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When a permit is required
Permit triggers and exempt work for Waterbury
The construction, reconstruction, conversion, structural alteration, relocation, or enlargement of any building or other structure; land subdivision; or change of use. No permit required for: interior alterations not changing dimensions or use; landscaping and trails; fences up to 6 ft (side/rear) or 4 ft (front); structures under 80 sq ft and 8 ft height; farm structures with agricultural department approval.
- Exempt Interior alterations not changing dimensions, location, or use of a building or structure
- Exempt Landscaping and trails
- Exempt Fences up to 6 ft high in side or rear yards; up to 4 ft high in front yards
- Exempt Structures or outbuildings with floor area not more than 80 sq ft and not more than 8 ft high
- Exempt Farm structures (with approval from the Vermont Agency of Agriculture)
Note: Contact Zoning Administrator to confirm exemptions for specific projects.
- Zoning Permit Application
- Supplemental forms as applicable (Conditional Use, Site Plan, Subdivision, Overlay District)
- Supporting plans
- Building code
- Waterbury Zoning Regulations (amended May 2016; Unified Development Regulations draft in process). Vermont state codes apply.
- Permit validity
- Not specified; contact Zoning Administrator.
- Owner-builder
- Not specified; contact Zoning Administrator.
- Contractor requirements
- Vermont state licensing for trades as applicable.
Application process
Typical processing: Not specified; standard Vermont 30-day review applies for administrative permits. DRB review adds additional time.
- 01 Contact Zoning Administrator Cheryl Casey at (802) 244-1012 or ccasey@waterburyvt.com to determine what permits are required.
- 02 For online submission: create an account at the SmartGov portal (https://twn-waterbury-vt.smartgovcommunity.com/Public/Home), select "My Portal," then "Apply Online" to start an application.
- 03 Complete the Zoning Permit Application and any required supplemental forms.
- 04 For most commercial and multi-unit projects, Site Plan Review and Development Review Board approval are required before a zoning permit is issued. Exceptions: one- or two-family dwellings; home occupations; minor projects.
- 05 Pay applicable fees. Online credit card payments accepted via PayGOV with convenience fee.
Typical processing time: Not specified; standard Vermont 30-day review applies for administrative permits. DRB review adds additional time.
Source: Planning and Zoning Department ↗
Fee schedule
Waterbury building permit fees
Online payments via PayGOV with minimum $1.00 convenience fee for transactions under $33; 3% convenience fee for transactions over $33.
Fees change periodically. Confirm at the official fee schedule ↗ before budgeting.
Required inspections
Scheduling and sequence
- (802) 244-1012 (phone)
- ccasey@waterburyvt.com (email)
- SmartGov portal (online)
- Inspection hours
- Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM
Typical sequence: Not specified; verify with Zoning Administrator.
Frequently asked
Common questions about Waterbury permits
01 Do I need a building permit in Waterbury, VT? ▸
02 How much does a building permit cost in Waterbury, VT? ▸
03 How do I apply for a building permit in Waterbury, VT? ▸
04 How long does it take to get a building permit in Waterbury, VT? ▸
05 What work is exempt from building permits in Waterbury, VT? ▸
06 How do I schedule a building inspection in Waterbury, VT? ▸
Educational reference. Permit rules and fees change — confirm current requirements directly with Planning and Zoning Department before applying. Jaspector is not legal advice.