Shared Driveway and Parking Rights in NB Rentals

Living in a rental in New Brunswick often means sharing driveways or parking with neighbours. As a tenant or renter you have rights and responsibilities that can affect where you park, how shared areas are used, and what your landlord must do to prevent or resolve disputes. This guide explains practical steps to avoid conflicts, what to check in your lease, how municipal bylaws and property titles can matter, and when to bring a problem to the Residential Tenancies Tribunal. It also shows how to document issues, request repairs or enforcement, and use official forms and complaint processes so you can protect your access and safety without escalating a dispute unnecessarily.

What the law covers in New Brunswick

The Residential Tenancies Act sets out landlord and tenant responsibilities about access and maintenance. When parking or a shared driveway becomes a dispute you may use the Residential Tenancies Tribunal^[1] or refer to the Act^[2] for enforcement, especially if a lease clause contradicts provincial rules. For a quick provincial summary see Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in New Brunswick.

Common driveway and parking issues

• Blocked access to a private driveway that prevents a tenant from entering or exiting.
• Unauthorized parking by neighbours or visitors in assigned tenant spaces.
• Damage to shared surfaces or drainage that needs landlord maintenance.
• Lease clauses about parking that are unclear or conflict with municipal bylaws.

For general dispute guidance see Common Issues Tenants Face and How to Resolve Them.

How to document and resolve a shared driveway problem

Start with clear, written communication and escalate only if necessary. If the landlord does not respond, you can apply to the tribunal or use municipal bylaw enforcement for safety or blocking issues. If you are looking for alternative rentals or want to check parking-friendly listings, Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme.

1. Gather evidence: photos, videos, messages and witness details.
2. Check your lease for parking or access terms and request clarification in writing.
3. Contact your landlord or property manager with a clear request and a reasonable deadline.
4. If unresolved, apply to the Residential Tenancies Tribunal or municipal bylaw office as appropriate.
5. Attend hearings with your evidence and follow any orders or remedies the tribunal issues.

FAQ

Can my landlord limit where I park in a shared driveway?

Your lease may set rules, but limits cannot violate provincial tenancy law or create unsafe conditions; ask for written clarification and keep records.

What if a neighbour blocks my car repeatedly?

Document the incidents, ask your landlord to intervene, and if needed file with the Residential Tenancies Tribunal or local bylaw enforcement.

Do I need to pay for driveway repairs that affect parking?

Major repairs related to habitability or shared access are typically the landlord's responsibility, but check your lease and raise the issue in writing.

How-To

1. Gather all evidence and dates of incidents.
2. Review your lease for parking and access clauses.
3. Write to your landlord asking for a remedy and set a reasonable deadline.
4. File an application with the Residential Tenancies Tribunal if the issue is not fixed.
5. Bring your evidence to any hearing and comply with tribunal orders.

Key Takeaways

• Document every parking incident with photos, messages and dates.
• Check your lease and municipal bylaws before escalating a dispute.
• Use written requests first; tribunal applications are for unresolved issues.

Help and Support / Resources

• Residential Tenancies Tribunal
• New Brunswick Residential Tenancies Act and information
• Legal Aid New Brunswick

1. [1] Residential Tenancies Tribunal — Government of New Brunswick
2. [2] New Brunswick Residential Tenancies Act — Government of New Brunswick