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When a permit is required
Permit triggers and exempt work for Jefferson
New construction of any building or addition (houses, garages, sheds, barns).
Note: Not explicitly enumerated in reviewed sources; consult ordinance and permit instructions for specific exemptions. Per general NH practice, ordinary repairs not affecting structural elements, egress, or regulated systems are generally exempt.
- Completed Building Permit Application
- Project description and type
- Estimated cost
- Property details
- Sketch showing building/addition location and distances from lot lines
- NH Energy Code approval (EC-1) for applicable projects
- NH DES septic approval for residential projects
- Driveway permit if applicable
- Building code
- NH State Building Code (RSA 155-A); Jefferson Zoning Ordinance
- Permit validity
- 1 year.
- Owner-builder
- Owner-builders may apply.
- Contractor requirements
- No NH GC license; state-licensed sub-trades required for electrical and plumbing.
Application process
Application → plan check → issuance → inspection → final
- 01 Review the April 2024 Building Permit Requirements sheet to confirm your project requires a permit.
- 02 Required for new buildings and additions, including houses, garages, sheds, and barns. Non-residential/non-agricultural uses require a Special Exception from the ZBA before a building permit can issue.
- 03 Complete the Building Permit Application: owner/applicant info, project description, project type, estimated cost, property details.
- 04 Prepare a sketch of the lot showing the building/addition location and distances from all boundary lines (50-foot minimum setback requirement applies).
- 05 For new homes using electric or fossil-fuel heat, alterations exceeding 50% of current value, additions over 150 sq. ft., or winterizing a seasonal home: obtain NH Residential Energy Code approval (EC-1) before submitting. Note: modular homes certified by the NH Modular Home Program and mobile homes are exempt from energy code requirement.
- 06 For residential projects: attach copy of the approved NH DES septic system approval.
- 07 Obtain a driveway permit if the driveway connects to a town or state road.
- 08 Submit completed application with fee to Town Office.
- 09 Permit is valid for 1 year.
- 10 For any heating system installation: schedule a pre-installation inspection with the Jefferson Fire Department (required by NH State Building Codes).
Source: Select Board / Town Office ↗
Required inspections
Scheduling and sequence
- 603-586-4553 (Town Office) (phone)
- Inspection hours
- Monday-Thursday 8:00 AM - 3:00 PM; Friday 8:00 AM - 3:00 PM (generally)
Typical sequence: Heating System Pre-Installation Inspection: Required by NH State Building Code; schedule with the Jefferson Fire Department before installing any heating system. Permit card must be displayed during construction.
Source: Select Board / Town Office ↗
Frequently asked
Common questions about Jefferson permits
01 Do I need a building permit in Jefferson, NH? ▸
02 How do I apply for a building permit in Jefferson, NH? ▸
03 How do I schedule a building inspection in Jefferson, NH? ▸
Educational reference. Permit rules and fees change — confirm current requirements directly with Select Board / Town Office before applying. Jaspector is not legal advice.