Gas Permit
You need a Gas Permit if you are a contractor working on a project that involves gas or the installation and replacement of gas lines, gas appliances, or gas heaters. This includes any gut renovations that involve gas work, such as kitchens and bathrooms. Inspectional Services (ISD) issues this permit.
Who Can Apply
Contractors
- The permit applicant must be the contractor performing the work.
- Someone else, like an office clerk, can fill out and send in the application for you. But it has to be in your name, not theirs, since you’re the licensed contractor.
Homeowners can’t apply
- If you’re a homeowner, you must hire a licensed contractor to apply for the permit and complete the work.
Required Documents
Project information:
- Short description of the work: Include your scope of work, materials, floors and rooms involved, and any related permits (include permit numbers).
- Estimated total project cost: Do not use special characters (such as $ or commas) when entering this value in the online portal.
License and insurance:
- Front and back copy of your valid, non-expired trade license. The name on the license must match the applicant.
- A current Certificate of Liability Insurance
- MA State Worker’s Compensation Affidavit
Fees
- For gas appliances: $20, plus $5 per meter.
- For boilers, heaters, furnaces, and industrial ovens: $20, plus $50 each, plus $0.09 per 1,000 BTU.
- For stored gas: $15, plus $5 per 100 lbs. stored.
- For propane or gas heating devices: $5, plus $2.50 per device.
All fees are due upfront. Pay online through the portal, or in person at Inspectional Services.
- Online: Credit or debit card
- In person: Credit or debit card, cash, checks
Inspectional Services does not accept Apple Pay.
How to Apply
Apply Online
Apply through the Inspectional Services Department online portal. You’ll need to create an account before applying for any permit.
Inspectional Services Department online portal
You can come to the Inspectional Services office to apply, but staff will still have you complete the application through the same online portal.
Have everything ready before you submit. Once submitted, you can’t edit or upload more information until we review the application.
After You Apply
Check your application status through the Permit Finder. ISD will notify you of updates by email through your permitting portal account.
Do not begin work before your permit is issued. Starting early can mean double the permit cost or a building code violation.
After Approval
You must start work within six months of your permit being issued. Some projects can get a 180-day extension. Only certain project types are eligible, so check before assuming yours qualifies.
Inspection
Schedule an inspection through the ISD call center (617-635-5300) or the online portal once your work is finished. Be ready to provide:
- Project address
- Permit number
- If a contractor was involved, their name and contact information
An inspector will contact you within 48 hours to schedule and confirm. The licensed contractor must be onsite during the inspection.
Once the inspection passes and no further work is required, your project is finished. Verify your permit shows as closed in the online portal.
