Civic Addressing

Published: Friday, 24 March 2017 14:35

Seconds can mean the difference between life and death in an emergency.  Getting resources where they are needed as quickly as possible is vital.  This is especially true when dealing with 911 emergencies.  However, without clearly posted civic numbers to guide them, emergency responders can sometimes be challenged to locate the address of a 911 call.  Know your 911 civic address and have it clearly posted so that police, firefighters and paramedics can locate you as quickly as possible if an emergency should occur.  

The Eastern District Planning Commission assigns civic addresses and maintains the Nova Scotia Civic Address File for Inverness, Richmond, Victoria and Antigonish Counties.  Please refer to the Civic Addressing By-Laws for Antigonish, Richmond and Victoria Counties for posting, signage and street sign regulations.  

What is a civic address?  
A 911 civic address consists of a civic number, road name and type, community name and county or municipality.   Example:  2357 | Highway 206 | Arichat | Richmond County   Civic addresses are primarily used for 911 emergency services but are also used as mailing addresses, for delivery services and are required in order to receive telephone service.  

How can I get a civic address?  
For new construction, civic addresses are assigned during the building inspection process.  A measurement is taken between a known location and the new structure.  Approximately every 5 metres or 15 feet a number is assigned.  Numbers may be pre-assigned for urban areas or subdivisions.  

For confirmation of your civic address for an existing building call the Civic Address Coordinator at 902-625-5366.
The following information is helpful in requesting a civic address:  

* Property Identification Number
* Provincial Assessment Account Numbers
* A neighbour’s civic address
* Road and Community Name  

Posting Your Civic Address  

* Civic numbers must be in Arabic numerals (12 not XII or Twelve)
* Have at least 48 inches between the bottom of the numbers and the ground
* The colour of the numbers must be reflective and clearly contrast the background.  White numbers on a blue background work best