What are the rules for building a garden suite in Moncton?

Garden suites in Moncton are permitted as accessory dwelling units under the city's zoning bylaw, but you'll need to meet specific requirements and obtain proper permits before construction.

The City of Moncton allows secondary dwelling units (including garden suites) in most residential zones, but there are important size, setback, and design requirements. Contact Moncton's Planning & Development department at (506) 856-4375 or info.plans@moncton.ca to confirm your specific property's zoning and get the current requirements, as these rules have been updated in recent years.

Key Requirements You'll Likely Face

Building permits are mandatory for any garden suite construction. Moncton handles its own building inspection, so you'll apply directly to the city rather than through a Regional Service Commission. The structure must comply with the National Building Code of Canada 2020 edition (effective May 1, 2025 for new applications in NB), including Tier 2 energy efficiency standards for new construction.

Size and placement restrictions typically include maximum floor area (often around 40% of the main dwelling or 90 square meters), minimum setbacks from property lines (usually 1.2-3 meters depending on the side), and height limits. The garden suite usually cannot be taller than the main house and must maintain the residential character of the neighbourhood.

Essential safety requirements include separate electrical service or proper fire-rated separation if sharing electrical, independent heating system, egress windows in all bedrooms, interconnected smoke and carbon monoxide alarms throughout both the main house and garden suite, and proper fire separation between units if they're connected.

Utility and Site Considerations

Electrical work requires permits from NB Power (1-800-615-0522) and must be completed by a TIS-licensed electrician. The final inspection comes from NB Dept. of Justice and Public Safety — Technical Inspection Services at 1-888-659-3222. Same requirements apply for any plumbing connections — licensed plumber and TIS permits required.

Parking requirements often mandate additional spaces for the garden suite, and you'll need to ensure proper site drainage since Moncton's clay soils can create foundation challenges. Consider the high water table in many Moncton areas when planning your foundation depth and basement (if applicable).

Your next step should be scheduling a pre-application meeting with Moncton Planning & Development to review your specific property and discuss the feasibility. They can walk you through the exact zoning requirements, required drawings, and permit timeline. Expect the full process from application to occupancy to take 3-6 months, with construction costs typically ranging $150,000-$300,000 depending on size and finish level in the current New Brunswick market.

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