Building code

New Brunswick aligns all building construction and demolition standards with both National Building and Energy Codes of Canada, including the inspection appeal process.

Overview

The provincial government develops regulatory framework for building departments but does not oversee their duties on an ongoing basis. Issuing permits and conducting inspections is the responsibility of the local building department.

However, the provincial government oversees appeals for specific issues between property owners and building inspectors.

Building code

The National Building Code of Canada 2020 and the National Energy Code for Buildings 2020, published by National Research Council and developed by the Canadian Commission on Building and Fire Codes, sets out technical provisions for the design and construction of new buildings. It also applies to the alteration, change of use and demolition of existing buildings. 

It is important to note that both documents are adopted at energy efficiency tier two:

Technical bulletins

Technical bulletins provide guidance on how to interpret and apply the Building Code Administration Act, its regulations, codes and other related provincial acts. This is to ensure a harmonized approach to interpretation and application throughout the province. 

Appeals

A person who disagrees with the technical interpretation of the building code on an order issued under the Building Code Administration Act may appeal to the Building Code Administrator. 

The appeal must be made within 10 days of the date of service of the order and a decision is provided within 14 days. If someone wishes to appeal for any reason other than the technical interpretation of the code, they must appeal to the Court of Kings Bench. 

If you are interested in filing an appeal for technical interpretation, see the form and detailed explanation within the document to help guide you through the process.

More information

  • Building Code Administration Act

    This act applies to the design, construction, alteration, replacement and demolition of buildings in the province.

  • Canadian Board for Harmonized Construction Codes

    The Canadian Board for Harmonized Construction Codes is responsible developing Canada’s National Model Codes, which contain objectives related to health, safety, accessibility, the protection of buildings from fire or structural damage and the protection of the environment. 

  • General Regulation

    This regulation outlines the application of both National Codes of Canada and mandates before starting construction or demolition of buildings.

  • Barrier-Free Design Building Code

    This code establishes standards to ensure public buildings are accessible to physically disabled persons. It prescribes specific requirements for barrier-free design, replacing previous standards in the Building Code.