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1. Why am I required to get an account before using the system?

All users of the system must get an account, with a user name and password. This will allow the system to store your applications and other information. For contractors, license information will be verified with the Department of Consumer Protection as part of the process of getting an account.

For more information, or if you having problems using the system, please call 617-577-9000, ext. 2.

2. How secure is my information?

Usernames, passwords, and all financial information related to payments are encrypted using secure servers and Advanced Encryption Standards (AES). ViewPermit uses SSL certificate (HTTPS) and Rijndael Symmetric Encryption algorithms and no credit card or financial information of any kind is ever retained by the software.

The contents of applications and permits, as well as correspondence related to permits are, however, generally considered public information under the Freedom of Information Act and may be provided to other citizens upon their request. Some information related to permitting activity will be available over the Internet through the reports function of this system.

For more information, or if you having problems using the system, please call 617-577-9000, ext. 2.

3. When is a permit required?

A permit must be obtained before beginning construction, alteration or repairs, other than ordinary repairs. (Ordinary repairs are nonstructural repairs and do not include addition to, alteration of, or replacement or relocation of water supply, sewer, drainage, drain leader, gas, soil, waste, vent or similar piping, electrical wiring, or mechanical or other work for which a permit is required by the building official). Work requiring permits includes swimming pools over 24 inches in depth, decks, window replacements, installation of a wood or pellet stove, and installation of a pre-fabricated shed on your property. For more information, or if you having problems using the system, please call 617-577-9000, ext. 2.

4. What are the fees associated with getting a permit?

Each jurisdiction has a slightly different fee schedule, in most cases based on the value of the work being done. The fee will be automatically calculated by the system. For more information, or if you having problems using the system, please call 617-577-9000, ext. 2.

5. Does it cost extra to apply online?

If you pay online through the system, the payment partner (Stripe) does charge a fee of 2.99% + 0.99¢ for credit cards or a flat $5.50 fee for electronic checks , which under many town statutes must be passed on directly to the permit applicant. The fee is calculated automatically and you will have the opportunity to review it before approving your payment.

If you wish to avoid this payment you may mail in your application or pay in person, however, users should consider the cost of stamps or the time and fuel required.

For more information, or if you having problems using the system, please call 617-577-9000, ext. 2.

6. Who may apply for a permit?

A permit may be applied for by a homeowner or the homeowner’s authorized representative. An authorized representative must have authorization in writing to apply for a permit on the homeowner’s behalf. For more information, or if you having problems using the system, please call 617-577-9000, ext. 2.

7. Who can do the work?

Homeowners can do their own work, if they occupy the home and do not rent out any part of it. The homeowner is still required to get a permit. With this exception, any individual doing permitted work must be licensed and registered with the State of Connecticut. The permit system will verify that contractors are currently licensed with the state Department of Consumer Protection. The town may also require other documentation related to workers compensation or other insurance.

For more information, or if you having problems using the system, please call 617-577-9000, ext. 2.

8. How long will it take for me to get a permit?

Express Permits, which do not require plan review, will be issued instantly unless there are conditions that require review by an official (such as a property in a historic district). Examples of Express Permits include roofing, window replacement, electrical upgrades, and water heater installation. Other permits are required by law to be approved or denied within 30 days. The specific time for your permit will depend on a variety of factors. The new online permit system is part of a regional effort to make the approval process as quick and transparent as possible.

For more information, or if you having problems using the system, please call 617-577-9000, ext. 2.

9. Why should I get a permit?

For more information, please visit Reasons to Get a Permit.

10. How do I submit plans or other documents as part of my permit application?

The system allows you to attach documents, photos, and plans before you submit them. If you prefer, you can drop off your plans at Town Hall. If you do so, make sure you reference the permit tracking number that you are given at the time of application.

For more information, or if you having problems using the system, please call 617-577-9000, ext. 2.

11. How was this system developed and paid for?

The regional permitting system was developed by the Capitol Region Council of Governments through a regional service sharing grant from Connecticut’s Office of Policy Management. CRCOG followed a rigorous competitive procurement process, and selected the vendor ViewPoint GIS as the system provider. Towns may also have received a subsidy to help defray the costs of purchasing the system.

For more information, or if you having problems using the system, please call 617-577-9000, ext. 2.

12. What do I need to obtain a permit?

For more information, please visit the Building Department Permit Information page.

Building Permit Application Requirements page.