Proposed Adjustments to Building Permit Fees

The Select Board is considering a proposal to update permit fees for the Building Department. These changes are necessary to align Wellesley fees with those of comparable communities and reflect current construction and operational costs.  Fee schedules have not been formally reviewed for many years.  The proposed updates support the Building Department operational needs without imposing undue burdens on applicants. 

Fee Analysis

An analysis of permit fees in Arlington, Belmont, Brookline, Concord, Dedham, Framingham, Lexington, Milton, Natick, Needham, Newton, Sudbury, Wayland, Weston, Westwood, and Winchester indicated the need for adjustments to Wellesley’s fees. Additionally, an online analysis revealed that the base price per square foot for residential new construction and additions should be updated from $150 to $200 per square foot of finished floor area. 

The following data was collected:

Belmont             $225 per square foot
Needham             $150 per square foot since February 2018
International Code Council    $165 per square foot February 2024 (National Average)

This adjustment more accurately reflects average construction costs in Wellesley and aligns with regional standards. Alterations to existing residential structures were excluded from square foot pricing due to the variability and complexity of these projects.

Proposed Adjustments

1.    Residential New Construction and Additions/Alterations

• Current fee: $10/$1,000 of estimated cost
•   Proposed fee: $15/$1,000 of estimated cost
•   This adjustment brings our fees in line with comparable communities.

2.    Commercial Construction

• No changes recommended; current fees remain competitive.

3.    Miscellaneous Permits

• Accessory structures, swimming pools, and decks: From $10/$1,000 to $15/$1,000 of estimated cost.
•   Tents, trailers, signs, awnings, and stoves: From $35/unit to $50/unit.
•   Residential roofing and siding: From a $50 flat fee to $15/$1,000 of estimated cost.
•  Retaining walls: From a $35 flat fee to $15/$1,000 of estimated cost.

4.    Sheet Metal Permits

•  Residential: Adjusted to $15/$1,000 of estimated cost.
•  Commercial: No changes; current fees are consistent with comparable communities.

5.    Electrical Permits

• Residential: Flat fees increased by $25–$50 depending on the permit type.
• Multi-family residential: Similar increases applied.
• Temporary services (e.g., construction trailers, tents, carnivals): Increased by $25.
• Commercial: No changes; current fees align with comparable communities.

6.    Plumbing and Gas Permits

• Residential (new/alterations): Filing fee increased from $35 to $50; fixture fee increased from $7 to $8.  
• Commercial (new/alterations): Filing fee increased from $100 to $125; fixture fee increased from $12 to $15.