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Inspectional Services

The Inspectional Services Department administers and enforces building, housing, health, sanitation, and safety regulations mandated by City and State governments.

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Take Advantage of our online portal

The online option saves you time — you can apply online and even print out your permit when it has been approved by us. Right now, you can apply for some of our permits online, but the list will continue to grow over time.

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Building Permits
Zoning Board of Appeal
Check the status of a Building or Fire permit
Construction Site Safety Requirements
Search for historical permit records
Housing and Home Improvement Help
Important Inspectional Services contacts
Fast Track Permit Program

Our Divisions

Constituent Services

The Constituent Services Division is composed of call center representatives, community liaisons, and the Investigation and Enforcement Team.

Environmental Sanitation

This division is comprised of three sections: Rodent Control, Site Cleanliness, and Auto Shop Licensing and Enforcement

Health Division

The Health Division oversees and enforces food and sanitary laws in the city, including all establishments that serve food.

Weights and Measures

We protect consumers when they buy products sold by weight or volume. We inspect devices like taximeters, gas pumps, home heating oil trucks, and scales.

BOS:311 service requests

311 requests
All BOS:311 requests Overflowing or Unkempt Dumpster Report Abandoned Building Report Bed Bugs Report Illegal Occupancy Report Rodent Activity (Outdoors) Report Trash on a Vacant Lot Report Unsanitary Conditions (Food) Request Building Inspection (Structural)

Upcoming events

Events
Zoning Board of Appeal Hearing
On Dec 12

Dec 12
Flammable Storage and Garages Hearing
On Dec 20

Dec 20
Search public notices

News and announcements

News

City to Begin Implementing Ordinance to Ensure Safety on Construction and Demolition Sites

Worker Empowerment

Fast Track Program to Improve City Permitting Process

Inspectional Services

Stay Safe While Grilling Outside This Summer

Inspectional Services

New Policy to Allow Dog Friendly Spaces at Outdoor Dining Patios and Beer Gardens

Inspectional Services
More Inspectional Services News

About Our Work

We are made up of five regulatory divisions. Our goal is to protect and improve the quality of life for all Boston residents. Our mission is to serve the public by protecting the health, safety, and environmental stability of Boston's business and residential communities.

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