Shrewsbury Building Department | Permits, Inspections & Official Contact

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If you are planning any kind of construction or renovation work in the Town of Shrewsbury, Massachusetts, you will need a building permit from the Town of Shrewsbury Building Department.

Many homeowners and contractors search for clear answers about how to apply for a building permit in Shrewsbury, what the fees are in 2026, and how to check the status of their application quickly.

This guide explains the entire process in simple language so you can understand what to do, what to expect, and how to avoid common problems that slow things down.

Whether you are a homeowner doing your own work or a contractor handling a larger job, the steps are the same and the goal is to get your permit approved smoothly and on time.

Shrewsbury Building Department Contact Information 2026

  • Address: 100 Maple Avenue, Shrewsbury, MA 01545
  • Phone: (508) 841-8512
  • Email: building@shrewsburyma.gov
  • Hours: Appointments required — Monday–Thursday 8:00 AM–9:00 AM and 3:00 PM–4:30 PM; Friday 8:00 AM–9:00 AM

Official Page: Shrewsbury Building Inspector / Building Department

100 Maple Avenue, Shrewsbury, MA 01545

Official Portal: Shrewsbury OpenGov Online Permitting Portal

  1. Go to the OpenGov portal (public search available).
  2. Search by address or permit number.
  3. View the current status, approved plans, fees paid, and inspection history.

How to Apply for Shrewsbury Building Permits Online 2026

Here is the clear step-by-step process that most people follow to get their permit approved as smoothly as possible.

  1. Create a free account on the Shrewsbury OpenGov portal.
  2. Start a new application and choose the right permit type for your project.
  3. Enter the full project address and your best estimate of the total construction cost.
  4. Upload all required drawings, site plan, energy code forms, and contractor information.
  5. Pay the required fee online and submit the complete application.
  6. Check your account regularly and reply quickly if the department asks for more information or corrections.
  7. Once approved, print the permit card and put it up at the job site before any work begins.
  8. Schedule your inspections by following the instructions in the portal or calling the Building Inspector.

Shrewsbury Building Permit Fees 2026

  • Official Fee Schedule: View Permitting Fees
  • Building permit fees for residential or commercial projects are $12 per $1,000 of construction value (rounded up to the nearest whole $1,000).
  • Minimum fee is $50.
  • Re-inspection fee is $50 per each re-inspection.
  • Paper applications incur an additional manual entry fee of $15.
  • Work started without a permit can result in double fees plus possible fines or a Stop Work Order.

Required Documents Checklist

  • Completed application on the OpenGov portal
  • Sealed architectural and structural drawings
  • Site plan that clearly shows setbacks
  • Energy code compliance forms
  • Proof of contractor license and insurance
  • Owner-Builder Affidavit if you are doing the work yourself

How to Schedule Inspections in Shrewsbury

Appointments are required for the Building Inspector. Call during designated office hours to schedule inspections. Have your approved plans and the permit card ready when the inspector arrives.

Contractor Registration & Owner-Builder

Contractors must hold valid Massachusetts licenses. Homeowners can apply as owner-builders but take full responsibility for code compliance and job safety.

Local Insider Tips That Really Help

  • Submit complete and clearly labeled drawings the first time so you avoid having to resubmit everything later.
  • Check the property for any old violations before you start a new application.
  • Call the office early in the morning when the staff is less busy and you can get faster answers.
  • Schedule each inspection as soon as the work stage is finished so you do not lose time waiting.
  • Use the online OpenGov portal for the fastest processing and real-time tracking.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I search for existing building permits in Shrewsbury?

Use the public search function in the OpenGov portal by address or permit number. You can see the status and history without logging in.

How to apply for a Shrewsbury building permit online?

Create an account on the OpenGov portal, choose the right permit type, upload your drawings and documents, pay the fee, and submit everything online.

What are the Shrewsbury building permit fees in 2026?

Building permit fees are $12 per $1,000 of construction value (rounded up to the nearest whole $1,000) with a minimum fee of $50. Re-inspection fee is $50 each.

Can I pull my own permit as an owner-builder in Shrewsbury?

Yes. You can apply as an owner-builder, but you must sign paperwork that says you take full responsibility for the work and safety.

How long does it take to get a building permit in Shrewsbury?

Simple projects can be approved in just a few days. More complicated jobs usually take between two and four weeks depending on how complete your submission is.

Official Resources

Updated April 2026 using only official Town of Shrewsbury sources. Create your account on the OpenGov portal today and start your application.

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