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HomePermits & ZoningNew Hampshire
New Hampshire (NH) Permit Guide

Building a Steel Structure in New Hampshire: Permits, Zoning & What You Need to Know

New Hampshire has adopted state building codes with local enforcement. The 'Live Free or Die' ethos is reflected in the relatively practical approach to building codes, especially in rural northern New Hampshire.

Permit Difficulty
Moderate
Avg Permit Cost
$300 – $3,000
Typical Timeline
3–8 weeks
Barndominium-Friendly
Limited

Some counties welcome barndominiums, but metro and suburban areas may restrict them.

State Building Code Overview

State code adopted but enforced locally. Towns may adopt the state code or a less restrictive local code.

Primary Code

NH State Building Code

Code Version

2018 IBC / 2018 IRC with NH amendments

Adoption Level

Statewide + Local Amendments

Statewide Enforcement

No

Permit Requirements

Varies by town. Some rural towns have limited enforcement.

Residential

Required

Commercial

Required

Agricultural

Not Required

Size threshold: structures under 200 sq ft may be exempt.

Required Documents

  • Building plans
  • Site plan
  • Foundation plan

Exemptions & Exceptions

Agricultural Exemption
Available

Agricultural buildings may be exempt in some towns.

Size Exemption
Available

Small structures may be exempt.

Environmental & Structural Loads

Heavy snow loads, especially in the White Mountains. Moderate wind.

Wind Load

100–130 mph

moderate zone

Snow Load

40–80 psf

Seismic

A–B

Category

Flood

FEMA Regulated

Energy Code

Energy Code

IECC

Version

2018 IECC

Energy code enforcement varies by town.

Contractor Licensing

No State License Required

License Type

No state license required

New Hampshire does not require a state contractor license.

Typical Setback Requirements

Front

25–40 ft

Side

10–20 ft

Rear

15–25 ft

Varies by town.

Foundation Requirements

Engineered Foundation Required

Common Foundation Types

Full basementFrost-protected foundations

Frost depth 48-60 inches. Basements are standard.

Building Type Considerations

Shops & Workshops

Popular in rural areas.

Barns

Agricultural exemptions may apply.

Barndominiums

Limited acceptance. Some rural towns are more flexible.

Garages & Storage

Snow load engineering important.

Commercial

Full code compliance where enforced.

HOA & Deed Restrictions

HOAs uncommon in most of New Hampshire. Some lakefront communities have deed restrictions.

Flood Zone Considerations

FEMA Flood Regulations Apply

Riverine flood zones along major rivers.

Official Sources & Resources

Verify the information above directly from these official sources. Regulations change — always confirm with your local building department before starting construction.

NH Division of Fire Safety — State Building CodesState building code administration
NH Division of Fire Safety — Building Safety & ConstructionBuilding permits and construction safety
New Hampshire — ICCICC code adoption details for New Hampshire

In This Guide

In This Guide

State Building Code OverviewPermit RequirementsExemptions & ExceptionsEnvironmental & Structural LoadsEnergy CodeContractor LicensingTypical Setback RequirementsFoundation RequirementsBuilding Type ConsiderationsHOA & Deed RestrictionsFlood Zone ConsiderationsOfficial Sources & Resources

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Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or professional advice. Building codes, permit requirements, and zoning regulations change frequently. Always verify current requirements with your local building department, planning office, or a licensed professional before starting construction. Homestead Steel Structures & Design is not a legal authority on building codes or zoning regulations. Last updated February 2026.

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