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When a permit is required
Permit triggers and exempt work for Strafford County
Strafford County has no unincorporated areas. All land falls under the jurisdiction of 3 cities (Dover, Rochester, Somersworth) or 10 towns (Barrington, Durham, Farmington, Lee, Madbury, Middleton, Milton, New Durham, Rollinsford, Strafford). Building permits are issued by each municipality's code enforcement office.
Note: Contact the specific city or town for exemption information.
Application process
Application → plan check → issuance → inspection → final
- 01 There is no county-level permit process. All permit activity routes to one of the thirteen jurisdictions in Strafford County (Dover, Rochester, Somersworth, Barrington, Durham, Farmington, Lee, Madbury, Middleton, Milton, New Durham, Rollinsford, and Strafford).
- 02 Identify the specific city or town where construction is planned.
- 03 Contact that jurisdiction's building department directly for permit requirements and application procedures.
Frequently asked
Common questions about unincorporated Strafford County permits
01 Do I need a building permit in unincorporated Strafford County, NH? ▸
02 How do I apply for a building permit in unincorporated Strafford County, NH? ▸
Educational reference. Permit rules and fees change — confirm current requirements directly with N/A - County does not issue building permits before applying. Jaspector is not legal advice.