Clinton, MA Stretch Energy Code Support

Clinton remains on the state base energy code; the state's adoption list shows no Stretch Code or Specialized (Opt-In) Code adoption for Clinton. New homes here can show compliance through the prescriptive path, REScheck or a performance/HERS approach, and the fixed HERS caps of the Stretch Code (42 mixed-fuel or 45 all-electric for new homes) do not apply unless Clinton adopts it.

Building permits in Clinton are handled by the Building Department under the Building Commissioner. Permits are filed online through the town's OpenGov portal; paper filing is allowed but carries an extra $60 processing fee.

Renovations and additions over 1,000 sq ft or over 100% of the existing home face HERS 65 or 70 targets only in Stretch and Specialized towns. In Clinton, smaller additions and alterations typically use REScheck or the prescriptive tables, and commercial buildings up to 20,000 sq ft can use COMcheck. Many owners still choose a HERS rating, because it documents air tightness and duct testing and keeps the project ready if the town's code changes before the permit is issued.

Heating and hot water choices move the score more than most owners expect. A right-sized heat pump, a heat pump water heater and ducts kept inside the conditioned space can bring a design under its target without adding insulation everywhere, so we run those trade-offs in the model before equipment is ordered.

Submitting the HERS, REScheck or COMcheck paperwork with the permit application lets the energy review run alongside plan review instead of after it. We prepare those documents, inspect insulation and air sealing before drywall, and run the final blower door and duct tests.

Clinton projects are served from our Marlborough office at 272 Lincoln St, Suite C1, and a quick plan review before you file usually saves a round of permit comments.