The Fire Prevention and Investigation Division is responsible for by-law enforcement. They provide inspections and issue permits for a variety of structures, facilities and assembled events to ensure they comply with applicable codes.
By-law Number LG-10: Fire Protection Fees By-law
HOW TO PAY THE FEES
Payments must be accompanied by a copy of the Notice. Specifically, the Notice Number in the upper right corner; and full name and address.
Fees may be paid in-person, by mail or phone.
Customer Service Center
15 Market Square, Main level
PO Box 1971
Saint John, NB E2L 4L1
506-658-4455
REDUCED PAYMENT
If payment is made within 45 days of issuance a flat rate of $500 applies.
The appearance, safety, and integrity of buildings in Saint John have a direct impact on the lives of everyone in the City. It’s why the City of Saint John operates three specific programs that regulate the standards of properties and buildings in our communities, and enforce consequences for property owners who fail to meet the standards.
Vacant and Dangerous Buildings Program
Vacant buildings can sometimes attract vandalism, arson, mischief, or criminal activity and these activities will devalue properties in an area. The Vacant and Dangerous Buildings program monitors vacant buildings throughout the City. Staff work closely with property owners to repair and reoccupy or demolish vacant buildings. When vacant buildings become a hazard to public safety, a Notice to Comply can be issued to the owner giving them a specified period of time to either repair or demolish the building and if the conditions are not remedied, the City has the power to demolish the building and send the costs incurred to the property owner.
Community Standards Program
The Community Standards program focuses on issues that directly impact the aesthetics, enjoyment, and pride of a neighbourhood, including unsightly premises, zoning by-law issues, and general upkeep of properties. The primary focus of the program is on cleaning up unsightly properties throughout the City. Staff work closely with property owners to encourage the voluntary cleanup of such properties. In instances where voluntary compliance cannot be achieved, a Notice to Comply can be issued to the owner, giving them a specified period of time to remove the unsightly conditions. If the conditions are not remedied, the City has the power to remove the unsightly conditions and send the costs incurred to the property owner.
Minimum Property Standards Program
The Minimum Property Standards Program enforces standards for the maintenance and occupancy of residential buildings in Saint John. These standards help to ensure the safety, health, and well-being of those who live in and use the properties—in other words, everyone who lives in the City. The Minimum Property Standards by-law applies to all residential properties in the City and provides the minimum standards expected for all housing in the City. Common issues that City inspectors are looking for include smoke alarms that are working and in the proper location, safe exiting, bedroom windows meeting minimum size requirements, and that there are no holes in fire separations between units. Applying the Minimum Property Standards By-Law should not increase tax assessments.
Saint John’s by-laws are there to help protect the health and safety of every resident. But in order to be effective, our by-laws need to be enforced. The City's first priority in enforcement work is education—to help our residents understand what is required of them. City staff investigate complaints and inspect properties to make sure the standards laid out in the by-laws are met. Wherever possible, staff work with residents to resolve violations. Only if education and cooperation fail does the city turn to penalties and fines.
To report a by-law infraction, please choose the specific by-law below that your complaint is related to.
Electronic versions of City of Saint John by-laws, in the "Helpful Links" section, are provided for your convenience. Although every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of each document’s contents, The City of Saint John does not assume any responsibility for the reliability of the contents.
If your require an official version of a by-law, or to ensure that there have been no subsequent amendments, consult the paper version of the document which is held in the City Clerk’s Office located at City Hall between the hours of 8:30 a.m. and 6:00 p.m. on regular business days.
Saint John by-laws are in place to protect the safety and comfort of all residents. If you feel a by-law is or has been violated, choose the topic that best fits your concern.