Amherst Lowers Building, Planning & Zoning Fees

The Amherst Community Development Office has changed many of its fees in order to bring the costs more in line with similar communities.

Director Sarah Marchant has lead the effort to lower the amount charged for building, planning and zoning fees. Many have been much higher than nearby towns and do not reflect the actual work done, according to her studies. (These can be found under PDFs on the right)

For example, Amherst has charged over $100 more for ZBA fees than towns like Windham, Hooksett and Lebanon. Marchant added that the town was also charging far too much for things like sign permits. (A full list of changes under PDFs)

Although she would like to see additional reductions in fees, Marchant said this is a good start to bringing Amherst down to a more reasonable level.

“This is a good first step in trying to be a little bit more business friendly,” said Marchant. “It will also help homeowners who are trying to make improvements to their houses.”

Although many of the fees have been lowered, some have been added where there is a significant amount of work or cost related. The town also doesn’t want to drastically reduce its revenue.

For example, the fire and building inspectors used to do a tenant fit-up for free whenever one moves into a new space. This walk-through included a lengthy inspection of basic septic and other codes, which will now cost $100. Marchant recommends that these tenants call her office before signing the lease, so that the charge goes to the property owner instead.

These changes were approved by Amherst selectmen at their meeting on Monday, and will go into effect on May 1.