What Homeowners Should Know About Permits
It’s important to get the right permits before starting any work. If you don’t, you could face penalties like paying double for the permit or having to fix or remove the work. Doing work without a permit can also be unsafe, cause legal problems, affect your homeowner’s insurance, and make it harder to sell your home later.
Building Permits for Homeowners in Boston
If you're a homeowner in Boston, you may be allowed to get a building permit yourself — but only for certain types of work. This means you're taking on the role of the contractor and are fully responsible for making sure all the work follows the Massachusetts State Building Code (780 CMR).
How to Get a Permit
You can start the permit process online. The system will help you figure out what permits you need, let you upload your plans, and pay any fees. Once approved, inspections will happen during different stages of the work. The permit is closed when the work passes all inspections.
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Have questions? Contact:
Inspectional Services
Homeowner Resources
Contractor Registration And History
Search registration and history.
Submit A Complaint
Lean how homeowners can submit a complaint.
Home Improvement Contracting Tips
Avoid Costly Mistakes and Scams
Apply For The HIC Guaranty Fund
Do you meet the eligibility requirements for the Guaranty Fund? Learn how to apply.
More Homeowner Resources
Learn more about the Home Improvement Contractors (HIC) Program.
Residential Contractor's Guaranty Fund (Regulations)
Learn about Mass Fund Regulations.
Who's Involved:
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Have questions? Contact:
Inspectional Services
