Department of Agriculture
Meat Slaughtering and Processing Licence
Who Needs This Licence?
Anyone in Nova Scotia who wants to engage in the business of slaughtering animals and processing meat and meat products.
Note: deer are covered by the Deer Processor's Licence.
Issuing Department / Agency:
Where can you get this licence and/or further information?
Application Forms & Process:
An application (PDF) may be downloaded or obtained from your local Department of Environment and Climate Change district office.
Once the facility is approved, a licence will be delivered to the business premise by staff of the department.
Waiting Period:
The application and approval process require a number of steps to ensure the proposed facility conforms with legislation. These steps will be completed with your local primary product inspector and may include, but are not limited to, building plan reviews, process control reviews and site visits.
The expected time for the approval process varies depending on the size and type of operation.
Expiry:
This licence does not expire.
However, the licence may be revoked if regulations are not adhered to as required.
Price:
Free
Related Requirements:
The facilities and premises must be inspected and approved by Provincial Primary Product Inspectors before this licence can be issued.
Where an abattoir sells direct to the public, they are covered by the food establishment regulations administered by the Department of Environment and Climate Change.
Additional Information:
This licence covers the basic construction of the facility and sanitary procedures to ensure a safe food supply.
Licensed meat plants must meet and maintain the standards established in the regulations made pursuant to the Meat Inspection Act.
Legislative Authority:
Meat Inspection Act, Chapter 6 of the Acts of 1996.
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