Submit a Development Application

Development puts planning into action. It involves zoning regulations, permits, infrastructure, and engineering requirements to ensure safe, sustainable growth in St. John’s.

What is ‘development’?

The regulations define development broadly. The definition includes:

• any building, engineering, mining or other operation in, on, over or under land
• making any material change in the use or the intensity of use of any land, buildings or premises
• making an access point onto a roadway
• erecting an advertisement or sign
• constructing a building
• parking a trailer or vehicle for accommodation or sales
• subdividing and consolidating property

Excavation, land clearing and grubbing parcels of land are all considered development. Work carried out inside a building that doesn't change the exterior is not considered development.

Understanding Development Requirements

All construction and land use changes must follow the City's Development Regulations, appendices, and Development Design Manual which includes:

• Zoning maps
• Land-use zones
• Permitted and Discretionary uses in each zone
• Standards for development (such as lot sizes and setbacks, density, building heights and more)
• Engineering design guidelines

Before submitting a development application:

• Determine the zoning of your property to understand what uses are allowed and applicable standards. The City’s Map Centre provides zoning details.
• Check permitted uses, discretionary uses and standards.
• Prepare plans in accordance with the Development Design Manual and development checklists.

How to Submit a Development Application

Follow these steps to submit your application:

1. Review the application and development fees
2. Complete a planning/development application
3. Complete the appropriate development checklist
4. Submit application by:
   1. Email: permits@stjohns.ca
   2. Fax: (709) 576-8160
   3. In person or by mail:
      Inspection Services
      3^rd Floor Annex
      10 New Gower Street
      P.O. Box 908
      St. John’s, NL  A1C 5M2

If they choose, any person may appeal a development decision.

Contact Us

For questions about planning or development, email planning@stjohns.ca or call (709) 576-8220. Alternatively, you can contact the Development Team!