CLICK HERE FOR ONLINE PERMITTING

Permits can now be paid for online using the following link:
ONLINE PAYMENTS
Duties

All departments and boards work together to simplify the permitting process. Although some processes may seem redundant and / or time consuming, they are necessary for the welfare and safety of the town. Anyone planning a project, residential or commercial, is welcome to come in and discuss aspects of the proposed project and hopefully alleviate any delays that could occur when the project is in motion.

Permit Types

The Building Department is responsible for all residential and commercial permits that are submitted including but not limited to:

• Electric
• Gas
• Plumbing
• Sheet metal / mechanical for all projects requiring duct work
• Building - Residential & Commercial

What Requires Building Permits

Under the Massachusetts State Building Code a building permit is required for:

• Any and all new construction
• Alterations
• Change of occupancy in a building or structure.
• Change of use
• Demolition
• Reconstruction
• Repairs

The many different types of permits submitted to our department, depending on the project, may require various departments and /or boards to review the submittal.

Inspections

Along with reviewing and processing the permits, inspections are necessary to document all work completed is in compliance with the Massachusetts State Building Code and all other applicable codes. Continuous changes made by the state are putting more demands on the inspectors.
INSPECTIONS NEED TO BE SCHEDULED BY 4PM THE PREVIOUS DAY
BUILDING INSPECTIONS: TUESDAY AND THURSDAY 10AM to 2PM
ELECTRICAL INSPECTIONS: MONDAY, WEDNESDAY AND FRIDAY 3PM to 5PM
PLUMBING/GAS INSPECTIONS: TUESDAY, WEDNESDAY & THURSDAY AM

Zoning Enforcement

Along with all the building aspects and permits, our department is also responsible for Zoning Enforcement.  Our role is to enforce the Town of Douglas Zoning Bylaws (see below) as well as any and all Special Permits and Variances with conditions that may be granted by the Zoning Board of Appeals and / or Planning Board.