Overview
The Town of Brookline has updated its Building Department Permit & Fee Schedule, effective July 18, 2022. Whether you're planning a renovation, new construction, or installing signage, understanding the associated costs is essential. Below is a concise overview of the key fees to help you budget for your next project. The minimum permit fee is $50.00.
Key Permit Fees
| Permit / Item | Fee |
|---|---|
| Minimum Permit Fee | $50.00 |
| Building / Electrical / Plumbing / Gas Fitting / Mechanical / Sprinkler / Demolition / Fire Alarm / Smoke Detectors | $20 per $1,000 of construction value (or fraction thereof) |
| Work started without required permits | $50 per $1,000 of construction value |
| Failure to call for final inspection (within 10 working days) | $50 |
| Re-inspection fee | $50 per inspection |
Apply online: Brookline online permit portal
Plan Review Filing Fees (Board of Appeals)
| Category | Fee |
|---|---|
| Alteration | $75 per 1,000 sq. ft. of gross floor area (Minimum $100) |
| New Construction | $150 per 1,000 sq. ft. of gross floor area (Minimum $200) |
| Off-Street Parking | $25 per space (Minimum $100) |
| Subdivision / Other | $200 |
Not sure which fee applies? Get a quick answer.
Design Review Approval Fees
| Item | Fee |
|---|---|
| Signs - Illuminated | $300 |
| Signs - Non‑Illuminated (< 10 sq. ft.) | $100 |
| Signs - Non‑Illuminated (> 10 sq. ft.) | $125 |
| Commercial Facades - Awnings | $300 |
| Commercial Facades - Other | $300 |
Certificates & Inspections
Important: For projects involving fire protection systems, you must also file with the Brookline Fire Prevention Division.
| Certificate / Inspection | Fee |
|---|---|
| Certificate of Use & Occupancy (Existing Structures) | $100 + $15 per dwelling unit |
| Certificate of Inspection & Certificate of Structures (MSBC 108.5.1) | $100 + $15 per dwelling unit |
| Certificate of Use & Occupancy - Dwelling Unit | $50 per unit |
| Certificate of Use & Occupancy - Commercial Unit | $50 + $25 per 1,000 sq. ft. |
| Temporary / Partial Certificate of Use & Occupancy | $50 (or $50 per month) |
| Lodging House Inspection | $100 up to 5 units + $5 per additional unit |
| Condominium Certificate of Inspection (Article XIX, Section 34) | $100 per dwelling unit |
For a complete list or specific inquiries, contact the Town of Brookline Building Department. Stay informed and ensure your project complies with all regulations!
FAQs
Need Help Navigating Brookline Permits?
We prepare applications, coordinate reviews, and keep you compliant so you avoid penalties and rework.
Note: Fees and processes are subject to change; always verify with official sources.
