Information for Property Owners

Contractors, construction companies and trade workers aren't the only ones who need permits and licenses. Homeowners also may need permits for building certain structures on their property. Do you need a permit for your next project?

Look through the information on this page to learn 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.

Certain work you wish to perform may require use of a contractors that is insured and bonded to perform work within the City of Worcester. These City-licensed contractor categories include container companies (dumpsters), drain layers, pavers, drain layers and drillers.

Licensed Contractors

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Have a Question?

• Are retaining walls and fence disputes handled by the Building and Zoning Division?

  Landscape retaining walls up to 6 feet and fences up to 7 feet that are dilapidated and are dividing property lines that are not in the public way are a civil matter and are not enforced by the buildings and zoning division.

• Do fences require a building permit?

  Fences 7 feet or less do not require a building permit (but fences over 6 feet might require zoning relief).

• Do retaining walls require a building permit?

  Retaining walls less than 4 feet in height measured from the bottom of the footing to the top of the wall do not require a building permit.

• Do sheds require a building permit?

  Sheds over 200 sq. ft. will require a building permit.

• Is there an exemption from the licensing provisions of 780 CMR 110.R5?

  Owner occupied 1 and 2 family dwellings performing work for which a building permit is required shall be exempt from the licensing provisions of 780 CMR 110.R5, provided that if a homeowner engages a person(s) for hire to do such work, then such homeowner shall act as supervisor. This exception shall not apply to the field erection of a manufactured buildings constructed pursuant to 780 CMR 110.R3.