Halifax Regional Municipality
Build in Downtown Dartmouth
Ferry access to Halifax, waterfront development, and growing amenities make Downtown Dartmouth Nova Scotia's emerging urban neighborhood for multiplex investment.
ER-3
Primary Zone
From $160K
Per Unit Cost
From $2,000/mo
Standard Rent
Zoning in Downtown Dartmouth
Multiple zones allow multi-family development as-of-right, with varying density allowances.
ER-3
Up to 8 Units
The most flexible established residential zone, allowing up to 8 dwelling units as-of-right. Located on the periphery of Downtown Dartmouth, including...
11m (3 storeys), plus 3m for pitched roof
50% coverage
No parking req
HR-1
Up to 14 Units
Medium-density zone allowing buildings up to 14-20m (4-6 storeys). Located near the waterfront and transitioning into the downtown core. Ideal for 6-1...
14-20m (4-6 storeys); streetwall capped at 11m
60% coverage
No parking req
CEN
Up to 300 Units
High-density zone in the Downtown Dartmouth core around Alderney Landing and the waterfront. CEN-1 supports transition areas (5-8 storeys), while CEN-...
CEN-1: 15-25m (5-8 storeys), CEN-2: up to 90m
100% coverage
No parking req
Why Build in Downtown Dartmouth?
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Ferry Access Premium
The Alderney Landing ferry terminal provides a 12-minute crossing to downtown Halifax. Properties within walking distance command premium rents from professionals working in the city core who prefer urban Dartmouth living.
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Lower Development Costs
Land and construction costs run approximately 7-10% below Halifax Peninsula. This cost multiplier of 0.93x improves project margins while rental income approaches Halifax levels.
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Urban Revival Momentum
Downtown Dartmouth's transformation includes new restaurants, craft breweries (Battery Park, Lake City Cider), waterfront development (King's Wharf), and cultural venues. Improving perception drives tenant demand and rent growth.
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Multi-Zone Flexibility
Downtown Dartmouth encompasses ER-3 zones (up to 8 units), HR-1 zones (up to 14 units), and CEN zones in the core. Developers can match project scale to specific site zoning and capital availability.
Products Available in Downtown Dartmouth
Based on local zoning, these products can be built as-of-right or with standard approvals.
Have a Lot in Downtown Dartmouth?
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