Properties in unincorporated areas (LSDs) generally do not have zoning. However, they must still follow New Brunswick regulations such as:
• Provincial Building Regulations 81-126 and 2002-45
• Barrier-Free Design Building Code Regulation 2011-61
• Set-Back Regulation 84-292 (for developments near provincial roads)

For new habitable structures, you may also need a septic system permit from the provincial Department of Health.

You can request a Confirmation of Zoning, a signed letter from a Development Officer stating your property’s zoning and a map with its PID (Property Identification Number).

There are two options:
• Zoning only
• Zoning plus confirmation of whether a proposed use is permitted

Fee: $100 per PID (see Fees section). Some properties may include multiple PID numbers.

Request via:
• Fax: 506-778-5360
• Phone: 506-778-5359 / 1-855-647-5359
• Email or in person (see Contact & Location section)

To check on your own, visit the Zoning Maps, By Laws and Regulations page.

Most projects require four inspections, though this can vary. Speak with a Building Inspector to confirm what your specific project needs. It’s your responsibility to notify the inspector when you’re ready for each inspection.

Inspection stages:
Preliminary Inspection (48 hours before starting work):
•Excavation depth
•Removal of organic materials
•Soil type/compaction
•Setbacks
Pre-Backfill Inspection (48 hours before backfilling foundation):
•Drain tile and cover placement
•Damproofing (e.g., tar)
•Foundation depth
•Concrete quality
•Backfill materials
•Footing/wall sizes
•Anchor bolts
Structural Inspection (72 hours before interior wall finish):
•Structural elements (beams, trusses, framing, etc.)
•Insulation, vapour/air barrier
•Ventilation
•Stair framing
•Bedroom window sizes
•Backfill height (exterior)
•Roofing and siding
Final Inspection (10 days before completion):
•Railings and guards
•Smoke alarms
•Garage door hinges (self-closing)
•Exterior decks and stairs
•Ventilation systems

Fees vary depending on the location, value, and type of work. The Fees section outlines the current rates for municipalities, Rural Communities, and Local Service Districts (LSDs).

For example:
• In unincorporated areas (LSDs), fees are combined.
• In the City of Miramichi, there are separate fees for building and development permits.
• In the Rural Community of Upper Miramichi, the development permit fee for a single-unit dwelling is $20.

Building permit fee formula:
[Total Value of the Project] × [Rate for Municipality/Rural Community] = [Permit Fee]

Included in the ‘Total Value of the Project’:
• Materials
• Labour
• Mechanical systems (e.g., heating and air exchangers)
• Any costs related to the National Building Code (NBC)

Excluded from the value:
• Appliances
• Landscaping
• Furniture

To get a building/development permit, you must submit a Building/Development Permit Application Intake Form and provide detailed information about your project. See our Online Applications page. Required documentation—such as plans, drawings, or other approvals—depends on your project type. Applications typically fall into one of two categories:
• Houses & Smaller Residential Projects
• More Complex Projects

Building/development permits are required throughout the Province of New Brunswick. Below is a general list of projects that require a permit. However, local building by-laws and zoning regulations may provide exceptions. If you’re unsure, please contact us and ask to speak with a Building Inspector.

Examples of developments requiring permits:
• Accessory buildings (e.g., detached garages, sheds, baby barns)
• Decks, ramps, and stairs
• Fences
• Swimming pool additions
• Signs
• Electrical work (e.g., replacing an electrical panel)
• Residential buildings (e.g., houses, apartment buildings, mini and mobile homes)
• Commercial, industrial, and institutional buildings
• Additions
• Certain types of renovations (e.g., structural changes)

As the property owner, you’re responsible for obtaining the required permits. If a contractor or agent is applying on your behalf, ensure they complete the Applicant Authorization Form (available in the Forms section) before starting the project.