Halifax gets first look at ‘long overdue’ Sackville floodplain changes

Halifax council recently reviewed proposed new rules for the Sackville rivers floodplain, aiming to regulate development along the waterways, a move that has not been updated since the 1980s or early 1990s. The first reading of the proposed changes to municipal planning strategies and land-use bylaws for communities along the Sackville River and Little Sackville River, including Bedford, Lower Sackville, and Middle Sackville, was passed by council on Tuesday.

Walter Regan, the past president of the Sackville Rivers Association, emphasized the importance of these long-overdue changes, stating that it is crucial to get it done promptly and correctly. The proposed rules include new floodplain maps based on a 2017 study updated last year that incorporate climate change models. These maps outline a 1-in-20-year map with a five percent chance of flooding annually and a 1-in-100-year map with a one percent chance of flooding.

Residents can use Halifax’s online mapping tool to determine if their property falls within the proposed new floodplain areas. The most restrictive 1-in-20-year floodplain map has expanded into some neighborhoods previously unaffected, requiring flood-proofing in areas designated in the 1980s flood zones. Within the floodway overlay zone, existing non-residential uses are permitted, but no structures for human habitation are allowed. Reconstruction must adhere to flood-proofing regulations without enlarging existing buildings.

The flood fringe overlay zone allows for residential development if habitable floors are raised above the flood elevation and can withstand flooding. However, certain facilities like shared housing, hospitals, or daycares that are challenging to evacuate would not be permitted. The city notified over 900 residents whose properties are within the new floodplain maps and held public meetings last August to discuss the changes.

Regan suggested that the provincial and federal governments collaborate to purchase properties within the floodplain zones and convert them into parks to safeguard the river, environment, and public. Although Halifax requested the province to buy out homeowners in flood-prone areas like Union Street in Bedford, the federal Disaster Financial Assistance Arrangement does not facilitate the purchase of flooded homes. The province did disburse approximately $1.2 million to 26 applicants from Union Street following the July 2023 floods.

A public hearing at city hall will precede the finalization of these rules. Council also received updates on flood mitigation efforts in the ten most flood-prone areas, with the Sackville River watershed being the top priority. Other areas include Shore Road in Eastern Passage and sections of the Bedford Highway. The changes aim to enhance flood resilience and protect residents and properties in these vulnerable areas.