Unassigned Seat Request

An unassigned seat, previously called a courtesy seat, is available when there is space on an existing bus route and a seat can be made available to students living outside the distance for eligible busing for their school catchment. Families who are already eligible for busing do not need to submit an unassigned seating request.

It is important that families understand the following guidelines for unassigned seating:

  • Unassigned seats are only given out after all eligible students are routed first (typically October).
  •  Students will be assigned to the closest stop in the eligible bus zone on an existing bus route with an existing stop location.
  • The bus schedule and routing will not be altered to accommodate unassigned seat requests.
  • The seat is provided with the understanding that the seat may be needed for new families to the community in the future who are eligible for transportation.
  • The seat is only provided for the current school year, and seats must be requested annually.

The application period for unassigned seats for 2024-25 is now closed. If you would like to request an unassigned seat outside this period, please email us at the address corresponding to your location:
E-mail Nova Transportation (East Hants)
E-mail Celtic Transportation
E-mail Cobequid Transportation
E-mail Chignecto Transportation

For general inquiries:  E-mail Transportation or call 1-866-428-4696.

When will I find out if my child has an unassigned seat?

Unassigned seats are only given out after all eligible students are routed. A member of the Transportation Team will contact you in October with a response to your request.

Please remember that this bus seat is provided with the understanding that the seat may be needed in the future for new families to the community who are eligible for student transportation.

An unassigned seat may be approved if the following conditions are met:

  • Newly registered bus eligible students are routed first. 
  • Students will be assigned to the closest stop in the eligible bus zone on an existing bus route with an existing stop location.
  • No bus stops will be created within the distance criteria.
  • The bus schedule and routing will not be altered to accommodate unassigned seat requests.
  • The requested bus services the school the student attends.
  • The seat is provided with the understanding that the seat may be needed for new families to the community in the future who are eligible for transportation.
  • The seat is only provided for the current school year, and seats must be requested annually.
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