FAQs • Lincoln, MA • CivicEngage

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Once I am approved, can I get a demolition permit?: Yes, after you have notified the Building Department that the electricity, gas, and water utilities have been shut off.

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Building Department

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1. What constitutes a conforming lot in the Town of Lincoln?: In the R-1 District development regulations require a lot size of at least two acres (80,000+ square feet), 120 feet of frontage, and a minimum of 250 feet of Lot Width measured through any point on the principal building.

2. What if I own a nonconforming lot?: Then any renovations or additions may need a special permit, please reach out and ask the Building Inspector.

3. How do I apply for a special permit?: Apply by application, to the ZBA for a hearing. You will be notified when you are on the agenda, so that you may present your information. Your neighbors will also be notified of the hearing.

4. Will I have to expand or rebuild my septic system?: It depends on what kind of addition you’re planning. Fill out a "Request for Title 5 Building Review" at the Building Department, and the Board of Health will let you know if your current system will serve the needs of your proposed addition.

5. What if my proposed septic plan needs a variance?: You will be scheduled for a hearing of the Board of Health. You will be notified when you are on the agenda, so that you may present your information. Your neighbors will also be notified of the hearing.

6. What if I need to tear down an existing structure before I start my addition?: Apply to the Building Department for a demolition permit. Your application will be reviewed by the Lincoln Historical Commission (LHC) in accordance with the Demolition Delay bylaw. Copies of this bylaw are available from the Building Department. You will be notified when you are on the agenda, so that you may present your information.

7. Once I am approved, can I get a demolition permit?: Yes, after you have notified the Building Department that the electricity, gas, and water utilities have been shut off.

8. I want to build a fence. Do I need a permit, and is there a height limit?: Yes, you need a permit and a plan of where the fence will be. No, there is not a height limit, but the Building Department recommends a maximum of six feet.

9. Do I need a fence around my swimming pool?: Yes, you need a fence at least four feet high.

10. My neighbor is building an addition, and the racket starts quite early in the morning. Are there any bylaws governing how early contractors can start working?: No, there are not, but the Building Department recommends a common-sense quiet period from 7pm to 7am.

11. I’m curious about the house that is going up next door. How can I find out about it?: You can come to the Building Department, give us your neighbor’s street address, and look through the map and parcel folder for that property.

12. If I am having electrical or plumbing work done, when should my electrician or plumber get a permit?: Permits should be taken out before the work is started. The electrician or plumber needs to provide a Certificate of Insurance, unless there is already one on file in the Building Department.

13. Do I need a permit for roofing?: Yes.

14. Do I need a permit to put up a tent?: Yes. The tent rental company needs to provide a Certificate of Flame Resistance.

15. What is the minimum frontage on a lot in Lincoln?: 120 feet.

16. I am planning some renovations to my home, which is located in the Historic District. Do I need a special permit?: You should fill out an Historic District Commission (HDC) application for a Certificate of Appropriateness. Copies of the Historic District bylaw are available from the Building Department. You will be notified of the next HDC meeting, so that you may present your information.