Everything you need to know about getting a deck permit in Boston: fees, requirements, exemptions, and direct links to the Inspectional Services Department (ISD).
Permit Fees
Valuation-based: $20 base fee + $10 per $1,000 of estimated construction cost for building permits.
A $5,000 deck project: $20 + (5 × $10) = $70. A $15,000 deck project: $20 + (15 × $10) = $170.
Processing Time
Short-form permits (minor work): a few days. Long-form permits (structural/major): several weeks. Peak construction season causes delays.
Apply Online
Yes — via Boston Permitting Online
Building Code
10th Edition Massachusetts State Building Code (780 CMR), effective July 1, 2025, based on 2021 IRC/IBC with Massachusetts amendments
Contact: (617) 635-5300 | 1010 Massachusetts Avenue, 5th Floor, Boston, MA 02118
All new decks require a building permit in Boston. Short-form permit may be used for minor deck repairs not involving structural work.
If your deck does NOT meet all exemption criteria, you must obtain a permit before construction. Building without a required permit can result in fines, stop-work orders, and required demolition.
Review the exemption criteria above. If your deck exceeds any threshold, a permit is required.
You'll need a site plan, deck dimensions, framing details, and footing specifications. Check Boston's specific documentation requirements.
Apply through Boston Permitting Online . Pay the permit fee at submission.
Once approved, post your permit visibly and schedule required inspections (typically footing, framing, and final).
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Sources
Data verified April 2026. Fees, processing times, and requirements are subject to change. Always confirm current information with Boston's Inspectional Services Department (ISD).