ADU Permit Online Portal Guide in Boston, Massachusetts
Everything you need to apply for a adu permit in Boston, Massachusetts — documents, fees, steps, and a downloadable submission packet.
Key Facts
- Permit required
- Yes
- Submission method
- Online
- Typical fee range
- $2,250 – $13,200
- Review time
- Varies by jurisdiction
- Inspections
- 8 inspections required
Portal steps may change without notice. Always confirm the current process at Boston's online portal.
Avoid rejections — generate a submission-ready packet
Get a personalized ADU permit packet for Boston, Massachusetts — tailored to your project details.
- Required forms: Building Permit Application, and more
- Pre-filled templates: Permit Cover Sheet
- Fee breakdown: $750–$8,000 estimated total
- Step-by-step Boston Inspectional Services Department portal submission guide
- Inspection prep checklist (8 items)
- Personalized for your specific project details
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Required Documents
Boston requires the following documents for this permit application.
Building Permit Application
Completed Boston Form 1 (Application for Building Permit) submitted in person at Inspectional Services Department
Architectural Plans
Complete set of architectural drawings signed and sealed by a licensed Massachusetts architect, including floor plans, elevations, sections, and details
Site Plan
Site plan showing property boundaries, setbacks, building footprint, parking areas, existing and proposed utilities, and lot dimensions
Title Insurance Commitment
Current title insurance commitment or deed showing legal ownership
Zoning Compliance Letter
Statement from owner certifying compliance with Massachusetts Section 3A zoning requirements and local ADU regulations
Egress Plan
Plans showing compliant emergency egress and means of egress from all habitable rooms per IBC standards
Fees and Timeline
Fee Breakdown
| Fee | Range | Confidence |
|---|---|---|
| ADU Permit Fee | $1,500 – $8,000 | Verified |
| Plan Review Fee | $750 – $5,200 | Verified |
Inspections Required
Foundation inspection and waterproofing verification
Foundation inspection and waterproofing verification
Framing and structural integrity inspection
Framing and structural integrity inspection
Electrical systems inspection including panel capacity and o
Electrical systems inspection including panel capacity and outlet placement
Plumbing rough-in inspection including separate connections
Plumbing rough-in inspection including separate connections
Mechanical systems and HVAC installation inspection
Mechanical systems and HVAC installation inspection
Egress inspection ensuring compliant emergency exits from al
Egress inspection ensuring compliant emergency exits from all bedrooms
Energy code compliance inspection
Energy code compliance inspection
Final occupancy inspection before Certificate of Occupancy i
Final occupancy inspection before Certificate of Occupancy issuance
Authority Sources
Data on this page is sourced from official records published by the permitting authority. Always verify requirements directly before submitting.
Verified February 15, 2026
Verified February 15, 2026
Verified February 15, 2026
Verified February 15, 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
- Do I need a adu permit in Boston?
- Yes. Boston requires a adu permit for this type of project. Submitting without a permit may result in fines, required removal, or complications when selling your property.
- How long does adu permit approval take in Boston?
- Processing times in Boston vary depending on project complexity and current review volume. The process involves 8 steps. Contact Boston Development Services for current timelines.
- What documents are required for a adu permit in Boston?
- Boston requires 6 documents including Building Permit Application, Architectural Plans, Site Plan, Title Insurance Commitment, and others. See the full list above for details.
- What happens if I build without a adu permit in Boston?
- Building without a permit in Boston can result in stop-work orders, fines, required removal of work, difficulty selling your property, and insurance complications. It is strongly recommended to obtain proper permits before starting work.
- Can PermitMagic help prepare my adu permit submission in Boston?
- Yes. PermitMagic generates a submission-ready packet tailored to Boston's requirements, including a document checklist, workflow steps, and authority references. Start a permit plan to get your personalized packet.
- How much does a adu permit cost in Boston?
- ADU permit fees in Boston typically range from $2,250 to $13,200, depending on project scope. Fees may include building permit, plan review, and technology surcharges. Verify current fees with Boston.
Related Permits
Other permits in Boston
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