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1. When is a building permit required?

A permit is required to construct, reconstruct, alter, repair, remove or demolish a building or structure; or to change the use or occupancy of a building or structure, or to install or alter any equipment which is regulated by 780 CMR, Massachusetts State Building Code (780 CMR 105.1). The permit must be granted by the building official prior to performing any work.

2. What requirements must be met prior to applying for a building permit?

The work must be in compliance with the Easthampton Zoning Ordinance and The Massachusetts State Building Code. Approvals may also be required from the Planning Department, Public Works, City Engineer and Fire Departments.

3. How long is my permit good for?

Building Permits expire after 180 days. In some cases an extension may be granted through communication with the building department. 

4. Do I need a permit for a shed?

If the shed is less than 200 square feet, a building permit is not required. However, one must comply with the provisions of the Zoning Ordinance section 6.7 for any size shed.

5. What zone do I live in?

You can find your zone through the city accessor GIS information/Property information by searching your address, clicking on your parcel and viewing the documents attached to your property. 

6. When will my permit be issued?

Per the State Adopted Building Code, the Building Department has 30 days from the date all proper documentation is received to approve or deny a permit application. Most permits are issued well before the 30 days, but more in-depth projects may take the whole time to review. 

7. Will the building commissioner answer questions about how to build, design and construct?

We are happy to help you through the building process but it is not the Building Commissioner's job to design, redesign or supervise any construction project. Please refer to the Ninth Edition Code 780 before contacting the commissioner. The commissioner's main job is to enforce the Massachusetts State Building code. To learn more about the role of the Building commissioner please click here. 

8. What about the issuance of plumbing, gas, or wiring permits?

These permits are issued to Massachusetts licensed plumbers, gasfitters, or electricians. Permits are issued in accordance with Massachusetts General Laws (MGLs); MGL 143-3L in the case of wiring permits and MGL 142-13 in the case of plumbing and gas permits.

9. Can the building commissioner help me with my neighbor's trees?

No. This is a private matter and usually handled through your homeowner's insurance. 

Massachusetts State Law states that your neighbor will not be legally responsible for a healthy tree that falls. If the tree is decaying that is a different story. In either case consult your homeowner's insurance. 

MASSACHUSETTS LAW ABOUT NEIGHBORS AND TREES
A quick guide to the thorny issues of neighbors and trees, put out by the State of Massachusetts. Go to: https://www.mass.gov/info-details/massachusetts-law-about-neighbors-and-trees