Permits & Building Codes
Questions about New Brunswick building permits, National Building Code 2020 (NB adoption) requirements, Technical Inspection Services, and municipal/RSC inspections
What ceiling height do I need to finish my basement to code in New Brunswick?
Minimum ceiling height for a finished basement in New Brunswick is 1.95 meters (6 feet 5 inches) under the National Building Code of Canada 2020 editi...
What are the setback requirements for a detached garage in Fredericton?
Detached garage setbacks in Fredericton are governed by the city's zoning bylaw, with requirements varying by residential zone. Most residential zones...
Are there separate permit requirements for the Anglophone and Francophone school districts?
No, school district language designation doesn't affect building permit requirements — permits are issued based on geographic location (municipality o...
What permits do I need to convert my attic into a bedroom in Fredericton?
Converting an attic to a bedroom in Fredericton requires a building permit from the City of Fredericton Development Services department, plus electric...
How long after a renovation is done before I get the final inspection in New Brunswick?
Final inspections in New Brunswick typically happen within 1-3 business days of your contractor's request, but the timeline depends on which authority...
Do I need a permit to install a wood stove in my house in Miramichi?
Yes, you absolutely need permits to install a wood stove in Miramichi — both a building permit from the city and inspections from the province. For y...
How long does the building permit process take in the city of Fredericton?
Building permit processing in Fredericton typically takes 3-6 weeks for most residential projects, though complex renovations or new construction can...
What's the process for getting an electrical permit through NB Power?
All electrical wiring permits in New Brunswick are issued by NB Power, regardless of which utility serves your area — this includes customers of NB Po...
What are the ventilation requirements for a kitchen range hood in New Brunswick?
Kitchen range hoods in New Brunswick must comply with the National Building Code of Canada 2020 edition, which became effective May 1, 2025 for new ap...
Can my contractor pull the building permit on my behalf in New Brunswick?
Yes, your contractor can absolutely pull the building permit on your behalf in New Brunswick — this is actually the most common approach for major ren...
What are the fire separation requirements for a basement apartment in New Brunswick?
Fire separation requirements for basement apartments in New Brunswick are governed by the National Building Code of Canada 2020 edition (effective May...
Do I need a permit to put up a fence in Moncton?
Yes, you'll need a permit for most fences in Moncton — the city requires permits for fences over 1.2 meters (4 feet) in height, and there are specific...
How much should I set aside for building permit fees in Fredericton?
Building permit fees in Fredericton typically range from $200 for minor renovations up to $8,000+ for major new construction projects. The City of Fre...
Do I need a development permit for an addition in Saint John?
Yes, you'll need both a development permit and a building permit for an addition in Saint John. The City of Saint John requires development permits fo...
Can I convert my basement into a legal rental unit in Fredericton?
Yes, you can likely convert your basement into a legal rental unit in Fredericton, but you'll need to navigate both zoning approval and building code...
Do I need technical inspection services approval for gas work in New Brunswick?
Yes, absolutely — all gas work in New Brunswick requires both a licensed gas fitter and Technical Inspection Services (TIS) approval. This is a strict...
What happens if I do renovation work without a permit in New Brunswick?
Renovating without a required permit in New Brunswick can lead to serious legal, financial, and safety consequences that often cost far more than the...