Building Department

Accessory Dwelling Units

IMPORTANT -- see info HERE

10th Edition New Deck Requirements

If you are submitting for a deck permit after 7/1/25 you will need to meet the new requirements as outlined in Chapter 5 of the IRC, please see link to Section R507 Exterior Decks.

Chapter 5 - Massachusetts Residential Code 10th Edition

10th Edition of the Building Code

Sarah R. Wilkinson, Commissioner, Division of Occupational Licensure for the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, announced the 10th edition of the Building Code will be published:

October 11, 2024

Concurrency period for 9th and 10th Edition of the State Building Code extended until June 30, 2025 The 9th Edition of the Building Code will apply concurrently with the 10th Edition until June 30, 2025.

Building permit applications for projects utilizing the 9th Edition need to be filed on or before June 30, 2025.

Applications received on or after July 1, 2025, that are based on the 9th Edition will not be accepted and will not be granted a building permit.

Breaking ground on a jobsite does not need to begin immediately when obtaining a permit. However, if breaking ground does not commence within 180 days of a permit being issued, the permit may expire unless extended.

See 780 CMR 105.5 for more information.

Commercial Builders

Are you starting a Construction or Demo project?

Mass DEP requires filing an AQ-06 10 days prior to the start See below excerpt from DEP and form attached, proof of filing must be provided to Bldg Dept prior to start

The Construction/Demolition Notification Form must be submitted to the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (MassDEP) for all construction, demolition, or renovation projects except those at residential buildings containing less than 20 dwelling units. (Note: the USEPA requires notification of demolition of any building except for residential structures with less than four (4) units.)

This form must be submitted at least 10 working days before the start of construction or demolition work.

BWP AQ06 INFO

CSL Licenses

We have been informed by the Board of Building Regulations and Standards (BBRS) that effective as early as February 1, 2023, CSL Licenses will no longer be printed or issued in current version.

Please note the License Holder (not the Building Department) is responsible to upload Proof of License with the Permit Application.

ATTENTION: Plumbers

The New Uniform State Plumbing Code is effect DECEMBER 08, 2023.
Click THIS LINK to view it.

Inspections

Please note the Building Department ONLY schedules inspections via phone.

Please contact us at 978-448-1109 to schedule your inspections

Thank you

2023 Massachusetts Energy Code

Effective January 1,2023 Massachusetts has adopted the 2023 Massachusetts Energy Code.

As Groton is a Stretch Energy Community, we automatically adopt the New 2023 Stretch Energy Code based on the 2021 ICC International Energy Conservation Code with Mass Amendments.

All Builders constructing new homes, additions, or performing alterations that will be permitted after January 1, 2023 should review these new requirements and ensure their projects conform.

We have included links below to the Mass Save and State Summaries of the changes. You are advised to review the New Code in Full to ensure compliance."
Mass Save Summary of New 2023 Energy Code
State Summary of the 2023 Stretch Code Changes

Unvented Propane Gas UNVENTED Propane or Gas Heaters require a permit from the Fire Dept.
Please contact the Fire Dept at (978)448-6333 to obtain a permit.

Electricians: Update on 2023 NEC Code Effective January 1,2023, all electrical permits will be subject to inspections under the new 2023 NEC Code. Please ensure you are familiar with and your work is up to date with the new Code

Zoning Bylaws You can look at the Town’s By Laws and Charter on the eCode360 website. Zoning information can be found under Section 218.
Direct link to Section 218, Zoning

Installing a new pellet, wood, or gas stove or insert Please include a copy of the installation manual with your permit

Installing a Pool If you are installing a pool, please print out the pool checklist and submit all the applicable information with your Building Permit.
Pool Checklist

Finishing Basement or Attic If you want to finish your basement, please print out the Attic or Basement Checklist and submit all the applicable information with your Building Permit.

Home Improvement Contractors Please review your contracts to ensure they contain the fourteen (14) items required per MGL 142A , if not please submit executed Affidavit for Home Improvement Contractor with your permit application.

Sample Contract
Sample Affidavit

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) The Building Department has published a list of Frequently Asked Questions that can answer several common questions that we receive. View the FAQs Here.

Did you know you can subscribe to updates to this page? Create an Account or Manage your preferences at https://portal.grotonma.gov and get notified whenever a new meeting is scheduled or a new document is added!

About

The Building Commissioner works under the general supervision of the Select Board, but has independent statutory authority under the state zoning and subdivision control laws for the issuance of permits under, and the enforcement of, the state building code.

A major responsibility of the Zoning Officer is the interpretation and enforcement of local zoning to ensure compliance with zoning standards voted by Town Meeting.

In cooperation with the Fire Chief and other Town officials, the Building Commissioner/Zoning Officer:

* insures that public safety standards are met in all buildings, public and private, and in the development that occurs within the Town
* appoints, under the provisions of MGL Chapter 142, Section 11, the Plumbing and Gas Inspectors, and supervises their work, as well as that of the Assistant Zoning Officer, and the Wiring Inspector

In Groton, the Building Commissioner acts in an advisory capacity in the supervision of the repair and alteration of municipal buildings, and is responsible for an annual inspection of all public buildings.

The Building Commissioner has a part-time, shared office assistant. Through arrangements with the Building Inspectors of neighboring towns, an Alternate Building Inspector with the same duties and responsibilities is available during vacation and other times when the Building Commissioner is not available.

Contact Information

Email: building@grotonma.gov
Phone: (978) 448-1109
Fax: (978) 448-1113
Hours: Monday: 8:00 am – 7:00 pm, Tuesday-Thursday: 8:00 – 4:00 pm, Friday: 8:00 – 1:00 pm