Community Development
Contact
We issue permits, make sure buildings are safe, and work with the community to plan for the future of Somerville's built environment.
Common permits
You often need a zoning permit before you can get a construction permit for your project. The zoning permit makes sure your project complies with development rules and standards.
Rental property inspections
About
The Community Development Department has 3 divisions. We work with the Planning Board and Zoning Board of Adjustment to review development applications.
Building
We review building permit applications to make sure they comply with federal, state, and local laws. We issue building permits and conduct inspections.
Code Enforcement
We enforce the Borough's property maintenance code, International Property Maintenance Code, and other ordinances. We also inspect 1 and 2 family rental properties to make sure they comply with the Borough's residential rental laws.
Zoning Enforcement
We review zoning permits and development applications to make sure they comply with the the Borough’s Land Use and Development Ordinance (Zoning Ordinance).