Current Scams - The "Permit Fee" Phishing Scam

Several sophisticated municipal fee scams are currently targeting residents, businesses, and developers across the United States. These scams often use real, publicly available information to trick victims into paying fraudulent invoices, with a major surge reported in early 2026. 

Chilmark has had several of these scams reported to the Town Hall by applicants for permits this year already.  PLEASE DON'T send wire transfers.  Speak to the staff person at the Town Hall if you have any questions and REPORT any crimes tot he Chilmark Police.

Here are the primary scams in play:

The "Permit Fee" Phishing Scam (Targeting Developers & Residents)

This is a high-level, sophisticated scam targeting individuals or companies with active land-use, zoning, or building permit applications. 

How it works: Scammers send professional-looking emails that reference real permit application numbers, property addresses, and the names of actual local officials to appear legitimate.

The Hook: The email claims that a "permit review fee" or "application fee" must be paid immediately to prevent delays in approval.

The Scam: Victims are instructed to pay via wire transfer, cryptocurrency, or peer-to-peer apps (like Venmo or Zelle), which are rarely used by legitimate government agencies.

Key Indicator: The email often tells the victim to "reply by email only" to prevent them from calling the planning department and discovering the scam. 

Tricking someone into paying a municipal fee they are not required to pay is primarily considered Larceny by False Pretenses under Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 266, Section 30. This crime occurs when someone knowingly makes a false statement of fact with the intent that another person relies on it and parts with their property as a result.

Penalties for larceny in Massachusetts generally depend on the value of the property stolen and the age of the victim: 

• Over $1,200: Felonious larceny, punishable by up to five years in state prison or a fine of up to $25,000.
• $1,200 or less: Misdemeanor larceny, punishable by up to one year in a house of correction or a fine of up to $1,500.
• Victims 60+ or with Disabilities: If the victim is 60 or older, penalties can increase to up to 10 years in prison if the value exceeds $250. 

Reporting Scams

The Massachusetts State Police and Trial Court have issued warnings regarding scams involving fake invoices for permitting, zoning, tolls, and court fees. Victims should report these incidents to their local police or the Attorney General's Tip Line at 617-963-2600.