What is the plumbing permit fee for kitchen renovation work — including sink relocation or island drain installation — in Moncton, Fredericton, and Saint John, New Brunswick?

Plumbing permit fees in New Brunswick's major cities range from $75-$150 for typical kitchen renovation work, but each municipality has its own fee structure and requirements.

In Moncton, plumbing permits for kitchen renovations typically cost $100-$125. This covers work like relocating sinks, adding dishwasher connections, or installing new drain lines for kitchen islands. The City of Moncton requires separate permits for plumbing and electrical work, so budget accordingly if you're doing both. Processing time is usually 5-10 business days for residential kitchen permits.

Fredericton charges approximately $75-$100 for kitchen plumbing permits, making it the most affordable of the three cities. Their permit covers sink relocation, new supply lines, drain installation for islands, and gas line connections for ranges. Fredericton's building inspection department is generally efficient, with permits processed within 1-2 weeks.

Saint John has the highest fees at $125-$150 for kitchen plumbing permits. However, their permit is comprehensive and covers all plumbing work in the project scope, including multiple fixture changes. Saint John also requires detailed drawings for island drain installations, especially if you're running new drain lines under concrete slabs.

Additional costs to consider: All three cities require inspections at $50-$75 per visit. You'll need a rough-in inspection before closing walls and a final inspection after completion. If the inspector finds code violations, re-inspection fees apply.

Important timing note: Submit your permit application 2-3 weeks before your contractor needs to start plumbing work. Kitchen renovations often involve coordinating multiple trades, and plumbing delays can push back cabinet installation and countertop templating.

Who pulls the permit: Licensed plumbers typically handle permit applications as part of their service. If you're hiring a general contractor, confirm whether plumbing permits are included in their quote or if it's an additional cost. DIY homeowners can pull permits themselves, but the work must still be done by a licensed plumber and pass inspection.

For the most current fees, contact each city's building inspection department directly, as permit costs are adjusted annually and may include additional administrative fees not mentioned in their basic rate schedules.