Building
Attention Contractors and Homeowners:
On January 1, 2023 the new Stretch Code for Residential Low Rise construction took effect with no over lap of the past code. All new building permit applications submitted January 1, 2023 and after must meet these requirements.
Information related to the new Stretch Energy Code Development 2022 regulations and New Specialized Code includes the webinar overview and slides of the final code language held on November 2, 2022 by DOER.
Apply for all permits online: Andover MA On-line Permit Portal
inspection PROTOCOLS FOR electric, plumbing, gas, mechanical and building permits are as follows:
- Please request inspections on-line or by calling the office at 978-623-8620 at least 24 hours prior to the desired inspection date.
- provide: permit number, site address, type of inspection required, contact name, and telephone number.
- Staff will schedule the inspection on the next available date, UNLESS ANOTHER DATE IS REQUESTED AND IS AVAILABLE.
- The inspection is not scheduled until confirmed by staff.
- By 8:00 a.m. on the morning of the confirmed inspection date, the appropriate inspector will contact you to discuss specific details as to how the inspection will be conducted and at what time.
- Siding, service, trench, roof, foundation, footing and other exterior inspections that do not require entry will continue unabated.
- We will be conducting all exterior inspections and public safety inspections (fires or unsafe structures).
- Interior Inspections: Depending upon the scope of the project, alternative inspection methods; such as 3rd party reports, affidavits, FaceTime / video, or photos may be accepted but are not guaranteed. Please call 978-623-8620 to verify.
The mission of the Building Division is to ensure the health, safety and welfare of the Town's residents and visitors through the enforcement of the State and local laws, bylaws and regulations.
About the Division
The Building Division is charged with the enforcement and interpretation of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts State Building Code 780 CMR and the Access Regulations, 521 CMR, as adopted, Article VIII of the Andover Code, Andover Zoning Bylaw, and Chapter 40A of Massachusetts General Laws. The Building Division also enforces Article 33 of the Andover Bylaw, Demolition of Historically Significant Buildings and Structures, and Article 36 of the Andover Bylaw, Ballardvale Historic District Bylaw.
The Division enforces the compliance of the conditions on the Variances and Special Permits granted by the Zoning Board of Appeals, and assists in the enforcement of the Planning Board restrictions of the Site Plan Certificates of Approval. The Division issues permits for all construction regulated by the State Building Codes, and performs all related inspections. The Division works in cooperation with the Andover Fire Department for fire protection of all new and existing buildings. Included within the Building Division are the Electrical Inspector, Plumbing Inspector and Sealer of Weights and Measures.
The Building Division issues permits for all types of construction including, but not limited to:
- Additions and alterations to all structures
- Business
- Chimneys
- Commercial and Industrial buildings
- Dormitories
- Institutional buildings (i.e. nursing homes)
- Multi-family and single family dwellings
- Pools
- School buildings (both public and private)
- Signs
Building officials also perform periodic inspections for those buildings, which are required to obtain Certificates of Inspection under State Building Code, Table 110.
-
Building Commissioner
-
Building Inspector
The Building Division issues permits for all types of construction and performs periodic inspections for those buildings.
-
Electrical Inspector
The Electrical Inspector is responsible for receiving and granting permits and scheduling inspections on a daily basis, approving electrical plans for new buildings, and inspecting commercial and residential jobs.
-
Plumbing & Gas Inspector
Plumbing and Gas Inspections issues permits for installation of gas piping, plumbing and sewer installations and repairs. Inspections are conducted as necessary to ensure compliance with State codes.
-
Zoning Board of Appeals
The Board issues special permits, grants variances and comprehensive permits, and hears appeals from decisions of the Building Commissioner or other administrative officer.
-
Fees, Forms & Checklists
Find fee schedules, application forms and checklists for Building Division permits and functions.
-
Online Permit Center
The Town of Andover is pleased to offer licensed contractors and home/property owners the ability to apply, pay for, and receive building, electrical, gas, plumbing, and mechanical permits online through ViewPermit, our permitting partner.
-
GIS Maps
- What are the swimming pool barrier & enclosure requirements?
- Do I need a permit for a fence? What requirements apply?
- What is a plot plan? Where can I get a plot plan? Where is the Registry of Deeds?
- What are the zoning setbacks for a pool (above ground pool, shed, etc.)? Do I need a fence around the pool?
- If my property is listed in the Ballardvale Historic District or on the Mass Historic Register, how does that affect my Building Permit application?
- Can you tell me if this lot is "buildable"? What is a “hundred-percent-upland” rule?
- Can I do my own electrical work as the homeowner?
- Do I need to get a permit for small jobs?
- Do I need an electrical permit for an above-ground pool?
- Why can’t I do plumbing and gas fitting work as the homeowner?
-
Chris Clemente
Building Commissioner - Inspector of BuildingsPhone: 978-623-8620
Building Office Hours
Monday - Friday
7 a.m. - 3 p.m.Inspectors Available
Monday - Friday
7 a.m. - 8 a.m.