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When a permit is required
Permit triggers and exempt work for Chilmark
A building permit is required for all construction within the Town of Chilmark except as exempted by 780 CMR 105.2.
- Exempt Sheds of 120 square feet or less not used for habitation
- Exempt Fences under 7 feet
- Exempt Retaining walls under 4 feet
- Exempt Standard finish work (painting, tiling, carpeting, cabinets)
- Exempt All other standard 780 CMR 105.2 exemptions (see statewide overview)
Note: A Zoning Approval Application for Sheds and Fences is available as a separate downloadable form from Chilmark, suggesting that even exempt shed/fence structures may require a zoning sign-off (separate from the building permit). CONFIRM with the building inspector whether a zoning approval form is required for exempt structures. Exemptions from building permit do NOT exempt work from trade permits or Conservation Commission jurisdiction.
- Completed building permit application form (paper)
- Site plan with dimensions, existing structures, setbacks
- Construction drawings (architect/engineer stamp required for commercial projects)
- Workers' compensation certificate or exemption affidavit
- CSL (Construction Supervisor License for structures over 35,000 cf) or HIC (Home Improvement Contractor) number, or Homeowner Exemption Affidavit
- ConCom Order of Conditions (if applicable)
- MVC approval (if DRI)
- Zoning Approval Application for Sheds and Fences (if applicable; separate form suggests zoning sign-off required even for exempt structures)
- Building code
- 780 CMR (Massachusetts State Building Code, 10th Edition effective October 11, 2024)
- Permit validity
- Must commence construction within 6 months of issuance. Work may lapse if suspended for 12 months.
- Owner-builder
- Homeowners of a 1- or 2-family primary residence may pull permits without a CSL or HIC license but must file a Homeowner Exemption Affidavit.
- Contractor requirements
- Contractors must hold a valid CSL (structures over 35,000 cf) or HIC registration for smaller residential work. Separate licensed contractors required for electrical, plumbing, gas, and solid fuel appliance work.
Application process
Typical processing: Variable; limited office hours (8 hours per week: Tue/Thu 1-5 PM) mean processing may take longer than in fully staffed towns. Island logistics add further lead time. Budget 2-4 weeks minimum for permit review.
- 01 Review Chilmark Zoning Bylaws for compliance with zoning requirements. Building Inspector also serves as Zoning Enforcement Officer.
- 02 Identify whether work is within wetland buffer zone (100 feet from resource area). File with Conservation Commission and obtain Order of Conditions before building permit issuance. Chilmark's Squibnocket area and coastal areas have significant wetland coverage.
- 03 Refer large-scale projects to Martha's Vineyard Commission (MVC) before town action if they meet Development of Regional Impact (DRI) thresholds. Chilmark is a rural town with low density; MVC rural thresholds apply. Menemsha and Squibnocket areas are designated as significant habitat areas (DRI threshold: 1 acre disturbance triggers review).
- 04 Submit completed building permit application form (paper) to building department during office hours (Tuesday and Thursday, 1:00 PM -- 5:00 PM) or by mail.
- 05 Building Inspector reviews for 780 CMR compliance.
- 06 Pay permit fees upon approval; permit issuance.
- 07 Schedule inspections by contacting Adam Petkus at (508) 645-2103 or buildinginspector@chilmarkma.gov during office hours.
- 08 Certificate of Occupancy issued after all inspections pass.
Typical processing time: Variable; limited office hours (8 hours per week: Tue/Thu 1-5 PM) mean processing may take longer than in fully staffed towns. Island logistics add further lead time. Budget 2-4 weeks minimum for permit review.
Fee schedule
Effective December 2023 (revised effective date)
Confirm current fee schedule with Adam Petkus at (508) 645-2103 or buildinginspector@chilmarkma.gov, particularly for inspection fees revised in late 2025.
Fees change periodically. Confirm at the official fee schedule ↗ (effective December 2023 (revised effective date)) before budgeting.
Required inspections
Scheduling and sequence
- (508) 645-2103 (phone)
- buildinginspector@chilmarkma.gov (email)
- Scheduling deadline
- Schedule well in advance; limited hours create bottleneck
- Inspection hours
- Tuesday and Thursday, 1:00 PM -- 5:00 PM (note: limited hours; 8 hours per week only)
- Time windows
- Specific inspection time windows not published; coordinate directly with inspector
Typical sequence: Standard sequence per 780 CMR: footing/excavation, foundation, rough frame (before insulation), insulation, final building. Trade inspections: rough and final for electrical, plumbing, gas, and solid fuel appliances.
In-person inspection required
Frequently asked
Common questions about Chilmark permits
01 Do I need a building permit in Chilmark, MA? ▸
02 How do I apply for a building permit in Chilmark, MA? ▸
03 How long does it take to get a building permit in Chilmark, MA? ▸
04 What work is exempt from building permits in Chilmark, MA? ▸
05 How do I schedule a building inspection in Chilmark, MA? ▸
Educational reference. Permit rules and fees change — confirm current requirements directly with Building Inspection and Zoning Enforcement before applying. Jaspector is not legal advice.