Retrieve full schema and metadata for a Nova Scotia Open Data dataset by its 8-character identifier (e.g. '3nka-59nz'). Returns all column field names, data types, and descriptions — essential before calling query_dataset so you know the exact field names to use in $select and $where clauses.
Part of the Nova Scotia Data Explorer server.
Free to start. No card required.
AI agents call get_dataset_metadata to retrieve information from Nova Scotia Data Explorer without modifying any data. This is common in research, monitoring, and reporting workflows where the agent needs context before taking action. Because read operations don't change state, they are generally safe to allow without restrictions -- but you may still want rate limits to control API costs.
Even though get_dataset_metadata only reads data, uncontrolled read access can leak sensitive information or rack up API costs. An agent caught in a retry loop could make thousands of calls per minute. A rate limit gives you a safety net without blocking legitimate use.
Read-only tools are safe to allow by default. No rate limit needed unless you want to control costs.
{
"version": "1",
"default": "deny",
"tools": {
"get_dataset_metadata": {}
}
}See the full Nova Scotia Data Explorer policy for all 4 tools.
These attack patterns abuse exactly the kind of access get_dataset_metadata gives an agent. Each links to the full case and the policy that stops it:
Other read tools across the catalogue. The same approach applies to each: allow, with a rate cap to control cost.
Retrieve full schema and metadata for a Nova Scotia Open Data dataset by its 8-character identifier (e.g. '3nka-59nz'). Returns all column field names, data types, and descriptions — essential before calling query_dataset so you know the exact field names to use in $select and $where clauses.. It is categorised as a Read tool in the Nova Scotia Data Explorer MCP Server, which means it retrieves data without modifying state.
Register the Nova Scotia Data Explorer MCP server in PolicyLayer and add a rule for get_dataset_metadata: allow, deny, rate-limit, or require approval. Point your MCP client at the PolicyLayer proxy URL and the rule is enforced on every call, before it reaches Nova Scotia Data Explorer. Nothing to install.
get_dataset_metadata is a Read tool with low risk. Read-only tools are generally safe to allow by default.
Yes. Add a rate_limit block to the get_dataset_metadata rule in your PolicyLayer policy. For example, setting max: 10 and window: 60 limits the tool to 10 calls per minute. Rate limits are tracked per agent session and reset automatically.
Set action: deny in the PolicyLayer policy for get_dataset_metadata. The AI agent will receive a policy violation error and cannot call the tool. You can also include a reason field to explain why the tool is blocked.
get_dataset_metadata is provided by the Nova Scotia Data Explorer MCP server (https://scotiasignal.ca/mcp). PolicyLayer sits as a proxy in front of this server to enforce policies before tool calls reach the server.
Deterministic rules across all 4 Nova Scotia Data Explorer tools. Per-identity grants. Full audit log. Live in minutes. Nothing to install.
Free to start. No card required.
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