FAQs • Ipswich, MA • CivicEngage

How long does it take to obtain a permit?: The amount of time before a permit is issued often varies. Projects involving a great scope of work may and usually do take longer to review and issue than a permit to install a new roof surface. If all required information is included this will help expedite the review process. Permits authorizing roofing, siding, interior bath or kitchen remodeling and similar work are usually issued in less that an week after submission. Larger projects especially those that require the review of other departments can take several weeks especially if plans submitted require revisions or additional information is required causing a delay. The required permit fee must also be paid prior to issuing a permit. Though previous codes required the building official to review and grant or deny an application in writing within thirty days, the current code is not prescriptive and requires it be done in a reasonable amount of time.

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Building Department

1. When is a building permit required?: Current codes require a permit for almost all work on existing structures and for all new construction. This includes roofing, siding, insulation, demolition, wood and pellet stoves, and interior remodeling. If you're uncertain if a permit is required, please call and ask.

2. Can I do the construction myself? If so, do I have to be licensed?: A homeowner may act as their own general contractor and perform work on their own property exclusive of plumbing, gasfitting or wiring. Those disciplines require duly licensed professionals. Anyone perfuming work as contractor must possess a Construction Supervisor's License (CSL). There a specialty construction supervisor licenses for contractors who install wood or pellet stoves, insulation, roofing, siding, and windows. To qualify, one must pass an exam and once licensed, take minimum hours of continuing education courses. Anyone who does home improvements on owner/occupied one to four family dwellings, must possess a Home Improvement Registration (HIC). This program provides consumers protection through a Guarantee Fund. Homeowners aggrieved by a contractor may be able to collect up to $10,000.00 from this state fund. Bylaws

3. Can I apply for a permit application? My contractor told me to apply for the permit.: A homeowner may apply for their own permit and act as a general contractor. By doing so, they would be taking on any and all responsibility for code and zoning compliance. Also, anyone who performs work on an owner occupied one-to-four-family home must possess a Home Improvement Contractor's Registration (HIC). This program has an associated Guarantee Fund.

4. How do I apply for a permit?: All permitting is done online. The online permitting link is available on the Town website. Information about required documentation and permit fees is also available on the Town website.

5. Can I begin work once I submit my online permit application?: No. Work should not commence until the permit has been issued and posted visible from the street.

6. How long does it take to obtain a permit?: The amount of time before a permit is issued often varies. Projects involving a great scope of work may and usually do take longer to review and issue than a permit to install a new roof surface. If all required information is included this will help expedite the review process. Permits authorizing roofing, siding, interior bath or kitchen remodeling and similar work are usually issued in less that an week after submission. Larger projects especially those that require the review of other departments can take several weeks especially if plans submitted require revisions or additional information is required causing a delay. The required permit fee must also be paid prior to issuing a permit. Though previous codes required the building official to review and grant or deny an application in writing within thirty days, the current code is not prescriptive and requires it be done in a reasonable amount of time.

7. How do I schedule a plumbing/gas inspection?: To schedule a Plumbing or Gas inspection, contact the inspection "hotline" at 978-356-6605 before 8:00 AM the day of request. Inspections are performed Monday, Wednesday and Thursday starting at 9:30 AM.

8. Can I do my own wiring, plumbing or gas work on my own residence?: No. A licensed plumber, gas fitter, and electrician must perform work under those disciplines.

9. Do I need a permit for an above ground swimming pool?: Yes. Any pool with the ability to contain 24 inches of water requires a permit. Pools are also subject to minimum setback distances from property boundaries.

10. When are wiring inspections performed?: Wiring inspections are conducted on Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday starting at 9:30 AM. No on time inspections. To schedule an inspection contact the inspection "hotline" at 978-356-6605 ext 1 before 8:00 AM the day of request.