Dogs & animal control — West Hants, Nova Scotia

Do I need a dog licence? What are the leash rules?

In the Regional municipality of West Hants, Nova Scotia, dogs & animal control rules are set by Dog By-law RD-002, verified 2026-09-27. Fines: Up to $10,000 per offence; default imprisonment up to 60 days; Notice of Violation $250 (s.8.1) or $150 (other offences). A licence is required. Leash rule: Owner shall confine dog to owner's premises; may leave premises only under effective control of a responsible person; otherwise deemed running at large.

Dog By-law RD-002 adopted bylaw
licence required yes s. 3.1
leash rule Owner shall confine dog to owner's premises; may leave premises only under effective control of a responsible person; otherwise deemed running at large s. 7.1-7.3
max animals Kennel = lot/building housing four or more domesticated animals for monetary gain (requires kennel registration) s. 2 "Kennel"
fine range Up to $10,000 per offence; default imprisonment up to 60 days; Notice of Violation $250 (s.8.1) or $150 (other offences) s. 13.1; s. 13.3
scout note

Regulates dangerous, roaming, and noisy dogs throughout the Regional Municipality of West Hants. Adopted as a unified regional by-law after amalgamation.

Machine-readable: animal-control.json · Official website: https://www.westhants.ca/ · Last verified 2026-09-27 · Dogs & animal control across Nova Scotia · Dogs & animal control in other municipalities