Revere Building Department | Permits, Inspections & Official Contact

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Revere Massachusetts permit action guide

Check Site Plan, Flood, Conservation and Zoning Requirements Before Filing a Revere Building Permit

Revere uses CitizenServe for its Building Department permits, but an online application is only one part of the approval route. A project may first need Site Plan Review, zoning relief, Conservation approval, flood documentation, Fire review or a separate Public Works permit.

This guide shows how to use the legal assessing address, upload contractor documents, follow the city’s current 2025 fee ordinance, request inspections, handle small sheds and fences, plan an ADU and prove that every building and trade permit is final.

CitizenServe registration, application, payment and permit-card steps
Current fee formulas, plan-review charges and worked examples
Same-day inspection calls, work hours and final closeout checks
Open Revere CitizenServe Choose My Exact Task
Revere coastal building permit journey A coastal property passes Site Plan, zoning, flood and Conservation checks before CitizenServe permit issuance and final inspection. COASTAL PROPERTY CHECK SITE PLAN ZONING FLOOD CONSERVATION CITIZENSERVE ISSUED PERMIT FINAL CLOSED
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Two deadlines matter before construction. CitizenServe applications must be fully documented before review, and Site Plan Review meets Tuesday at 10:00 AM. Revere’s official pages currently show different weekly filing cutoffs—Tuesday at 4:00 PM on the dedicated Site Plan page and Wednesday at 4:00 PM on the Building Division page. Submit by Tuesday at 4:00 PM or confirm the deadline with the Site Plan coordinator.
Start Here Phone & Hours Property Check Permit Type Apply Online Site Plan Review Flood & Wetlands Small Projects ADUs Current Fees Inspections Permit Records
Start here

Choose the Revere Building Department Task You Need

📝 Apply for a permit Building, Electrical, Plumbing, Gas, Mechanical, Sheet Metal, Fire Alarm and occupancy applications. 🔎 Search permit history Search applications filed since March 2018 and log in to view documents and emails. 🗺️ Find the legal address Check parcel lines, assessing address, zoning context and FEMA flood layers. 📐 Start Site Plan Review Required for new construction over 1,000 gross square feet and useful for determining the zoning route. 🌿 Check Conservation Needed for work near wetlands, coastal resources, flood areas or protected land. 🌊 Check flood requirements Screen the FEMA zone, base-flood elevation, substantial improvement and elevated-equipment requirements. 🚧 Apply for a driveway Driveways and curb cuts are handled by Public Works rather than the Building permit. 🧰 Verify a contractor Check the Massachusetts Construction Supervisor License before authorizing work.
Official contact panel

Revere Building Department Phone, Address, Hours and Inspection Lines

Building Department 781-286-8196 General permits and inspections
Building Commissioner Louis Cavagnaro 781-286-8197
Electrical Inspections 781-286-8177 Active electrical permits
Inspectional Services 781-286-8311 Revere 311 and department routing
Site Plan Coordinator Frank Stringi 781-286-8181 ext. 20313
Conservation 781-286-8185 Wetlands, flood and coastal review
Public Works 781-286-8149 Driveways, curb cuts and sidewalks
Office 249R Broadway American Legion Building, basement, Revere, MA 02151

Building Department hours

  • Monday–Thursday: 8:15 AM–5:00 PM
  • Friday: 8:15 AM–12:15 PM
  • Inspector office hours Monday–Thursday: 8:15–9:30 AM and 4:00–5:00 PM
  • Friday inspector office hours: 8:00–9:00 AM and 11:00 AM–12:00 PM

Inspection-request windows

  • Building, Plumbing and Gas: call 781-286-8196 before 9:15 AM for same-day service in most cases.
  • Electrical: call 781-286-8177.
  • General request window Monday–Thursday: 8:15–9:30 AM.
  • Friday request window: 8:00–9:00 AM.
Five-minute property check

Use the Legal Assessing Address and Check the Site Before Design

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Legal assessing address

The postal address and city assessing address do not always match. CitizenServe applications and searches use the legal assessing address or parcel ID.

Open property lookup

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Zoning district

Check allowed use, setbacks, height, lot coverage, parking and accessory-structure limits before ordering full plans.

Open zoning guidance

🌊

FEMA flood layer

Use GIS to screen the 100-year floodplain and flood elevation. A surveyor or engineer may be needed for the permit documents.

Open Revere GIS

🌿

Conservation jurisdiction

Work near wetlands, marsh, ocean, flood areas or protected land may require a Determination of Applicability or Notice of Intent.

Open Conservation

🚗

Driveway and street work

A Building permit does not approve a new driveway, curb cut, sidewalk alteration, street opening or on-street construction container.

Open Public Works

🏢

Legal occupancy

Confirm the legal number of dwelling units and approved business use before renovating, leasing or converting the property.

Call the Building Commissioner

A mortgage plan is not automatically a certified plot plan. Revere’s Land Development Guide says additions and new structures generally require a certified plot plan prepared by a registered land surveyor.
Permit decision table

Match the Project to the Correct Revere Permit Route

Project
Start with
Additional Revere review
New one- or two-family home
Building permit
Site Plan Review, certified plot plan, zoning, flood, Conservation, Fire, utilities, energy and trade permits
New construction over 1,000 gross sq. ft.
Site Plan Review + Building
Weekly committee review is required before the construction route is finalized
Addition, deck, porch or garage
Building permit
Certified plot plan, zoning, flood, Conservation and electrical/plumbing/gas work
Interior remodel
Building permit
Most non-cosmetic work requires permits; add separate trade permits
Painting, wallpaper or carpeting
Usually no Building permit
Ask an inspector when walls, exits, fire ratings or systems will be altered
Shed under 200 sq. ft.
No Building permit under city guide
Zoning setbacks, rear-yard coverage, flood and Conservation requirements still apply
Shed over 200 sq. ft.
Building permit
Zoning, certified site information, foundation, framing and electrical work
Fence up to six feet
Usually no Building permit
Zoning, corner visibility, driveway visibility and Conservation restrictions
Retaining wall under four feet
Usually no Building permit
Conservation, surcharge loads, drainage and zoning may change the route
Pool or deck
Building permit
Zoning, site plan, barrier, electrical, plumbing, Conservation and flood conditions
Roof, siding or windows
Building permit
Construction valuation, product details, energy and structural conditions
Driveway or curb cut
Public Works permit
Conservation approval when inside a flood or protected area
ADU
Site Plan Review + Building
RA, RA1, RB or RB1 district, flood elevation, sewer/water, parking, Fire and dimensional rules
Commercial fit-out or change of business
Certificate of Occupancy + Building
Site Plan, zoning use, parking, Fire, accessibility, Health and License Commission
CitizenServe workflow

Apply, Upload, Correct, Pay and Download the Permit Card

Confirm the legal address

Use the city property map or Patriot Properties database. Enter the parcel ID when the postal and assessing addresses differ.

Search tip: Enter the street number and street name without “Street,” “Road,” “Avenue” or another suffix.

Register or log in

A valid email address is required because corrections, approvals and payment requests are sent electronically.

Existing users: Reset the password rather than creating duplicate accounts.

Select the proper account type

Licensed contractors should choose the applicable contractor account and enter the state license and expiration date.

Select “Apply for a Permit”

Choose the correct permit and subtype: Building, Electrical, Plumbing, Gas, Mechanical, Sheet Metal, Fire Alarm, Certificate of Occupancy or another listed service.

Site Plan Review: Use the Development Projects area rather than the ordinary Permit file type.

Complete every required question

Fields marked with a red bar are mandatory. Enter an accurate scope, construction value, owner, contractor and property information.

Save before leaving: Unsaved CitizenServe entries can be lost.

Upload the contractor package

Include the current Massachusetts license, Workers’ Compensation Affidavit, owner authorization and other documents requested for the permit type.

Missing documents: The city warns that incomplete contractor files are likely to be rejected and returned to the review queue.

Upload plans and property documents

Add the certified plot plan, floor plans, elevations, structural details, product information, energy documents and outside approvals applicable to the project.

Type your name and submit

Read the submission statement, confirm the application and keep the confirmation email.

Monitor review and respond inside the account

Before approval, applicants can edit the record, add documents and send updated information to the inspector.

High-volume warning: The Building Division currently advises applicants to allow additional response time because of construction volume.

Pay only after the approval email

When the application is ready, CitizenServe sends a payment request. Pay through the verified record rather than an unconfirmed outside message.

Download and post the issued permit

After payment and issuance, download the permit card from the Issued area. Post it prominently at the job site before work starts.

Document checklist

Upload the Documents That Match the Actual Project

Contractor documents

  • Current state license
  • License expiration date
  • Workers’ Compensation Affidavit
  • Owner Authorization Form
  • Insurance information
  • Home Improvement registration where applicable

Construction documents

  • Existing and proposed floor plans
  • Elevations and building sections
  • Foundation and framing details
  • Structural calculations
  • Energy-code information
  • Trade and equipment details

Property and outside approvals

  • Certified plot plan
  • Site Plan Review letter
  • Zoning decision when required
  • Conservation order or determination
  • Flood elevation information
  • DPW or Fire approval
Owner authorization is permit-specific. Revere’s current form identifies the property, owner, contractor and related Building permit number and authorizes that contractor to act for the owner.
Owner Authorization Form Online Permitting Instructions
Site Plan Review decision board

Use Site Plan Review Before Assuming a Variance Is Required

When formal review is required

Revere requires Site Plan Review for all new construction projects exceeding 1,000 gross square feet of building area.

  • Apply through CitizenServe.
  • Select the Development Projects area.
  • Submit the proposed plans and property information.
  • Attend or participate as directed.
  • Receive an approval or denial letter explaining the next permit steps.

Meeting and filing details

  • Meeting: Tuesday at 10:00 AM.
  • Location: City Council Chambers, 281 Broadway.
  • Coordinator: Frank Stringi.
  • Phone: 781-286-8181 ext. 20313.
  • Submit by Tuesday at 4:00 PM to satisfy the earlier of the two deadlines currently shown on city pages.
For a deck, bedroom, fence or other property change: A variance is not automatically required. Present the proposed plan through the city’s review route so staff can identify whether the project complies, needs redesign or requires Zoning Board relief.
Committee outcome
What it means
Next action
Approved as submitted
The concept satisfies the committee’s current review requirements
Upload the approval and continue Building and trade review
Approved with conditions
The project may proceed only with listed site, drainage, Fire, parking or design changes
Revise all drawings before relying on the approval
Additional information required
The committee cannot determine compliance from the submitted plans
Provide the requested survey, dimensions, parking, drainage or use information
Zoning relief required
The project does not comply by right with the applicable ordinance
Follow the identified Zoning Board or City Council special-permit process
Open Site Plan Review Open Zoning Board of Appeals
Coastal and wetland check

Resolve Flood and Conservation Review Before Disturbing the Site

Floodplain development

  • Use GIS to display the FEMA 100-year floodplain layer.
  • Confirm the flood zone and base-flood elevation.
  • Provide a surveyor’s elevation information when required.
  • New construction and substantial improvements must comply with current flood-resistant construction rules.
  • Protect mechanical, plumbing and electrical equipment from flood elevation.
  • Do not create prohibited habitable space below the required elevation.

Conservation jurisdiction

  • Wetland, marsh, stream, ocean and conservation-land proximity matters.
  • Work within or near a wetland resource may require a filing.
  • The city also identifies work within 100 feet of the 100-year floodplain as potentially subject to review.
  • Minor lawn, pool, shed or driveway work can trigger jurisdiction.
  • Unpermitted wetland disturbance can result in daily enforcement penalties.

Possible filing

Request for Determination of Applicability

Used to ask whether the project or area is subject to Conservation jurisdiction.

Possible filing

Notice of Intent

Used for regulated work requiring a public hearing and an Order of Conditions.

Project closeout

Certificate of Compliance

Can require Form 8A, an engineer-stamped as-built, elevation certificate and Commission site visit.

Plan for the meeting calendar. The Conservation Commission generally meets the first Wednesday of the month at 6:30 PM. Required documents must be received two weeks before the meeting, and applicants are told to contact the Commission at least 14 business days in advance.
Use the current Massachusetts code. Revere’s older flood checklist references the former Ninth Edition. The Massachusetts Tenth Edition became the sole State Building Code on July 1, 2025, so final elevations and construction details must be verified under the current code.
Flood Resilience Checklist Conservation Filing Instructions
Small-project local rules

Projects Without a Building Permit Still Need Zoning and Site Compliance

Project
Building permit rule
Revere condition that still applies
Shed under 200 sq. ft.
No Building permit under the city guide
Five feet from side lines, two feet from rear line, not in front yard and no more than 10% of rear-yard area
Shed over 200 sq. ft.
Building permit required
Zoning, site location, foundation, structural and trade requirements
Retaining wall under four feet
Generally no Building permit
Conservation approval can be required in flood or protected areas; surcharge conditions may change the permit need
Fence
No Building permit under the city guide
Maximum six feet, zoning rules, prohibited materials in listed districts and visibility triangles
Corner-lot fence or obstruction
Zoning visibility rule applies
Objects over three feet are restricted inside the 20-foot intersection-visibility triangle
Fence between two driveways
Special visibility limit
The first 15 feet measured from the front lot line cannot exceed three feet in the applicable residential situation
Driveway
No Building permit
Public Works driveway/curb-cut permit and Conservation review when applicable
Do not measure setbacks from a fence, hedge or guessed boundary. The property owner remains responsible for the correct lot lines and structure location.

Open the Small-Project Guide

Accessory dwelling units

Use Revere’s 2025 ADU Rules Before Designing the Unit

All Revere ADUs

  • Allowed only in RA, RA1, RB and RB1 zoning districts under the local ordinance.
  • Site Plan Review is required.
  • Maximum area is 900 gross square feet or one-half the principal dwelling’s gross floor area, whichever is smaller.
  • Short-term rental of the ADU is prohibited.
  • Separate ownership of the ADU is prohibited.
  • No ADU may be located below the FEMA 100-year base-flood elevation.
  • The property must be connected to public water and sanitary sewer.
  • No variance may be granted for an ADU.

Detached ADU rules

  • Maximum height: 20 feet.
  • Rear property-line setback: 20 feet.
  • Side property-line setbacks: 10 feet each.
  • Front property-line setback: 15 feet.
  • Separation from principal dwelling: 10 feet.
  • Cannot be located between the road and front-facing side of the principal dwelling.
  • Rear- and side-yard occupancy limits apply.
Parking situation
Local ADU rule
Important restriction
Within one-half mile of qualifying MBTA transit
No additional parking required
A qualifying single-family lot may still provide additional parking
More than one-half mile from qualifying transit
One additional space may be required when the principal dwelling lacks compliant parking
No more than one space may be created specifically for the ADU
New ADU parking
May be placed in a side yard to allow limited tandem parking
The ADU space cannot be created in the front yard
New driveway entrance
Generally prohibited for an ADU
The ordinance contains a narrow exception for the no-parking side of a street
Flood-zone ADU: The first occupied floor must be above the applicable FEMA base-flood elevation, and Conservation approval can also be required.
Open the ADU Ordinance Open the ADU Flow Chart
Contractor and homeowner permits

Know Which Permits a Homeowner Can—and Cannot—Obtain

Licensed contractor route

  • Building permits are normally issued to Massachusetts-licensed construction supervisors.
  • The Construction Supervisor License must match the scope and building size.
  • Upload the current license and expiration date.
  • Upload the Workers’ Compensation Affidavit regardless of business size.
  • Provide the signed owner authorization when the contractor applies for the owner.

Homeowner exemption

  • Limited to an owner who resides or intends to reside in a one- or two-family dwelling.
  • The owner must supervise the project when other people are hired.
  • A person constructing more than one home in a two-year period is not treated as a homeowner under the form.
  • The owner waives rights to the Home Improvement Contractor Guaranty Fund.
  • Electrical, Plumbing and Gas permits cannot be issued to an unlicensed homeowner.
Homeowner permit does not legalize unlicensed trade work. Massachusetts-licensed electricians, plumbers and gas fitters must obtain the applicable trade permits.
Homeowner Affidavit Check CSL Check Trade License
Current 2025 fee ordinance

Calculate the Application, Permit and Plan-Review Charges Separately

Permit or service
Current published fee
Practical note
One- or two-family Building application
$75
Application fee is separate from permit and plan-review fees
Three-family or larger Building application
$100
Also applies to apartment-building applications
One- or two-family renovation, addition, roof, siding, pool or accessory building
$15 per $1,000
Based on total estimated construction value
New one- or two-family construction
$15 per $1,000
Plan review is additional
Three-family or larger and commercial construction
$20 per $1,000
Applies to renovation and new construction under the current table
Permit amendment
$100
Submit revised plans before performing changed work
Building reinspection
$150
Avoid scheduling incomplete or inaccessible work
Work started before Building permit
Three times permit fee
Other enforcement and correction costs can also apply
Archive search
$15
Use online records first for permits since March 2018
Sign permit
$250
Zoning and special-permit review may be separate
Electrical application
$50
Residential work adds $5 per $1,000; commercial adds $10 per $1,000
Electrical swimming-pool permit
$55
Building, barrier, plumbing and zoning charges are separate
Plumbing application
$50
Residential fixtures add $5 each; commercial fixtures add $10 each
Gas application
$50
Fixture and equipment charges follow the detailed table
Temporary dumpster permit
$75
Use the current CitizenServe invoice; placement and duration restrictions apply
Street or sidewalk opening
$500 application fee
Separate from Building and restoration costs
Zoning appeal
$180
Does not include other processing or hearing charges
Zoning special-permit filing
$400
Hearing costs are additional

One- and Two-Family Plan-Review Fees

Estimated construction value
Plan-review fee
$10,000–$49,999
$75
$50,000
$150
$100,000
$250
$150,000
$400
$200,000
$500
$250,000–$499,999
$600
$500,000 or more
$750

Certificate of Occupancy Fees

Certificate
Published amount
Single-family with Building permit
$100
Two-family with Building permit
$150
Dwelling without Building permit
$200
Three-family dwelling
$200
More than three units
$200 + $10 per unit
Nonresidential occupancy
$250
Certified CO copy
$200
Temporary CO
$100 per month

Residential example

A $25,000 one-family renovation:

$75 application + ($25,000 ÷ $1,000 × $15) + $75 plan review $75 + $375 + $75 = $525

Electrical, Plumbing, Gas, Mechanical, Conservation, zoning, dumpster and occupancy fees are not included.

Commercial example

A $100,000 commercial alteration:

$100 application + ($100,000 ÷ $1,000 × $20) + $300 plan review $100 + $2,000 + $300 = $2,400

The example excludes separate trade permits, Fire, zoning relief and the $250 nonresidential CO.

Use the CitizenServe invoice as the final amount. Project valuation, plan-review category, amendments, trade work and departmental fees can change the total.

Open the Current Fee Ordinance

Inspection command board

Call Early, Use the Active Permit and Keep Every Stage Exposed

Building, Plumbing and Gas

Call 781-286-8196 before 9:15 AM for a same-day inspection in most cases.

An issued and active permit is required.

Electrical

Call 781-286-8177 for electrical-inspection scheduling.

The licensed applicant should arrange the inspection.

CitizenServe account

Open the active permit under “My Account” to review messages, inspection information and available request options.

Typical stage
What should be ready
Do not do this first
Footing
Excavation, dimensions, forms and reinforcement visible
Pour concrete before approval
Foundation
Foundation, waterproofing and required location/elevation information visible
Backfill before inspection
Underground trades
Electrical, plumbing and gas work exposed and tested
Cover trenches or pour the slab
Rough building
Framing, structural connections, fireblocking, stairs and egress complete
Install insulation or interior finishes
Rough trades
Wiring, piping, gas and mechanical systems complete and visible
Conceal regulated installations
Insulation
Rough approvals complete and insulation or air-sealing details visible
Install drywall first
Trade finals
Systems complete, operational, labeled and safely accessible
Request occupancy while trade permits are open
Building final / CO
Approved scope complete, corrections resolved and departmental approvals finished
Occupy or lease the space before required approval

Before requesting inspection

  • Permit is issued
  • Correct permit number ready
  • Work complete for that stage
  • Work remains visible
  • Approved plans onsite
  • Safe access provided

Prevent a $150 reinspection

  • Address is visible
  • Door or gate access arranged
  • Required contractor present
  • Ladders and panels accessible
  • Prior corrections completed
  • Permit card posted
Do not conceal uninspected work. The inspector can require walls, ceilings, floors or trenches to be reopened when the regulated installation cannot be verified.
Construction-hour rules

Plan Deliveries and Work Inside Revere’s Permitted Hours

Permitted construction hours

  • Monday–Saturday: 8:00 AM–6:00 PM
  • No Building-permit work on Sunday
  • No Building-permit work on holidays
  • Work outside these hours requires a special permit from the Building Commissioner

Site logistics

  • Schedule material deliveries inside permitted hours.
  • Keep vehicles and equipment out of unauthorized public areas.
  • Obtain a temporary dumpster permit before placement.
  • Obtain Public Works approval for curb or sidewalk impacts.
  • Protect neighboring property and drainage.
Temporary Dumpster Instructions Driveway & Sidewalk Instructions
Fire and occupancy

Coordinate Fire Alarm, Smoke Certification and Business Occupancy

Fire Prevention Office

Address: 400 Broadway, rear entrance

Phone: 781-286-8363

Office contact hours: Monday–Thursday, 8:00–10:00 AM and 3:30–4:30 PM.

  • Preconstruction Fire review
  • Fire Alarm permits
  • Smoke and carbon-monoxide certification
  • Fire-code occupancy review

Business or changed occupancy

  1. Confirm the proposed use under zoning.
  2. Submit the Certificate of Occupancy application.
  3. Complete Site Plan Review when routed there.
  4. Obtain Building and Fire approvals.
  5. Complete alterations and trade permits.
  6. Pass final inspections before opening.
Smoke certification fee: Revere Fire lists $50 per unit, payable at inspection by check or money order only. Verify the current fee and appointment instructions when scheduling.
Permit search and property research

Search CitizenServe First for Permits Filed Since March 2018

Open the public search

Use the City of Revere CitizenServe search before submitting a records request.

Open public permit search

Register or log in for complete documents

The public page can identify records, but documents and permit emails require an account login.

Select the correct file type

Select Permits for Building, Electrical, Plumbing, Gas, Sheet Metal and Mechanical records.

Site Plan records: Select Development Projects.

Search with the legal assessing address

Enter only the number and street name without the suffix. Use the parcel ID when the postal address does not match.

Review the full record

Check the scope, applicant, issue date, documents, departmental messages, inspections and final status.

Do not stop at “Issued.” An issued permit can remain open or expire without final approval.

Search every trade permit

Electrical, Plumbing, Gas, Mechanical, Sheet Metal and Fire Alarm records may be separate from the Building permit.

Use the City Clerk for older files

CitizenServe covers applications from March 2018 forward. Contact the City Clerk for earlier records that are not available online.

Confirm legal occupancy

Ask the Building Department for a record check when the number of dwelling units or approved business occupancy is uncertain.

Before buying or selling: Confirm that additions, decks, finished basements, converted units, pools and commercial spaces have final Building and trade approvals—not only an application number.
Status decoder

What Common CitizenServe Stages Mean

Draft The application has been saved but not formally submitted.
Submitted The city received the record, but completeness and departmental review remain.
Documents missing A license, affidavit, authorization, plan or outside approval is absent.
Under review Building, Site Plan, zoning, Fire, Conservation or another reviewer is checking the project.
Payment requested The application is ready for the city-calculated fee to be paid.
Issued Download and post the permit card before beginning the approved work.
Inspection failed Correct the cited items and request reinspection before concealing or continuing.
Final / closed Save the result and verify all related trade and occupancy records are also complete.
Current code framework

Use the Current Massachusetts Codes, Not an Older Link

Building Code

The Massachusetts Tenth Edition State Building Code became the only effective edition on July 1, 2025.

Open the Tenth Edition

Electrical Code

The current Massachusetts Electrical Code became effective April 24, 2026. Confirm project-specific transition rules with the Electrical Inspector.

Open Electrical Code

Plumbing Code

Plumbing work is regulated under the Massachusetts Uniform State Plumbing Code, 248 CMR 10.00.

Open Plumbing Code

Code-date rule: Confirm the code in force on the actual filing date, especially when working from plans prepared under a former edition.
Troubleshooting

Fix Common Revere Permit Problems

Problem
Likely reason
Best next action
Address does not appear
Postal and assessing addresses differ
Use GIS, Patriot Properties or the parcel ID
Application was returned
License, Workers’ Compensation Affidavit, owner authorization or plan is missing
Upload every requested document before resubmitting
Project needs unexpected zoning review
Setback, use, parking, lot coverage or unit-count issue
Complete Site Plan Review and follow the written zoning route
Site Plan meeting was missed
Application arrived after the weekly cutoff
Submit by Tuesday at 4:00 PM or confirm the current deadline with the coordinator
Conservation hold
Work is near wetland, marsh, ocean, floodplain or protected land
Ask whether an RDA or Notice of Intent is required
Fee is higher than expected
Application, permit, plan review and trade charges were calculated separately
Compare the project valuation and permit type with the 2025 ordinance
Same-day inspection unavailable
Call was late, permit is not issued or route is full
Call during the posted morning window with the active permit number
Inspection failed
Incomplete work, no plans, unsafe access or code corrections
Complete every cited item before paying for reinspection
Old permit is not online
Application predates March 2018
Contact the City Clerk or request the Building archive search
Occupancy cannot issue
Building, trade, zoning, Fire or Site Plan conditions remain open
Request a department-by-department final-status check
Ready-to-use scripts

What to Say When You Contact Revere

Permit-route question
“I am planning [exact work] at [legal assessing address and parcel]. Can you confirm the required Building, trade, Site Plan, zoning, Conservation, flood, Fire and Public Works approvals?”
CitizenServe status question
“Application [number] for [address] shows [status]. Which license, affidavit, authorization, plan, fee or departmental sign-off is still required?”
Inspection request
“I need the [inspection type] for issued permit [number] at [address]. The work is complete for that stage, remains exposed, and the permit card and approved plans are onsite.”
Legal occupancy question
“I am researching [address]. Can you confirm the approved dwelling-unit count or business occupancy and whether all related permits received final approval?”
Final project checklist

Do Not Consider the Revere Project Finished Until These Are Complete

  • Legal assessing address confirmed
  • Parcel and owner verified
  • Zoning district checked
  • Site Plan route confirmed
  • Flood layer checked
  • Conservation jurisdiction checked
  • Driveway and dumpster needs identified
  • Correct CitizenServe account used
  • Detailed scope and value entered
  • Contractor license uploaded
  • Workers’ Compensation Affidavit uploaded
  • Owner authorization uploaded
  • Certified plot plan included
  • All city sign-offs complete
  • Official invoice paid
  • Permit formally issued and posted
  • Construction stayed within work hours
  • Work remained exposed for inspection
  • Building and trade finals passed
  • CO or completion record saved
Office map

Revere Building Department Location

Address: American Legion Building, basement, 249R Broadway, Revere, MA 02151.
Main Building line: 781-286-8196.
Hours: Monday–Thursday 8:15 AM–5:00 PM; Friday 8:15 AM–12:15 PM.
Official resources

Open the Correct Revere Portal, Form or Department

🏛️ Building Division Contacts, hours, fees, records, forms and permit rules › 📝 CitizenServe Portal Apply, upload, pay, track and download permits › 🔎 Public Permit Search Permits since March 2018 and Development Project records › 💻 Online Permitting Instructions Registration, uploads, corrections, payment and permit card › 📐 Site Plan Review Meeting, submission deadline and committee contact › 🗺️ Revere GIS Parcels, assessing information and FEMA flood layers › 🏠 Assessors Database Legal assessing address, ownership and property data › 🌿 Conservation Commission Wetlands, coastal, flood and compliance filings › 🌊 Flood Resilience Checklist FEMA zone, elevation and flood-protection guidance › ⚖️ Zoning Board of Appeals Variances, appeals and zoning relief › 🔥 Fire Prevention Fire Alarm, plan review and smoke/CO certification › 🚗 Driveway & Curb Cut Online Public Works driveway and sidewalk permit › 💵 Current Fee Ordinance Building, trade, zoning, Fire and Public Works fees › 📚 Current Massachusetts Building Code Tenth Edition State Building Code ›
Frequently asked questions

Revere Massachusetts Building Permit FAQs

Where do I apply for a Revere building permit?

Apply online through the City of Revere CitizenServe portal. Register or log in, select “Apply for a Permit,” choose the correct permit type, complete every required question and upload the license, Workers’ Compensation Affidavit, owner authorization, plans and property documents.

What is the Revere Building Department phone number?

Call 781-286-8196 for the Building Department. The Building Commissioner can be reached at 781-286-8197. The office is in the basement of the American Legion Building at 249R Broadway, Revere, Massachusetts 02151.

How do I schedule a Revere building inspection?

For Building, Plumbing or Gas inspections, call 781-286-8196 before 9:15 AM for same-day service in most cases. Call 781-286-8177 for Electrical inspections. The permit must already be issued, and the applicant should have the permit number ready.

Does a shed need a building permit in Revere?

The city’s small-project guide says a shed under 200 square feet does not require a Building permit. It must still comply with zoning, including the listed five-foot side setback, two-foot rear setback, rear-yard location and rear-yard coverage limit. A shed over 200 square feet requires a Building permit.

Does a fence need a Revere building permit?

The city guide says an ordinary fence does not require a Building permit, but it must comply with zoning, the six-foot height limit, corner and driveway visibility rules and Conservation requirements in flood or protected areas.

When is Site Plan Review required in Revere?

Formal Site Plan Review is required for new construction exceeding 1,000 gross square feet. The committee meets Tuesday at 10:00 AM. Because official city pages currently show different filing cutoffs, submit by Tuesday at 4:00 PM or confirm the deadline with the coordinator.

Can a Revere homeowner obtain their own permits?

A qualifying owner who resides or intends to reside in a one- or two-family dwelling may obtain a Building permit under the homeowner exemption and assume supervision responsibility. Homeowners cannot obtain Electrical, Plumbing or Gas permits unless properly licensed for that trade.

How much is a residential Revere building permit?

The current ordinance lists a $75 one- or two-family application fee, a Building permit fee of $15 per $1,000 of estimated construction value and a separate plan-review fee based on the project value. Trade permits and outside approvals are additional.

How far back does Revere’s online permit search go?

CitizenServe contains Building Department applications from March 2018 forward. Log in to view documents and emails. Contact the City Clerk for records predating March 2018 that are not available in the online system.

How do I prove a Revere permit is closed?

Verify that the Building permit and all related Electrical, Plumbing, Gas, Mechanical, Sheet Metal, Fire and Conservation approvals received their required final inspections. Also confirm that the Certificate of Occupancy or other completion document was issued when required.

Source and accuracy note

Official Information Used for This Guide

Building-Department.org is an independent informational guide and is not the City of Revere, Massachusetts.

This page was rebuilt using the Revere Building Division, Inspectional Services, CitizenServe permit portal and public search, Site Plan Review, Land Development Guide, GIS, Conservation Commission, Flood Resilience Checklist, Fire Department, Public Works driveway and dumpster instructions, the 2025 citywide fee ordinance, ADU ordinance and flow chart, small-project guide and current Massachusetts code resources.

Last reviewed: July 22, 2026.

Fees, staff, filing deadlines, meeting schedules, code editions and inspection procedures can change. Confirm time-sensitive requirements with the responsible Revere department before filing, paying, ordering materials or beginning construction.

Free Building Permit & Inspection Assistant

Check Permit Type, Estimate Fees, Prepare Inspections and Find Official Building Department Links

Use this free tool before applying for a building permit, booking an inspection, checking zoning rules, or searching permit records. It helps homeowners, contractors, landlords, buyers, and business owners understand the next step before visiting the official building department portal.

Start Permit Helper
8 toolsPermit finder, fee estimate, inspection checklist, zoning pre-check, and official searches.
All citiesWorks sitewide on city, county, village, and regional building department pages.
No loginNo address, permit number, email, or private data is required to use the tool.
Mobile-firstBuilt for visitors checking permits and inspections from a phone.

What building department task do you need help with?

Choose your goal. The tool will suggest the right next step, what to prepare, and which official page to check.

Homeowner tip

Before starting work, check whether your project needs building, zoning, electrical, plumbing, mechanical, right-of-way, or HOA approval.

Contractor tip

Many portals require contractor registration, license details, insurance, plans, owner authorization, and inspection scheduling access.

Building Permit Type Finder

Select the project type to understand which permits or reviews are commonly required. Always confirm with the official local building department.

Permit Fee Estimate Calculator

Estimate a rough permit fee using project value and common percentage-based review assumptions. Local minimum fees, technology fees, impact fees, reinspection fees, and trade fees can change the final amount.

Inspection Readiness Checklist

Use this before scheduling framing, electrical, plumbing, mechanical, roofing, final, or certificate-related inspections.

Zoning and Setback Pre-check

Use this before applying for a permit when your project may affect land use, setbacks, lot coverage, height, parking, signs, fences, accessory structures, or business use.

Plan Review Timeline Estimator

Estimate how complex your review may be. Local staffing, incomplete plans, corrections, holidays, fire review, zoning review, and outside agency review can change timing.

Permit Records Search Helper

Use this if you are trying to find old permits, inspection history, certificate of occupancy details, open permits, or code-related records.

Official Building Department Resource Finder

Enter city/county and state to create safe searches for official permit portals, inspection scheduling, building codes, zoning maps, forms, fees, and contact pages.

Building Department vs Planning/Zoning

  • Building Department: permits, plan review, inspections, code compliance, certificates.
  • Planning/Zoning: land use, setbacks, height, lot coverage, signs, parking, variances.

Best sitewide placement

Place this tool after the first main guide section or before FAQs. It turns a normal article into a practical permit-preparation page.

Important note

This tool gives educational guidance only. Final permit requirements, fees, inspections, forms, and deadlines must be confirmed with the official local building department.

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