Recent changes to Canadian law mean single-game Nova Scotia sports betting is legal. We have all the details about the best betting sites NS bettors can choose from, with great odds and potentially lucrative sportsbook promos.
Best Nova Scotia sports betting sites
SBR Exclusive: 100% Deposit Bonus up to $500
Terms and conditions apply.
Features
- Massive selection of markets.
- Easy-to-use interface.
- Wide variety of banking options.
Betway Review
While this book won’t wow you with its design, you won’t find many apps easier to navigate – or with the sheer volume of sports markets Betway offers. Combine that with one of the best esports betting experiences in the province, and you have a global sports betting brand that deserves to be mentioned among the top options in Canada.
Features
Up to $1,000 Bet Loss Insurance
Terms and conditions apply.
Features
- Plentiful live betting options.
- NFL live streaming
- Excellent customer service.
BetVictor Review
You won’t find many sportsbooks with a broader range of live bet options available than BetVictor, covering you no matter which live sports you favour.
Features
Up to $1,000 in Bonus Bets
OR Bet $10, Get $50 in Bonus Bets
Features
- Canada’s most popular online sportsbook.
- Great variety of bet types.
- Quality live betting options.
bet365 Review
bet365 is one of the largest and most popular sportsbooks in Canada. With a well-received mobile app, popular same-game parlays, and a wide variety of sports leagues to bet on it’s no wonder 80 million sports bettors globally continue to use bet365.
Features
High Limits and Quality Odds
Terms and conditions apply.
Features
- High-quality odds.
- Higher limits than average sportsbooks.
- Massive volume of sports.
Pinnacle Review
It always pays to have an account with Pinnacle to benefit from its generous odds and early opening lines.
Features
200% Deposit Match up to $3,000
Terms and conditions apply.
Stake Review
Stake is by no means perfect, but the redeeming qualities are numerous and significant. This sportsbook will appeal to new users from a simplicity and quality-of-odds standpoint, and if you’re into casino action, Stake is a genuine revelation.
Features
100% Bonus up to $350
Terms and conditions apply.
Features
- Extensive VIP program.
- Over 2000 daily events to bet on.
- Interac and Interac e-transfer deposits.
TonyBet Review
Originally launched as OmniBet, TonyBet Sportsbook got its name after being purchased by Tony. G — one of the most prolific poker players in the world. Now, the platform is well-known in the Canadian market, setting itself apart with excellent coverage of both traditional sports and esports.
Features
$500 Deposit Match
Terms and conditions apply.
Features
- Strong live event coverage.
- Withdrawals processed quickly.
- Crypto banking options.
PowerPlay Review
While PowerPlay does have a fine selection of sports and live bet markets, you can’t help but get the feeling you’re using a site that would much rather see you play the slots or toss your chips onto the Baccarat table than wager on sports.
Features
First Bet Encore Up To $1,500
Terms and conditions apply.
Bet99 Review
From the sheer number of sports offered (including a veritable buffet of eSports markets) to the ease with which bettors can place their wagers its brand new mobile app, BET99 clearly cares about giving its customers a memorable experience.
Features
$400 Deposit Match
Terms and conditions apply.
Features
- Customizable cashouts.
- Personal bet configurator.
- Quick, user-friendly interface.
NEO.bet Review
From customized cash-out conditions to its proprietary personal bet configurator, NEO.bet players are treated to an experience unlike any other in Canada.
Features
Bet $25, Get $50 in Free Bets
18+ LeoSafePlay.com, Promotional T&Cs apply. Please play responsibly.
Features
- Wide selection of live betting markets.
- Large collection of casino options.
- Functioning mobile app.
LeoVegas Review
18+ LeoSafePlay.com, Promotional T&Cs apply. Please play responsibly.
While LeoVegas has earned some praise for its mobile apps and was born as a mobile product, the overall sportsbook experience is average. If you like odds shopping and having multiple sportsbook accounts, then LeoVegas is worth adding to your list of options.
Features
125% Deposit Match up to $250
Terms and conditions apply.
Features
- Mobile app in Canada
- Easy deposits and withdrawals.
- Wide variety of betting options.
Sports Interaction Review
Sports Interaction has gained a reputation as one of the best online sportsbooks in Canada by providing quality service in all aspects of online gambling. It is one of the most accessible sportsbooks for Canadian players to fund, and it appeals to many bettors due to the consistent quality across the board.
Features
100% Bonus up to $500
Terms and conditions apply.
Features
- In-play betting and live streaming.
- Global brand-name recognition.
- Solid website layout and mobile app.
888sport Review
888sport is near the top of the class regarding engaging and interactive ongoing promos for existing members. 888sport also won't stop you from placing as many high-risk same-game parlays as your heart desires and wallet allows plus has excellent live bet offerings.
Features
Up to 370% Bonus + Up to 56% Free Bet
Features
- Ongoing promotions
- Accepts crypto
- Available in CAD
BetPlays (Canada) has a great variety of betting types, great bonuses and early payout options for some sports.
Features
$200 Deposit Match
Terms and conditions apply.
Features
- Award-winning sports platform.
- Favorable in-house odds on most markets.
- Transparent features.
Coolbet Review
Coolbet hasn’t reached the level of popularity that some industry leaders in Canada, like bet365 and Sports Interaction may have. However, they are still worth checking out as long as you can get past their polar bear theme. They boast some of the most favourable lines in Canada.
Features
First Bet Match Up To $250
Terms and conditions apply.
Features
- Fresh and exciting wagering interface.
- Great bonuses.
- Various banking options.
NorthStar Bets Review
NorthStar Bets is now live in the growing Ontario market, promising a “uniquely local, premier user experience.” While not quite in the upper echelon of sports betting providers in the Ontario market, NorthStar Bets can still deliver a good product for those looking for a home-grown, Ontario-centric option.
Features
Quick links On this page
- Best Nova Scotia sports betting sites
- Nova Scotia sports betting explained
- Sports betting sites in Nova Scotia reviewed
- NS sports betting summary
- NS sports betting promos and bonuses
- How we rate and review NS sports betting sites
- How to start betting on sports in Nova Scotia
- Quick facts: Nova Scotia sports betting
- Nova Scotia sports teams to bet on
- NS sports betting key developments and updates
- Legal sports betting and regulations in NS
- Who can bet on sports in NS?
- What you can and can't bet on in NS
- Responsible sports betting in Nova Scotia
- Sports betting across Canada
- Sports betting in other regions
- Nova Scotia sports betting FAQs
Nova Scotia sports betting explained
The current state of Nova Scotia sports betting can be a bit confusing. Don't worry, though, because we'll explain it fully. The Atlantic Lottery Corporation is the province's only officially licensed sports betting provider, which they offer through their Pro-Line product. However, numerous reputable offshore and international sportsbooks accept Nova Scotia bettors.
The ALC was founded by the Nova Scotia Gaming Corporation and three other provincial governments of Atlantic Canada, namely New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island, and Newfoundland.
When Bill C-218 received royal assent and became law in 2021, single-event betting was introduced nationwide in Canada. Still, it was up to each province how they wanted to implement the new law. Nova Scotia was the last province to jump on the bandwagon and authorize single-game sports betting on Feb. 11, 2022.
Sports betting sites in Nova Scotia reviewed
If Pro-Line isn't enough, you can visit several international online sportsbooks. These books exist in a legal grey area in Nova Scotia. That means they aren't licensed and regulated by the provincial government but aren't outlawed.
The good news is that many of these sportsbooks have excellent reputations from being licensed in numerous other jurisdictions worldwide. So you can trust they are legitimate and will treat you fairly.
Our guide will help you navigate the sports betting market in Nova Scotia, outlining the legal options and online sportsbooks with the greatest market entry potential should the ALC ever decide to grant licenses.
1. Betway 🏒
Terms and conditions apply.
Betway is another terrific option for bettors from Nova Scotia. With a huge betting market of 30+ sports, plenty of smooth banking options, and competitive odds across the board, Betway serves Canadian customers in all the most important ways.
New users can snag a . The bonus funds come with a 10x playthrough, but you don't need a Betway promo code to activate this deal.
Head over to our in-depth Betway review to learn more about one of Canada's best online sportsbooks.
Betway Quick Facts | |
---|---|
📱 App Store Rating | 4.8/5.0 ⭐(34.6K reviews) |
📱 Google Play Rating | 4.2/5.0 ⭐(12.5K reviews) |
💰 Current Welcome Offer | |
💸 Payout Speed | 48 to 72 hours |
2. bet365 🟢
OR Bet $10, Get $50 in Bonus Bets
bet365 is a British gambling juggernaut that’s been around for over 20 years. Its venture into the North American market has been paying dividends, especially in Ontario. According to reports from Morgan Stanley analysts, bet365 had a 27% share of app downloads in Ontario in April 2020 alone.
bet365 garnered certain fame for its Bet Builder feature, which later evolved into the same-game parlay that is so popular today, thanks partly to FanDuel revolutionizing it in North America.
The innovation and features don’t stop there, as bet365 offers thousands of live streams through its app and a massive selection of bets and bet builders, like the Ice Hockey Bet Builder, which allows you to make up to 12 selections and create a unique bet.
New bet365 users can snag a choice of two terrific welcome bonuses: OR up to a $1,000 First Bet Safety Net. Remember to use the bet365 bonus code SBRPROMO when signing up to take advantage.
For more information on the operator, make sure to read our full bet365 review.
bet365 quick facts | |
---|---|
📱 App Store rating | 4.6/5 |
📱 Google Play rating | 4.8/5 |
🏆 Current welcome offer | |
✅ bet365 bonus code | SBRPROMO |
💵 Payout speed | Some methods within 24 hours; 1 to 5 days. |
3. Sports Interaction ⚾
Terms and conditions apply.
Betting industry giants Entain acquired Sports Interaction last year from Avid Gaming for $300 million (CAD). Avid Gaming leases Sports Interaction exclusively to Mohawks of Kahnawà:ke, who operate the book through their Mohawk Online company.
Sports Interaction is fully legal in Ontario, with the approval of the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario and iGaming Ontario. In the rest of Canada, including Nova Scotia, the brand operates in the gray market under a license issued by the Kahnawake Gaming Commission. Don't let that status scare you, though, as Sports Interaction is one of the best sportsbooks in Nova Scotia.
The platform would become one of the top legal NS sportsbooks if the province ever decides to regulate third-party betting sites. And even if it doesn't, there are plenty of good reasons to check out Sports Interaction. It offers great lines on the NFL and NHL and many other exciting features. Its popular Minute Madness lets you pick which minute(s) of a soccer game will feature a goal. They also have Piñata Picks, a special prop bet on a randomly assigned team, or a selection with favorable pricing.
Read our detailed Sports Interaction review for a full overview.
Sports Interaction quick facts | |
---|---|
📱 App Store rating | 3.8/5 |
📱 Google Play rating | 3.7/5 |
💰Current welcome offer | |
💵 Payout speed | Fast payouts, settled in 1-5 days |
4. William Hill ⚽
Terms and conditions apply
William Hill is another Nova Scotia sports betting site that operates in the legal grey market, with great potential for future provincial regulation. With its pedigree as one of the world's largest betting companies, it has plenty to offer to Bluenose bettors. The company's biggest selling points are a classic layout with simple but effective colors, a vast selection of parlays, props, teasers, moneylines, point spreads, and competitive pricing across the board.
Moreover, its Enhanced Odds, Epic Odds, and DoubleYourOdds daily boosts deliver additional value to bettors, especially since they apply to some of the most popular markets.
More information about the sportsbook is available in our William Hill review.
William Will quick facts | |
---|---|
📱 App Store rating | 4.7/5 |
📱 Google Play rating | 4.3/5 |
💰Current welcome offer | |
💵 Payout speed | Up to 5 banking days |
5. LeoVegas 🦁
18+ LeoSafePlay.com, Promotional T&Cs apply. Please play responsibly.
Like many other NS grey market sports betting platforms, LeoVegas is already fully licensed and regulated in Ontario. So it wouldn't be a surprise to see them vie for a Nova Scotia license if they ever come available. Until then, bettors on Canada's East Coast can rest easy that Leo Vegas is a trusted wagering option.
LeoVegas Sportsbook has earned a reputation as one of the best sports betting sites in Canada thanks to the favorable odds it offers across sports and markets, starting with the "Big Four" leagues of NHL, NBA, NFL, and MLB, all the way to UFC and Formula 1 events.
The live betting offering at LeoVegas is extensive, ranging from bets on which team will earn the next corner kick in a soccer game to which player will score the next point in an NBA game. The in-play statistics and live streaming make live betting even more exciting, letting you cash in on the fast-changing odds.
You can find out more about the operator in our LeoVegas review or discover what sort of sign-up offers and other bonuses are available at our LeoVegas sports promo code section.
LeoVegas quick facts | |
---|---|
📱 App Store rating | 4.3/5 |
📱 Google Play rating | 4.2/5 |
💰Current welcome offer | |
💵 Payout speed | 24 to 96 hours |
6. 888sport 🎱
Terms and conditions apply.
888sport is another household name in Canada, with a major office in Ontario but historic roots in Europe. This book is yet another likely candidate for an official NS sports betting license, should they ever become available.
In the meantime, NS bettors can get familiar with its extensive offering of more than 30 sports, including niche markets like surfing or Gaelic sports of hurling or rounders. The brand’s app is jam-packed with features, like the Bet Feed, where you can see which teams other bettors are backing, the most popular wagers in the past 24 hours, and more.
The Odds Boost section gives an overview of all markets, their enhanced odds, and the original odds. A quick glance reveals that 888sport regularly boosts odds up to 25%–30%.
Check out our detailed 888sport review for more information about this platform, and be sure to visit the 888sport promo code page to learn how to claim the welcome offer.
888sport quick facts | |
---|---|
📱 App Store rating | 4.2/5 |
📱 Google Play rating | 4.5/5 |
💰Current welcome offer | |
💵 Payout speed | 24 to 96 hours |
7. Bet99 🍁
Terms and conditions apply.
Bet99 has been a part of the Canadian sports betting landscape since 2019. However, they've truly jumped into the mainstream in the last year, adding dedicated mobile apps for iOS and Android and signing UFC Hall of Famer Georges St-Pierre as its celebrity spokesman.
Bet99 is fully legal and licensed in Canada; by the AGCO in Ontario and the Kahnawake Gaming Commission in every other province and territory, including Nova Scotia. It offers competitive odds and a wide variety of betting markets for both popular and more niche sporting events.
You can learn more by jumping over to our full Bet99 review or the Bet99 promo code page for all the details about the new player welcome bonus.
Bet99 quick facts | |
---|---|
📱 App Store rating | 4.6/5 |
📱 Google Play rating | 2.3/5 |
💰Current welcome offer | |
💵 Payout speed | Within 72 hours |
8. BetVictor 🔵
Terms and conditions apply.
BetVictor has existed as a brick-and-mortar sportsbook in the U.K. for over seven decades now. That long-standing reputation served BetVictor well when it decided to expand into Canada as an online sportsbook.
BetVictor maintains an iGaming license from the province of Ontario, along with licenses from regulatory bodies in Great Britain, Ireland, and Gibraltar. That puts it squarely in a legal "grey market" in all non-Ontario areas of Canada. So it's not regulated by any other provinces, but BetVictor is still legally able to accept customers from Canada.
While we think that BetVictor has a bit of work to do when it comes to posting competitive odds, we can't deny its terrific mobile app — especially the live betting section.
Be sure to read our full BetVictor review to learn more. Or, if you want to find out how to claim the BetVictor promo code welcome bonus, we have you covered there too.
Responsible Gaming:
BetVictor quick facts | |
---|---|
📱 App Store rating | 4.7/5 |
📱 Google Play rating | 3.5/5 |
💰Current welcome offer | |
💵 Payout speed | 1-5 days |
9. Stake 🎲
Terms and conditions apply.
Stake is emerging as a popular option for bettors in Nova Scotia, with partnerships with the UFC, Everton FC, and hip-hop icon Drake as its celebrity spokesman.
Although Stake doesn't have native mobile apps yet, it's desktop website is perfectly optimized for mobile devices. You'll barely notice you're not actually using an app, which is a great thing. One of Stake's best features is offering instant deposits and withdrawals using cryptocurrencies, something many competing sportsbooks have stayed away from so far.
Stake welcomes new customers with a potentially massive bonus: a . You have to deposit at least $50 to qualify for this offer, which is more than the average minimum deposit. However, the maximum reward also outshines most competitors in terms of sheer dollar value. Remember to use the Stake promo code SBR3000 when you register and deposit.
If you want to know about this NS betting site, head over to our detailed Stake review.
Stake Quick Facts | |
---|---|
📱 App Store Rating | N/A |
📱 Google Play Rating | N/A |
💰 Current Welcome Offer | |
💸 Payout Speed | Within 48 hours |
10. TonyBet ⚽
Terms and conditions apply.
TonyBet (formerly known as OmniBet) technically launched in 2003, but was rebranded to TonyBet in 2012 after it was purchased by world-renowned poker star Antanas Guogo — aka 'Tony G'. As such, TonyBet has typically provided a much stronger casino product than it has sportsbook. However, the sportsbook side of TonyBet has notable advantages too.
Admittedly, we found TonyBet to have a somewhat messy layout and less competitive odds compared to the field. On the other hand, this operator has helpful 24/7 customer support as well as a large selection of live betting and esports markets.
New bettors will begin their TonyBet experience with a boost as well, with the sportsbook currently offering a $350 free bet promotion. Click the link in the table below or see our TonyBet bonus code section to learn more.
TonyBet Quick Facts | |
---|---|
⭐ App Store rating | N/A |
📈 Google Play rating | N/A |
💰 Current welcome offer | |
🏆 Best feature | Great banking methods |
💵 Payout speed | 1-5 days |
Nova Scotia sports betting at a glance
There haven't been any new developments since Nova Scotia introduced single-game sports betting through the ALC's Pro-Line brand in early 2022. Maritime-area bettors hope the ALC will eventually take a page out of Ontario's book and license some of the best sportsbooks in Canada, like DraftKings and FanDuel.
According to the Canadian Gaming Association , Nova Scotians do a lot of online sports betting, just with offshore and international platforms. The CGA estimated that Canadians as a whole wager $150 million on the Super Bowl alone, fifty times more than on legal sports lotteries.
Nova Scotia Pro-Line
- Pro-Line is the only service available.
- Single-event betting is permitted.
- Various wagering formats are supported.
- You can make your picks online.
- The market value stands at $26 million.
Nova Scotia legal sportsbooks
Online NS sportsbook | Mobile app | Online casino |
---|---|---|
Pro-Line | No | No |
NS sports betting promos and bonuses
Bettors in Nova Scotia are mostly confined to using the province's Pro-Line for betting. Unfortunately, the ALC-managed sportsbook is no destination for welcome bonuses. In fact, you won’t find any bonuses on the Pro-Line site. That's hard to swallow when you consider the offshore alternatives.
Most international sportsbooks offer a sign-up bonus, which typically takes the form of a deposit match or bonus bet credits. Luckily, some Nova Scotia welcome offers that rank among the best sportsbook promos in Canada.
Then bonuses have a wide range of value and requirements, so make sure you read and understand the terms and conditions of any welcome offer you're trying to claim. There may be a minimum deposit, qualifying odds, or playthrough requirements to take advantage.
Nova Scotia sportsbook 🏆 | Promo code ✅ | Welcome bonus 💰 |
---|---|---|
⭐ Pro-Line | No Code Required | |
⭐ bet365 | No Code Required | |
⭐ Sports Interaction | No Code Required | |
⭐ William Hill | No Code Required | |
⭐ LeoVegas | No Code Required | |
⭐ 888sport | No Code Required |
How we rate and review NS sports betting sites
Our review process is based on personal experience. Yes, we walked a mile (or more) in your betting shoes to ensure we got a taste of everything the average bettor can expect from these NS sportsbooks.
Here’s a glimpse at the entire review process and the aspects we felt were most important.
Main sportsbook features
We constantly seek traits that raise the bar for sports bettors. The following features are likely to catch our eye:
Proprietary mobile applications
- Favorable odds across the markets
- A multitude of betting opportunities
- A multitude of betting opportunities
- In-play or live betting
- Early cash-out options
- Free live-streaming
User-friendly design
We consider these platforms' usability across various software — desktops, mobiles, and proprietary iOS or Android apps. We assess the different features and highlight the platforms while pointing out exceptional perks or potential pitfalls.
We want to see intuitive navigation alongside responsive and clutter-free apps and websites. Only platforms that deliver the best experiences make our list.
Bonuses and promotions
An attractive welcome bonus definitely draws major attention. However, our NS sportsbook scrutiny extends beyond the immediate benefits. We meticulously examine the fairness of the associated terms and conditions, including qualifying odds, minimum deposits, wagering requirements, and more. Alongside this, we evaluate the ongoing incentives and promotional benefits provided to regular patrons.
Payment methods
In the betting universe, the speed of receiving your winnings is crucial. No one wants to wait weeks to get their hands on a big payout. Our analytical approach puts a strong emphasis on the efficiency of payouts. We even rank the fastest payout sportsbooks, although some of the very best aren't available in Nova Scotia yet.
In addition, we ensure a broad spectrum of deposit and withdrawal alternatives are available, including credit cards, Instadebit, Interac, and all other common Canadian financial methods.
Reliability and data protection
Confidence in the platform's integrity is paramount when your money is on the line. We recommend sportsbooks only after verifying their licensure with respective regulatory bodies, even if those bodies are outside of Nova Scotia.
Additionally, we confirm that the site adopts stringent security protocols to protect your personal information, including two-factor authentication, biometric logins, and other safety features.
Other categories
When reaching a verdict on a sportsbook, we look into the following factors as well:
- Ease of the sign-up process
- Efficiency of the verification procedure
- Betting thresholds
- Localization features
- Loyalty or VIP programs
We rank them according to their best features only after we’ve done due diligence on every sportsbook.
How to start betting on sports in Nova Scotia
Whether you want to wait for an official regulatory green light or get started with an offshore sportsbook today, we can help you through that process. Just follow our step-by-step guide to start betting on sports today.
1. Choose a sportsbook
First thing's first, choose an NS sportsbook from our list. Read our reviews to learn about their strengths and weaknesses and how they reflect your play style. William Hill might be a good choice if you like browsing the site and markets by relying on odds boosts. Or maybe a certain welcome bonus caught your eye.
2. Register online
Locate the "Register," "Sign Up," or "Join" button. It's typically towards the top right corner of the website. Clicking or tapping on it will initiate the registration process. You’ll need to enter some personal details in the registration form. These include your full legal name, current address, date of birth, active mobile number, and valid email address.
Recently, iGaming Ontario mandated sportsbooks require users to disclose their citizenship and occupation, confirm they are fit to play, not acting on behalf of any other person, and are not a Politically Exposed Person (PEP)/Head of an International Organization (HIO). Such requirements don't exist in Nova Scotia yet, but they may be introduced in the future.
3. Make a deposit
You must verify your Nova Scotia account to enable deposits and betting. The process can involve providing copies of personal identification or proof of address if the automatic account verification fails. Once you've successfully activated your account, you'll have full access to your Nova Scotia online sportsbook and can proceed with the deposit part of the experience.
In the "Cashier" or "Banking" section of your account, you can find the "Deposit" option. Click on it, and you’ll find a list of available methods. Click the payment option that works for you, select the welcome bonus (if offered), and input how much money you want to deposit.
You may need a Nova Scotia bonus code to trigger the bonus, so check the bonus table near the top of this page for verified and accurate promo codes.
4. Place your first wager
Browse the betting lobby to see all the sports and markets. If you can't find what you're looking for immediately, try using the search bar. Once you’ve made your picks, just click on the betting odds offered for that market. The selection will be automatically added to the bet card or bet slip.
Depending on the number of selections, you can stick with single bets or turn your picks into a multi-leg parlay. If the odds shift before you lock in your bet, you'll be prompted to accept any changes. Click the "Place Bet" button to confirm your wager.
5. Claim your bonus
If you are eligible to claim a welcome bonus, make sure you understand the terms and conditions. There may be extra requirements, like a minimum deposit, odds restrictions, or other conditions you have to meet.
When you do claim your bonus, make sure you know how to earn it. Bonus bets often expire within a week or two, and cashback is typically earned as percentages of future bets.
6. Withdraw your payout
If you win the bet, the funds will be instantly credited to your account. The winnings will include the stake plus the profit. To cash out, head to the "Withdraw" section of the sportsbook. Pick a preferred banking method and input the amount you want to withdraw. After you confirm your transaction, the funds typically take between 24 and 72 hours to show up in your account.
Nova Scotia sports betting summary
🚀 Launch date | Feb. 11, 2021 |
🎂 Legal betting age | 19+ |
🏀 Retail sports betting | No |
📱 Online sports betting | Yes |
🎲 Online casino sites | Yes |
🃏 Online poker sites | Yes |
🎮 esports betting | Yes |
🏆 Best available sportsbook | |
📈 Nova Scotia population | 971,000 |
➡ Nova Scotia regulator | Atlantic Lottery Corporation* |
*The Atlantic Lottery Corporation (ALC) is a joint venture between the governments of Nova Scotia and three other neighboring provinces: New Brunswick, Newfoundland and Labrador, and Prince Edward Island.
Nova Scotia sports teams to bet on
Nova Scotia hosts the largest indoor arena in Atlantic Canada, Scotiabank Centre, home to Halifax Mooseheads. While hockey is the most popular sport in the province, soccer is quickly gaining popularity thanks to the continuously good outings of HFX Wanderers FC in the Canadian Premier League (CPL).
As for major professional teams, there are none in the Maritimes. However, plenty of Nova Scotia bettors follow the Toronto Blue Jays or Toronto Raptors as Canada's only franchises in the MLB and NBA. Pro teams from Montreal, like the Canadiens or Alouettes, are also popular.
QMJHL 🏒 | CPL ⚽ | Gaelic sports 🏉 | University sports 🎓 |
---|---|---|---|
Halifax Mooseheads | HFX Wanderers FC | Halifax Gaels | Saint Mary's Huskies |
Cape Breton Eagles |
Exploring sports teams to bet on in Nova Scotia can provide valuable insights into the broader landscape of sports betting, encompassing various sports and categories. Nova Scotians can take the next step by exploring top betting sites that cater to specific sports and other diverse categories of sports betting.
NS sports betting key developments and updates
The latest developments in the Nova Scotia sports betting industry largely focus on implementing Bill C-218. While Pro-Line and offshore sportsbooks give bettors several options, there isn't a rush toward full-scale regulation like in Ontario.
Oct. 3, 2024: The Canadian Senate continues to consider Bill S-269, a piece of legislation that would impact how sports betting operators are allowed to advertise in the country.
Sept. 24, 2024: Offshore sportsbook Bodog makes the decision to leave the Nova Scotia market by October 3, 2024.
June 21, 2022: The ALC launches an online casino in Nova Scotia, a product previously only available in New Brunswick.
Feb 11, 2022: Nova Scotia authorizes single-game betting in the wake of Bill C-218 passing. However, they are the last Canadian province to do so.
June 29, 2021: Bill C-218 receives royal assent in Canada, officially legalizing single-game wagering nationwide. Provincial governments must now decide how to regulate sports betting in their own jurisdictions.
Feb. 25, 2020: Saskatchewan MP Kevin Waugh introduces Bill C-218 as a private member's bill in an attempt to legalize single-game sports betting in Canada, a practice still illegal under the Criminal Code of Canada.
NS single-game sports betting
In 2020, Conservative MP Kevin Waugh introduced Bill C-218 to legalize single-game sports wagering in Canada and allow provinces to oversee it independently. The bill was backed by Senator David Wells and was voted into law on Feb. 17, 2021, by an overwhelming majority.
Nova Scotia was among the last provinces to launch single-game sports betting through its Pro-Line product. Before the new law was put in place, Pro-Line only featured parlay bets with at least three legs. The minimum stake for single-event betting is $2, which you can place on moneylines, spreads, and totals.
Legal sports betting and regulations in NS
Sports betting is legal in Nova Scotia and overseen and regulated by the Nova Scotia Gaming Corporation (NSGC), established under the provisions of the . The NSGC established the Atlantic Lottery Corporation in conjunction with the New Brunswick Lotteries and Gaming Corporation, Prince Edward Island Lotteries Commission, and the Province of Newfoundland and Labrador.
The ALC is the only licensed sports betting provider in Nova Scotia, which they do through their Pro-Line product. It now features both single-game betting (since 2022) and parlay options. Outside of Pro-Line, several offshore and international sportsbooks happily accept customers from Nova Scotia, giving bettors more options.
NS online and mobile sportsbooks
Betting online in Nova Scotia is possible via Pro-Line, provided you have an ALC account. Once you’ve made your picks and chosen the wagering format, select the wager amount, review your bet, and click on the "Confirm" button to complete the transaction. You can also generate a bet slip online and get a QR Code that you must present at an Atlantic Lottery retailer to get your wager approved.
Most offshore sportsbooks offer reliable websites and mobile apps too. You can download these apps directly to your smartphone or tablet, making betting on the go a breeze.
Who can bet on sports in NS?
Let’s look at the relevant rules and regulations related to sports betting in Nova Scotia.
Legal age
You must be at least 19 or older to bet on sports in Nova Scotia. You cannot register an account anywhere if you are younger. Any individuals associated with pro teams or the ALC are barred from betting.
Mobile betting
Mobile betting is allowed in Nova Scotia, allowing you to bet single-game bets with Pro-Line Stadium. When placing a bet on the website or app, the ALC will use various location services and geolocation technology to confirm you are in Nova Scotia.
Retail sportsbooks
Even though the province is home to two casinos, in Halifax and Sydney, neither of them features a retail sportsbook. Wagering in person is allowed at ALC-licensed retailers, like Pro-Line kiosks at convenience stores.
Taxable winnings
Winnings from gambling are tax-exempt in Canada, so you can keep whatever you win on Nova Scotia sports betting sites and platforms. The Canada Revenue Agency does not consider any lottery or gambling winnings as taxable income.
What you can and can't bet on in NS
Interestingly enough, some of the betting restrictions that apply in the United States, such as betting on politics or entertainment events, don’t have a foothold in Nova Scotia. These wagers are usually found under the "Novelty Bets" tab.
It’s crucial to note that Pro-Line and other NS sportsbooks may apply Past Posting to any bets made where the outcome was known before the sales cut-off time. Your bet will be voided, and your stake will be returned entirely. Don't worry, though; this is extremely rare and usually results from an unlikely software glitch.
Politics
Political betting is allowed in Nova Scotia on offshore sportsbooks and Pro-Line. However, only non-Canadian political betting markets are available. So you can speculate on the winner of the 2024 U.S. presidential election, but not who will replace Justin Trudeau as the next Canadian Prime Minister.
Entertainment award ceremonies
Placing a bet on a movie to win Best Picture at the Oscars or your favorite musical artist to win a Grammy is supported in Nova Scotia.
esports
Pro-Line and offshore online sportsbooks both allow betting on esports in Nova Scotia. You may have to shop around to find a sportsbook offering the market you want, as esports betting is still a niche market.
Responsible sports betting in Nova Scotia
The Nova Scotia Gaming Corporation (NSGC) is committed to minimizing the negative aspects of gambling. A voluntary-self exclusion list is , part of a wider PlayWise program to help protect individuals susceptible to gambling harms.
Another notable resource from NSGC for responsible play is Your Best Bet, where you can learn how gambling works and get some tips on staying within your gambling budget. Indeed, managing your bankroll correctly and learning how to read odds are vitally important aspects of playing.
List of NS resources
Nova Scotia gambling hotline: 1-888-347-8888
Sports betting across Canada
While you stay up-to-date with sports betting developments in Nova Scotia, don't miss out on exploring other top Canada betting sites opportunities across the country. Keep yourself informed about trends shaping the broader sports betting landscape across other provinces:
Provincial Sports Betting | ||
---|---|---|
Alberta sports betting | British Columbia sports betting | Manitoba sports betting |
Nova Scotia sports betting | Quebec sports betting | Ontario sports betting |
Sports betting in other regions
Ready to place your bets? Check out our list of the top sports betting sites in the US, Canada, Ontario, and the U.K. for the best odds and bonuses:
US:
UK:
For a more in-depth breakdown, including a full list of legal DFS states, check out our guide to the best DFS sites.
Nova Scotia sports betting FAQs
Is sports betting legal in Nova Scotia?
Yes, sports betting is legal in Nova Scotia under the provisions of the 1994–1995 Gaming Control Act. Single-game sports betting was legalized in Canada nationwide in 2022.
When did sports betting go live in Nova Scotia?
The earliest forms of legal lottery-style sports betting can be traced back to the 1980s. Today, betting on sports can be done conveniently through desktop websites or mobile apps.
Where can I bet on sports in Nova Scotia?
You can bet on sports in Nova Scotia using NSGC’s Pro-Line platform and several reputable offshore online sportsbooks.
How many online sportsbooks are there in Nova Scotia?
There is only one regulated online sportsbook in Nova Scotia — ProLine Stadium. The legislators have not yet sanctioned third-party operators. However, several offshore sportsbooks operate in the province and gladly accept NS customers.
What sportsbooks are legal in Nova Scotia?
There are no sportsbooks legal in Nova Scotia other than Pro-Line, a lottery-run sports betting platform that lacks many of the functionalities of standard books. However, popular offshore sportsbooks like Sports Interaction, bet365, and William Hill also operate in the province.
Can you bet on sports teams based in Nova Scotia?
Yes, you can bet on sports teams based in Nova Scotia. However, Nova Scotia does not host any top-level professional teams (with all due respect to HFX Wanderers, who technically play in Canada's top domestic soccer league).
Popular "local" betting options are the Toronto Blue Jays or Toronto Raptors, Canada's only MLB and NBA franchises, respectively. The Montreal Canadians are the closest NHL team, making them a popular betting choice for East Cost fans.
Do you have to live in Nova Scotia to bet online?
No. You don’t have to live in Nova Scotia to bet online, but you do have to be within its borders at the time of play.
How do you place a sports bet in Nova Scotia?
First, you must register an account and deposit funds in a sportsbook of your choice. See our list above for the best options. Then browse the betting lobby and place your bets.
Are sports betting apps legal in Nova Scotia?
Popular betting apps like FanDuel and DraftKings do not operate in Nova Scotia. However, Pro-Line and several international sportsbooks offer legal sports betting apps for bettors in NS.
What is the minimum age to bet in Nova Scotia?
The minimum gambling age in Nova Scotia is 19.