Heritage Properties
Owners of properties that have historical, architectural or cultural value in Kings County may apply to have the property registered in the Municipal Registry of Heritage Property. The registry is a database containing information on properties that have been designated at the municipal level.
If you're interested in this program, check out the FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions) or our application/information brochure (see Links on this page) or a brochure may be obtained at the Municipal Complex, 181 Coldbrook Village Park Dr. Coldbrook, Nova Scotia in the Community Development Services Department.
Information on grants for exterior renovations of registered heritage properties is available through the Nova Scotia Department of Tourism, Culture and Heritage, Heritage Property Program.
History of Kings County If you are seeking information on the history of Kings County, visit the Kings County Museum in the Old Courthouse, Kentville, Nova Scotia, or visit the Museum's website.
Grand Pré Heritage Conservation District
Links for Kings County Heritage Program
Other Useful Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the process and how long does it take?
Application/Evaluation - Upon submission of a completed application, staff will evaluate your property by reviewing submitted information and making a site visit. Staff report - Staff compiles a report to the Heritage Advisory Committee (HAC). HAC Recommendation - The HAC makes a recommendation to Municipal Council on whether your property should be included in the municipal registry. Public meeting offering the property owner an opportunity to be heard. Municipal Council makes the final decision on whether or not the property is designated. Duration - The registration process takes approximately four to six months.
Why should I seek Heritage Registration for my property?
There are many benefits to registration.
Intrinsic value - Having a property designated helps to preserve a connection to our shared past, instilling a sense of pride in the heritage property and in the community where it is located.
Property value - A heritage designation may also increase the value of a property.
Recognition - Owners of Municipally registered heritage properties will receive a bronze plaque to be displayed at the site.
Financial Incentives - There is a provincial rebate program available for restoration projects on the exterior of designated properties and some federal funding for owners of registered commercial properties.
What if I want to make changes to my heritage property?
Owners of registered heritage properties must apply to the Municipality prior to making alterations to the exterior of their properties.
Your proposed alterations are evaluated for appropriateness; and owners must make application if they are considering demolishing their property.
Can I de-register a property?
There is a process for de-registering designated properties, if the property owner wishes.