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.
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)
Let PermitFlow handle your Worcester trade permits. We submit, track, and manage every step so your project stays on schedule.
How to apply for a building permit in Worcester
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.
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
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.
Step 4: Pay fees
Once approved, you’ll receive an invoice in the portal for:
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.
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.
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.
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)
Let PermitFlow handle your Worcester trade permits. We submit, track, and manage every step so your project stays on schedule.
How to apply for a building permit in Worcester
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.
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
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.
Step 4: Pay fees
Once approved, you’ll receive an invoice in the portal for:
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.
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.
