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Nova ScotiaUpdated April 2026

Privacy Rights in Nova Scotia

Nova Scotia's FOIPOP covers public bodies, PHIA covers health information, and Municipal Government Act access provisions apply to municipalities.

TL;DR

Nova Scotia does not have a private-sector privacy law, so PIPEDA applies to businesses. FOIPOP covers provincial public bodies. PHIA covers health custodians. The Nova Scotia Office of the Information and Privacy Commissioner reviews complaints but has only recommendation powers for FOIPOP.

Statutes that apply in Nova Scotia

Nova Scotia's privacy landscape combines federal and provincial law:

  • PIPEDA covers private-sector businesses and federally regulated works.
  • FOIPOP covers provincial ministries, agencies, and most public bodies.
  • The Municipal Government Act contains access and privacy provisions for municipalities, villages, and service districts.
  • PHIA covers custodians of personal health information.

The Commissioner's role

The Nova Scotia Office of the Information and Privacy Commissioner conducts reviews, issues recommendations, and publishes review reports.

For PHIA, the OIPC NS has order-making authority.

For FOIPOP and the Municipal Government Act, the OIPC NS issues reports and recommendations only.

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