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Kings County Says Goodbye to Being Deed Transfer Tax-Free: What’s Changing and Why

  • Writer: Nova Scotia Home Finder
    Nova Scotia Home Finder
  • Nov 22, 2025
  • 2 min read

Updated: Dec 4, 2025

Nova Scotia housing market. Deed Transfer Tax for Kings County

For years, Kings County has been the lone holdout in Nova Scotia, famous among homebuyers for having no municipal deed transfer tax (DTT) when buying property. Well, things are about to change, and here’s what you need to know.




A Long-Running Distinction

Kings County’s “tax-free” status made it unique compared to other 48 municipalities in Nova Scotia, all of which already charged up to 1.5% on property transfers. For homebuyers, this meant thousands of dollars in up-front savings compared to neighbouring communities. The absence of this tax was a talking point during local elections and a point of local pride (and sometimes controversy). Recent surveys and council meetings showed the issue was hotly debated, with residents concerned about affordability and fairness.


The Vote That Changed Everything

On November 3, 2025, Kings County council voted 6 to 4 in favor of introducing a 1.5% deed transfer tax on all non-exempt property transfers. That means, if you buy a house in Kings County, you’ll soon pay 1.5% of the purchase price to the municipality. Officials say the tax will only take effect after all bylaw notices are completed and the provincial registrar is set up to collect it, but it’s happening soon.


Why Now? Pressures Behind the Change

What pushed the council over the edge? Major infrastructure needs. Kings County faces hefty bills for upgrades to essential services like sewage treatment and building new recreation facilities. By using deed transfer tax revenue rather than raising property or sewer taxes for everyone, the council hopes to lessen the pressure on annual tax rates and water bills. Estimates suggest saving millions in interest by having a steady cash reserve from the new tax.


Deed transfer tax is coming into effect in Kings County, the only municipality in Nova Scotia that didn't have any
The deed transfer tax was voted into legislation in November 2025 for Kings County, Nova Scotia.

Are There Any Exceptions?

Yes, just like elsewhere in the province, several transfers are exempt, including:


  • Transfers for nominal value (like $1 transactions)

  • Transfers between married spouses

  • Gifts, tax sales, or some government transfers


If you’re wondering if a transaction is exempt, check with the county or your lawyer for the official list under the provincial Municipal Government Act.


What’s Next for Kings County Buyers and Sellers?

Once the bylaw is fully approved and in force, the purchaser - not the seller - pays the new 1.5% deed transfer tax at closing, whether you’re buying your first home or downsizing. This change means the days of escaping this common home-buying cost in Kings County are over, levelling the playing field with other municipalities in Nova Scotia.


In the end, Kings County is joining the club, just a little later than everyone else. If you’re planning a move, factor this new tax into your budget, and keep an eye on municipal updates for the official start date.













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