FAQs

  • Fences over 7 feet in height require a building permit.
  • Sheds between 201-260 sq. ft. require a building permit. Sheds under 200 sq. ft. do not require a permit. Regardless of size, ALL sheds should meet setbacks of 10 ft. from side/rear lot line. Please check with Conservation for any wetland restrictions on your property. Any structure over 260 sq. ft. requires permitting and must meet the setbacks of the zone in which it is located.
  • Swimming pools, both in-ground and above ground, require a building permit. Edge of pool must be 10 ft. away from side/rear lot lines and 10 ft. from any other structure such as home, garage, or shed. Any decking for above ground pool must meet building setbacks for the zone and conservation restrictions, if any. In-ground pool fencing must be minimum of 48 inches in height with a locking gate. Above ground pools do not require fencing but MUST have a locking ladder when not in use.
  • Permits are not required for painting, flooring, carpeting or replacing cabinetry without structural changes.
  • Any structural changes, windows, doors, siding, opening of walls, additions or reconfiguration of existing space require a building permit.
  • What is the minimum lot size in a residential area? Chelmsford requires a minimum of 40,000 sq. ft. and 150 ft. of frontage for a single lot. Exceptions may apply.
  • Where do I obtain a copy of my plot plan? The building department has some on file from past building permits issued. It is the homeowner's responsibility to hire a surveyor if a plot plan is needed. In some circumstances you may be able to use a GIS Map printout in lieu of a plot plan.
  • FAR (floor area ratio) and LOT coverage requirement for all additions/new homes to be calculated by a registered design professional on a stamped plot plan.
  • Do I need both a building and electrical permit for mini-split units? No, just an electrical permit.