Passive House mandatory, strictest enforcement. Boston is known for thorough plan review and strict enforcement. Projects should budget additional time for permit processing and plan revisions.
Boston Accessibility Requirements
Edition: 2021 • Base: 521 CMR w/ Boston amendments
Boston Building Code (780 CMR w/ Boston amendments)
Edition: 2021 • Base: 780 CMR 10th Ed. w/ Boston BPDA amendments
Boston BERDO 2.0 (Building Emissions Reduction and Disclosure Ordinance)
Edition: 2024 • Base: Boston Ordinance Ch. 7-2.2
Boston Passive House Requirement (Multi-Family >12,000 sq ft)
Edition: 2024 • Base: Specialized Opt-in Code + PHIUS/PHI
Boston Fire Prevention Code
Edition: 2021 • Base: 527 CMR 1.00 w/ BFD amendments
Boston has adopted the Specialized Opt-in Code. All-electric building systems required. HERS rating thresholds apply. Fossil fuel restrictions in effect.
Building permit (ISD), DPW street/utility permits, fire alarm/sprinkler permits, and potentially zoning relief. Major projects may require 8-12 separate permits with 4-8 week processing.
Boston has extended review times. Residential: 3-6 weeks. Commercial: 6-12 weeks. Zoning relief adds 8-16 weeks.
Building permit fees based on project valuation (typically $15-25 per $1,000). Additional fees for DPW, fire, and specialty permits. Total permit costs: $500-$5,000+ for residential, $5,000-$50,000+ for commercial.
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