Department Spotlight
Department: Building Department
Overview: The Building Department is responsible for the efficient administration and enforcement of applicable building and zoning codes and determinations. The Department issues building, electrical, gas and plumbing permits that allow the construction, reconstruction, repair, alteration and demolition of buildings and structures as well as the installation of equipment.
THE DEPARTMENT’S PURPOSE TO KEEP RESIDENTS SAFE!
The Building Department establishes minimum requirements to safeguard the public safety, health, and general welfare through affordability, structural strength, means of egress, stability, sanitation, light and ventilation, energy conservation, and safety of life and property from fire and other hazards attributed to the built environment and provide safety to firefighters and emergency responders during emergency operations.
PROFESSIONALISM, CUSTOMER SERVICE, AND POSITIVITY
The Building Department prioritizes professionalism to ensure a positive initial interaction and build relationships with the community. They are committed to serving the needs of the community in an attentive, responsive and proactive manner. The Building Department and its staff are here to be a resource for education and compliance for residents and tradesman.
Building Code & Zoning Bylaw Enforcement Procedure: EVALUATION, COMMUNICATION, EDUCATION and then violation and citation if necessary.
Abington’s Building Department’s staff are professionals who maintain a high level of expertise in Zoning, Building, and Environmental laws, bylaws and regulations.
Prior to any issuance of a violation notice, the department offers immediate assistance and education The team thoroughly informs the property owner and/or contractor of the violation, its history, guidelines, and reasonable solutions to the specific nature of the violation. This department makes every effort to remedy the situation while educating the public about the specific nature of a violation. If the assistance is refused and the property owner/contractor is resistant to mitigating the violation, the Department must follow property procedure and issue a violation order followed by a potential non-criminal disposition citation.
All recipients of a formal citation have the legal right to appeal against the citation based on the belief that this office has interpreted either the Zoning Bylaws, Building Codes, and Standards or the Environmental regulations incorrectly.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Q. Does my project need a building permit?
A. There are several ways to determine if your project needs a permit:
1. Call the Building Department directly and ask to speak to an inspector.
2. Find 12 general projects listed in the FAQ of our webpage. If you do not see a matching description for your project, it is to be assumed that a permit may be required.
Q. How do I file a building permit application?
A. Abington, like many other communities, utilizes an online permitting system for convenience and efficiency. The portal can be accessed directly or through the Building Department’s website. There is always a front counter service administrator at Town Hall ready to assist with the application process.
Q. Can I ask request a pre-construction site visit from the Building Commissioner to ask questions?
A. Yes, the Commissioner would be happy to accommodate a request of an applicant to come onsite. The Commissioner is available to discuss and educate on job site safety, material storage and control, construction safeguards, inspection requirements and scheduling, and any other questions that may assist the applicant in completing the project safely and efficiently.
Q. Can the Building Department recommend a contractor or service provider?
A. The Department cannot recommend a contractor or service provider as it is a conflict of interest for the Building Department. However, it is highly suggested that a property owner should always practice due diligence by interviewing at least three contractors, request a written detailed estimate, and check license and registration status to make sure the contractor or subcontractor you hire is currently registered with the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.
2024 Goals
· The Department is focused on maximizing its efficiency.
· Continuing the development of the staff’s professional knowledge and skills
· Strengthening professional relationships in the community, neighboring departments, and first responders
· Building and modifying effective workplace practices
· Launch an online presence to provide the most updated, real-time information.
Online Resources
Meet Our Staff
Building Commissioner, Zoning Enforcement Officer,
Flood Plain Manager - Jason Harris
Jason Harris became Abington’s Building Commissioner in 2023 after serving as a part-time building inspector for the Town. Prior to becoming Abington’s Building Commissioner, Harris worked in Hull’s Building Department as the Local Inspector, Director of Facilities, and served a full term on Hull’s retirement board. Harris recently graduated from Massachusetts Institute of Technology, with a master’s in building sciences. Harris has additionally achieved degrees in Human resources, Conservation soil and water Engineering, and is a certified Master Craftsman.
As Building Commissioner, Jason is committed to safety, professionalism, education and enforcement. Through open and consistent channels of communication, Jason’s team is focused on improved and unique techniques to help homeowners and professionals in the building field, build and maintain compliant homes and businesses.
Marion Wong Ryan – Zoning Enforcement Agent
Marion Wong Ryan, who has been with Abington for eight years, is responsible for providing professional, administrative, supervisory, technical, and inspection work in the enforcement of Federal, State and Town codes, bylaws, rules, and regulations relation to building inspection and Zoning enforcement.
Melissa Chiocca- Administrative Assistant
Melissa Chiocca is one of the first employee’s residents may encounter at the Building Department’s office at Town Hall. In her six years with Abington, Melissa has assisted in the development and modifications of the new online permitting program. Residents and builders can apply directly online for building, electrical, plumbing, gas, and sheet metal permits, as well as annual in-law affidavits. Find the online portal at https://abingtonma.portal.opengov.com/.
Melissa is eager to help residents and building professionals navigate Abington’s Building Department.
Christine Sylvester – Administrative Assistant
Christine Sylvester ensures residents, building professionals, and other customers receive timely service in person at Town Hall and over the phone. With her keen eye for detail, Sylvester maintains the department’s records and documentation
Residents can access public records regarding building archives and e-permits on the department’s website. https://www.abingtonma.gov/page/building
Meet our Inspectors
Nick Jenks – Local Inspector
Nick Jenks joined Abington’s building department as a local inspector in the spring of 2024. Jenks is responsible for the administration and inspection of work related to building applications and plans as well as enforcement and interpretation of the State Building Code, Massachusetts General Laws, Code of Massachusetts regulations, Architectural Access Board, Specialized Codes and Reference Standards, local zoning by-law, and other applicable regulations. Local Inspector Jenks receives directly reports to Building Commissioner Harris.
Mike Lydon – Plumbing and Gas Inspector
Mike Lydon has been employed with the Town of Abington for 32 years! As the Plumbing and Gas inspector, Lydon is responsible for processing applications, reviewing plans, providing input and recommendations, interpreting and explaining code provision, and issuing plumbing and gas permits. He performs the required inspections to ensure code compliance and investigates complaints of plumbing and gas violations.
William Montanari – Wiring Inspector
William Montanari, Abington’s Wiring Inspector works not only approving plans and issuing permits for new and renovated buildings but also as a close partner of the Abington Fire Department. Together, they conduct inspections of fires due to faulty electrical devices and enforce fire alarm regulations. Montanari, who has been with the town for two years, is responsible for conducting and certifying inspections of buildings that are open to the public, such as schools, nursing homes, establishments serving alcohol, multi-families, places of assembly, and similar facilities.