Important Notices 

Zoning Update: Residential Facade Build-Out Ratio

Who: We are providing this advance notice so that anyone who is planning construction, renovation, or development projects can plan accordingly. If you currently have a project in progress or in the planning stages, please be sure to inform your surveyor, contractor, architect, designer, or other project professionals of this upcoming change.

What: The City Council has adopted a new Zoning Ordinance related to the Facade Build Out Ratio (click here for link to more information).

When: This ordinance becomes effective on March 1, 2026.   (NOTE: Building permits that are fully issued (including payment) before March 1, 2026 are NOT SUBJECT to this ordinance.)

Additional Info: Please also be advised that Site Plans submitted for approval as of Friday, January 23, 2026, that do NOT meet the façade ratio ordinance, cannot be accepted, due to the review time needed to issue the permit prior to March 1, 2026.  If you have questions regarding the Facade Build Out Ratio or how the new requirements may affect your project, please contact Inspectional Services Department (617) 796-1060.

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Mission Statement

The Inspectional Services Department (ISD) is responsible for ensuring that buildings are constructed safely and used properly. ISD enforces the provisions of the state building code, city zoning ordinance, and other applicable ordinances. ISD issues permits to allow the construction, reconstruction, alteration, repair, and demolition of buildings and structures, as well as the installation of equipment and the location, use and occupancy of all buildings, structures and land.

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Construction activity must comply with the city's noise ordinance. In general, construction noise may be generated only during the hours listed below. Refer to Newton revised ordinances 2012, Sec 20-13 for additional details and restrictions.

• Monday-Friday: 7AM - 7PM
• Saturday: 8AM - 7PM
• Sundays & Holidays: Not permitted except by permit approved by the Mayor

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Online Permitting

Any application that is submitted online through the NewGov portal will require a user name and password to enter the site. 

Applications are submitted through our online portal at: 

https://newtonma.viewpointcloud.com

To search for permit record information, refer to the following web page:

https://newtonma.viewpointcloud.com/search

Step-by-Step Instructions to search for permit records

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In addition to the daily schedule, all Building Inspectors have office hours: 7:00am - 9:00am and 3:00pm - 4:00pm

Electrical and Plumbing/Gas Inspectors have office hours: 7:00am - 9:00am and 3:00pm - 4:00pm.

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