Permit types filed in Massachusetts.

Filed for new construction, additions, structural alterations, and most exterior or interior renovations. The broadest category, and typically the highest-volume permit type in every jurisdiction.

Required for new circuits, service upgrades, panel replacements, EV chargers, generator installs, and most wiring work. A leading indicator of solar, smart-home, and HVAC projects.

Filed for new fixtures, drain or supply repipes, water-heater replacements, sewer connections, and bathroom or kitchen rough-ins. Strong predictor of bath/kitchen remodels.

Required for gas-line work — appliance hook-ups, boiler and furnace replacements, fireplace installs, and pool/spa heaters. A near-real-time indicator of HVAC and appliance jobs.

Filed for new or modified fire-detection systems, sprinkler tie-ins, monitoring upgrades, and commercial alarm installs. Commercial-skewed but appears in residential additions.

Covers structured wiring, security systems, audio/video, networking, access control, and home-automation rough-ins. Strong signal for smart-home and security buyers.

Required to install, alter, or relocate commercial signage — wall signs, monument signs, and illuminated displays. Marks new business openings and commercial fit-outs.

Filed for full-structure tear-downs, partial demolitions, and gut renovations. Frequently precedes a building permit on the same parcel within 30–90 days.

Required for ductwork, exhaust systems, chimney liners, gutters, and metal-roofing work. Commonly paired with HVAC and roofing jobs.

Filed for excavation in public ways or near utilities — for service laterals, drainage, sewer/water taps, and underground utility runs. Indicates site-prep and underground utility work.

Covers HVAC equipment installs, refrigeration, process piping, and boiler/chiller work that doesn't fall under the gas or sheet-metal categories. A clean HVAC-only signal.