Worcester Building and Trade Permit Guide

Permitting in Worcester, Massachusetts isn’t always straightforward. Between city-specific rules, state codes, and portal quirks, even experienced builders can run into delays. 

Whether you’re upgrading a multifamily property or running new ductwork on a single-family home, knowing what’s required — and how to get it approved — is key to keeping your timeline intact.

This guide gives you the essentials: which Worcester building permits you’ll need, what they’ll cost, and how to move through the process without hitting unnecessary roadblocks.

Simplify permitting in Worcester with PermitFlow. Learn how.

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What requires a building permit in Worcester?

The Worcester Building Department, under the Inspectional Services Division, requires permits for most types of construction or system work, including:

• Construct, reconstruct, alter, repair, remove, or demolish any building or structure
• Change the use or occupancy of a building or structure (e.g., residential to commercial)
• Install or alter equipment regulated by the MA State Building Code (780 CMR) (e.g., stairs, ramps, elevators, fire-protection systems)
• Sheds over 200 sq ft
• Fences over 7 ft tall
• Retaining walls over 4 ft high

To get more information on your specific case, refer to the Inspectional Services Department page.

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What doesn’t require a permit?

Some cosmetic and minor repairs are exempt from permit requirements:

• Detached sheds < 200 sq ft
• Fences < 7 ft tall
• Retaining walls < 4 ft high

Note: For detached sheds, zoning setbacks still apply. Fences may require zoning relief if over 6 ft in certain zones.

Still unsure? Use the Worcester building permit search or contact the city directly for clarification.

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Worcester building permit fees

Worcester building permit fees are based on the overall valuation of the project as well as the type of work you’re planning to do. 

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Fines & penalties

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To get more information, check out the Department of Inspectional Services Schedule of Fees page.

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Worcester trade permits

Worcester permits are required for any mechanical, electrical, or plumbing work.

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Plumbing permits

A Worcester plumbing permit is required for:

• New plumbing installations
• Drain or sewer line modifications
• Water heater or boiler replacements
• Gas line work

Licensed plumbers must submit the application and pass inspections.

Plumbing permit costs

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Electrical permits

All electrical work in Worcester must comply with the Massachusetts Electrical Code and local amendments. Worcester permits are required for:

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• Panel upgrades or service changes
• Rewiring or adding circuits
• EV charger installations
• Generators and solar installations

Electrical permit costs

Residential (single-family and <6 units) 

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Commercial, industrial, and residential (6+ units)

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Note: Work in multifamily structures is calculated per unit.

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HVAC permits

A mechanical permit is required for any heating, ventilation, or cooling system work:

• Furnace or AC installation
• Mini-splits and ductless systems
• Venting and air balancing systems

HVAC permit costs

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Roofing permits

Roofing projects that involve sheathing, insulation, or structural changes require a permit. Overlay-only projects may be exempt.

Roofing permit costs

All roof replacements or repairs require building permits calculated at $12 per $1,000 of valuation (min $100).

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Fence and shed permits

• Fences over 7 feet tall or near property lines require permits
• Sheds larger than 200 sq ft (or with utilities) also require review

Fence/shed permit costs

Fences, sheds, and other accessory structures require building permits at the same valuation rate $12 per $1,000 of construction value (min $100).

To get more information on the specific trade permit fees, refer to the Department of Inspectional Services Schedule of Fees page.

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How to apply for a building permit in Worcester

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Step 1: Gather your documents

First, you need to fill out a permit application form (available in the OpenGov portal). Then, attach the following documents: site plan, floor plans, elevations, and structural/technical drawings. If the work is done by a contractor, attach a contractor’s license and workers’ compensation insurance proof.

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Step 2: Submit your application

• Create an account and log in to the City’s OpenGov Permit/License Center
• Select “Building Permit”, complete the online form, and upload all required PDFs
• Pay the $50 administrative fee if submitting in person or by mail; online submissions do not incur this fee

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Step 3: Plan review

Your submittal will be assigned to the Building & Zoning division for completeness check, and technical reviewers (zoning, structural, fire, trades) will evaluate it and, in some cases, will send it back for corrections.

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Step 4: Pay fees

Once approved, you’ll receive an invoice in the portal for:

• Building permit fee (valuation-based)
• Trade permit fees (plumbing, electrical, mechanical)
• Any zoning or administrative fees

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Step 5: Permit issuance and inspections

Once you receive the permit, post the permit card on the job site before beginning work. Additionally, don't forget to schedule inspections (footing, framing, electrical, plumbing, final, etc.) through the portal or by calling 508-799-1198.

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Worcester permitting resources

• Worcester Inspectional Services Division
  
  • Address: 25 Meade Street, Worcester, MA 01610
  • Phone: (508) 799-1198
  • Email: inspectional@worcesterma.gov
  • City Permitting Page
• Worcester Building Permit Search Tool
• OpenGov Permit/License Center
• Department of Inspectional Services Schedule of Fees
• Massachusetts Electrical Code
• Inspectional Services Department

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Simplify permitting in Worcester with PermitFlow

Getting a building permit in Worcester isn’t always easy — especially if it’s your first time navigating the city’s requirements. Tracking down forms, interpreting codes, and managing approvals can quickly eat into your schedule. 

That’s where PermitFlow comes in.

PermitFlow is software built to manage permitting from start to finish, whether you’re working in Worcester or across multiple jurisdictions.

Here’s why builders and contractors rely on us:

• Local expertise: We know exactly what the Worcester Building Department is looking for, so your applications are accurate and complete.
• Centralized dashboard: Manage all your permits in one place, across all your projects.
• Faster approvals: We get it right the first time, which means fewer delays and faster sign-offs.

Don’t let permitting bottlenecks slow down your build. Reach out to see how PermitFlow can streamline your next project.