Nicholas J. Antanavica, Commissioner
The Inspectional Services Department strives to deliver the most efficient and transparent permitting and inspection process possible to they city. We aim to ensure that the housing, rental properties and businesses are the healthiest and safest in the Commonwealth.
What We Do
Building & Zoning
Housing & Health
License Commission
Building Energy Codes
Worcester has adopted the Specialized Code, Massachusetts' most advanced building energy standard, effective July 1, 2024.
New construction must follow the Specialized Code. Building renovations and additions must follow the Stretch Code.
Code requirements and updates are maintained by the Massachusetts Department of Energy Resources (DOER). Visit Massachusetts Building Energy Codes | Mass.gov for the latest code language, webinars, technical guidance, and resource guides.
Learn about what applies to your project, available incentives, and how to comply.
Inspectional Services by the Numbers
Pre-Development Consultations
Interdepartmental Review Team meetings are offered free of charge and are designed to assist developers and land owners in the pre-development stages of potential and proposed projects with questions relating to permitting processes, zoning compliance, engineering standards and land use policy considerations.
Property Owners
In addition to contractors and construction companies, homeowners also may need permits for building certain structures on their property. Learn more about any permits you might need if you are planning a project. You can find information about decks, fences, retaining walls, sheds, pools, dumpsters, driveways and more.
Quality of Life Team
The Quality of Life Team is an interdepartmental team made up of members of the City Manager's Office, Department of Inspectional Services, Department of Public Works, Department of Parks, Recreation & Cemetery and Worcester Police Department.
Permit History
A direct view of the Worcester's growth can be seen by the number of permits and project costs through the years. Developers, businesses and homeowners have invested in the City and made Worcester what it is today. Use our Online Permit History Search to view details of building, electrical, gas, mechanical, plumbing, and temporary permits within the City of Worcester.
Resources
Check a Construction Supervisor License (CSL)
Check a HIC Registration
Ordinances & Regulations
Schedule of Fees
Contact Information
Address
Inspectional Services
25 Meade Street
Worcester, MA 01610
Contact
Phone: 508-799-1198
Fax: 508-799-8544
inspections@worcesterma.gov
Hours
Building & Zoning
Monday - Friday
8 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.
Housing & Health
Monday - Friday
8:30 a.m. - 5 p.m.