On this page 5
When a permit is required
Permit triggers and exempt work for Claremont
Any owner or authorized agent who intends to construct, enlarge, alter, repair, move, demolish, or change the occupancy of a building or structure, or to erect, install, enlarge, alter, repair, remove, convert, or replace any electrical, gas, mechanical, or plumbing system must first obtain the required permit. This includes replacement windows, new windows, roofing, and siding.
- Exempt Ordinary repairs to structures that do not include cutting away of any wall, partition or portion thereof; removing or cutting of any structural beam or bearing support; or removing, changing, or closing of any required means of egress.
- Exempt Replacement of lamps or the connection of approved portable electrical equipment to approved permanently installed receptacles.
- Exempt Decks not exceeding 200 square feet in area, not more than 30 inches above grade at any point, not attached to a dwelling, and not serving an exit door.
- Exempt Minor plumbing: stopping leaks in drains, water, soil, waste, or vent pipes; clearing stoppages or repairing leaks in pipes, valves, or fixtures (provided such work does not involve permanent replacement of pipe, equipment, or fixture).
Note: Exemptions are consistent with the adopted IBC/IRC baseline under the NH State Building Code (RSA 155-A); full exemption list available via municipal code ordinance (Claremont Code Ch. 5).
- Permit application
- Site plan
- Construction drawings
- Energy code application (for applicable projects)
- Subcontractor information as required
- Building code
- 2018 ICC codes (IBC 2018 / IRC 2018), 2020 NEC, 2018 NFPA 101 and NFPA 1, with local amendments. NH updated its state code to 2021 ICC editions effective December 31, 2024 (HB 1681); Claremont may adopt or be transitioning to 2021 codes.
- Contractor requirements
- NH-licensed electricians and plumbers required; no state GC license in NH; subcontractor information required on application.
Source: Building Safety and Codes Division, Department of Planning and Development ↗
Application process
Application → plan check → issuance → inspection → final
- 01 Review the 'When Do I Need a Building Permit?' page to confirm permit requirement.
- 02 Download the applicable application form or pick up in person at 14 North Street.
- 03 Prepare required documents: site plan, construction drawings, energy code application (as applicable).
- 04 Submit completed application in person at the Planning and Development office (14 North Street).
- 05 Plan review conducted by Building Safety and Codes Division staff.
- 06 Permit issued upon approval; post on job site during construction.
- 07 Schedule required inspections through the building department at each phase.
- 08 Final inspection; Certificate of Occupancy issued upon successful completion.
Source: Building Safety and Codes Division, Department of Planning and Development ↗
Required inspections
Scheduling and sequence
- (603) 542-7008 (phone)
- Inspection hours
- Monday through Friday 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Typical sequence: Foundation/footing, framing, rough-in (plumbing/electrical/mechanical), insulation, final inspection, Certificate of Occupancy.
Frequently asked
Common questions about Claremont permits
01 Do I need a building permit in Claremont, NH? ▸
02 How do I apply for a building permit in Claremont, NH? ▸
03 What work is exempt from building permits in Claremont, NH? ▸
04 How do I schedule a building inspection in Claremont, NH? ▸
Educational reference. Permit rules and fees change — confirm current requirements directly with Building Safety and Codes Division, Department of Planning and Development before applying. Jaspector is not legal advice.