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When a permit is required
Permit triggers and exempt work for Belmont
Permits are required for all construction regardless of cost or value. Exemptions include purely cosmetic work such as exterior siding replacement and roof shingles.
- Exempt Exterior siding replacement and roof shingles (purely cosmetic work)
Note: Contact the Building Department for the complete current list of exempt work.
- Completed application
- Construction plans (scale drawings)
- Plot plan with all required elements
- Building code
- 2021 IBC, 2021 IRC, 2021 IPC, 2021 IMC, 2021 IECC, 2021 IEBC, 2021 IPSC; 2023 NEC (National Electrical Code); NFPA 1 State Fire Code (2021 edition).
- Permit validity
- Permits expire at the end of six months if the project has not been substantially acted upon; or, once started, expire after any six-month period in which no substantial work continues. One six-month extension is available upon written request.
- Contractor requirements
- State-licensed electricians (RSA 319-C) and plumbers (RSA 329-A) required. Electrical permit application at https://belmontnh.gov/wp-content/uploads/sites/38/2025/08/Building-ElectricAppl240501.pdf.
Source: Building Department ↗
Application process
Typical processing: 7-10 business days for complete, compliant applications
- 01 Determine whether the project requires a permit. Contact the Building Department at (603) 267-8300 x 3 with questions.
- 02 Download the Building and Demo Application from https://belmontnh.gov/wp-content/uploads/sites/38/2025/08/Building-240501BldgPerApl.pdf or obtain in person at 143 Main Street.
- 03 Prepare required documents: completed application, construction plans (drawn to scale), and a plot plan showing location of existing structures, septic system, well, drainage structures and utilities; location of waterbodies, wetlands, floodplain, streams; driveway; any adjacent cemeteries or burial grounds; north arrow; and lot boundaries with dimensions in feet.
- 04 Submit completed application package with applicable fee (check payable to Town of Belmont) to the Building Department in person or by mail.
- 05 Complete applications in compliance with all applicable ordinances, regulations, and codes are typically processed within 7-10 business days.
- 06 Work cannot continue to any phase until the inspector has completed and certified that phase's inspection.
- 07 Upon completion of all required inspections, the Building Department issues a Certificate of Occupancy (residential) or Certificate of Use (non-residential) before the building is occupied.
Typical processing time: 7-10 business days for complete, compliant applications
Source: Building Department ↗
Fee schedule
Effective May 1, 2024
Fees due with application; checks payable to Town of Belmont.
Fees change periodically. Confirm at the official fee schedule ↗ (effective May 1, 2024) before budgeting.
Required inspections
Scheduling and sequence
- (603) 267-8300 x 3 (phone)
- Inspection hours
- Monday-Friday, 7:30 AM to 4:00 PM
Typical sequence: Work cannot continue until the inspection has been completed and the work certified by the Inspector.
Frequently asked
Common questions about Belmont permits
01 Do I need a building permit in Belmont, NH? ▸
02 How much does a building permit cost in Belmont, NH? ▸
03 How do I apply for a building permit in Belmont, NH? ▸
04 How long does it take to get a building permit in Belmont, NH? ▸
05 What work is exempt from building permits in Belmont, NH? ▸
06 How do I schedule a building inspection in Belmont, NH? ▸
Educational reference. Permit rules and fees change — confirm current requirements directly with Building Department before applying. Jaspector is not legal advice.