Salem, Massachusetts has strict permit requirements for construction and renovation projects throughout the city. Getting a permit in Salem requires extra attention due to the city's numerous historic districts and coastal location. Many properties fall under historic preservation rules that affect what changes you can make and how projects must be approved.
This guide covers Salem's permit process, including which projects need permits, application requirements, fees, and inspection schedules.
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What requires a building permit in Salem, MA?
The Salem Inspectional Services Department follows the Massachusetts State Building Code (780 CMR). Permits are required for most construction-related activities, especially those that affect structure, utilities, or egress.
Projects that require a permit in Salem include:
- New buildings and additions (all occupancies)
- Structural work (cutting/altering load-bearing elements; changes that affect required egress)
- Decks that are attached, or over 200 ft², or over 30 in. above grade, or that serve the required exit door (one- and two-family dwellings)
- Sheds/accessory buildings above the exemption size
- Retaining walls over 4 ft high or supporting a surcharge
- Swimming pools >24 in. deep (in practice these trigger building, electrical, and sometimes fencing/zoning requirements)
- Roofing/siding/window/door replacements that alter the building envelope or energy compliance (commonly permitted in MA practice under 780 CMR)
- Change of use or occupancy
- Electrical, plumbing, gas, and sheet-metal/HVAC work require their own trade permits even if a building permit is exempt
What doesn’t require a building permit in Salem, MA?
You generally don’t need a permit for:
- One-story detached accessory structures <200 ft² (tool/storage sheds, playhouses)
- Fences <7 ft high
- Retaining walls <4 ft (measured footing to top) and not supporting a surcharge
- Prefabricated pools <24 in. deep
- Ordinary repairs/finish work that don’t affect structure/egress/fire protection/energy or utilities (e.g., painting, papering, tiling, carpeting, cabinets, countertops)
- One-story detached accessory structures <120 ft² (non-residential contexts)
- Fences <7 ft, retaining walls <4 ft without surcharge
To get more information, refer to the Massachusetts State Building Code (780 CMR) and Salem’s Inspectional Services pages.
Salem MA building permit cost
Salem building permit fees are based on project valuation, square footage, and type of construction. Below is an estimate of typical fees.
Residential fees
Commercial fees
Salem, MA trade permits
Plumbing permits
Plumbing permits are required for installations, system changes, or repairs involving supply, waste, or vent lines.
Residential (1-2 family)
Commercial / Industrial / 3-family & up
Electrical permits
Any changes to wiring, service panels, or electrical systems require a permit.
HVAC permits
Mechanical permits are needed for heating, cooling, and ventilation system installations or replacements.
Mechanical fees
Gas fees
Residential (1–2 family)
Commercial / Industrial / 3-family+
Special permits
Exterior work like roofing, fencing, or pools may also require a building or specialty permit.
Find the full list of trade permit fees on the following pages:
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How to get a building permit in Salem, MA
Step 1: Prepare your documents
Before you begin your application, gather what Salem’s Inspectional Services commonly asks for.
- Completed building permit application (project address, scope, valuation)
- Construction drawings and site plan (PDFs for upload)
- Contractor license & insurance (e.g., Workers’ Comp affidavit), and trade licenses if applicable
- Energy compliance forms when required (for envelope/mechanical work)
- Estimated construction cost (Salem’s fees are valuation-based)
Note: If the property is in a local historic district, some work needs prior approval from the Salem Historical Commission. Build that into your timeline.
Step 2: Submit your application online
Use the Salem, MA permit portal to submit building and trade permit applications.
- Create/login to your OpenGov account and choose Inspectional Services
- Complete the building permit record, upload plans, and submit
- You can also file plumbing, gas, and other trade permits in the same portal
Note: The city does not accept completed paper permits via mail.
Step 3: Wait for plan review
Once submitted, your building permit is routed for review.
- The Building Department coordinates review and may route to Zoning/Planning and request inputs from Plumbing, Gas, Electrical, and Fire where relevant to your scope
- Under Massachusetts code, building officials are expected to act on a complete application within ~30 days (approve/deny/next steps)
Step 4: Pay permit fees and receive approval
When your permit is approved, you’ll get a notification to pay in the portal. Once paid, download and post the permit on-site.
Step 5: Begin construction and request inspections
Inspections are important during milestones (e.g., footing/foundation, framing/roughs, insulation, finals). To schedule the inspection, call 978-745-9595. For electrical inspections, call the Electrical Department at 978-745-6300 or 978-745-9595.
Salem MA permitting resources
- Salem Inspectional Services Department
- Address: 98 Washington St, Salem, MA 01970
- Phone: 978-619-5641
- Alternative phone number: 978-619-5642
- Email: inspectionalservices@salem.com
- Hours: Mon–Fri, 8 AM – 4 PM
- Permit Portal: salemma.portal.opengov.com
- Salem, MA Building Permit search
- Permit applications:
- Plumbing permit page
- Historical commission page
- Fees:
- Inspectional services
- Massachusetts State Building Code (780 CMR)
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