The Town of Westwood strictly adheres to the Construction Control system established by Section 107.6 of the Massachusetts State Building Code. This program was put in place to standardize the way in which large/complex construction projects are administered and has helped streamline many processes associated with larger residential and commercial construction jobs. Note that the exemptions to the Construction Control requirements may not apply to a renovation or addition on an existing building. For instance, a 20,000 cubic foot tenant fit-out in an existing office building may appear to be exempt, however the entire building may be over 35,000 cubic feet meaning Construction Control would be required.

A Certificate of Occupancy protocol has been established by the Building Department for commercial construction projects that take place in the Town of Westwood. Issued along with the Building Permit, the Certificate of Occupancy Checklist/Application serves as a means for the Building Department and contractor/owner to track and record the necessary documents and inspections required for occupancy to be awarded. Not all of the items listed on the Checklist may be required for every project; the Building Department will determine which items and inspections apply on a case by case basis. It is imperative to note that in addition to the typically required inspections, submission of documents related to the construction of each project may be necessary. Occupancy of any building, or portion of a building, by individuals not related to its construction or renovation will not be allowed until a Certificate of Occupancy has been issued for that space.

In addition to a Certificate of Occupancy, there may be other licenses which need to be achieved prior to operating a business in the Town of Westwood. The sale of specific items, such as food or alcohol, and providing of some services, cosmetology for example, may require licenses and/or approvals from several different departments at the local or state level. Visit the Westwood Licensing Division or the Massachusetts' Division of Professional Licensure for more information. Remember, a Certificate of Occupancy only allows the public (non-construction individuals) to enter the premises. It does not mean that any and all services associated with that space are allowed or approved.

Below are some of the forms associated with Construction Control and commercial construction in Westwood. Some or all of these may be required during the Building Permit application process, throughout the construction phase of a project, and at the project’s completion. Each project is unique, and if there are specific questions, feel free to contact the Town of Westwood Building Department.

• Initial Construction Control Affidavit
• Phased Construction Control Affidavit
• Final Construction Control Affidavit
• Ninth Edition 780 CMR 107.6 Construction Control Document
• Possible Required Inspections (to be completed by Building Department)
• Certificate of Occupancy Protocol

The transfer of a building permit from one individual to another (for instance, between an architect and a general contractor) prior to the start of construction will require a fee of $500 to be paid to the building department. If work has already begun on the permitted work, any fees assessed will be at the discretion of the building department.

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