PlainPermit

Do I need a permit for solar panels in Boston, MA?

Short answer: Yes, a permit is required for solar panels in Boston, MA.

Last verified: · Confidence: medium · Status: Verified from official source

Not legal advice. Always confirm with your local building department. Rules change, and your parcel's zoning, HOA, historic district, floodplain or utility work can change the answer. We show the official source and the date we last checked it so you can verify for yourself.
Permit required Confidence: medium

Yes. Solar panels need a building permit; a licensed plumber or electrician is required.

What changes the answer

Cost

Fee not extracted; see Boston Inspectional Services. Unverified, confirm locally

Fee source: https://www.boston.gov/permitting/permits/short-form-permits

Where to apply

City of Boston Inspectional Services Department (online permitting portal)

Permitting authority: City of Boston Inspectional Services Department (ISD). Applies inside the City of Boston. Massachusetts uses a statewide building code; Boston zoning and Landmarks/historic districts add requirements. See also: how to apply for a building permit.

Official sources

“Solar Panels yes √ √ yes Licensed plumber or electrician req’d”

Source: https://www.cityofboston.gov/Images_Documents/table-of-work-requiring-hic-or-csl_tcm3-34280.pdf

“For adding solar panels to your home or business.”

Source: https://www.boston.gov/boston-permitting/install-or-replace

Verified: · Status: verified · Confidence: medium

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