Building Development Services
The Planning & Building division of WNBSC is responsible for a range of services aimed at managing and overseeing development in partnership with municipalities within our commission's region. These services include the preparation, administration, and enforcement of Municipal Plans and Zoning Bylaws, Rural Plans, subdivision approvals, and conducting building inspections to ensure that developments comply with applicable regulations.
Building permits are required for all construction involving buildings to which the National Building Code of Canada applies. However, the following types of buildings are exempt from the application of the Code. Please note that a development permit is still required for each of these cases:
(a) An accessory building with a total floor area not exceeding 592 ft2 (55 m²), provided it is not intended for overnight accommodation;
(b) A temporary building on a construction site intended for use only during construction and not intended for overnight accommodation;
(c) A building with a total floor area not exceeding 625 ft2 (58.06 m²) that is intended for overnight accommodation; and
(d) A temporary building that is not intended to remain in place for more than 28 days.
These permits are crucial for ensuring that construction projects meet the necessary standards, protecting both the property owner and the surrounding community. Ultimately, the permits help ensure all projects are in line with local regulations and the National Building Code of Canada.
Planning Services
Land Use Planning
WNBSC helps rural communities and residents assess their future development options and design ways of managing change in their communities through land use planning.
Planning can benefit communities and individuals by protecting important environmental features, natural resources, and cultural resources while promoting appropriate community development and separating conflicting land uses.
In New Brunswick, land use planning is accomplished through Municipal Plans, Zoning By-laws, and Rural Plans.
Land Development
Subdivision Approvals
Subdivision approvals may also require approvals from other government departments, such as Watercourse and Wetland Alteration permits, Crown Land approvals, and Department of Health/Public Safety approval for on-site sewage disposal.
We also use several internal guidelines to evaluate and give direction to subdivision applications, including the Guidelines for Lot Creation on Private Roads and the Water Supply Assessment Guidelines. For more information contact us at info@westnb.ca
Zoning
Please contact a planner or development officer at the Western Valley Regional Service Commission to understand how a planning regulation or by-law may apply to your property (506) 276-3610. The below list is for quick links to those communities we provide planning and building inspection services for:
Planning Review & Adjustment Committee
What is PRAC?
The Planning Review and Adjustment Committee (PRAC) is appointed by the Western Valley Regional Service Commission to carry out advisory and decision-making functions as specified under the provincial Community Planning Act.
Their responsibilities include, but are not limited to:
- Decisions on variances to zoning and provincial building and subdivision regulations;
- Recommendations on subdivision and zoning application to the Municipal Council and the Minister of Environment and Local Government ;
- Recommendation on the location of public streets and land for public purposes.
PRAC AGENDA | |
| Upcoming Meeting | June 25, 2025 @ 6:30 PM via Zoom |
The PRAC Committee typically holds monthly meetings on the 4th Wednesday of the month. Please note that if there are no agenda items, the meetings will be cancelled. Please call (506) 276-3610 to confirm.
The deadline for application to have an item added to the agenda is four weeks before the meeting.
