The Town of Danvers is pleased to announce it has upgraded its permitting system from PermitEyes to OpenGov. The change in permitting vendor allows the Town to streamline the permitting process behind the scenes to expedite the review process. Additionally, over time, the Town will be able to move almost all permitting onto this system for a better end-user experience.
First Time users should visit the Application Registration Form to gain access to the online permitting website to register. If you do not own a computer or if you need assistance using a computer, please be assured that help is available in the Inspectional Services Department at Town Hall where we will be glad to assist you with your online application. If you have questions and need to contact us by phone, please call 978-777-0001, ext. 3062 during normal business hours. Office hours are Monday through Wednesday 8 am-4 pm, Thursday 8 am-7 pm, and Friday 8 am-noon.
The Building Inspector's office ensures that buildings are constructed safely and used properly by enforcing the provisions of the State Building Code, International Residential Building Code, AAB Regulations, Town Bylaws and Town Zoning Bylaws. This office reviews plans, issues permits, provides inspections to allow the construction, reconstruction, alteration, repair, and demolition of buildings and structures, as well as the installation of equipment and the location, use and occupancy of all buildings, structures and land.
As a reminder and per the Massachusetts State Building Code Section 113.1, "it shall be unlawful to construct, reconstruct, alter, repair, remove or demolish a structure; or to change the use or occupancy of a building or structure; or to install or alter any equipment for which provision is made or the installation of which is regulated by this code" without first obtaining a building permit. This includes, but is not limited to:
- New Structures
- Additions
- Chimneys
- Decks
- Dormers
- Fence (Over 7ft High)
- Interior Renovations & Alterations
- Porches
- Retaining Walls (4ft and over)
- Roofing
- Sheds
- Siding
- Swimming Pools
- Windows
- Woodstoves
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I begin work once I submit my application? No. Work cannot proceed until the permit has been issued.
How long does it take to obtain a permit? Depending on the complexity of your project, a building permit application can take up to 30 days to be approved.
How long is a building permit valid for? Building Permits will become null and void if construction work is not started with six months of the date the permit is issued or if the permit is not renewed annually.
Can I call for plumbing and electrical inspections? No. These calls must be made by the licensed plumber or electrician. The amount of notice required is stated in their respective codes.
Do sheds require a building permit? Yes, a building permit is required for installation/construction of a shed. The proposed shed must conform to zoning by-law setback requirements.
What is a certified Plot Plan? A certified plot plan is a stamped drawing, drawn to a measurable scale by a State Registered Engineer or a State Registered Land Surveyor. There are several features included on a plot plan, which includes all the buildings, decks, porches, sheds, pools, and other landscape features, as well as the boundaries of the property and the total square footage.