Greater Boston Building Permits Guide

MA HIC required for residential work > $1,000; CSL required for structural work. Licensing in MA is managed by MA HIC + Construction Supervisor License (CSL). Most Greater Boston homeowners should require their contractor to pull permits in the contractor's name so liability for code violations rests with them.

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Key points

Confirm whether your scope triggers a MA permit (structural, electrical, plumbing, mechanical, additions, demo).
Have your licensed contractor pull the permit in their name — this shifts inspection liability to them.
Budget 1–3% of project value plus plan-check fees (USD 200–USD 1,500 depending on scope).
Schedule rough-in and final inspections in advance — re-inspections cost extra and delay the build.