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Building and Zoning permit application for most building permits. Click here.
PERMITTING 101: Many common questions about the Milford's permitting requirements and process are answered in this document:
TODAY's INSPECTIONS and our CURRENT REVIEW LIST (new submissions only) will be posted on the Building Inspection Office website every morning by 9:30 am. To find them, CLICK HERE
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Welcome to the Department of Permitting and Land Use. Our job is to provide a predictable, efficient, and timely review of all development and construction in Milford, to ensure that the work is safe and the land uses are appropriate.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Do I need a permit?
- How does the permitting process work and what do I need to provide?
- How can I research property information?
- How can I file a complaint about activities in the city?
- Other than filing a complaint, what can I do about a dispute with a neighbor, landlord, or another problem in my community?
- I have a comment, compliment, or complaint about the city’s permitting process
Do I need a permit?
Building reviews all construction to ensure that structures are built properly (i.e. “to Code”) and can be occupied safely for their intended purpose. A building permit must be obtained before beginning construction, alteration or repairs, other than ordinary repairs. Work requiring permits includes decks, window replacements, installation of a wood or pellet stove, and installation of a pre-fabricated shed on your property. In addition, even if no work is being done, in some cases a change of use to a piece of property (for example, a warehouse to a dance studio) requires a building permit because of different requirements for the new use.
Planning and Zoning regulates the activities allowed on your property and where the structures that contain these uses can be located. Construction, reconstruction, extension, enlargement, moving, or altering any building or another structure and prior to the use or occupancy of any land, building, or other structure requires a zoning permit. In addition, a change of use of a property (e.g., retail to restaurant or residential to commercial) must go through the planning and zoning approval process. In most cases (except with very simple projects that do not affect the outside of a structure in any way), planning and zoning approval is required before a building permit can be applied for. Many of these approvals can be obtained over the counter during permitting hours.
The Inland Wetland Agency regulates activities proposed in an inland wetland or watercourse and within 100’ (or an upland review area) of wetlands or watercourses. Any work done in that area will require Inland Wetlands review. In addition, the Inland Wetland Agency regulates any activities proposed involving the storage, removal, or deposition of material, any obstruction, construction, alteration or pollution of a wetland or watercourse, any earth moving, filling, construction, clear-cutting of trees, and discharging of waters. Our Wetlands office can help you identify whether their approval will be required for a project, and assist in the process.
What do I need in order to get a permit?
How can I research property information?
Our Geographic Information System database provides information regarding parcels, zoning, wetlands, flood zones, and other factors.
The assessor’s database provides information about properties and valuations.
How can I file a complaint about activities in the city?
To file a complaint about illegal use of property, please complete this form.
To file a complaint about construction work being done without a permit, e-mail
Other than filing a complaint, what can I do about a dispute with a neighbor, landlord, or another problem in my community?
Unfortunately, many subjects of disputes do not fall under our jurisdiction. They are still valid issues and unfortunately can cause escalating tensions and unpleasantness. In these cases, mediation can often help address these issues in a way that benefits all parties involved, without the need for lawsuits or other measures. Community Mediation, Inc. in New Haven will provide low-cost mediation services to Milford residents and businesses. You may contact them directly at:
or mediation may be arranged through the Director of Permitting and Land Use office
I have a comment, compliment, or complaint about the city’s permitting process
Milford’s Permitting and Land Use Staff commit to:
Treat all customers with professionalism and courtesy
Communicate our requirements and policies clearly
Be results and solution-oriented
Enforce development codes with integrity and consistency
We welcome your feedback. Please complete this brief, anonymous survey:
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