Hingham permit, inspection fees increase

Last week Hingham selectmen finalized new permit and inspectional service rates as part of cost-cutting measures to deal with financial woes facing the town. The fees took effect Monday, Nov. 2.

“We have been looking at these for months and comparing our rates with those in towns around us,” Laura Burns, chairwoman of the Board of Selectmen, said in a recent interview.

The town's major building permit fee for residential and commercial projects, based on the estimated cost of the project, has not increased.

The charge for new residential construction, alterations, additions and demolition is $10 per $1,000 of the project’s estimated cost, or a $50 minimum. Commercial permits for new construction, alterations, additions and demolition are also unchanged at $15 per $1,000 of the project’s estimated cost, or a $50 minimum.

Reinspection fees for work that did not meet code have increased to $75 from $20, and organizations and individuals holding festivals and events requiring a tent permit will notice the fee has jumped to $35 from $20.

Selectmen also increased numerous fees for gas, electrical, and plumbing inspections.

Burns said none of the fee increases are expected to bring the town a windfall, but will help defray expected deficits this fiscal year and next.

All of the new fees can be viewed on the town’s website at http://www.hingham-ma.gov/building/fees.html