Need help understanding Nova Scotia's Labour Standards Code? We're here to help.

Call our free adviceline today for HR expert support

Call for FREE advice Schedule a callback

Call our experts at 1 (833) 710-0677 or schedule a callback.

Get the advice you need to resolve your HR query.

Put your mind at ease and focus on making your business a success.

Nova Scotia’s Department of Labour and Labour Standards Division

Nova Scotia’s Department of Labour, Skills and Immigration is responsible for making sure people are working safely and know their rights.

What is the Labour Standards Code?

In Nova Scotia, the Labour Standards Code (LSC) sets the minimum employment rules for employers and employees. The LSC is regulated by the Nova Scotia Labour Standards Division. The LSC covers:

Guidelines for recruiting workers.
Rules for hiring foreign workers.
Standards for wages (wage deductions, holiday, vacation, and overtime pay).
Leaves.
Processes for ending employment.

While employers can offer more than the minimum entitlements, they can’t offer less than the minimum set by the Labour Standards Code.

Exceptions to the Labour Standards Code

There are individuals, industries, and businesses which the legislation does not apply to. Some examples of these exclusions include:

Federally regulated businesses.
Self-employed workers and independent contractors.
Unionized employees with access to a grievance process to receive their entitlements under their collective agreement.

Nova Scotia's Bill 464: Key changes employers need to know

Nova Scotia's Stronger Workplaces for Nova Scotia Act (Bill 464) brings major changes to three important laws: The Labour Standards Code, the Occupational Health & Safety Act, and the Workers' Compensation Act.

The Labour Standards Code now includes a new job-protected unpaid leave for serious illness or injury that allows employees up to 27 weeks of leave within a 52-week period for serious illness or injury. Employees will now also get up to 5 days of unpaid leave for personal sickness or injury. This brand new leave is not to be confused with the pre-existing 3 days of unpaid leave that employees can use for family responsibilities (For e.g., to care for an ill parent, child, or family member; and for medical, dental, or other similar appointments for the employee or the employee's family member). Both these leave provisions came into effect on January 1, 2025.

Employers must review and update their workplace policies to stay compliant with these amendments.

Talk to Employer Advice’s HR experts for free advice to help you prepare, prevent issues, and keep your business running smoothly.

Have more questions about the Labour Standards Code?

Do you still have questions about Nova Scotia’s Labour Standards Code? Call our free advice line and speak to our expert.Our advisors have the experience and the knowledge to keep your business compliant.

We are dedicated to supporting small business owners with employer advice, employment rights, and any human resources concerns. Speak with our HR experts anytime: 1-833-710-0677

Call for FREE advice

Why thousands of business owners trust us...

We are your team of specialists, supporting you with HR best practices and practical action that makes sense for your business.

Cassandra Pardetti

What I appreciate most from Peninsula is the peace of mind I experience as a business owner. I can focus more on doing my job. I am protected as a business owner.

Dave Andoff

With a simple phone call, Peninsula supplied us with tailored specific letters to deal with the problem we were facing. It gave us a sense of confidence that we are abiding by the rules and regulations. If you have Peninsula in your corner, you will always succeed.

Shafreen Rajabali,

As a small business, you always think about where to put your funds – but the peace of mind Peninsula provides makes it worth it. We feel secure to be able to grow.

Ask us how we can save your time and money.

We’ve helped over 6,500 Canadian businesses grow by taking the load of HR compliance off their backs. Call our experienced advisors today and get answers to all your HR queries.