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Boston, Massachusetts — Building Permit Guide

Updated Apr 3, 2026
Boston building codes emphasizing historic preservation and seismic resilience

Boston adopts the 9th Edition Massachusetts State Building Code. The City of Boston Inspectional Services Department manages permits with typical timelines of 4-12 weeks. The city has a population of approximately 643,077 and covers 90 square miles. Boston is in Seismic Design Category D requiring enhanced seismic design. The city has extensive historic district protections and architectural review requirements. Notable requirements include lead paint remediation, accessible design, historic preservation compliance, and stormwater management. Permit fees range from 0.7-1.2% of construction value. The city offers expedited processing for historic preservation projects and has established standards for protecting the city's 17th-19th century architectural heritage.

TAGS
bostonmassachusettshistoric-preservationseismic-d
DETAILS
state
Massachusetts
population
643077
adopted code
9th Edition MA State Code
permit office
Inspectional Services
typical timeline
4-12 weeks
amendment highlights
["Historic preservation","Seismic D","Lead remediation"]
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