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When Do I Need a Certificate of Zoning Compliance?

To download applications and supporting documents, please visit the PERMITS & APPLICATIONS page.

Land Use Permits have been renamed to Certificates of Zoning Compliance (amended 3/11/25)

Certificates of Zoning Compliance are required for any new construction (including modular and mobile homes), any change of use of an existing structure, additions or alterations to existing structures (including interior renovations which includes changing flooring material from one type to another), decks, dormers, demolition or relocation of any structure, installation of any detached structure (including sheds, barns, garages, docks, signs, and swimming pools, chicken coops); or fences that are over six feet tall; or any other renovation (including interior) and/or relocation with a cost of $15,000 or more in materials. Ordinary repairs to structures may be made without a Certificate of Compliance. Such repairs are limited to painting, siding, re-roofing (with like materials), and repair of accidental damage that does not involve structural modification. Certificates of Compliance are not required for the construction of entry steps, and landscaping. (For any Town of Bristol Water or Sewer customers, please contact the Water and Sewer Department to eliminate any issues with the reader or service location.)

Renewal Permits

Issued permits are only valid for one (1) year from the date of issuance and must be renewed until the work is completed.

Demolition Permits

Demolition Permits are required for the demolition of any structure.

Driveway Permits

Driveway Permits are required for new driveways, and most, if not all, changes to an existing driveway.

Sign Permits

All signs must comply with Article IV, Section 4.11 of the Zoning Ordinance. Sign Permits are required for all new and replacement signs. 

Junkyard Permits

Temporary Camping Permits

Extended camping (more than 10 consecutive days) on an undeveloped, residential lot in the Town of Bristol requires a Temporary Camping Permit.

A temporary camping unit is defined as:

Tents, tent trailers, pop-up trailers, camping vans, pick-up campers, vehicle or any other device or vehicular-type structure as may be developed marketed and used by the camping trade for use as temporary living quarters or shelter during periods of recreation, vacation, or leisure time, that do not include an operational approved waste processing system.

Permits Issued - Yearly Logs -  If you have any questions please contact the Land Use Office.