Introduction to Beverly MA Building Permits
If you're embarking on a home renovation, new construction project, or even installing solar panels in Beverly, MA, securing the right building permits is essential. Building permit fees in Beverly MA ensure compliance with local regulations and help fund city services. In this blog post, we'll break down the current fee structures based on official sources from the City of Beverly's Municipal Inspectional Department, so you can budget accordingly. Whether you're a homeowner or a contractor, understanding these costs can save you time and money.
For the most up-to-date information and detailed fee schedules, visit the Beverly MA Building Permit Fees page on the official city website.
Administration Fees for Building Permits
As of December 1, 2024, the City of Beverly's Municipal Inspectional Department charges a $25.00 administration fee for any electrical, plumbing, and gas paper permits. This fee covers the processing of your Beverly MA building permits and applies to initial permit submissions.
| Permit Type | Administration Fee | Effective Date |
|---|---|---|
| Electrical Paper Permits | $25.00 | December 1, 2024 |
| Plumbing Paper Permits | $25.00 | December 1, 2024 |
| Gas Paper Permits | $25.00 | December 1, 2024 |
Fees for New Construction, Additions, Alterations, Repairs, and Demolition
For major projects like new construction or additions in Beverly, the building permit fees are calculated at $15 per $1,000 of the construction value. The city determines this value based on the total project scope, not just your reported costs, and rounds up to the nearest $1,000 (e.g., a $10,200 project is treated as $11,000). This ensures fair assessment for all Beverly MA building permits.
| Project Type | Fee Structure | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| New Construction | $15 per $1,000 of construction value | Value determined by city, rounded up to nearest $1,000 |
| Additions | $15 per $1,000 of construction value | Value determined by city, rounded up to nearest $1,000 |
| Alterations | $15 per $1,000 of construction value | Value determined by city, rounded up to nearest $1,000 |
| Repairs | $15 per $1,000 of construction value | Value determined by city, rounded up to nearest $1,000 |
| Demolition | $15 per $1,000 of construction value | Value determined by city, rounded up to nearest $1,000 |
Solar Installation Permit Fees in Beverly, MA
With the rise of renewable energy, solar installations are increasingly popular. In Beverly, solar permit fees are $10 per panel, with a maximum of $500 for one- or two-family dwellings and $1,000 for other structures. Note that these fees were revised on December 12, 2019, and additional electrical permit fees may apply.
| Structure Type | Fee per Panel | Maximum Fee | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| One- or Two-Family Dwellings | $10 per panel | $500 | Revised December 12, 2019 |
| Other Structures | $10 per panel | $1,000 | Revised December 12, 2019 |
Important Note: Visit the "Electrical Permit Fees" section below for information regarding the fees associated with electrical permits for solar installations. Additional electrical permit fees may apply.
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Specialty Permit Fees: Sheet Metal, Plumbing, Gas, and Electrical
Sheet Metal Permit Fees
Sheet metal work, often part of HVAC installations, carries a fee of $15 per $1,000 of construction value for both residential and commercial properties in Beverly.
| Structure Type | Fee Structure | Minimum Fee |
|---|---|---|
| 1 and 2-Family Dwellings | $15 per $1,000 | - |
| Other than 1 or 2 Family Dwellings | $15 per $1,000 | $65 |
Plumbing & Gas Permit Fees
Plumbing and gas permits in Beverly are calculated based on fixtures, with minimum fees to ensure coverage of administrative costs.
| Fee Type | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Per Fixture or Minimum | $10 per fixture or $65 (whichever is greater) | - |
| Reinspection Fee | $50 | If work not up to code |
| Work Without Permit | Double fee | Penalty applies |
Electrical Permit Fees
Electrical permits in Beverly are based on the estimated cost of electrical work, including labor, equipment, and materials. Certificate of insurance, workers' compensation insurance affidavit, and proof of licensure must be included with each application.
| Work Type | Fee Structure | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| General Electrical Work | $25 per $1,000 of estimated cost | Includes labor, equipment, materials |
| Solar Installations | $10 per panel | $1 per panel for all panels over 1,000 |
| Solar Maximum (1-2 Family) | $500 | Revised December 12, 2019 |
| Minimum Fee | $65 | - |
| Reinspection Fee | $65 | For work not complete |
| Work Without Permit | Double fee | Penalty applies |
Important Requirements:
- Final cost affidavits shall be submitted prior to final inspections for electrical installations with fees $2,000 or greater
- The inspector may use methods including R.S. Means, other cost estimating publications, and/or signed contracts to confirm cost
- Permits are void after one year
- Payments are non-refundable and non-transferable, except in the case of a contractor change
Annual Institutional Permit
For large-scale institutional projects, Beverly offers annual permits with tiered pricing based on square footage.
| Square Footage | Fee |
|---|---|
| First 100,000 square feet or less | $250 |
| Each additional 100,000 square feet or fraction thereof | $100 |
| Remainder over 1,000,000 | $800 |
Other Building Fees You Should Know
Beyond the main categories, there are several additional building permit fees in Beverly MA:
| Fee Type | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Minimum Fee for Most Permits | $65 | - |
| Certificate of Inspection | See separate schedule | Linked on city site |
| Certificate of Occupancy | $0 | Included in building permit |
| Re-inspection for Incomplete Work | $65 | - |
| Renewal of Expired Permit | $65 per year | - |
| Replacement of Lost/Damaged Permit Card | $30 | - |
| Temporary Structures, Signs, or Tents | $30 | - |
| Work Without a Permit | Double the original fee | Maximum additional $1,000 |
Fee Determination Guidelines:
- Fees are based on the total value of construction (not on the cost) as determined by the building department
- For projects where a certificate of occupancy is required by the building code, the certificate of occupancy fee is included in building permit
- Fee is based on the value of the entire project, including trades
- Construction costs are rounded to the next highest whole $1,000 (i.e. $10,200 = $11,000)
- The inspector of wires shall approve all fees. Fees shall be made by check or money order
- Any work started without obtaining a permit or proper notification to inspector shall be subject to permit fee being doubled
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FAQs About Building Permit Fees in Beverly, MA
Here are some frequently asked questions based on the official Beverly MA building permit fees information:
Note: Navigating building permit fees in Beverly, MA, doesn't have to be complicated. By understanding these costs upfront, you can avoid surprises and ensure your project runs smoothly. Always verify the latest details on the official city website, and if you need professional assistance, reach out for expert help.
