Tiny Homes In New Brunswick: Everything You Need To Know

Tiny homes are becoming increasingly popular. You can save a ton of money by purchasing a tiny house, as it is far less expensive than a typical home, regardless of whether it is installed on a foundation or is mobile. The ecological aspects of these homes are another benefit.

There are a number of things you need to consider before deciding on a tiny home. You first need to see if tiny living is suitable for you and become familiar with the regulations laid out by your municipality.

Consider this your guide for everything you need to know about tiny homes: New Brunswick. We have got you covered from ownership, rules, and legal regulations.

Are Tiny Homes Legal in New Brunswick?

It’s difficult to discuss living legally in a tiny house because it will vary based on where you live. It differs throughout the country, and there are different rules in various parts of New Brunswick. What may be acceptable in the South-Eastern area may not be legal in the West.

It is always best to get in touch with your Regional Service Commission office or the local city building advisor so that you can get the correct information and be certain.

It seems that in both Moncton and Riverview, living in a tiny house within the city limits is acceptable. However, according to the Southeast Regional Commission, the legal minimum size for a tiny home that is used full-time is around 485 square feet.

Essentially, this means that it is not technically legal to live in a tiny house throughout the year in certain areas that they are in charge of and govern. If there is no major, the Southeast Regional Commission is in charge.

The National Building Code of Canada states that tiny homes can not be used as permanent residences if they do not meet the minimum size requirements. This implies that you can live in a building that is smaller than around 485 square feet but only during specific seasons.

What are the Requirements?

First, the legal building and construction system in New Brunswick is pretty interesting. Under the current provincial regulations, specifically Regulation 2021-02, clause 8, people living in rural areas are allowed to build and construct a personal-use residential structure that is small and takes up about 603 square feet of occupied space.

They can set this up without needing to meet any of the building codes as long as the structure is not going to be used for public congregation. The 603 square feet does not only refer to the footprint, and the calculation includes the loft space area.

Any building that is rented out, whether for a long or short period of time, is subject to the code and is required to comply with all egress, structural, and life-safety standards.

In many unincorporated parts of New Brunswick, residential structures of 603 square feet or smaller (i.e. campers or tiny homes) can be built with just a development permit and are not subject to the National Building Code’s requirements.

However, the tiny home or building will need to conform to all of the regional or provincial setback regulations, wetland or waterway setback regulations, and all of the requirements necessary for on-site septic systems. There may also be various rural planning statements that will control the placement of a tiny home.

Some municipalities may even consider accepting tiny homes that are under 400 square feet, but only if they are considered as an RV and have their own RV VIN. These municipalities also require these tiny houses to be built according to the code by a certified manufacturer or builder.

Since every municipality is different is always best to consult your specific municipality first and find out (and double-check) what the various limits and regulations are.

Where can I Legally Park or Place My Tiny Home?

Finding a place where you can legally park your tiny home in New Brunswick can be rather challenging. For example, Rothesay and Quispamsis do not allow models that are on wheels. There are different rules and regulations for other areas.

National Parks, RV Parks, And Campgrounds

If your tiny house is RVIA certified (Recreation Vehicle Industry Association), then you can park your tiny house in any location where it is legal to park a recreation vehicle (RV). However, this is more of a short-term option instead of a long-term one.

Online Meetups And Classifieds 

There are additional options other than the general campgrounds. You can also look out for long or short-term parking spots by looking on websites like Meetup or Craigslist. Many homeowners offer to open up their backyards or driveways to visitors, and they often make posts to advertise their available spaces.

This option does depend on the local regulations in a specific area, and it is certainly one way for tiny homeowners to find a space where they can temporarily park their living space. Otherwise, owners of tiny homes can attend gatherings or meetups for tiny houses and find potential leads there.

Move to a Tiny House-Friendly Community Or City

Moving to a city, town, or even new subdivisions and developments where tiny dwellings are permitted is another option. Loads of municipalities are making them legal and have realized that tiny homes are one way in which they can offer affordable housing options and density neighborhoods.

My Tiny House Parking

A member of the Small House Network, My Tiny House Parking provides listings for private parking, parking spaces on farms or in tiny house communities, and RV parks, all of which are easily displayed on an interactive map.

How Often Do I Need to Move My Tiny Home?

It depends on the type of tiny home you have and what area you are in. Some municipalities only allow for tiny homes during certain seasons, which means that you will have to move your tiny house during the months that it is not allowed.

In some areas or properties, you will not need to move your tiny house at all. And if you want to live a nomadic life, then it is best to settle somewhere for a while, as moving your tiny house too many times can lead to severe damage and problems. Consider moving every few months or so in this case.

Do I Need a Permit to build/live in a Tiny House?

In many unincorporated parts of New Brunswick, residential structures 603 square feet or smaller (i.e., campers or tiny homes) can be built with just a development permit and are not subject to the requirement laid out by the National Building Code.

FAQ

Sources

https://snbsc-planning.com/cct/non-traditional-building/
http://www.tinyadventuresjourney.com/tiny-tips-living-legally/