Cambridge Building and Trade Permit Guide

Most construction and renovation work in Cambridge, Massachusetts, requires proper permits before you can start. Whether you're building a multifamily project in Kendall Square, remodeling a historic home near Harvard, or installing a new HVAC system, you'll likely need a permit from the City of Cambridge.

This guide breaks down the full process of pulling a Cambridge building permit, from what requires a permit and how much it’ll cost, to how to apply, track approvals, and avoid common slowdowns.

Simplify permitting in Cambridge with PermitFlow. Learn how.

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What requires a building permit in Cambridge?

Most construction or renovation projects in Cambridge, MA, require a building permit issued by the Inspectional Services Department (ISD). 

You’ll typically need a permit to: 

• Construct, alter, remove, repair, move, or demolish a building or structure
• Change the use or occupancy of a structure
• Install, alter, or remove signs
• Abate or disturb asbestos, and any related demolition or reconstruction work

Additional approvals may be required before permit issuance:

• Zoning compliance (per Cambridge zoning ordinance)
• Historical Commission approval for work in historic or conservation districts or designated landmarks
• Public Works or Transportation approvals for projects affecting curb cuts, sidewalks, or street access

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What doesn’t require a permit?

Cambridge exempts the following from building permits (unless local zoning or historic rules apply):

• Detached accessory structures (e.g., sheds) under 120 sq ft
• Fences up to 7 ft high
• Retaining walls up to 4 ft high
• Water tanks <5,000 gal, with height-to-diameter ratio <2:1
• Sidewalks or driveways <30 in above grade, not over a basement
• Paint, wallpaper, tile, carpet, cabinets, countertops, and similar finish work
• Temporary stage sets or scenery
• Playground equipment (e.g., swings) for one/two‑family homes

To get more information on your specific project, refer to the 780 CMR § 105.2.2 and the city’s Building Permits pages.

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Cambridge building permit cost

Cambridge building permit fees are calculated based on project valuation. Here's how it breaks down:

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Cambridge trade permits

Contractors performing mechanical, electrical, or plumbing work must apply for separate trade permits in addition to a general building permit.

Plumbing permits

Required for any new plumbing installation or fixture replacement. This includes:

• Water heater replacements
• Gas piping
• Sewer or water service connections

Permit cost

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More information can be found on the Plumbing Fees page.

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Electrical permits

All wiring, service panel upgrades, and lighting installations require an electrical permit. Only licensed electricians can apply.

Permit cost

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To find more information, refer to the Electrical/Wiring Fees page.

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Mechanical permits

Mechanical permits are required in Cambridge for the installation, replacement, or modification of heating, cooling, and ventilation systems. This includes both residential and commercial mechanical work, such as new AC units, ductless splits, boilers, and radiant heat systems.

Permit cost

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Learn more on the city’s mechanical permit fee page.

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Managing trade permits in Cambridge?
PermitFlow simplifies the process and takes care of the back-and-forth for you. Learn more.

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How to apply for a building permit in Cambridge

Step 1: Prepare your documents

Have the following ready:

• Cambridge building permit application (complete online)
• Drawings/plans (PDF format if submitting online)
• Construction cost estimate
• Contractor and subcontractor licenses
• Energy compliance forms (for new construction/renovation)
• Letter of Approval from Condominium Association for proposed work
• Photographs of existing conditions (e.g., exterior decks, exterior stairs)

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Step 2: Submit via the Cambridge Permit Portal

Go to the Cambridge MA permit portal to:

• Register for an account
• Submit your application
• Upload plans and documents
• Pay initial permit fees

You can also apply in person at the Inspectional Services Department (831 Massachusetts Ave, Cambridge, MA 02139)

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Step 3: Plan review

The city will review your submission for:

• Code compliance (structural, fire, accessibility)
• Zoning and land use regulations
• Energy code and environmental impact
• Historic district overlays (if applicable)

Note: Applicants are notified via email and can track application progress through their OpenGov dashboard.

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Step 4: Pay permit fees and receive your permit

Once approved, you'll be invoiced for final permit fees. Payment is required before the permit is officially issued.

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Step 5: Begin work and schedule inspections

At this stage, you have to:

• Post the permit visibly at the job site
• Schedule required inspections through the portal or by contacting ISD
• Inspections are usually needed for footings, framing, rough-in trades, and final

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Cambridge permitting resources

• City of Cambridge Inspectional Services Department
  
  • Address: 831 Massachusetts Ave, Cambridge, MA 02139
  • Phone: (617) 349-6100
  • Email: isd@cambridgema.gov
  • Building Permit Page
• Cambridge MA permit portal
• Fees:
  
  • Building fees
  • Electrical fees
  • Plumbing fees
  • Zoning fees
• Permit application checklist
• Steps to get a building permit

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Simplify permitting in Cambridge with PermitFlow

Cambridge permitting doesn’t have to slow you down.

Between zoning approvals, historic overlays, and multi-step reviews, navigating Cambridge’s building permit process can be overwhelming — even for experienced contractors. 

PermitFlow takes the complexity off your plate, so you can stay focused on the work, not the paperwork.

Why builders choose PermitFlow:

• Local expertise: Our team understands the nuances of Cambridge permitting, from zoning sign-offs to historic district approvals
• All-in-one dashboard: Manage every permit, track progress, and get real-time updates—all from one central platform
• Fewer delays: We review every application for accuracy before submission to help you avoid rejections and resubmittals

Don’t let permitting hold you up. Contact PermitFlow to simplify your workflow and keep your projects moving.