Inspectional Services Department (ISD)

About ISD

ANNOUNCEMENT

All new "ground up" construction and major renovations are required to comply with the Specialized Stretch Energy Code.

The BBRS has voted to adopt the 10th edition building code. THE CONCURRENT CODE PERIOD WILL END 12/31/2024

The Inspectional Services Department (ISD) ensures the safety of residents and community members by enforcing city ordinances and state and federal codes relating to building construction and public health. Looking for a specific form? Visit our document library below under Forms & Information.

NOTE: The City of Somerville will never ask for any payment by Wire Transfer.

Contact Information

Kevin Klein

Interim Dir. Inspectional Services Department

Public Office Hours

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.

Phone Number

(617) 625-6600

5600

Fax Number

(617) 666-2624

isd@somervillema.gov

Address

1 Franey Rd.
Somerville, MA 02145
United States

View Map

Employee Directory

Building Division
The Building Division provides permitting, plan review, and related resources to ensure compliance with the Massachusetts State Building Code and Somerville Zoning Ordinance.
Health Division
The Health Division provides residents and community members with high quality education, code enforcement, emergency services, and support to improve health and safety in the City.
Weights and Measures
The Weights and Measures Division enforces all State laws and regulations having to do with weights and measures, such as check-out scanners, taximeters, gasoline pumps, and supermarket scales.

Looking for information on safety requirements or required documentation and forms? Visit our Safety page here.

Licenses & Permits

Applications for permits and licenses are now being accepted online through our CitizenServe portal. There, you can apply for a variety of City permits, including:

Home- and Property-Owner Permits

Building Permits
Demolition Permits
Driveway/Curb Cut Permits
Occupancy Licenses
Tree Removal Permits and Waivers
and more

Health License and Permits

Dumpster Licenses
Dumpster Hauler Licenses
Food Establishment Licenses
Pool Licenses
Body Art Licenses
Electrical Licenses
Farmers Market Licenses
Occupancy Licenses
Tanning Licenses
Temporary Food Permit Licenses
and more

Alcohol/Restaurant Licenses

Restaurants (with alcohol)
Common Victualers (restaurants without alcohol)
Private Clubs
Farmer Pourers (breweries, distilleries, wineries)
Inns
Educational Institutions
Package Stores
Entertainment (without on-premise food service)
...and Amendments to these licenses, and
Special Alcohol Licenses
Special Farmer Wineries at Farmers Markets
and more

Business Licenses

Garages for Auto Repairs and Parking
Used Car Dealers
Drain Layers
Extended Operating Hours (after midnight)
Outdoor Seating or Goods on Public sidewalks
Hawker Peddlers
Junk Dealers
Signs and Awnings
Grants of Location
Public Events
Raffles and Bazaars
and more

Marijuana Establishment Licenses

Marijuana Retailer
Marijuana Cultivator
Craft Marijuana Cooperative
Marijuana Product Manufacturer
Independent Testing Laboratory
Marijuana Research Facility
and more

Go to CitizenServe.com

Please note: If you would like to apply for a parking permit, visit the ParkSomerville page.

If you are not able to apply by using your computer, please visit the appropriate department in person:

Home/Property-Owner and Health Licenses and Permits	Business Licenses	Alcohol/Restaurant Licenses
Inspectional Services Division 1 Franey Rd. Somerville, MA 02145	City Clerk's Office 93 Highland Ave. Somerville, MA 02143	Licensing Commission 93 Highland Ave. Somerville, MA 02143