At‑a‑Glance Fee Highlights
- New construction & repairs/alterations: $20 per $1,000 of construction cost (or fraction), minimum $50.
- Small residential exemption: Projects with ≤3 dwelling units: $15 per $1,000 (minimum $50).
- Plan amendments, demolition, and foundations: Same rate and small‑residential exemption structure.
- Sheet metal work: $50 flat + $25 per 100 linear feet.
- New signs: $10 per $100 of sign cost (rounded up), minimum $20.
Key Fee Details
| Permit / Item | Fee Structure |
|---|---|
| Construction & Alterations | $20 / $1,000 (min $50); $15 / $1,000 for ≤3 units |
| Plan Amendments, Demolition, Foundations | Same as above |
| Sheet Metal | $50 + $25 per 100 linear ft |
| New Signs | $10 per $100 of sign cost (rounded up); min $20 |
| Certificates of Occupancy (Residential) | $100 first unit + $50 each additional |
| Certificates of Occupancy (Commercial) | $100 + $50 per 1,000 sq. ft. |
| Certificates of Inspection (by occupancy/use) | Varies: e.g., Assembly (A): $50 up to 50 occ. + $2/occ. over; R‑1: $50 + $5/room over 10; R‑2/R‑4/R‑5: $100 + $5/unit; Fire escapes $100 each (some exceptions) |
| Signs (Annual Inspection) | $10 |
| Re‑inspections of Code Violations | $25 |
| Moving Buildings | $15 / $1,000 (rounded up), min $50 |
| Building License | $50 initial two‑year license; renewal $50; after two years + 30 days: $60 + $10 per additional late year |
| Subsidized Dwellings Inspection | $100 |
| Plan Review | $100, or $50 when included in a building permit |
When Does the Fee Triple?
Starting construction before obtaining a permit? The standard fee is tripled, per City Ordinances 15.04.010, 15.08, and 15.12. This penalty applies to building, electrical, or plumbing work and paying it doesn’t exempt you from code compliance or other penalties
Not sure which Cambridge fee applies? Get a quick answer.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Pro Tips
- Use the small‑residential rate when your project qualifies (≤3 units) to lower costs.
- Round‑up logic on sign fees means budgeting conservatively avoids surprises.
- Book inspections promptly to avoid re‑inspection fees and delays.
- Never start work before the permit is issued tripled fees add up fast.
✅ Need Help Navigating Cambridge Permits?
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