and modular construction, placed on provincially owned land and in mixed-income communities across the province.
The Government of Nova Scotia continues to work with community agencies to develop housing in communities.
Roles and Responsibilities
The Public Housing Program is a partnership between provincial departments, agencies, municipalities, and community groups. Each has a defined role to ensure the program is effective, transparent, and accountable to Nova Scotians.
The Department of Growth and Development
Provides oversight, funding, and policy direction to align the program with provincial priorities and federal agreements.
Build Nova Scotia
Leads planning and construction, manages procurement, and ensures projects stay on time and on budget.
Municipalities
Support delivery through funding, zoning, permits, infrastructure, and local engagement.
The Nova Scotia Provincial Housing Agency
Manages existing and new public housing and provides tenant services to integrate units into the housing system.
Community Partners and Advocates
Share local insights and elevate resident voices to help meet community needs.
Together, these roles create the foundation for collaboration and housing stability across the province.
Staged Approach
A staged approach is a way to manage projects by breaking the work into clear steps, or “stages.” This approach helps keep projects on track, reduces risk, and ensures resources are used wisely. It also makes it easier for partners and stakeholders to see how decisions are made at each step.
The six stages:
Stage 1
Planning
Assessing site suitability to address needs.
Stage 2
Site Investigation and Acquisition
Further site-specific due diligence before proceeding to design.
Stage 3
Design
Creating initial design plans.
Stage 4
Procurement and Site Readiness
Selecting a contractor and preparing the site.
Stage 5
Construction
Building and enabling works delivery is underway.
Stage 6
Handover and Occupancy
The Nova Scotia Provincial Housing Agency is preparing for occupancy post-construction.
Nova Scotia is advancing rent-geared-to-income housing through a layered funding model that combines provincial programs, federal support, municipal grants, and contributions from community agencies.