Frequently Asked Questions

Anyone seeking to construct, alter, or demolish a structure or install a sign must first obtain a building permit issued by the Building Department. The building permit must be obtained before the start of any work and must be prominently posted at the job site.

Building permits are issued to construction supervisors licensed by the State. The State license is only valid for work involving structures of less than 35,000 cu. As an exception to this requirement, building permits are also issued to homeowners doing work on one- or two-unit dwellings where they reside or intend to reside. Please note that when homeowners are issued building permits, they may be liable for contractors working on their property and they are not eligible for protection under the provisions of the Homeowners Improvement Contractor Law.

These permits are only issued to Massachusetts licensed plumbers, gasfitters, or electricians.

The work must be in compliance with the Winthrop Zoning Ordinance.

Work must be started within six months of the date the permit is issued. Once started, the work must be progressing continuously to completion. The Noise By-Law does not permit construction activities prior to 7 am and after 7 pm.

The Massachusetts Access Regulations are part of the Building Code and are enforced for new construction, alterations, and changes in use.