City Building Permits

Lebanon, NH - 2026 Building Permit Guide

How to apply for a building permit in Lebanon, New Hampshire. Permit authority, application steps, fees, and inspection requirements.

New Hampshire Grafton County Updated March 2026

Permit Authority

Lebanon is the only city in Grafton County. Full-service building department. Online portal for permit applications. Permit fee calculator available. Inspections must be scheduled at least 24 hours in advance.

Department
Planning and Development Department / Building Inspection, City of Lebanon
Address
51 N. Park Street, 5th Floor, Lebanon, NH 03766
Phone
(603) 448-1524

Online Permit Portal

Application Process

  1. Register/log in to the OpenGov online permit portal (link at lebanonnh.gov).
  2. Start your application, save your progress, and continue later as needed.
  3. Upload required plans and documentation (type and detail vary by project).
  4. Submit application. All permit fees are due upon submission.
  5. City reviews for code and zoning compliance per NH State Building Code and Lebanon Building Code (IBC 2018 and related codes).
  6. Permit issued. Construction may not begin until permit is in hand.
  7. Schedule inspections through the portal at least 24 hours in advance.
  8. City inspector performs required inspections.
  9. Final inspection and certificate of occupancy (as applicable).

Source: Planning and Development Department / Building Inspection, City of Lebanon

General Requirements

Most construction projects, alterations, and changes of use require a building permit. A detailed list of work exempt from permit requirements is available at the official exempt work list URL.

Required Documents

  • Complete plans of proposed work, per project type
  • Contact the office for specifics
Building code
NH State Building Code (RSA 155-A); IBC 2018 and related codes.
Contractor requirements
NH state licensing required for electricians and plumbers.

Fees

Plan check fee
Included in permit fee per Fee Schedule.
Permit fee formula
Valuation-based or flat fee depending on project type; see Fee Calculator and Fee Schedule.
Payment note
All fees due upon submission of permit application via the OpenGov portal.

Fees change. Verify current amounts at the official fee schedule.

Work That Does NOT Require a Permit

Important: See the official exempt work list at: https://lebanonnh.gov/DocumentCenter/View/819/Work-Exempt-from-Permit-Requirements---PrintDownload-PDF

Inspections

How to Schedule

Scheduling deadline
Inspections must be requested at least 24 hours in advance.
Inspection hours
City office hours; contact for current schedule.

Typical inspection sequence: Foundation/footing, rough framing, insulation, final; additional trades inspections as needed.

Additional Resources

Information on this page was last verified: March 2026. Permit rules and fees change — confirm current requirements directly with the Planning and Development Department / Building Inspection, City of Lebanon before applying.

Frequently Asked Questions

Lebanon Building Permit FAQ

Do I need a building permit in Lebanon, NH?
Most construction projects, alterations, and changes of use require a building permit. A detailed list of work exempt from permit requirements is available at the official exempt work list URL.
How much does a building permit cost in Lebanon, NH?
Fees are calculated as: Valuation-based or flat fee depending on project type; see Fee Calculator and Fee Schedule.. Plan check fee: Included in permit fee per Fee Schedule..
How do I apply for a building permit in Lebanon, NH?
1. Register/log in to the OpenGov online permit portal (link at lebanonnh.gov). 2. Start your application, save your progress, and continue later as needed. 3. Upload required plans and documentation (type and detail vary by project). 4. Submit application. All permit fees are due upon submission. 5. City reviews for code and zoning compliance per NH State Building Code and Lebanon Building Code (IBC 2018 and related codes). 6. Permit issued. Construction may not begin until permit is in hand. 7. Schedule inspections through the portal at least 24 hours in advance. 8. City inspector performs required inspections. 9. Final inspection and certificate of occupancy (as applicable).
How do I schedule a building inspection in Lebanon, NH?
Inspections can be scheduled via: OpenGov Portal, (603) 448-1524. Inspections must be requested at least 24 hours in advance..

Need help with your project?

Navigating permits in Lebanon can be complicated.

Jaspector connects you with local experts who can review your scope, verify your contractor, and help you understand what permits your project actually needs.

Learn how Jaspector works
Important: This page is an educational resource provided by jaspector.com. It is not legal advice, and it does not substitute for official guidance from the permit authority listed above. Permit requirements, fees, and processes change frequently. Always verify current requirements directly with the issuing department before beginning any construction project. Use of this page does not create an attorney-client relationship. Jaspector assumes no liability for any outcomes arising from reliance on this information.

Other cities in Grafton County

View all Grafton County jurisdictions →