Permit Requirements: Webster vs Worcester
How do permit requirements rules compare between Webster, MA and Worcester, MA?
Webster and Worcester have similar restriction levels.
Webster, MA
Worcester County
Fence permits in Worcester County are issued by each municipality. Under 780 CMR (MA State Building Code), fences over 7 feet require a building permit statewide. Worcester requires a zoning permit from Inspectional Services, and spite fences over 6 feet violate MGL c. 49 §21.
View full Webster rules →Worcester, MA
Worcester County
Worcester requires building permits for new fence installations. Applications go through the Building and Zoning division. Property owners should verify property lines before construction.
View full Worcester rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Webster | Worcester |
|---|---|---|
| Over 7 ft | Building permit required (780 CMR) | - |
| Worcester Zoning | ISD permit under 6 ft | - |
| Pool Barrier | 48 in per 780 CMR App G | - |
| Spite Fence | Illegal over 6 ft (MGL c. 49 §21) | - |
| Building Code | 780 CMR statewide | - |
| Permit | - | Required for most fences |
| Division | - | Building & Zoning |
| Dig Safe | - | Call 811 before digging |
| Survey | - | Recommended |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Webster FAQ
Do I need a permit for a 6-foot fence in Worcester?
You need a zoning permit from the Department of Inspectional Services, but not a building permit — 780 CMR only requires a building permit for fences over 7 feet. Historic district properties need Historical Commission review regardless of height.
My neighbor built an 8-foot fence to block my view. Can I do anything?
Yes. MGL c. 49 §21 makes 'spite fences' over 6 feet illegal if built maliciously to annoy a neighbor. You can sue in Massachusetts Superior Court or District Court for nuisance damages and removal.
Worcester FAQ
Do I need a permit for a fence in Worcester?
Yes. Most new fence installations require a building permit from the Building and Zoning division.
Do I need to call Dig Safe before installing a fence in Worcester?
Yes. Massachusetts law requires calling Dig Safe at 811 before any digging to locate underground utilities.
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