The Inspector of Buildings oversees all Building Permits, Inspection Activities, Plans and Zoning Reviews and the Board of Appeal hearings and decisions.
Find what type of permit you need, start your application online, or search for an existing permit to track progress:
Plans examiners guide the project through the permitting process and ensure compliance with applicable codes.
If a permit cannot be issued due to a code violation, you may apply for an appeal.
NEW Solar Permitting Guide for Contractors
Before doing proposed work on a solar facility, homeowners or installers must complete either a short-form or long-form building permit application. Stay informed of zoning, historic districting, and other requirements listed in the solar permitting guide, below.
Change to Use of Premises Application Process
Effective Friday, February, 1, 2013, The Inspectional Services Department can no longer accept the Use of Premises applications for Residential Parking before Public Works Department approval.
Hours of Operation
Monday - Friday:
8:00am - 4:00pm
Thursday Evening:
Building Division Only
8:00am - 7:00pm
Please note that the cashier closes 15 minutes prior to closing.
Building & Structures Division
1010 Massachusetts Avenue, 5th floor
Boston, MA 02118
Tel: 617 635 5300
Fax: 617 635 5360
Plans & Zoning Division
Tel: 617 635 5300
Fax: 617 635 5399