Top Ten Tips for Filing an Article 85 Application

  1. No application will be accepted without plans for the property after demolition.

  2. Staff of the BLC cannot review the status of a building until an application is filed.

  3. Staff of the BLC is not available to review applications for completeness when they are delivered. If you follow these tips and review the application instructions and checklist you should be ready to file. If you have specific questions or concerns please contact staff before submitting an application.

  4. Maps are available to print out using the City of Boston Assessing Search

  5. Photographs are important to getting your application reviewed. See Article 85 Application Photo Information for examples and information on photo requirements.

  6. Proof of ownership can be a copy of a property deed, a copy of the property tax assessment bill or other official document. Make sure that the documents match who is listed as owner on the application.

  7. If the owner and applicant are the same, please sign in both locations on page 2 of the application.

  8. If a violation notice or other correspondence has been issued by the Inspectional Services Department include that with your application.

  9. Article 85 review takes around 10 calendar days. Include an email address on your application. The result of the application will be emailed to you.

  10. Read the instructions and double check that everything is filled out before submitting. Incomplete applications will be returned.


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