FAQs • Lebanon, NH • CivicEngage

Do the zoning regulations allow Accessory Apartments (“Mother-in-Law Apartments”) in single family residential zones?: Yes, but only in those zoning districts that permit single family dwellings, by meeting certain requirements and obtaining a special exception from the Zoning Board of Adjustment. These are also called Accessory Dwelling Units (see section 610 of the Zoning Ordinance (PDF)).

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Codes, Zoning, Building Permits

1. What building codes do I need to follow?: Please visit the State of New Hampshire Building Code Review Board website.

To schedule a building inspection, please contact the Planning & Development Department 48-hours prior to the time you would like the inspection to occur.

3. How do I schedule a fire inspection?: To schedule a fire inspection, please contact the Lebanon Fire Department directly.

4. Where can I find a copy of the Zoning Ordinance and Map?: You can view the current Zoning Ordinance and Zoning Map page.

5. How do I know if I need Zoning Board approval?: Contact the Codes Office 603-448-1524.

6. Where do I find Zoning Board application forms?: Please see our Zoning Board Applications page.

7. Is there a Zoning Board application fee?: Yes, please see the Fee Schedule (PDF).

8. Do the zoning regulations allow Accessory Apartments (“Mother-in-Law Apartments”) in single family residential zones?: Yes, but only in those zoning districts that permit single family dwellings, by meeting certain requirements and obtaining a special exception from the Zoning Board of Adjustment. These are also called Accessory Dwelling Units (see section 610 of the Zoning Ordinance (PDF)).

9. Are there restrictions for yard sales?: Yes, per section 207 of the Zoning Ordinance, a yard sale from any 1 location shall not be considered a use regulated under the Zoning Ordinance, providing that is does not occur more than twice with any calendar year for a period of not more than 2 consecutive days. Please see the Yard Sale page.

10. Who can tell me how my property is zoned?: The Planning and Zoning Office can help if you call 603-448-1457. We can help you determine the zoning of your property. You must know the physical location and legal description of your property, or you can view this information online through the GIS mapping tool, search your property by address or tax map and lot number, click on it and then change the property view theme to Zoning theme and the zoning district label will appear, but always feel free to verify this with someone in the Planning and Zoning office.

11. Does Lebanon have a Noise Ordinance?: No, the City does not have a noise ordinance at this time.

12. When is a building permit required?: Please see City Code Chapter 36 "Building Construction."

Come into the Codes Office located at City Hall at:

51 N Park Street

Lebanon, NH 03766

Or you may print off any permit applications. View our landing page which directs to various permit categories, the

14. How much is the permit fee?: For permit fees, please review our Commercial and Residential Fees document (PDF).

15. Do I need a permit to construct or re-locate my driveway?: Yes, no access drive or driveway maybe constructed or re-located without prior approval from the City Engineer. Please contact the Department of Public works and speak with the City Engineer by calling 603-448-3112.

16. Do I need a permit to install a fence?: No, provided it's not along a street front per section 201.1 of the Zoning Ordinance, fences, hedges or walls shall not exceed 3 1/2 feet in height unless setback 15 feet from the right of way. (The city suggests you be able to maintain both sides of the fence and still be on your property).

17. Are business licenses required?: No. There is no local license, however, you should contact the State of New Hampshire Secretary of State office about State requirements 603-271-3242.

18. Do I need a license to sell food in an RV?: Although the general answer is yes, but for more information please view our page on RV licensing requirements.

19. Are home businesses allowed?: Yes, but you must obtain a permit. Please download the permit application (PDF).