Before You Build in Burlington, VT: Permit & Rule Checklist (2026)
Everything you need to know before starting a home improvement project
Building a fence, installing a pool, or adding a shed? Each project has its own set of local permits and rules in Burlington. This guide consolidates fence, pool, ADU, shed, fire pit, and landscaping regulations into one checklist so you know what to expect before you start.
Quick Permit Checklist
At-a-glance overview of permit categories in Burlington. Click any card for details.
Fences & Walls
Some RestrictionsHeight limits, materials, permits, and shared fence rules.
Height Limits
Some RestrictionsBurlington's Comprehensive Development Ordinance limits fences in the First Lot Layer (front yard) to 4 feet and fences in Second and Third Lot Layers (side and rear yards) to 8 feet. Corner-lot clear sight triangles cap fences at 3 feet above curb height. Fence permits are issued by the Department of Permitting and Inspections.
Swimming Pools
Heavy RestrictionsPool permits, safety fencing, and drainage requirements.
Fencing Requirements
Heavy RestrictionsResidential swimming pool barriers in Burlington are governed by the Vermont Fire and Building Safety Code, adopted by the Vermont Division of Fire Safety under 20 V.S.A. Sec. 2731. The Vermont code adopts the International Residential Code (IRC), including the swimming pool barrier provisions in Appendix G / Chapter 49 (referencing the International Swimming Pool and Spa Code, ISPSC). Any pool deeper than 24 inches must be enclosed by a barrier at least 48 inches high measured on the side facing away from the pool, with openings that will not pass a 4-inch sphere. Gates must open outward away from the pool and be self-closing and self-latching, with the latch release at least 54 inches above the ground. Burlington enforces these requirements through the Department of Permitting & Inspections (DPI) building permit process.
ADUs & Granny Flats
Few RestrictionsAccessory dwelling unit rules and garage conversion permits.
ADU Rules
Few RestrictionsBurlington permits one accessory dwelling unit (ADU) by right on any lot containing an owner-occupied single-family dwelling, under Section 5.4.5 of the Burlington Comprehensive Development Ordinance (CDO). The ADU may be internal to the home, attached, or located in a detached accessory structure. Maximum size is 30% of the gross floor area of the primary home or 900 square feet, whichever is greater. No additional off-street parking is required. Up to 650 square feet of an ADU footprint may be exempt from the lot coverage limit if storm water impacts are mitigated. Burlington's regulations align with Vermont's statewide ADU mandate at 24 V.S.A. Sec. 4412(1)(E), which requires every Vermont municipality to allow at least one ADU per single-family lot.
Sheds & Outbuildings
Shed permits, setback limits, and outbuilding size rules.
No specific sheds & outbuildings rules found for Burlington. Check with your local building department for current requirements.
Fire Pits & Outdoor Structures
Heavy RestrictionsFire pit placement, outdoor burning restrictions, and permits.
Fire Pit Rules
Some RestrictionsChapter 19 lets Burlington residents use small recreational fire pits if they burn only clean wood, sit a safe distance from structures, and have a written burn permit issued by the Burlington Fire Department.
Outdoor Burning
Heavy RestrictionsOpen burning of brush or yard debris in Burlington requires a written permit from the Burlington Fire Department and is generally limited to specific seasons and weather conditions consistent with Vermont air-quality rules.
Landscaping & Tree Removal
Tree removal permits, heritage tree protections, and water rules.
No specific landscaping & tree removal rules found for Burlington. Check with your local building department for current requirements.
General Permit Tips
When do you typically need a permit?
Most cities require permits for structural work, including fences over a certain height, pools, ADUs, and sheds above a size threshold. Even projects that seem minor can trigger permit requirements, so it is always best to check first.
How to apply for a building permit
Visit your local building department or their website. Most jurisdictions accept online applications. You will typically need a site plan, project description, and may need contractor information. Processing times vary from same-day for simple projects to several weeks for larger builds.
Common permit violations to avoid
Building without a permit, exceeding approved dimensions, and ignoring setback requirements are the most common violations. Penalties can include fines, required removal of the structure, and complications when selling your home.
Looking for rules beyond permits? View all ordinances we track for Burlington.