Building permits in Massachusetts
1 jurisdictions, each with the department that issues, its portal and its phone number. Cities issue their own permits; counties cover unincorporated areas, which is the distinction that sends most contractors to the wrong office.
1 checked against the department's own page
Licensing
No single GC license — two credentials: a Home Improvement Contractor (HIC) registration to work on 1–4 unit owner-occupied homes, plus a Construction Supervisor License (CSL) to supervise structural work.
Office of Consumer Affairs & Business Regulation (HIC) + Board of Building Regulations & Standards (CSL)