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The Municipality of the District of Yarmouth was incorporated in 1879 when provincial legislation brought municipal incorporation to all of Nova Scotia. There was one major change in 1890 when the Town of Yarmouth became an independent, but complementary, municipal jurisdiction. The Municipality lies in the western part of Yarmouth County in Nova Scotia. It covers an area of 593.28 sq. kms [396.66 sq. mi.]. On the north and east it is bordered by the Municipalities of Clare (Digby County) and Argyle and on the west and south by the Bay of Fundy. For map view click here.

The coastline to the west is a winding sequence of sandy beaches, low cliffs, and small working harbours sheltered by protective breakwaters. Painters and photographers are drawn to the scenic fishing villages of Pembroke and Sandford, which may have the world's smallest drawbridge.

To the south where three rocky points of land project into the sea and expanses of salt marsh meadow soften the shoreline, the coastal landscape is more dramatic. In stormy weather and in fog, the maze of capes, islands and hidden shoals endangered seamen navigating Schooner Passage and necessitated building a network of lighthouses of which the Yarmouth Light at Cape Forchu is the most celebrated.