The Town of Portland does not issue blanket permits. All permits must be submitted and paid for individually.
Building construction is one of the nation’s major economic indicators and is often a homeowner’s or business’s most significant lifetime investment. As a result, it can be a very stressful process. Prior to finalizing your plans, we strongly encourage property owners and their design professionals to meet with the Land Use and Building Department for a pre-review of the project. This early review helps evaluate how applicable codes and regulations may affect the proposal.
Building Department
The Building Department administers and enforces the Connecticut State Building Code* for new construction, renovations, alterations, remodeling, and demolition. Services include plan review and approvals, required inspections throughout construction, system testing, and the issuance of Certificates of Occupancy.
The Building Official ensures compliance with state statutes to protect life safety, property, and long-term community investments. The Building Code prioritizes occupant safety, structural integrity, and protection during emergency and extreme weather events.
Property owners and design professionals are encouraged to meet with the Land Use and Building Department early in the planning process to review applicable codes and regulations. The Building Department works closely with other town departments to guide projects through the regulatory process.
The Building Official also oversees enforcement of the Town’s Blight Ordinance, which addresses the visible accumulation of non-usable items, vehicles, and construction debris to protect neighborhood appearance and property values
Land Use Department
The Land Use Department includes the Building Official, Environmental Health, Economic Development, Inland Wetlands, Planning, and Zoning.
The Planning & Zoning Department is responsible for the coordination, review, and processing of all development applications submitted to the Planning & Zoning Commission, Inland Wetlands Commission, and Zoning Board of Appeals. The department also works closely with non-regulatory commissions, including the Economic Development Commission and Conservation Commission.
Key responsibilities include the preparation, implementation, and periodic update of the Plan of Development and all land use regulations. The department monitors and tracks land use activity, development applications, zoning permits, zoning enforcement actions, and economic development initiatives. Additional functions include conducting land use studies and developing policies as requested or deemed necessary.
Health Department - Chatham Health District
If your project requires review or approval for a septic system, well, or other public health-related component, you must submit an application through the Chatham Health District.
Applications can be completed online at https://myhealthdepartment.com/chd. You will need to create an account before submitting. Once logged in, navigate to the appropriate section (such as Land Use or Environmental Health) and select the application that matches your project. Be sure to upload all required documentation, which may include site plans, system details, and any supporting reports.
For specific project types:
If you need assistance, contact Liz Davidson at Liz.Davidson@chathamhealth.org or 860-342-6718 at the Portland office. You may also contact the Chatham Health District Main Office at 860-365-0884 and follow the phone tree. The office is located at 240 Middletown Ave, Unit 123, East Hampton, CT 06424.
Office of the Fire Marshal
The Portland Fire Marshal’s Office is dedicated to protecting lives and property throughout our community. Our office is responsible for enforcing local and state fire codes, conducting fire and life safety inspections of commercial and public buildings, investigating the origin and cause of fires, and providing fire prevention education to residents and businesses. We work closely with the Portland Fire Department, Portland Police Department, local officials, and the community to ensure a safe environment for all.
Our mission is to promote fire safety, prevent emergencies, and respond promptly and professionally to any incident necessary. Whether you are a homeowner, business owner, or visitor, the Fire Marshal’s Office is here to provide guidance, resources, and support to keep Portland safe.
Department of Public Works
The Department of Public Works (DPW) is comprised of seven divisions and operates under the direction of the Public Works Director:
The services provided by the Public Works Department are among those most directly experienced by residents. From recycling and leaf collection to repairing water mains and maintaining park facilities, DPW plays a vital role in the daily life of the community.
The Town of Portland Public Works Department is committed to enhancing the quality of life for all residents by delivering safe, reliable, and effective services consistent with the community’s vision and goals.
Building Permit Requirements
The Portland Building Department requires a building permit for the construction or alteration of any structure or building, in accordance with the Connecticut State Building Code and the approved plans and specifications submitted with the application.
Items that require a permit may include, but are not limited to:
Payment Information
If you choose to pay by cash or check, please submit your payment in person or by mail. Permit processing will not begin until full payment has been received.
Point & Pay Convenience Fees
Permit Fees
Building Department:
Permit fees are based on the estimated total cost of the work, including labor and materials. Fees are calculated at $25.00 for the first thousand and $15.00 for each thousand thereafter.
Zoning Department:
Zoning application fees consist of a $10.00 fee for residential applications and a $30.00 fee for commercial applications, plus a required $60.00 state fee.
Fire Marshal Office:
Fire Marshal permit fees are established by permit type. Each permit is subject to a standard fee, where applicable, and certain permits may be issued at no charge.
Public Works:
Excavation permits are charged at $10.00 for the first 500 sq.ft. of excavation (or any part thereof) and $10.00 for every additional 500 sq.ft. (or any part thereof).
Inspections
By submitting an application, the applicant(s) and/or owner(s) agree that the Town of Portland, its departments, or their agent(s) are authorized to enter upon the property for which this permit applies for the purpose of inspection and enforcement and administration for the Town of Portland. This permit is issued based upon the plot plan and all supporting documents submitted. Falsification by misrepresentation or omission or failure to comply with the conditions of this permit shall constitute a violation and shall render this permit void.
Inspection Hours
Inspections are available during the following times. Please schedule inspections in advance when required.
Fire Marshal Inspections:
Building Inspections:
Zoning Inspections:
Public Works Inspections:
If you need assistance signing up for an account, please click here.
To be added as a contractor in the portal, please click here to request a copy of the form. Once receieved, please complete the form and return it to be added to the portal.