What's the maximum size for a garden suite on a residential lot in Fredericton?

Garden suite regulations in Fredericton are governed by the city's zoning bylaw, and the maximum size depends on your specific residential zone and lot characteristics. The City of Fredericton has been updating its approach to secondary dwelling units, but specific size limits vary by zone.

Contact Fredericton's Development Services department at (506) 460-2020 to get the exact requirements for your property. They'll need to know your address to determine your zoning designation and applicable rules. Each residential zone (R1, R2, R3, etc.) has different provisions for accessory dwelling units, and factors like lot coverage, setbacks, and height restrictions all play a role in determining what's possible.

Generally speaking, most municipalities in New Brunswick limit garden suites to ensure they remain secondary to the main dwelling. Common restrictions include maximum floor areas of 40-60% of the main house size, height limits of 1.5-2 stories, and specific setback requirements from property lines. Fredericton's rules will also specify parking requirements — typically one additional space per garden suite.

Even if your proposed garden suite meets zoning requirements, you'll need a building permit from the City of Fredericton since this is new construction. The structure must comply with the National Building Code of Canada 2020 edition (effective May 1, 2025 for new applications in NB, with mandatory Tier 2 energy efficiency). This means proper foundation below the 4+ foot frost line, appropriate insulation values, egress windows in bedrooms, and interconnected smoke and carbon monoxide alarms.

All electrical work requires a licensed electrical contractor (TIS licence) and a wiring permit from NB Power (1-800-615-0522). Plumbing connections need a licensed plumber and TIS permit. If you're adding gas service, that requires a licensed gas fitter and TIS inspection.

The permitting process typically takes 4-6 weeks once you submit complete plans. Budget $2,000-$5,000 for permit fees depending on the suite's size and complexity. Start by calling Fredericton Development Services — they can walk you through the specific requirements for your lot and help you understand what's feasible before you invest in detailed design work.