Permits and authorizations
Before completing a permit application, we recommend reviewing the following information to properly prepare your project and facilitate the online submission process. This information will help you clarify your project and gather the required documents, which will contribute to faster processing of your application.
Our staff is available to assist you at every stage of the process. They will help you define your project clearly and gather all the necessary information.
If you have all required documents, you can submit a permit application online.
Online Building Permit – Important Information
The City of Edmundston now uses the online platform Cloudpermit to process building permit applications.
When you access the platform for the first time, you will be asked to create an account. This same account can be used for all future permit applications.
With Cloudpermit, you can track the progress of your application, make payments online and communicate with inspectors easily, from the comfort of your home.
How do I apply for a permit ? ▾
To facilitate the processing and submission of documents, building permit applications are now submitted entirely online.
The application process depends on the type of work planned. Make sure you have all the required documents before starting your application. See the Required Documents section below to confirm.
The Building Permit Application form must be completed and submitted online, along with all required supporting documents.
A step-by-step tutorial and an explanatory video will be available soon to guide you through completing and submitting your application online.
Required Documents ▾
The following documents are required for the review of your application:
- A location certificate or a scaled site plan of the property and the new construction showing its location in relation to property lines
- Professional-quality, scaled plans illustrating the current situation and the proposed work (room dimensions, doors and windows, ceiling heights, materials, smoke detectors, ventilation equipment, etc.)
- A cost estimate or detailed breakdown of the work costs, including taxes
- Any plan, elevation and section illustrating the proposed layout
- Any other document relevant to the application review
Depending on the type of construction or renovation, the permit application must be submitted online using the designated platform.
Accessory Building ▾
| Project Type | Construction, expansion, relocation or modification of an accessory building (detached garage, shed) |
|---|---|
| Permit Fee | $50 for buildings over 600 sq ft. The Building Code rate applies ($25 for the first $1,000, plus $5 for each additional $1,000 of work). Payable by credit card. |
| Permit Duration | 1 year |
| Issuance Time | 48 hours |
| Required Documents | Site plan showing dimensions and distances from property lines and other buildings. In some cases, complete construction plans may be required. |
Swimming Pool, Fence and Other Accessory Structures ▾
| Project Type | Above-ground and in-ground pools, fences |
|---|---|
| Permit Fee | $50 |
| Permit Duration | 1 year |
| Issuance Time | 48 hours |
| Required Documents | Above-ground pool: Site plan including the location and height of the enclosure (fence), deck dimensions (if applicable) and equipment. In-ground pool: Scaled site plan including the location and height of the enclosure (if applicable) and equipment. Fences: Height, materials and precise location. |
Addition ▾
| Project Type | Addition to a main building (habitable or non-habitable rooms) including foyer, four-season sunroom, conversion of an attached garage, carport or attached garage addition |
|---|---|
| Permit Fee | $50, plus $25 for the first $1,000, and $5 for each additional $1,000 of work |
| Refundable Deposit | $250 (Part 9 – piers/screw piles), $500 (Part 9 – concrete foundation), $1,000 (Part 3 – concrete foundation) |
| Permit Duration | 1 year |
| Processing Time | 5 business days |
| Required Documents | Site plan sketch and complete construction plans (wall sections, etc.) |
Transformation ▾
| Project Type | Modification to a main building without expansion (decks, basement finishing, new rooms, door/window openings, commercial or industrial renovations) |
|---|---|
| Permit Fee | $25 for the first $1,000, plus $5 for each additional $1,000. An additional $50 applies if a change of use is included. |
| Permit Duration | 1 year |
| Issuance Time | 48 hours |
| Required Documents | Construction plans or sketches depending on the scope of work. Architectural plans may be required. |
Repair ▾
| Project Type | Replacement of deteriorated building elements with identical or equivalent materials (siding, doors, windows) |
|---|---|
| Permit Fee | $25 for the first $1,000, plus $5 for each additional $1,000 of work |
| Permit Duration | 1 year |
| Issuance Time | 48 hours |
| Required Documents | Construction plans or sketches depending on the work. Architectural plans may be required. |
New Construction ▾
| Project Type | Construction of a new principal building (house, apartment building, commercial, industrial) |
|---|---|
| Permit Fee | $50, plus $25 for the first $1,000, and $5 for each additional $1,000 |
| Refundable Deposit | $1,500 (Part 9) or $5,000 (Part 3) |
| Permit Duration | 1 year |
| Issuance Time | 10 business days |
| Required Documents | Site plan (prepared by a land surveyor where required) and complete construction plans |
Change of Use (New Occupancy) ▾
| Project Type | Conversion of an existing space to a new use without renovations, new occupant or change of business name |
|---|---|
| Permit Fee | $50 |
| Permit Duration | 1 year |
| Issuance Time | 48 hours |
| Required Documents | Space layout plan. Architectural plans may be required. |
Signage ▾
| Project Type | New signs or modifications to existing signs |
|---|---|
| Permit Fee | $50 |
| Permit Duration | 1 year |
| Issuance Time | 48 hours |
| Required Documents | Sign plan including dimensions, materials, colours and placement |
Demolition ▾
| Project Type | Partial or complete demolition of a main or accessory building, or an in-ground swimming pool |
|---|---|
| Permit Fee | $50 ($2,500 if undertaken under the Unsightly and Hazardous Sites Act) |
| Permit Duration | 1 year |
| Issuance Time | 48 hours |
| Required Documents | Site reuse plan |
Earthworks (Cut and Fill) ▾
| Project Type | Alteration of ground level |
|---|---|
| Permit Fee | $50 |
| Permit Duration | 1 year |
| Issuance Time | 48 hours |
| Required Documents | Ground level surveys before and after work, cross-sections before and after work, engineer’s certificate for structures over 2 m |
What is the zoning designation for my property ? ▾
You can verify whether your project complies with zoning requirements, including distance from property lines, maximum land coverage and other applicable standards set out in Zoning By-law 33R2024
In effect since June 18, 2024, By-law 33R2024 aims to provide a more sustainable framework for development and construction.
Its goal: more sustainable planning and construction.
Its objectives are:
- Simplicity, accessibility and predictability of development
- Beautification of the city: trees, architecture, differentiation of sectors and signage
- Quality living environments: uses, density, landscaping and access
- Growth of commercial sectors: city centre, development hubs and neighbourhood access
- Sustainable solutions: environment, landscaped areas, impermeable surfaces, fill and excavation, master plans and construction materials
You can also obtain information about your property's zoning by consulting the City of Edmundston's interactive zoning map. This tool allows you to identify the zone in which your property is located and the permitted uses.
Who can apply for a permit ? ▾
The landowner or any other person authorized by the landowner may apply for a permit.
If you are not the landowner, you must provide a signed Land owner Statement authorizing you to act on their behalf.
Do I need a permit for my work ? ▾
You do not need a permit to perform certain routine maintenance or non-structural repairs not exceeding $5,000 (excluding taxes), such as:
- Roof repairs
- Replacement of same size doors in same location
- Decks, verandas, platforms, balconies, and stairs repairs
- Recreational equipment and play structures installation
- Painting and wall repairs
- Flooring replacement (carpet, hardwood, etc.)
- Heating, ventilation, and electrical equipment maintenance and installation
- Gutters or downspouts nstallation or replacement
- Countertops or cabinets replacement
- Sinks, toilets, bathtubs, or showers replacement
- Temporary carport installation
Even when a permit is not required, all applicable standards must be met. Construction work must comply with the requirements of the National Building Code and all applicable municipal by-laws. For more information, consult the zoning by-law, the building by-law, or contact the City.
A permit is required if the work affects the foundation, modifies the structure of the dwelling, increases the floor area, or adds a new use.
Is a permit required for the development of a new business ? ▾
Yes. A commercial development permit is required for any new business, even when no construction work is necessary.
This permit applies in the following situations:
- Occupying a vacant space
- Changing the use of an existing space
- Interior renovations without structural modifications
- Adjustments related to business operations
The review of the application verifies the project's compliance, particularly with regard to:
- Zoning and permitted uses
- Safety and accessibility
- Municipal regulations
- The National Building Code, where applicable
Permit fee: $50
It is important to obtain this permit before opening the business or beginning operations, even if no building permit is required.
For any questions or to confirm whether your project is subject to this requirement, please contact the Development Department at 506.739.2125
When can I start my work ? ▾
You can begin your work as soon as your application has been approved and paid for.
Payment can be made online by credit card here: mybill.edmundston.ca
You can also pay in person at the Edmundston City Hall's cash counter, located at 7 Canada Road, by debit card or cash.
The permit will then be sent to you by email. You will need to print it and display it in a visible location at the construction site.
How much does a permit cost ? ▾
Permit related to the application of the zoning by-law
- Pool, landscaping, new use, construction of new accessory buildings: $50
Building permit
- $25 for the first $1,000 of work, plus $5 for each additional $1,000, calculated on the current market value or on the total estimated cost of the planned work, including labour and construction materials (minimum cost: $25).
- For new construction and additions, the permit fee is $50 for the first $1,000 of work, plus $5 for each additional $1,000.
- Permit renewal: $50
These costs are cumulative for projects involving both development and construction.
Refundable deposit ▾
A refundable deposit is required depending on the nature of the project and the applicable section of the National Building Code.
- $250 – Principal building addition subject to Part 9 of the Code using concrete piers or screw piles
- $500 – Principal building addition subject to Part 9 of the Code on a concrete foundation
- $1,000 – Principal building addition subject to Part 3 of the Code on a concrete foundation
- $1,500 – New construction subject to Part 9 of the Code
- $5,000 – New construction subject to Part 3 of the Code
Inspections ▾
Any permit holder or applicant for whom a refundable deposit is required must comply with applicable requirements and allow for the required inspections.
The person listed as the applicant on the permit must provide a minimum of two (2) business days’ notice to allow the inspector to carry out, when required, the following inspections:
- A pre-fill inspection after the construction of footings and foundations
- An inspection of structural components, including framing, insulation and preliminary plumbing, ventilation and electrical work, prior to the installation of drywall or any other interior finishes
- A final inspection upon completion of the work or before the building is occupied
No subsequent construction phase may begin without the inspector’s approval.
The applicant must also notify the City of the completion of the work covered by the permit within ten (10) days of its completion.
To reach us
Our team is available from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on the 2nd floor of City Hall, located at 7 Canada Road, Edmundston.
Email: construction@edmundston.ca Phone: 506.739.2125
