Do I need a permit for bathroom or kitchen reno?

For bathroom and kitchen renovations in New Brunswick, you'll likely need both building permits (from your municipality) and electrical permits (from TSANB) depending on the scope of work.

The permit requirements depend on what you're changing. If you're just replacing fixtures, cabinets, and finishes without moving plumbing or electrical, you might only need a building permit. However, most kitchen and bathroom renovations involve electrical work that triggers TSANB permit requirements.

Electrical work requiring TSANB permits includes adding new outlets, installing dedicated circuits for appliances, relocating switches or outlets, adding pot lights, installing bathroom exhaust fans, or upgrading electrical for electric ranges, dishwashers, or garbage disposals. Even moving an existing outlet to a new location requires a permit. TSANB permits are required because kitchens and bathrooms have specific code requirements - GFCI protection within 1.5 meters of sinks, proper ventilation circuits, and adequate outlet spacing.

Building permits from your municipality are typically required when you're changing the layout, moving walls, altering plumbing rough-in, or doing structural work. Cities like Moncton, Saint John, and Fredericton each have their own building permit departments with slightly different requirements. Rural areas may go through the provincial building permit system.

The permit process usually works like this: your contractor pulls the electrical permit from TSANB before starting electrical work, and either you or your contractor gets the building permit from your local municipality. TSANB will inspect the electrical work, and municipal inspectors will check the overall renovation compliance with building codes.

Why permits matter - beyond being legally required, permits ensure your renovation meets current safety codes, protects your insurance coverage, and provides documentation for future home sales. Unpermitted electrical work in kitchens and bathrooms is particularly risky given the water and high-power appliance combinations.

Contact your local building permit office and have your electrician handle the TSANB permits. Most licensed contractors are familiar with both processes and can guide you through the requirements for your specific project scope.

Need help finding an electrician familiar with kitchen and bathroom electrical requirements? New Brunswick Electrical can match you with local professionals who handle permits as part of their service.

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