Everything You Need to Know Before Starting Your Project
When planning construction, renovation, electrical work, plumbing, or other building-related projects in Boston, one of the first steps is understanding the permit process and associated costs. The City of Boston’s Inspectional Services Department (ISD) has set fees for various permit applications, which vary depending on the type of work and project size.
This guide will walk you through all Boston permit fees for 2025 so you can budget accurately and avoid costly surprises.
| Permit Type | Fee Structure |
|---|---|
| Amendment | $20 Primary Fee + $10 per $1,000 estimated cost of work |
| Board of Appeal | One–Three Family: $150 Fee; Four Family & Commercial: $150 per violation cited |
| Change of Occupancy | 3 Family & under: $20; 4 Family & up: $50; Commercial: $50 |
| Double Fee | Charged when work begins without required permit or if project cost is undervalued |
| Electrical – New/Upgrade Service | $20 Fee + $0.25/amp (up to 240V) or $0.75/amp (over 480V) |
| Electrical – No Service Change | $20 Fee + $1 per fixture/outlet; $5 per approved meter |
| Electrical – General Work | $20 Fee + $10 per $1,000 estimated cost |
| Electrical – State Buildings | $20 Fee + $10 per $1,000 estimated cost |
| Electrical Fire Alarm | $20 Fee + $10 per $1,000 estimated cost |
| Electrical Low Voltage | $20 Fee + $10 per $1,000 estimated cost |
| Electrical Temporary Service | $25 Fee + $10 per month (max 6 months) |
| Electrical Yearly Maintenance | $320 Fee |
| Long Form Building | $50 Fee + $10 per $1,000 estimated cost |
| Microfilming | $3 per sheet |
| Nominal Fee | $300 Fee + $50 Application Fee |
| Off-Hour Permits | $100/day |
| Plumbing | $20 Fee + $5 per fixture |
| Gas | $20 Fee + $5 per appliance/meter; $0.09 per 1,000 BTU for boilers/heaters/furnaces; Furnaces: $50 each; Gas storage: $15 + $5 per 100 lbs; Propane/gas devices: $5 + $2.50 per device |
| Sheet Metal | $20 Fee; $25 per 200 linear/sq ft |
| Short Form Building | $20 Fee + $10 per $1,000 estimated cost |
| Sprinkler | $20 Fee + $1 per head |
| Subdivision/Combining Lots | $50 Fee (basic); $100 Fee (subdivision/lot combination) |
| Trench | $60 Fee; valid 6 months; requires 4 signed copies |
| Use of Premises | $50 Fee |
| Off-Hour Inspections | $250 per inspector |
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How Boston Permit Fees Are Calculated
Most Boston permits follow a primary fee plus an additional charge based on project size or scope. Fees may be calculated by:
- Estimated cost of work (per $1,000)
- Number of units (fixtures, heads, devices)
- Electrical service capacity (per amp or voltage)
- Area coverage (per 200 sq. ft. for sheet metal)
Note: Starting work without a permit can trigger a double fee, greatly increasing your costs.
FAQs – Boston Permit Costs
You can apply online via Boston’s ISD website or in person at:
Boston Inspectional Services Department
1010 Massachusetts Ave., Boston, MA 02118
The permit type depends on your project:
- Long Form Building Permit: For new construction or major renovations
- Short Form Building Permit: For small repairs or interior remodels
- Trade Permits: Electrical, plumbing, gas, sprinkler systems
Yes. If your scope of work or estimated cost changes, ISD may recalculate the fee based on updated project details.
ISD may issue penalties, including a double fee. Always provide accurate estimates to avoid fines and delays.
Generally, yes. Larger buildings and complex systems have higher base fees and more per-unit charges compared to residential projects.
It varies:
- Simple permits: A few days
- Complex projects: Several weeks
- Peak construction season: Expect delays
Pro Tips for Saving Time & Avoiding Extra Costs
- Submit complete applications with all drawings, estimates, and signatures.
- Budget for fees early in your project planning.
- Avoid starting work without permits to prevent double fees.
- Check expiration dates some permits must be renewed.
📥 Downloadable Resource
Boston Permit Fee Chart – 2025 (PDF)
This PDF includes a print-friendly fee table for quick reference during your project
planning.
✅ Need Help Pulling Permits in Boston?
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