News release

Comments Sought on Auto-Sales Regulation

Service Nova Scotia and Municipal Relations (Oct. 2000 - March 2014)

SERVICE N.S./MUNICIPAL RELATIONS--Comments Sought on Auto-Sales Regulation


The provincial government wants to hear from Nova Scotians on how vehicle sales are regulated in the province. To jump-start consultation, Service Nova Scotia and Municipal Relations released a discussion paper on the topic today, April 10.

The Nova Scotia Motor Vehicle Board Proposal explores the issue of whether the auto sales industry should be self-managed, like the real estate industry. Under self-management, a non-government agency would license dealers and sales people, establish training standards and mediate consumer complaints.

The agency would be managed by a board of directors and have its own staff. Most of the board members would be dealers or sales people, or from other parts of the industry such as auction sales. Two people from outside the industry would be appointed by government to protect consumer interests. Government would continue to develop and enforce consumer protection and vehicle safety legislation.

Alberta and Ontario both have self-managed auto sales industries. British Columbia is reviewing a similar proposal.

"Government has been regulating the automotive sales industry for about 50 years, starting when the average consumer and sales person had less knowledge about vehicles," said Angus MacIsaac, Minister of Service Nova Scotia and Municipal Relations. "Over the years, consumers have become more aware and sales people have become more professional."

"If I were to choose one word to describe the impact of self- management on the real estate industry, it would be `positive'," said Brad Chisholm, compliance officer with the Nova Scotia Real Estate Commission. "The commission's primary mandate is the protection of public interest. Self-management has allowed for a much more progressive and timely means of dealing with the issues that affect both the consumer and the industry."

A free copy of the consultation paper is available on the department's Web site at www.gov.ns.ca/snsmr/ ; by calling 902- 424-5200 in Halifax, or toll-free 1-800-670-4357; or by visiting any Access Nova Scotia Centre.

Comments can be submitted until June 15 using any of the following options:

  • mail to:
    Service Nova Scotia and Municipal Relations
    Motor Vehicle Dealer Licensing Review
    PO Box 1003
    Halifax, NS B3J 2X1
  • fax to 902-424-7434
  • e-mail to public-enquiries@gov.ns.ca

An on-line questionnaire is also available on the department's Web site.