On this page 6
§ 02
When a permit is required
Permit triggers and exempt work for Derby
New construction, additions, alterations, changes of use, demolition, signage, subdivision of land.
Routine maintenance and repairs that do not alter footprint, use, or structure
Single-family owner-occupied dwellings exempt from DFS state construction permits
- Exempt Routine maintenance and repairs that do not alter footprint, use, or structure
- Exempt Single-family owner-occupied dwellings exempt from DFS state construction permits
Note: Confirm with Zoning Administrator.
Required documents
- Completed zoning permit application form
- Site plan
- Description of work
- Building code
- 2025 Vermont Fire and Building Safety Code; Derby Zoning Bylaw (January 8, 2024)
- Permit validity
- 2 years from issuance; construction must commence within the permit period.
- Owner-builder
- No state general contractor license required; property owners may act as their own contractor.
- Contractor requirements
- Vermont state electrical and plumbing licenses required for trades.
§ 03
Application process
Typical processing: Administrative permits typically issued within days to a few weeks. DRB hearings take longer.
- 01 Determine if a zoning permit is required under the Derby Zoning Bylaw (January 8, 2024). Permits are required for new construction, additions, structural alterations, changes of use, demolition, subdivision, and signage within town limits.
- 02 Download the Application for Zoning Permit from https://derbyvt.org/formspermitsapplications/ or pick up at the Town Office at 124 Main Street.
- 03 Complete the application form, including property information, description of work, and required supporting materials (site plan, drawings as applicable).
- 04 Submit to the Zoning Administrator Bob Kelley at 124 Main Street, Derby, VT 05829 during office hours (Mon-Thu 7:00-5:00).
- 05 Pay the applicable permit fee.
- 06 The Zoning Administrator reviews the application. Permitted uses are approved administratively. Applications requiring Development Review Board (DRB) review are scheduled for a public hearing.
- 07 Zoning permits are valid for two years; construction must commence within that period.
- 08 For public buildings, obtain a separate DFS state construction permit.
- 09 For projects with a wastewater system or well, obtain the required DEC permit.
Typical processing time: Administrative permits typically issued within days to a few weeks. DRB hearings take longer.
§ 04
Fee schedule
Derby building permit fees
Fee type
Amount
01
Minimum permit fee
$200
02
Permit fee formula
Contact Zoning Administrator for full schedule
Development Review Board appeal fee: $200. Derby Zoning Bylaw contains authoritative fee schedule; contact ZA at (802) 766-2017.
§ 05
Required inspections
Scheduling and sequence
How to schedule
- Contact Zoning Administrator (phone)
- Inspection hours
- Monday-Thursday 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM; closed Friday
§ 06
Frequently asked
Common questions about Derby permits
01 Do I need a building permit in Derby, VT? ▸
New construction, additions, alterations, changes of use, demolition, signage, subdivision of land.
02 How much does a building permit cost in Derby, VT? ▸
Building permit fees in Derby, VT are set by the local building department and vary by project type and valuation. The minimum permit fee is $200. Fees are calculated as: Contact Zoning Administrator for full schedule.
03 How do I apply for a building permit in Derby, VT? ▸
To apply for a building permit in Derby, VT, follow these steps: 1. Determine if a zoning permit is required under the Derby Zoning Bylaw (January 8, 2024). Permits are required for new construction, additions, structural alterations, changes of use, demolition, subdivision, and signage within town limits. 2. Download the Application for Zoning Permit from https://derbyvt.org/formspermitsapplications/ or pick up at the Town Office at 124 Main Street. 3. Complete the application form, including property information, description of work, and required supporting materials (site plan, drawings as applicable). 4. Submit to the Zoning Administrator Bob Kelley at 124 Main Street, Derby, VT 05829 during office hours (Mon-Thu 7:00-5:00). 5. Pay the applicable permit fee. 6. The Zoning Administrator reviews the application. Permitted uses are approved administratively. Applications requiring Development Review Board (DRB) review are scheduled for a public hearing. 7. Zoning permits are valid for two years; construction must commence within that period. 8. For public buildings, obtain a separate DFS state construction permit. 9. For projects with a wastewater system or well, obtain the required DEC permit.
04 How long does it take to get a building permit in Derby, VT? ▸
Building permit processing times in Derby, VT typically run Administrative permits typically issued within days to a few weeks. DRB hearings take longer.. Timelines can vary based on project complexity and current department workload.
05 What work is exempt from building permits in Derby, VT? ▸
Not all construction work requires a permit in Derby, VT. The following work is generally exempt: Routine maintenance and repairs that do not alter footprint, use, or structure; Single-family owner-occupied dwellings exempt from DFS state construction permits. Note: Confirm with Zoning Administrator. When in doubt, confirm with the local building department before starting work.
06 How do I schedule a building inspection in Derby, VT? ▸
Once your permit is issued and work reaches an inspection milestone, you can schedule a building inspection in Derby, VT via: Contact Zoning Administrator.
last verified April 2026
source Derby Planning and Zoning Department ↗
entry id permits/vermont/orleans/town-of-derby
Educational reference. Permit rules and fees change — confirm current requirements directly with Derby Planning and Zoning Department before applying. Jaspector is not legal advice.