Building Permits
Before you start a project, check if you need a permit. Building permits help ensure your work is safe and meets required codes and regulations.
When You Need a Building Permit
- New construction
- Renovations and extensions to houses or accessory buildings (such as sheds)
- Additions, including apartments
- Relocation of existing buildings
- Driveways and other property improvements
- Building a deck, fence or pool
- Structural/floor plan modifications
- Occupancy changes
- Renovating an office space
- Erecting a sign
- Demolitions
Inspection Process
Building Inspection staff will review your plans and carry out inspections to make sure construction meets the National Building Code, the St. John’s Building By-Law and other relevant regulations.
Required Inspections cover things like proper placement of structures on the lot, structural integrity, fire and life safety requirements, and more.
Larger projects may require multiple inspections at mandatory stages, listed on the back of your permit. It is the property owner’s responsibility to request and ensure all inspections are completed and approved.
Location
Buildings and related structures must be located on lots that are approved for their intended use. If your lot is not approved for the intended use, you must submit a Planning and Development Application.
Buildings must also be situated on the lot so that all setback requirements for the particular zone are met (front, rear and side yards) and easements must be avoided.
Minor Repair
For minor repair work, permits can usually be issued in two to five days. Examples include, but not limited to:
- Installing siding (not in a Heritage Area)
- Repairing steps or fences
- Re-paving an existing driveway
- Exterior painting
Apply for a Building Permit
You must have your permit before work begins. Even if a contractor is doing the job, the property owner is responsible for obtaining the permit.
You must include supporting documentation with the application, like building plans, surveys, and other specifications. Required documents vary depending on the scope of work.
Additional Forms, Checklists and Guidelines
Accessory Buildings
Are you adding an accessory building, like a garage or shed, to your property? In addition to your building permit application, you must also complete the Accessory Building Specifications Form and Accessory Building Checklist.
Decks
Are you adding, replacing, changing the size of, or relocating a deck? In addition to your building permit application, you must complete the Deck Specifications Form and Deck Checklist.
Fences
Are you adding, replacing, changing the length of, or relocating a fence? In addition to your building permit application, you must complete the Fence Checklist.
Pools
Are you adding, replacing or relocating a pool? In addition to your building permit application, you must complete the Pool Checklist.
Universal Design Guidelines
Building or renovating a home? Consider adding Universal Design features to make your space more accessible, usable, and future-ready. Check out the Universal Design Guide for Accessible and Inclusive Homes and the Universal Design Network of Newfoundland and Labrador Home Building Checklist.
These standards are not required, but they are encouraged to help create homes that work for everyone, regardless of age, ability, or life stage.
Housing Design Catalogue
The Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation's Housing Design Catalogue helps make building homes faster and more affordable. This resource includes seven pre-designed housing options, ranging from backyard suites to fourplexes, stacked townhouses and a six-plex. Developed by architecture and engineering professionals, the designs align with local building codes and development regulations.
The plans are available to property owners at no cost and can help reduce design time and costs. They are designed to be accessible, energy efficient and climate resilient. While generally aligned with local requirements, site-specific review will still be required as part of the development and building permit process.
Permit Fees
One- and Two-Family Dwellings (including additions):
Permit fees are based on the area of construction:
- $8 per square metre for all development above grade
- $5 per square metre for development below grade and attached garages
- $3 per square metre for unfinished below-grade areas
A $1,000 refundable landscaping deposit is required prior to permit approval or issuance.
For properties without municipal services, a $2,000 refundable culvert/septic deposit is also required.
All Other Construction (Including demolition, renovations, repairs, fences, accessory buildings and other structures):
Permit fees are based on the estimated construction value:
- Up to $100,000: $9 per $1,000 of construction value (minimum fee: $50)
- Over $100,000: $9 per $1,000 for the first $100,000, and $7.20 per $1,000 thereafter
Additional Information:
- Separate permits are required for electrical and plumbing work
- Final construction values may be reviewed upon project completion, and fees adjusted if necessary
Permit fees can be paid in person at the Permit Counter or by phone at 709-576-8694.
The Permit Counter is located on the third floor of the John J. Murphy Building (City Hall Annex), which can be accessed via the pedway on the second floor of City Hall, 10 New Gower Street.
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