Starting January 1, 2026, we are no longer issuing blanket permits. All permits must be submitted and paid for individually.

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.

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 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:

• Construction of buildings, additions, and renovations

• Installation of new siding

• Replacement of windows

• Construction of accessory garages and sheds (over 200 sq.ft.)

• Installation of pools and hot tubs

• Construction of decks and porches

• Installation of new roofs or re-roofs when more than 25% of the roof area is affected

• Replacement of boilers, furnaces, or water heaters

• Additions of or modifications to heating systems

• Installation or replacement of air conditioning systems

• Addition, relocation, or replacement of plumbing fixtures

• Installation of new electrical circuits or changes to electrical services

• Installation of roof-mounted or ground-mounted solar panels

 

Permit Fees

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.

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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.

 

DPH Carbon Monoxide Warning

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2026 Connecticut State Building Code Amending the 2024 International Building Code

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Working With Your Local Building Department

CT DEEP Pollution Prevention Newsletter

 

Thinking of Installing a Pool This Year? | Installing Irrigation Systems

Inground Swimming Pools     |    Swimming Pools     |     Wood Stoves

* A comprehensive list of applicable codes is available on the CBOA website, www.ctbuildingofficial.org/ where there is also information on purchasing the individual code books.

Energy Codes: http://www.energycodes.gov/

 

THE SUBMISSION OF ANY APPLICATION DOES NOT CONSTITUTE A PERMIT UNTIL SAID APPLICATION IS APPROVED BY DEPARTMENT HEAD AND ALL REQUIRED FEES ARE PAID IN FULL.