Laws & By-Laws

As a community member, you will be responsible for knowing the community laws and bi-laws which you live. Federal and Provincial Law will be the same between communities, however towns and communities have different regulations, called bi-laws, which regulate all non- Provincially Regulated issues like noise, smoking, social gatherings, etc.

Provincial Laws

Alcohol & Cannabis

Students are responsible for knowing, understanding, and complying with Provincial laws and College regulations regarding alcohol, its transportation, purchase, and restrictions. NSCC is committed to creating an environment in which controlled substances, such as alcohol and cannabis, are used responsibly and in moderation and discourage abuse of these substances.

In Nova Scotia, the legal age of consumption is 19 Years old. This means it is illegal to purchase, transport or consume alcohol at a younger age. It is also illegal to provide someone under the age of 19 with alcohol. If you are above the age of 19 and your roommate is below the age of 19, you should have open and clear communication about where you choose to store your alcohol and cannabis and ensure they do not have access to your substances.

There are great resources on how to ensure you keep your substance use social, visit How to Keep it Social

Driving License

In Nova Scotia, if you are operating any kind of motorized vehicle (including car, motor bike, tractor, etc.) you are required to have a license. Additionally, to be able to drive legally, you must have a registered motor vehicle, properly inspected motor vehicle, and up-to-date insurance on your vehicle. If you do not have all three, in addition to a driver’s license, you will be breaking the law.

According to the Nova Scotia Registry of Motor Vehicles:

Visitors or Newcomers who have a valid driver’s licence from another part of Canada, or from another country, can drive in Nova Scotia for up to 90 days without getting a Nova Scotia Driver’s Licence.  After that, you need a Nova Scotia licence.^[1]

Using a bicycle

You may choose to use a bicycle to get to and from your apartment with groceries and classes. Under Nova Scotia law, you have the same rights and responsibilities as a person driving a vehicle and need to know your road laws. It is Nova Scotia law that you wear a helmet while you are biking. For more information related to NS Bicycle Laws read Nova Scotia Bicycle Safety.

Bi-Laws

It is also important to be up to date with your community’s by-laws. Be sure to go to their Town/Municipal websites and review by-laws on noise, alcohol, social gatherings/events, and any other by-law you may be interested in.

Get legal advice

If at any time you need legal support, we encourage you to reach out to Dalhousie (DAL) Legal Aid. DAL Legal Aid is a community-based law office funded by the Dalhousie School of Law. They provide free and low-cost legal services to students and community members related to living in Nova Scotia. Find out more about DAL Legal Aid on the Dalhousie Legal Aid Website.