Overview
The Town of Brookline has updated its Building Department Permit & Fee Schedule, effective July 18, 2022. Whether you're planning a renovation, new construction, or installing signage, understanding the associated costs is essential. Below is a concise overview of the key fees to help you budget for your next project. The minimum permit fee is $50.00.
Key Permit Fees
| Permit / Item | Fee |
|---|---|
| Minimum Permit Fee | $50.00 |
| Building / Electrical / Plumbing / Gas Fitting / Mechanical / Sprinkler / Demolition / Fire Alarm / Smoke Detectors | $20 per $1,000 of construction value (or fraction thereof) |
| Work started without required permits | $50 per $1,000 of construction value |
| Failure to call for final inspection (within 10 working days) | $50 |
| Re-inspection fee | $50 per inspection |
Apply online: Brookline online permit portal
Plan Review Filing Fees (Board of Appeals)
| Category | Fee |
|---|---|
| Alteration | $75 per 1,000 sq. ft. of gross floor area (Minimum $100) |
| New Construction | $150 per 1,000 sq. ft. of gross floor area (Minimum $200) |
| Off-Street Parking | $25 per space (Minimum $100) |
| Subdivision / Other | $200 |
Not sure which fee applies? Get a quick answer.
Design Review Approval Fees
| Item | Fee |
|---|---|
| Signs - Illuminated | $300 |
| Signs - Non‑Illuminated (< 10 sq. ft.) | $100 |
| Signs - Non‑Illuminated (> 10 sq. ft.) | $125 |
| Commercial Facades - Awnings | $300 |
| Commercial Facades - Other | $300 |
Certificates & Inspections
Important: For projects involving fire protection systems, you must also file with the Brookline Fire Prevention Division.
| Certificate / Inspection | Fee |
|---|---|
| Certificate of Use & Occupancy (Existing Structures) | $100 + $15 per dwelling unit |
| Certificate of Inspection & Certificate of Structures (MSBC 108.5.1) | $100 + $15 per dwelling unit |
| Certificate of Use & Occupancy - Dwelling Unit | $50 per unit |
| Certificate of Use & Occupancy - Commercial Unit | $50 + $25 per 1,000 sq. ft. |
| Temporary / Partial Certificate of Use & Occupancy | $50 (or $50 per month) |
| Lodging House Inspection | $100 up to 5 units + $5 per additional unit |
| Condominium Certificate of Inspection (Article XIX, Section 34) | $100 per dwelling unit |
For a complete list or specific inquiries, contact the Town of Brookline Building Department. Stay informed and ensure your project complies with all regulations!
FAQs
✅ Need Help Navigating Brookline Permits?
We prepare applications, coordinate reviews, and keep you compliant so you avoid penalties and rework.
Note: Fees and processes are subject to change; always verify with official sources.
