Our FAQ Page
(See our Process Check Lists at the bottom of this page)
Where and when are permits issued?
The permits can be issued from the Inspectional Service Department Office at 3 City Hall Square Lynn, Ma 01901 – Room 401. City Hall Hours are Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday from 8:30AM – 4:00PM, Tuesday from 8:30AM – 8:00PM, Friday 8:30AM – 12:30PM.
Who can obtain a building permit?
Permit requirements are determined by both City and State regulations. The following information regarding who can obtain a permit is an outline, to further investigate complete information see City Ordinances.
* Homeowners of one or two family and owner-occupied buildings may obtain the building permit as the owner. If a one or two family building is not occupied by the owner, or for any three or more family buildings, a licensed contractor must obtain the Building Permit. For all commercial property, a licensed contractor must obtain the Building Permit.
What is the Building Permit Process?
- Pay the applicable fees and submit a filled out Building Permit Application from ISD office.
- Turn in any additional documents that might be needed and make any modifications if necessary after receiving the permit from the ISD office.
- Review the plan of the application and process
- Building permit will be issued and posted on the job site
- Take note of when and how many inspections ISD will be doing
- Submit affidavit/apply for a Certificate of Occupancy if either necessary
What requirements must be met prior to requiring a building permit?
As long as the work is in accordance with the City of Lynn’s Zoning Ordinance and that any new structure that is being built in a particular section, including historic, neighborhood or preservation districts is approved.
When must the work be started after the working permit is issued?
After the permit is issued, work must be started within six months. In addition, once the work has begun it must be continuously worked on until it is completed.
Is a building permit needed to build a shed?
As long as the shed is less than 200 sq.. feet you do not need a building permit.
When re-roofing a house, how many layers of roofing is allowed?
Only one layer of roofing is allowed.
How do I get copies of inspectional services records?
You can visit the inspectional service dept. and ask for copies of previous records.
What happens if a project has been started without a building permit?
Work should be stopped immediately and you should report to the Inspectional Service dept and request a building permit as soon as possible.
Do I need a permit for a swimming pool?
If the pool is deeper than 24” then a permit is required regardless if its above-ground or in ground.
Do I need a permit for building a fence?
If the fence is over 6ft high then a building permit is usually required. You can contact the Inspectional Services Dept. with any questions regarding the height of your fence and whether one is necessarily required.
How long does it take, on average for a building permit to be processed and accepted?
If all goes as planned, the application should be reviewed and hopefully accepted within 30 days after filing the permit.
What are building permit fees?
On the home page, look through the fee schedule for each permit. These fees are payable when submitting your application documents.
Will the Inspectional Services Dept. refer or recommend a contractor for home improvement?
No, but by consulting through the Dept. of Public Safety you may be provided with a method for looking up home improvement workers and constructors.
If I receive a corrections list from my application, what do I do next?
If you receive a corrections list, it means that your application was denied with reasons listed. It is then your responsibility to both resolve these issues and then reapply for a building permit.
Where do I get a plot plan?
In order to obtain a plot plan, a contractor or owner is needed to survey the land. In order to ensure that the area is in sync with zoning and environmental regulations, plot plans are necessary.
Are plans needed in order to apply for a permit?
An updated and current plot plan is necessary to request for a building permit.
How can I obtain a property record card?
Please visit their website by clicking here.
I only sell pre-packaged foods. Do I need to contact the Health Dept.?
Yes, even if it is all pre-packaged you must still contact the health dept.
Do I need a permit for roll down grills or awnings?
Yes.
What is the requirement for food vendor’s vehicles?
Through the health dept. you can access and confirm the specific requirements for each vendor vehicle.
Can I make improvement to my property myself?
Only if the property is residence to one or two families and if the inspector feels the workers are competent and prepared for the task.
Are satellite dishes allowed on roofs or side walls?
Yes, they are allowed.
I am a small business, where do I go to find out an easy method to find out what I need to be compliant?
To ensure that you have everything to be compliant, go through the building, health etc. requirements listed throughout their dept.
How do I find out if I am in a residential or commercial district?
By looking at the zoning map it becomes easy to determine with district you are in.
Can I call an ISD inspector in advance to get a clearer understanding before I start a project?
Yes, absolutely!
What licenses is the health division responsible for issuing?
The health and sanitation department is fully responsible for issuing licenses that deal with food establishments, retail space, body art/piercing places, trash removal and disposal.
Where do you obtain a Health license?
The permits can be issued from the Inspectional Service Department Office at 3 City Hall Square Lynn, Ma 01901 – Room 401. City Hall Hours are Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday from 8:30AM – 4:00PM, Tuesday from 8:30AM – 8:00PM, Friday 8:30AM – 12:30PM.
What are examples of reasons to file a complaint in health department?
Many issues can surface such as lead paint, mold, rodents, asbestos, bed bugs etc. If any of these problems become apparent or suspicious the tenant may file a complaint through the ISD in City Hall or call for further information (781) 598 – 4000
What is the minimum sq. footage for living space?
For a single bedroom, 70 sq. feet and then another 50 sq. feet added on for each additional person added to the room.
Are locks required on all windows in a house?
If the window is an exterior window then yes, it does require a lock.
Should owner provide lights for outside porches etc.?
At the owner’s expense, these should all be provided.
What are some tips in controlling rodents?
There are many things that can be done to both attempt to and control pests and rodents in your home. Make sure your trash is placed outside shortly before its time for pickup and in metal or heavy containers, either with tight lids to secure the trash inside. If you have a pet, make sure that the pet food is not left out overnight or outside. Make sure that all of your windows have screens on them and are repaired as soon as possible if there is a problem. Inspect your basement for any cracks or holes that may be letting rodents in and seal them.
