Bulletproof Handyman

Handyman License Requirements in Salem, NH

By , Founder of Bulletproof Handyman · Last reviewed July 2026

New Hampshire does not require a general state contractor license for handymen or general contractors at any dollar threshold. Instead, the state relies on trade-specific licensing (electrical, plumbing, HVAC, gas fitting) and local permitting. Handymen can perform general carpentry, painting, drywall, and similar work without state licensure, but must register as a Home Improvement Contractor (HIC) with the NH Office of Professional Licensure & Certification for $100 and obtain local permits from Salem. Trade work (electrical, plumbing, HVAC) requires separate state licenses regardless of project value.

⚠️ What Requires a Contractor License

The following work requires a state-issued contractor license in NH. Performing this work without a license exposes you to fines, stop-work orders, and civil liability:

State Contractor Licensing Law (NH)

This exemption does NOT cover regulated trades: electrical work beyond simple fixture changes, plumbing beyond fixture replacement, HVAC/mechanical system work, gas fitting, asbestos abatement, or lead abatement. Those trades require state-issued licenses regardless of project dollar amount. Home Improvement Contractor (HIC) registration ($100) is required for contractors working on residential homes. Local building permits are required by Salem for most work.

County Requirements — Rockingham County

Business license: Not required at the county level.

City Business License — Salem

Required. Building Permit / Home Occupation Permit (varies by work type)

Permit vs. Contractor License — The Legal Difference

A license is a credential issued by the state (or OPLC) that authorizes you to perform a specific trade or type of work. A permit is a local authorization issued by the city/town that allows a specific project to proceed and ensures compliance with building codes. You can have a license but still need a permit for a specific job. In New Hampshire, you do not need a state contractor license for general construction work, but you DO need a local building permit from Salem for most projects. Trade licenses (electrical, plumbing, HVAC) are required by the state regardless of whether a permit is needed. Even exempt handymen must obtain permits for certain work that triggers code review.

Business Entity Registration (NH)

To operate legally you must register your business. LLC filing fee in NH: $100 (one-time).

Compliance Notes for Salem, New Hampshire

Legal Registration Steps for Salem

Follow these steps to operate legally as a handyman in Salem, New Hampshire:

  1. Step 1: Form an LLC (optional but recommended). File a Certificate of Formation with the NH Secretary of State ($100 filing fee). Obtain an EIN from the IRS.
  2. Step 2: Register as a Home Improvement Contractor (HIC) with the NH OPLC ($100 registration fee). Obtain general liability insurance with minimum $25,000 per occurrence coverage and name the State of New Hampshire as certificate holder.
  3. Step 3: If performing trade work (electrical, plumbing, HVAC, gas), apply for the appropriate state trade license(s) through the OPLC. Fees vary by trade ($100-$310+).
  4. Step 4: Contact Salem Building & Inspectional Services at (603) 890-2020 to obtain the current building permit fee schedule and confirm whether a home occupation permit is required if operating from a residential address.
  5. Step 5: Obtain a building permit from Salem for each project before starting work. Permit fees vary by project type and cost.
  6. Step 6: File an annual report with the NH Secretary of State by April 1 each year ($100 fee) to maintain your LLC in good standing.
  7. Step 7: Renew your HIC registration and any trade licenses as required (renewal schedules vary by license type).

Work You Can Do Without a Contractor License

See all 9 tasks →

Licensing rules and fees change over time, so this information may be out of date. Verify all information with local authorities before making business decisions.