Development and Building Permits

A building permit or development permit is required throughout the Province for the construction of new structures, buildings, or major excavation, as well as, the demolition, relocation, alteration or replacement of an existing building or structure.

The primary role of the Development Permit / Building Permit is to protect the property owner and the community by assuring that the proposed development conforms with the objectives set in the Rural Plan and 2015 National Building Code of Canada. 

Property owners are responsible for obtaining the necessary permit(s). If you choose to have your contractor take out the permit on your behalf, make sure that it’s done before the project gets started.

Permits are required for:

  • Constructing a new home or accessory building (e.g. garage or shed).
  • Additions to an existing home: rooms, attached garage, sundeck, fence, pool, carport, railings/guards, etc.
  • Demolition.
  • Installing retaining walls.
  • Installing new rooms in a basement or attic.
  • Altering structural partitions.
  • A change in use.
  • When the work requires the issuance of an Electrical Permit.

Permits are not required for:

  • Re-roofing.
  • Painting or wallpapering.
  • Plaster repairs or drywall patching.
  • Window replacement of the same size or smaller – consult with your window supplier to ensure egress windows for bedrooms.
  • Insulating finished floor replacement.
  • Replacing the exterior cladding of residential properties, as long as the new cladding meets fire safety requirements and has been approved.

Submitting an Application for a Building / Development Permit

After determining a permit is required, the next step is identifying which type of permit applies to your project.  

  • DEVELOPMENT PERMIT: Required for accessory buildings up to 55 square meters (592 square feet) or buildings up to 58.06 square meters (625 square feet) for overnight accommodations.

  • BUILDING PERMIT: Any structure that is greater than the sizes requiring a Development Permit.

Application Form: Application for Building / Development Permit (PDF)

All applications must include the following:

  1. A set-back/access certificate from the Department of Transportation & Infrastructure (email dti-mti.district4@gnb.ca or call 506-643-7463).
  2. An approval to install an on-site septic system (contact a licensed installer).
  3. A civic number or confirmation of application for a civic number from New Brunswick 911 Bureau.
  4. A site plan showing lot dimensions, the proposed construction, distances from property lines, distances from nearby wetlands/watercourse, existing structures, existing or proposed driveway, and abutting roads (sample).
  5. Building plans.
  6. Approvals from other government agencies, if required (e.g. Watercourse or Wetland Alterations Permit).
  7. Completed building permit application form.
  8. Applicable fees.

Email completed form and documents to information@fundyregion.ca

Questions or to pay fees, call 506-738-2014.

-Service Area

NOTE: As of January 1st, 2023, Musquash is serviced by the Southwest New Brunswick Service Commission