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When a permit is required
Permit triggers and exempt work for Topsham
New construction; additions; alterations; decks; garages; sheds; electrical work; interior and exterior plumbing; demolition; solar/PV systems; signs; shoreland zone activities; conditional uses.
- Exempt Ordinary maintenance and repair not involving structural change
- Exempt Painting, decorating, finish work
- Exempt See MUBEC Section 105.2 (2021 IBC/IRC) for full exemptions
Note: Confirm with Code Enforcement Officer before starting any project, especially in shoreland zone.
- Completed permit application
- Site plan/plot plan
- Construction drawings (to scale)
- Energy compliance documentation (IECC 2021 required for permits after April 7, 2025)
- Contractor license info
- Impervious Area Worksheet (non-residential projects with new or expanded buildings, effective May 22, 2024; professional completion required in many cases)
- Building code
- MUBEC mandatory. 2021 IBC/IRC/IECC/IMC/IEBC effective April 7, 2025.
- Permit validity
- No substantial start within 6 months = permit expires.
- Contractor requirements
- Maine-licensed electricians; Maine-licensed plumbers. No general contractor license.
Application process
Typical processing: 7-10 business days typical for residential permits; longer for complex commercial projects.
- 01 Determine permit type (residential building, commercial building, deck, garage, shed, electrical, plumbing, fire, blasting, demolition, photovoltaic/solar, sign, shoreland zoning, conditional use, variance/appeal, etc.).
- 02 Download the applicable permit application form from the town website.
- 03 Submit via email to tlister@topshammaine.com, mail to 100 Main Street Topsham ME 04086, or in person at Town Hall.
- 04 Pay fees by mail to Town Hall (Codes Office), in person, or online at https://topsham.androgov.com/
- 05 Code Enforcement Officer reviews and may request additional information.
- 06 Permit issued; post at job site.
- 07 Schedule required inspections.
- 08 Building permit expires if no substantial start within 6 months of issuance.
Typical processing time: 7-10 business days typical for residential permits; longer for complex commercial projects.
Fee schedule
Topsham building permit fees
Online payment at https://topsham.androgov.com/ (Miscellaneous Payments section), by mail to Town Hall, or in person. Contact 207-729-0908 for current fee schedule.
Required inspections
Scheduling and sequence
- (207) 729-0908 (phone)
- tlister@topshammaine.com (email)
- Inspection hours
- Monday through Wednesday 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM; Thursday 8:30 AM to 6:00 PM; Friday 8:30 AM to 3:00 PM
Typical sequence: Typical sequence: Footing/foundation, framing, rough-in electrical/plumbing/mechanical, insulation/energy compliance, final inspection. Shoreland zoning inspections required; Code Enforcement Officer must verify setback compliance.
Frequently asked
Common questions about Topsham permits
01 Do I need a building permit in Topsham, ME? ▸
02 How much does a building permit cost in Topsham, ME? ▸
03 How do I apply for a building permit in Topsham, ME? ▸
04 How long does it take to get a building permit in Topsham, ME? ▸
05 What work is exempt from building permits in Topsham, ME? ▸
06 How do I schedule a building inspection in Topsham, ME? ▸
Educational reference. Permit rules and fees change — confirm current requirements directly with Code Enforcement (a Division of Planning) before applying. Jaspector is not legal advice.