About the Building Division
The Building Division of the Inspectional Services Department (ISD) provides, permitting, plan review, inspections, and related services in order to ensure compliance with the Massachusetts State Building Code and Somerville Zoning Ordinance.
- Building Division Responsibilities
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- Reviewing plans and issuing permits to homeowners, licensed contractors or architects
- Conducting field inspections on building permits, certificates of occupancy, certificates of inspection, fire escapes, requests from homeowners and contractors
- Responding to complaints received by homeowners, tenants or contractors to ensure a safe and clean environment
- Representing the City of Somerville in court for violations of the Somerville Zoning Ordinance and/or State Regulations
- Responding to emergencies as requested by the Somerville Fire Department
- Coordinating with the Somerville Fire Department, Health Department, and the Department of Public Works
Contact Information
Monday - Thursday
9:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. & 1:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m.
Friday
9:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.
Please note: Public hours are best served for brief interaction purposes (i.e. quick questions, assistance with online applications for those who do not have or need assistance with a computer, payment drop off etc.). If you have in-depth questions or want to set up an in-person or time-intensive meeting, please coordinate with the relevant staff members or contact the administrative staff at x5600 to make an appointment. Also note, the service window closes 15 minutes before office hours end.
Department Operating Hours:
Monday - Wednesday
8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.
Thursday
8:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m.
Friday
8:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
1 Franey Rd.
Somerville, MA 02145
United States
Employee Directory
Building Permits
When is a Building Permit Required?
- Anyone seeking to construct, reconstruct, alter, repair, or demolish a structure or install a sign must first obtain a building permit at the Inspectional Services Division (ISD).
- Per Somerville Zoning Ordinance and Massachusetts State Building Code (780 C.M.R.), a building permit must be obtained before the start of any work and must be prominently displayed at the job site. All building permits require the same four to five documents; some projects may require additional permits. You can find the necessary permits by clicking the "Apply for a License or Permit" button below.
- Interior gutting requires a building permit, not a demolition permit. Total teardowns require a demolition permit. Read more about demolition permits here.
- A building permit signifies that the proposed use or structure is meeting zoning prerequisites (e.g.; setback, frontage, or minimum yard-size requirements) and the State Building Code.
- Ordinary repairs, as defined in the Building Code, such as painting and tiling, do not require a building permit.
- If you are unsure if you require a building permit or to schedule a preliminary meeting with a building inspector please call ISD at 617-625-6600 ext. 5600, or e-mail isd@somervillema.gov.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Do I need a building permit for work in my house?
- A building permit is required for all interior and exterior work EXCEPT: Painting, tiling and flooring.
Can the property owner obtain a building permit?
- If you are the homeowner of a 1 or 2 family dwelling AND you reside there, you may obtain a building permit for that property.
Can the property owner of a multi family dwelling obtain a building permit?
- If the property is a 3 family or more, a licensed contractor is required to apply for and obtain a building permit
Can the property owner of a commercial space obtain a building permit?
- If the property is a commercial building, a licensed contractor is required to apply for and obtain a building permit
Can a property owner obtain an electrical permit?
- A licensed electrician must apply for and obtain all electrical permits
Can a property owner obtain a plumbing or gas permit?
- A licensed plumber must apply for and obtain all gas & plumbing permits
How do I apply for a building permit?
- Go to www.somervillema.gov/citizenserve and create an account. Apply for a permit, choose building permit. Complete all fields with a red line to the left.
What do I need to provide to obtain a building permit.
- If you are a homeowner, submit proof of residence, an estimated cost affidavit, plans if the work you are doing requires them, workplace safety affidavit and wage theft affidavit.
- If you are a licensed contractor, submit your CSL (construction supervisors license) and, if the property is 1-4 units and owner occupied, submit your HIC (home improvement contractor registration). You will also need to submit your insurance, signed contract, plans if the work you are doing requires them, workplace safety affidavit, and wage theft affidavit.
Do I need to pay for a building permit?
- When you apply for a building permit, you are directed to a payment page to pay a review fee. If your project does not require a plan review, the fee you paid will go towards your building permit fee.
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