Burlington Vermont Building Trades and Zoning Guide

Burlington building, electrical, plumbing, mechanical, zoning, and right-of-way projects should be coordinated early so construction permits and inspections do not lag behind zoning approval.

Permit takeaway

Burlington says most projects that require zoning permits also require building, electrical, plumbing, or mechanical permits, and all can be applied for together in the online system.

Zoning and placement

Project changes during construction can require a zoning amendment, new zoning permit, or approved as-built plan before a certificate of occupancy can be issued.

Building and trade review

Building permits are required for non-mechanical, non-electrical, and non-plumbing work except listed minor items such as carpeting, painting, nonsolid fences, storm doors or windows, and limited in-kind repairs.

Call before applying when

Call before applying if the project changes approved plans, alters elevations, adds life-safety issues, affects rental use, involves city right-of-way, or requires trade permits.

Documents to prepare

• Zoning permit materials
• Building permit application
• Trade permit applications
• Approved plans
• As-built information if plans change

Inspection planning

• Submit zoning and construction permits
• Resolve life-safety comments
• Request inspections
• Get approval for changes before proceeding
• Close out final approval

Official sources

• Burlington Building and Trades Division
• Burlington Zoning Division
• Burlington Construction Permits

This guide is a planning summary. Always verify the current requirements with the local office before starting work.