Norfolk County, Massachusetts

Building permit information for all municipalities in Norfolk County.

All Norfolk County municipalities enforce 780 CMR (Massachusetts State Building Code). Each municipality issues permits at the local level; there is no county-level permitting authority.

Statewide Requirements

Construction Supervisor License (CSL)

Required by M.G.L. c. 143, s. 54A for work on structures over 35,000 cubic feet or any licensed trade requiring a permit. Licensed by MA Division of Professional Licensure (DPL).

Homeowner Exemption

An owner of a one- or two-family dwelling used as primary residence may obtain a permit without a CSL. However, the homeowner assumes full contractor liability and forfeits HIC law protections.

Trade Permits

Separate permits required for electrical work (Inspector of Wires), plumbing, and gas. Each requires applicable MA trade license. In addition to building permit.

Permit Validity

Under 780 CMR 105.5, permit lapses if work does not commence within six months or is abandoned for six months.

Workers' Compensation

Affidavit required with every permit application involving a contractor.

Unpermitted Work Penalty

Work commenced without permit results in doubled permit fee as penalty in virtually all Norfolk County municipalities.

Certificate of Occupancy (CO)

Required before occupancy of any new building or substantially altered structure. Issued after all final inspections pass.

Data Verified

All permit information verified March 2026. Fee schedules, portal systems, and procedures subject to change. Contact your local Building Department for the most current requirements before submitting applications.