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Boston is returning to a modified Phase 2, Step 2 beginning December 16. For the latest updates, please visit our coronavirus (COVID-19) website:
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Inspectional Services

COVID-19 UPDATE: We've established new protocols for essential construction work in the City of Boston due to the public health emergency. We also have an informational page on how to best access our services during COVID-19.

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We administer and enforce building, housing, health, sanitation, and safety regulations mandated by City and State governments.  We are made up of five regulatory divisions whose aim is to protect and improve the quality of life for all Boston residents. Our mission is to serve the public by protecting the health, safety, and environmental stability of Boston's business and residential communities. Learn more about our work.

Take Advantage OF our online portal

Xổ số may mắn hàng tuầnThe online option saves you time — you can apply online and even print out your permit when it has been approved by us. Right now, you can apply for some of our permits online, but the list will continue to grow over time.

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Upcoming events

There are no upcoming events available at this time.

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Building permits

We created a number of guides to help you through the permitting process.

We also have information on less common permits.

building permits info

How to get a short-form permit
How to get a short-form permit

Xổ số may mắn hàng tuầnYou need a short-form permit for minor changes to a building.

How to get a long-form permit
How to get a long-form permit

This permit is for new construction, or to make updates to a building.

How to get a record of legal occupancy
How to get a record of legal occupancy

You need the certificate to get a permit to do work on a building.

Additional Dwelling Unit toolkit
Additional Dwelling Unit toolkit

Xổ số may mắn hàng tuầnThe program offers more housing options while creating rental income.

Approved after hours permits

View permits approved for after-hours work.

Learn about the permitting process
Learn about the permitting process

Permits include building, electrical, plumbing, and gas.

Board of Examiners
Board of Examiners

Xổ số may mắn hàng tuầnThe Board is responsible for issuing Boston Builders Licenses.

Video Tutorial

How to Apply For a Short Form Permit

Step by step video tutorial

Zoning Board of Appeal

We inspect and review buildings for zoning compliance. The board regulates the rules behind what you can build and where you can build in Boston.

Zoning Board information
Related information:

Housing help

Inspecting housing in Boston
Learn about the Housing Division at Inspectional Services, and what we do for Boston residents.
When you need a rental inspection
We inspect rental properties to make sure they meet state housing codes.
How to register a rental property
If you own a rental property, you must register it with the City each year.
How to apply for the Five-Year Inspection Plan
If you have a good record as a property owner in Boston, you may qualify for the plan.
How to request an administrative hearing
You can ask for a hearing if you get a violation on your property.
Short-term rentals
Short-term rentals in the City of Boston are subject to new regulations starting on January 1, 2019.
Housing Division contacts
We have emails and phone numbers for Housing Division contacts.
Meeting the housing code in Boston
All homes must meet the State Sanitary Code. Learn more about the regulations.

Learn more about our work

Health, food, and environment
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Health Division

The Health Division enforces food and sanitary laws for Boston Inspectional Services. Learn about our team approach to protecting public health.

An Environmental Sanitation worker for Inspectional Services
Environmental Sanitation

We keep Boston free of pests and rodents.

Weights and measures
Weights and measures

We protect consumers when they buy products sold by weight or volume.

Programs

Programs

Additional Dwelling Units

We want to streamline the process for homeowners looking to create an additional unit.

Breathe Easy at Home

We're improving access and communication between medical homes for children with asthma, public health agencies, and...

Mayor's Food Court

The Mayor's Food Court rates violations of food service establishments.

BOS:311 service requests

Service requests

Forms and documents

Documents

 

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    News and announcements

    Latest news
    To stem the current public health crisis and support the health of workers in the City, the City has paused non-essential construction and is enacting new requirements for permitting.
    Image for New leadership place at key City of Boston departments

    New leadership place at key City of Boston departments

    Mayor's Office
    An oil truck in Boston

    Getting what you pay for with oil, and not a penny less

    Inspectional Services
    Image for Plastic bag requirements set to resume in Boston

    Plastic bag requirements set to resume in Boston

    Inspectional Services
    Image for Zoning Board of Appeal applications now available online

    Zoning Board of Appeal applications now available online

    Inspectional Services
    More Inspectional Services News

    Meet our staff