Pulling permit for 5 unit in MA - do I have to use a contractor?

[TD Wolf]

My insurance company is requiring a repair and I'd like to do the work myself; however, according to the city of Gardner, anything over two-units requires a licensed contractor to do the work. Does anyone know if it's possible to get an exemption from this rule? Seems kind of rigid. Have you successfully pulled a permit for a 3+ unit in MA before without a contractor? If not, do you know any reputable, licensed contractors in the Gardner/greater Worcester area?

Thanks!