The Building Department implements and enforces the Massachusetts State Building, Plumbing, Gas and Electrical Code as well as the Ipswich Protective Zoning Bylaw. This is done by staff intimately familiar with these regulations.

The codes are intended to provide safe use of land and structures. Energy codes are also now included in the building code. The protective zoning bylaw are local land use regulations intended to provide the best quality of life for residents, business owners and others as well as protect open space and natural resources.