Building restoration in Boston involves two overlapping regulatory systems: the standard building permit process through the Inspectional Services Department, and historic review through the Boston Landmarks Commission for designated properties. Understanding which applies to your project determines the timeline and process before any work begins.
Any restoration work that involves structural changes, replacement of mechanical systems, significant exterior alterations, or changes to building use requires a building permit from the Boston Inspectional Services Department. Restoration projects that commonly require permits: masonry repointing if it involves structural assessment, window replacement on non-landmark properties, roof replacement, structural repair, and any work that opens walls to affect framing, electrical, or plumbing. Purely cosmetic work — painting, caulking, minor surface repair — typically does not require a permit. Boston ISD permit requirements →
Properties in Boston's designated local historic districts — Back Bay Architectural District, Beacon Hill Architectural District, South End Landmark District, and others — require a Certificate of Appropriateness from the Boston Landmarks Commission before any exterior changes visible from a public way. This includes painting a building a significantly different color, replacing windows, changing siding materials, adding or removing architectural features, and signage. The Commission reviews for consistency with the character of the historic district and the Secretary of the Interior's Standards for Rehabilitation. Boston Landmarks Commission →
For properties requiring Landmarks Commission review, the process begins with a pre-application consultation — the Commission staff architects are genuinely helpful and can advise on what's likely to be approved before you commit to a design direction. The formal application requires drawings or specifications describing the proposed work. Minor work may qualify for a Certificate of No Exterior Effect (an administrative decision without a full hearing). Significant exterior changes require a public hearing before the Commission. Timeline: administrative decisions in 2–3 weeks; hearing decisions in 4–8 weeks. Secretary of Interior Standards for Rehabilitation →
Pre-1978 Boston buildings almost universally contain lead paint in multiple layers. Restoration work that disturbs lead paint — scraping, sanding, heat removal — requires EPA RRP protocol compliance by a certified firm. In buildings where children under 6 or pregnant women are present, Massachusetts Lead Law adds requirements beyond EPA RRP. We are EPA RRP certified and perform all restoration work on pre-1978 Boston properties in compliance with applicable regulations. EPA RRP program →
We manage the permit process on all restoration projects that require it — ISD applications, coordination with Landmarks Commission when applicable, inspection scheduling, and documentation. For properties in historic districts, we've developed working relationships with Commission staff that help projects move through review efficiently. Call (617) 777-7700 for a free assessment that includes permit requirements for your specific property. Verify MA license #193121 →
Need Building Restoration in Boston?
AURA Painting Inc serves all Boston neighborhoods. Licensed MA #193121, fully insured, 2-year warranty. Free estimates — most jobs scheduled within the week.
Call (617) 777-7700 ← Back to Building Restoration