One of the most common areas of confusion I see when helping clients in Boston, Brookline, and the surrounding areas is the idea of an “in-kind repair.” On paper, it sounds simple: you’re just replacing what’s already there. But when it comes to permitting, that term can be misleading—and if you’re not careful, it can lead to delays, surprises, and unexpected back-and-forth with the city.
“In-Kind” Isn’t Always What It Sounds Like
Many people assume that because they’re using the same material—say, replacing old wood slats with new ones—they don’t need a permit. But depending on the scope of work and which municipality you’re in, you may still need to go through the permitting process, especially if you’re touching anything on the exterior of the building.
Every city handles this a little differently. In Brookline, a project might need Planning Department review, while the same work in Boston might fall under a different process entirely. Even small changes like lighting, signage, or a different fastener type can raise flags if they weren’t part of the original design.
Permits for Small Jobs Are Still Serious Business
Even if you’re not changing the use, layout, or square footage of a space, your work might still affect accessibility, energy codes, or structural safety. Cities want to be sure these bases are covered—and if they’re not, they’ll kick the set back, adding days or weeks to your timeline.
I’ve found that having a simple, clear drawing set that explains what’s being reused, what’s being replaced, and what’s staying the same can go a long way. It doesn’t have to be elaborate. But it does need to answer the questions reviewers are asking—even if they don’t ask them out loud.
Coordinating Between Departments
One thing I’ve learned working on permit sets around the Boston area is that departments don’t always talk to each other. For example, the Planning Department might sign off on your drawings quickly, only for the Building Department to come back with a completely different set of questions.
That’s why, in some cases, I’ll recommend sending the drawings to the Building Department first and looping in the Planning team, so any potential issues can be ironed out before things are too far along.
Small Projects Deserve Smart Strategy
Even if you’re just fixing something that’s already there, the permitting process still expects a thoughtful approach. A clean, well-organized submission makes a good impression—and often leads to faster approvals.
My goal is to make that process as smooth and clear as possible. Whether you’re replacing a façade, repairing signage, or upgrading exterior lighting, I can help translate your scope into permit-ready drawings that reviewers understand and approve.
If you’re planning a small exterior project in Boston, Brookline, or the nearby cities—and want to make sure permitting doesn’t slow you down—feel free to reach out. I’m here to help.
—Permitti
Architectural drawings for small business renovations —friendly, fast, and tailored to your space.
Disclaimer: This blog is for general informational purposes only and is not intended as legal, code, or permitting advice. Every project is unique, and permitting requirements can vary depending on location, scope, and agency review. You should always consult with the appropriate professionals or municipal departments for your specific project requirements.