Halifax Water proposes 650% fee hike for new construction

Halifax Water has applied to the Nova Scotia Regulatory and Appeals Board for permission to raise water hook‑up fees for new developments by about 650 % and wastewater connection fees by roughly 265 %. The utility says the increases are needed to cover rising infrastructure costs, faster‑than‑expected growth and changes in housing patterns, noting the last charge update was in 2019.

Construction Association of Nova Scotia president Duncan Williams warned the steep hikes could make some projects financially unfeasible, potentially dampening new home building. Mayor Andy Fillmore echoed concerns, saying the higher costs could affect people seeking to buy or rent homes. Halifax Water general manager Kenda MacKenzie said the additional revenue is required for upgrades amid inflation and labour‑cost pressures. For a $600,000 new house, the proposed fee would rise from about 1.3 % of the home price to roughly 6.3 %. The changes are slated to take effect on or after Nov. 10, pending regulator approval.