Massachusetts Permit & Stamping Requirements
Requirements vary by region, code cycle, seismic zone, and wind or snow load. Here is what typically drives design for Massachusetts projects.
What Drives Design in Massachusetts
Massachusetts projects are governed primarily by formal plan review and special inspections.
- ✓ Special inspection program coordination
- ✓ Full MEP package for commercial filings
- ✓ Plan review comment response and expediting
Exact code edition and local amendments vary by city and county. We confirm the specific requirements for your address before drafting.
Code in effect in Massachusetts
Massachusetts enforces the 10th Edition of the State Building Code (780 CMR), based on the 2021 International Codes with substantial Massachusetts amendments. It took effect October 11, 2024, and since July 1, 2025 it is the only edition accepted for new permit applications. Homes follow Chapter 51, the Massachusetts Residential Code based on the 2021 IRC. The base energy code follows the 2021 IECC, but each city or town can adopt the stricter Stretch or Specialized energy code.
What to plan for
- ✓ Your town's energy code tier (base, Stretch or Specialized) changes insulation, energy rating and electrification requirements, so it is the first thing to check.
- ✓ Massachusetts amends the International Codes substantially, so the base I-Codes cannot be applied directly.
- ✓ Residential work is covered by Chapter 51 of 780 CMR rather than a separate residential code book.
Code information last verified October 2026. Codes change, so we confirm the edition in force for your address before drafting.
Frequently asked questions about Massachusetts permits
Which edition of the Massachusetts code applies?
The 10th Edition of 780 CMR. The concurrency period that allowed the 9th Edition ended June 30, 2025, so new permit applications follow the 10th Edition.
Does my town use the Stretch Energy Code?
It depends on the town. Massachusetts has a base energy code plus the opt-in Stretch and Specialized codes, and many municipalities have adopted one of them. We check your town's status before the energy design starts.
Sample Work & Other States
Foundation Plan
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Roof Framing Plan
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