Town of Framingham, MA Official Website

▼
Absentee Ballot Instructions

Show All Answers

1. How do I vote by absentee ballot?: You may vote at the clerk's office or request that the ballot be mailed to you. The deadline for applying for an absentee ballot is noon of the day before the election.

2. I can't get to the polls on Election Day. Can I vote?: Yes. You may vote by absentee ballot if you:
1. Will be absent from your city or town on election day, and/or
2. Have a physical disability that prevents your voting at the polling place, and/or
3. Cannot vote at the polls due to religious beliefs.

3. How can I apply for an absentee ballot?: Apply in writing to your city or town clerk or election commission and include your:
1. Name
2. Address as registered
3. Ward and precinct (if you know them)
4. Address where you wish the absentee ballot sent
5. In a primary, the party ballot you want
6. Your signature
There is an application form available at your local election office or by downloading one of the applications online. You may also make application by letter or note. Whichever method you choose, the application must be made in writing and signed.

4. Can anyone else apply for an absentee ballot for me?: Yes. A family member may apply for you.

5. Can a family member apply for my absentee ballot?: Yes.

6. Must I be a registered voter in order to vote by absentee ballot?: Yes, unless you are a "specially qualified voter". A specially qualified voter is a person:
1. Who is otherwise eligible to register as a voter and
2.Whose present domicile is outside the United States and whose last domicile in the United States was Massachusetts or whose present domicile is Massachusetts and who is:
(a)Absent from the city or town or residence and in the active service of the armed forces or in the merchant marine of the United States or a spouse or dependent of such person
(b) absent from the commonwealth; or (c) confined in a correctional facility or a jail, except if by reason of felony conviction.

7. Must my ballot be witnessed?: No.

8. What if I'm not able to mark my absentee ballot?: You may ask any person to help you. The helper must print his or her name and your name on the brown envelope, write the reason you needed help and then sign his or her name as the assisting person.

9. Are polling places accessible to elderly and disabled voters?: Yes. Federal law required polling places be accessible by 1986.

10. I'm permanently disabled. May I vote at home?

Yes. You must apply to your local election office to do so. File a letter from your doctor with the town or city clerk or election commission. The doctor must state that you are permanently unable to cast your ballot at the polling place due to a physical disability.

The local election official will automatically mail you an application for an absentee ballot for all elections in a calendar year. You must sign the application and send it back to your local election official.

Call your local election official for information about how to register to vote at home or to request that a mail-in registration form be sent to you.

11. My parent is in a nursing home. Is she/he able to vote by absentee ballot?

Yes, as long as that individual is not under a court ordered guardianship which specifically prohibits voting.

Any patient in a nursing home must be a registered voter in order to vote by absentee ballot and must fill out an absentee ballot application.

If the clerk designates a health care facility in writing 28 days before the election, the ballot must be hand-delivered to such facility by a Registrar. If the patient states that he/she has entered a hospital after noon of the fifth day before the election, the ballot may be hand-delivered to the voter; otherwise, the ballot should be mailed to the voter at the facility.

Consult the administration of the nursing home for further instructions.

▼
Animal Control

Show All Answers

1. How do I license my dog?: The Town Clerk supplies dog licenses. Simply take a copy of your dog’s current Rabies vaccination certificate and proof that the dog has been spayed or neutered, if that has been done, to the Clerk’s office. The fee for a spayed or neutered dog is $10, or $15 if intact. Dogs must be licensed every year. All licenses expire December 31 of the year that they were issued. All dogs six months and older must be licensed.

2. How can I explain Rabies to my children?: The CDC has a great web page designed just for children. It will answer many of your questions. Center for Disease Control and Prevention - Rabies

▼
Assessors

Show All Answers

1. What does my assessment represent?: The assessment is an estimate of market value. The definition of market value is the price a willing buyer would pay a willing seller in an open, competitive market, without any undue influences. The assessment represents the estimate of market value as of January 1, 2007 for Fiscal Year 2008. This estimate of market value is determined by examining sales of properties from calendar year 2006 sales.
Although the majority of properties are not for sale, Massachusetts General Laws require an assessment, or an estimate of market value, on every property. Sales of similar or comparable properties within a neighborhood are the best indicator of market value.

2. My assessment increased more than 2.5%. Doesn’t Proposition 2½ limit the amount my assessment can increase?: Proposition 2½ limits the amount of taxes a community can raise from property tax. The assessment is an estimate of market value. Since real estate market changes are based upon the buyers’ and sellers’ needs, there is no limit to the amount an assessment can increase or decrease.
Assessment changes are always based on the real estate market. For example, if a property sells for $500,000 in calendar year 2006, there is no limit or minimum price it would sell for in calendar year 2007 or beyond. It could sell for $600,000, $700,000, $1,000,000, or $400,000. The sale price would be based on the real estate market at that time. Assessments do not predict market value, they reflect (or report) market value.

3. What do the assessors look at when determining an assessment?: Assessors look at a property the same way a potential buyer looks at a property, and consider the same factors that a potential buyer considers. Examples of important factors are the following: location, interior condition, house size, kitchen quality, and bath quality.
Assessors examine many qualities and conditions and then look for comparable properties that have sold in the neighborhood. Since no two houses are identical, adjustments are made for differing characteristics to determine the assessment. Thus the assessment is an estimate of market value.

4. Why do the assessors want to see the interior and exterior of my property?: Just as a potential buyer wants to see the interior and exterior of the property before determining a purchase price, the assessors want to see the interior and exterior of the property to make an accurate determination about the market value of the property. The interior information of a property is essential in determining the estimate of market value. Without the actual information, estimates of the interior information have to be made.

5. I am elderly and cannot afford this tax bill. Can’t the assessors lower this assessment because I am elderly?: The assessment is an estimate of market value. The selling price of a property is not related to the age of the owner. The assessment cannot be lowered or raised based on the age of the owner. The assessments are a reflection of the real estate market. Elderly owners do not sell their properties for any lower or higher prices than the market will allow. If property owners throughout the town sell their homes for less, the assessments will decrease. If property owners sell their homes for more, the assessments will increase.

6. I am a young person who grew up in Framingham and cannot afford this tax bill. Why can’t the assessors lower this assessment because I cannot afford to live in Framingham?: The assessment is an estimate of market value. The selling price of a property is not related to the age of the owner. The assessment cannot be lowered or raised based on the age of the owner. The assessments are a reflection of the real estate market. Young owners do not sell their properties for any lower or higher prices than the market will allow. If property owners throughout the city sell their homes for less, the assessments will decrease. If property owners sell their homes for more, the assessments will increase.

▼
Board of Health

Show All Answers

1. What nursing services can I get from the Health Department?: Immunizations
TB testing and Referral
Health Screenings
Cholesterol Testing
Blood Lead Testing for children six and under
All School-age Required Vaccine
Blood Pressure Checks
Most vaccinations are available, and are free to Framingham residents
Framingham residents who require TB testing for employment must pay a $15 fee

2. Do I need an appointment for vaccinations?: No, Framingham residents, children and adults, may come to our clinics, which are Monday - Friday 8:30 am to 9:30 am and 4:00 pm to 4:45 pm. A nurse is also available on Monday evening from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm. If these are for a person under 18 years of age, they need a vaccine request form from the school, and must be accompanied by a parent or relative. If you are not a resident of the town, you would need a doctor’s order, and fees would be involved.

3. Can I get a copy of my immunization record?: It will be possible if you had the immunizations in this department. You will need to make your request (in writing) in person at our office due to new Federal Information laws (HIPPA).

4. Can I speak to the nurse?: Yes. The best time to reach the nurse is Monday through Friday from 8:30 - 9:30 am. You can also leave a confidential message on the nurse's telephone line. Please leave a detailed message and a number where you can be reached.

▼
Board of Selectmen

Show All Answers

1. How do I appeal a parking ticket?: The Selectmen, by law, are not involved in issuing or hearing appeals on parking tickets. There is an appeal process for those who feel they have been wrongly ticketed. Appeals are scheduled through the Treasurer’s office by calling (508) 532-5430.

2. How do I obtain a copy of my birth certificate?: The Town Clerk’s office can provide you with a copy of your birth certificate if you were born in Framingham. Please contact their office at (508) 532-5520.

3. What is my precinct number?: The Town Clerk’s office maintains this information. Please contact their office at (508) 532-5520.

▼
Brownfields

Show All Answers

1. What are “Brownfields”?: “Brownfields” are properties that contain or potentially contain hazardous substances, pollutants or contaminants that complicate the property’s expansion or redevelopment. Just about every community in Massachusetts has at least one such site and they represent a drag on the tax base because they often sit vacant for long periods of time. The goal of Framingham’s Brownfields program is to clean up these idle properties and get them back in use so they can once again contribute to the Town’s tax base.

2. How does a community benefit from brownfield redevelopment?: Brownfield redevelopment can help a community in many ways. Many brownfields sites are in unattractive, economically depressed parts of a neighborhood. Cleanup and redevelopment of the sites can encourage higher property values and create jobs, as well as positively impact the local economy by creating a safer, healthier urban space to house businesses and residences.

3. Why are brownfields a problem for my community?: Brownfields can pose a number of threats to a community's well being, including:
• Potentially harm human health and the environment
• Reduce local employment opportunities and tax revenue
• Limit economic growth and development
• Attract vandals, open dumping, or other illegal activity
• Lower surrounding property values and contribute to neighborhood deterioration
• Contribute to urban sprawl as businesses relocate to farmland and open space

4. How can brownfield redevelopment benefit my community?: Communities around the country have realized that responsible brownfield redevelopment can transform environmentally impaired property into productive uses and can bring the following community benefits:
• Improved public health and environment
• Economic growth and increases in local employment opportunities
• Revitalized neighborhoods
• Increased local tax revenues
• Reduced public service demands

5. Is there a cost to not cleaning up brownfield sites?: Yes, when brownfield sites are not cleaned up and redeveloped they can have real financial impacts on a community. A boarded up factory that sits idle can cost a local government thousands of dollars each year. In addition to the lost local tax revenues, municipal governments often need to devote their limited police, fire, and other public services to respond to vandalism, open dumping and other problems at the site. Also, city officials must spend time responding to concerns about the site.

6. What are the benefits of brownfield redevelopment to property owners?: In addition to providing benefits to surrounding communities, property owners that clean up and reuse their brownfield properties may benefit directly by:
• Avoiding potential environmental enforcement actions by federal, state and local regulatory agencies that could impose penalties and costly cleanups;
• Receiving tax benefits for cleaning up and reusing the property;
• Reducing the likelihood that contamination from the property will migrate off site or into the groundwater under the site, thereby limiting liability for, and long term costs of, cleaning up the property;
• Creating good will within the community;
• Reducing the potential need to address liabilities associated with the property in financial statements and Securities and Exchange Commission filings;
• Realizing an enhanced return from the property by making it more valuable and marketable.

7. How much will the cleanup cost?: The cost of the cleanup will vary considerably depending on many factors. The level, type, amount, and extent of contamination are key determinants. For example, if the groundwater under the site is contaminated, the cost of cleanup is likely to be much higher than if just the soil is contaminated. If the contaminated materials need to be transported off site for treatment that will also affect the cost. The cost will also depend on the standards that apply to the cleanup, particularly whether the use of the property is considered in setting cleanup levels. If a brownfield property is cleaned up to commercial use standards, for example, rather than residential use standards, the cleanup will typically be less expensive. The cost to the property owner of the cleanup will also be affected by whether there are other parties, such as previous owners of the property that are also responsible for the contamination and can contribute to the costs.

8. How long will the cleanup take?: The length of the cleanup will vary according to the level, type, amount and extent of the contamination, as well as the cleanup standards that apply to the site. A site with extensive soil and groundwater contamination that is cleaned up to residential standards is likely to take longer to clean up than a site that has only minimal contamination and will be used for industrial purposes. Factors such as the time of year, or unusually bad weather can affect the duration of the cleanup. In most cases, technical consultants will be hired to perform the cleanup. The pace of the cleanup will also be contingent in part on the consultants' schedules and levels of efficiency.

9. What is Framingham’s Brownfields strategy?: The Town of Framingham received a $200,000 Brownfields Assessment Grant from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in April, 2008. The grant is intended to “provide funding for recipients to inventory, characterize, assess, and conduct cleanup and redevelopment planning and community involvement related to brownfield sites.” The Town’s grant is “community-wide” as opposed to “site-specific”. This will allow investigations and assessments of a number of vacant or underutilized properties throughout the town with a focus on the Downtown and Southeast Framingham areas. The bulk of the funding will pay for a state-approved Licensed Site Professional (LSP) to prepare a comprehensive inventory of vacant or under utilized properties and to perform more detailed assessments on a series of properties chosen based on their potential for redevelopment and re-use. The program will fund detailed assessments on as many as eight properties. The grant provides for a targeted public outreach campaign that includes multi-lingual education and opportunities for community feedback on both brownfields and redevelopment issues. This project can have far-reaching effects for community revitalization including mitigating environmental impacts, stimulating economic development, and the engagement of under-served and minority populations. The goal of the program is to lay the groundwork for a successful redevelopment of selected properties that will contribute toward the Town’s revitalization efforts. Framingham is about to apply to the EPA for a second round of Brownfields funding that will enable the Town to conduct site assessments on properties having petroleum contamination.

10. Who do I contact for more information regarding Framingham’s Brownfields effort?: The grant is being administered by the Town of Framingham’s Community and Economic Development office. For more information, please visit our Brownfields website at www.framinghamma.gov/brownfields or contact Gene Kennedy, Assistant Director, at (508) 532-5455 or brownfields@framinghamma.gov for additional information.

▼
Building and Wire

Show All Answers

1. Is a permit required to install a fence on my property?: A building permit is required for all fences over six feet in height. Any fence over six feet in height must also meet the applicable property setbacks. Either fence side can face the owner or his neighbor’s property. A fence six feet or less in height can be placed on the owner’s property line.

2. Does an above-ground swimming pool require a building permit?: Yes, any structure that contains water over 24 inches in depth is a private swimming pool and requires a permit. This includes in-ground, above-ground, and on-ground swimming pools, hot tubs, and spas. A fence enclosure or barrier at least 48 inches high is also required around all swimming pools.

3. What “uses” are allowed at a particular property?: The Department of Building Inspection will do an informal zoning review of any town property with a written request to our office. We will mail a response within several days with an informational letter regarding your request.

▼
Building Services

Show All Answers

1. How do I rent Nevins Hall?: Call Building Services at (508) 532-5485.

2. How do I view and book the Cushing Chapel?: Call Building Services at (508) 532-5485.

3. Where are the town parking lots and garage, and what are the fees?

The Town of Framingham maintains four parking options in the downtown area:

The Pearl Street garage is across from the Registry of Motor Vehicles. A monthly resident permit is $65 per month; monthly non-resident is $80 per month.

The Hollis Court lot is in the rear of the Store 24 and is a daily lot. The fee is $4 per day.

The Waverly Street commuter lot is directly across the street from the train station. The fee is $90 per month.

Parking meters throughout the downtown area are two hours only and cost $0.25 per hour.

For additional information regarding parking, please call the Building Services Department at (508) 532-5485.

▼
Community and Economic Development

Show All Answers

1. Do you have a Brownfield Redevelopment Program?: The town has an active brownfields redevelopment program, including a significant grant from the federal EPA. More Information...

2. How can I find information about avoiding HOME FORECLOSURE?: The Town of Framingham is working closely with the State and with local organizations to help homeowners facing foreclosure. Please see our website at www.framinghamma.gov/foreclosure for more information. More...

3. Where do I find more information about developing property or opening a business in Framingham?: Please look at our Start Smart guides. They have all the information you'll need regarding licensing and permitting in Framingham. Downloadable .pdfs can be found at: www.framinghamma.gov/startsmartguides

4. Where do I find more information about the Downtown Rail Crossing Project?: We have a DRC web page where you will find information on the project and downloadable reports. Click here...

5. What are the current planning projects going on in downtown?: Downtown Rail Crossing
Transit Oriented Development
Streetscape Improvements

6. Where find printable information about Framingham?: We have created a series of one-page fact sheets in Adobe .pfd format for you to download or print and distribute. The documents you will find include general information on the Town, as well as more specific information on Transportation, Downtown, Education and Recreation. Please contact the Division of Community and Economic Development if you need information that you do not see here. More...

▼
Community Development Block Grant

Show All Answers

1. Do I have to purchase the property in Framingham and do I have to live in Framingham now?: Yes, assistance is offered to purchases in Framingham only, but you DO NOT currently have to be a Framingham resident

2. Are there any income limits?: Yes, qualified individuals should have an annual income that is 80% or lower of the current published Boston Median Income.

3. What are some other requirements in receiving home ownership assistance?: Interested individuals need to take a First Time Homebuyers counseling class and obtain a certificate of completion before applying.

4. Where can I find resources to help me avoid HOME FORECLOSURE?: The Town of Framingham is working closely with the State and with local organizations to help homeowners facing foreclosure. Please see our website at www.framinghamma.gov/foreclosure for more information. More...

▼
Conservation Commission

Show All Answers

1. What if I see work occurring in a wetland?: Call the Conservation Office to report any activity occurring in a wetland at (508) 532-5460. The Commission will determine if a permit was issued and if not, we will investigate the report.

▼
Council on Aging

Show All Answers

1. What kind of programs or services do you offer?

Consumers want to know if we have anyone on staff who can counsel them relative to finances, housing, mental health issues, health insurance, legal problems, medical needs, and abuse or neglect issues.

Usually this information is compiled for a parent, a neighbor or for an individual. In some instances, this request comes from an area business. (Local merchants have contacted us regarding their concerns for an older resident.)

The Center has trained staff in the Social Service / Outreach Department who can assist you with these issues.

2. What is the schedule of the Blood Pressure Clinic?: Blood pressure is taken on Wednesdays from 9:30 am to 12:30 pm. There is no charge for these services.

3. Do you have transportation?: The public transportation system, The LIFT, stops at the Center lobby door several times a day for picking up and dropping off seniors. Maps showing the location of pick up and drop off times are available.
There are other transportation systems available to residents of Framingham. Please call the Center for more details about The Ride, Busy Bee Transportation System, and Dial a Ride.

4. I need information about the Property Tax Program.: Please call Janice at (508) 532-5980 for an appointment.

5. I need information about the Minor Home Repair Program.: Call Janice at (508) 532-5980 for an appointment if you need bathroom bars, railings or other safety related repairs to your home.
You must be a homeowner 60 years of age or older to receive eight hours of free labor; you must pay for equipment.

▼
Engineering and Transportation

Show All Answers

1. Where is your office and what are your hours?: The Municipal Engineering Program is located in the Department of Public Works Operations Center, 100 Western Avenue, Monday through Friday, 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM. Please note that the Operations Center is located off of the southern section of Western Avenue. The Capital Improvement Program is located adjacent to the Operations Center at 110 Western Avenue.

2. What information do you have?: Historical and current maps, plans, and record drawings are available for viewing. Some sets of documents have been scanned to digital image formats and others are stored as original hardcopy. These documents are useful for a variety of purposes including license and variance applications, utility connection verification, historical analysis, environmental research, defining of property edges, and verifying of ownership information. Maps and plans kept on file at the Engineering Division include:
• Utility Layouts (sanitary sewer, water, and stormwater drainage)
• Street Layouts, Acceptance Plans, and Field Books
• Street and Property Histories (some records)
• Assessor’s Maps (current and historical)
• Aerial Photos
• Construction Contract Drawings (Roadway, Sanitary Sewer, Water and Stormwater
• FEMA Flood Zone Maps
• Historical Maps of Framingham

3. Can I get a map or plot plan of my property?: We may have your plan on file, particularly if it has been filed at the Registry of Deeds. Also if a plan for utility service connections or a building permit plan was submitted to the Engineering Division, we may have a plan on file. The plan may or may not show your house or other features. Copies can be purchased at a nominal fee. The Building Department (508-532-5500) is also an excellent source for these maps.

4. Where do I acquire a deed for my property?: Deed information and documentation can be obtained at the Middlesex South Registry of Deeds in Cambridge, Massachusetts. Most deeds can be viewed and printed, for a small fee, from the: Middlesex South District Registry of Deeds website

5. Where do I find survey information such as street layouts, easement plans, contour information, benchmarks, etc.?: The Department of Public Works Engineering Division maintains most plan records for the Town, with the exception of buildings and on-site sewage disposal systems.

6. Will the Town survey my property?: No. The Town only surveys properties that involve Town projects. However, if the property is on an accepted public way, the Engineering Division can stake the location of the street right-of-way line that abuts that side of the property. The property corners will not be located since that is a private matter. It is recommended that any resident who is investing in property line landscaping or fences, have his/her property staked out by a registered land surveyor. The Engineering Division does provide a list of surveyors that frequently work in Framingham.

7. Where does my property end?: While many people assume that they own up to the pavement edge, the Town owns a strip of land called a Right-of-Way within which the paved roadway lies. The actual boundary offset varies from street to street. If your property abuts an accepted public way, the Engineering Division can stake the location of the street right-of-way line. These stakeout requests can be completed in advance of planned landscaping, fencing, or other private improvements to prevent unauthorized encroachments into the public way (right-of-way).

8. How do I find out the limits of the public way?: The limits of the public way (right-of-way) are determined from the original roadway layout plans or street acceptance plans. These plans are located in the Engineering Division office. The Engineering Division can locate the limits of the public way.

9. Can I plant flowers or put up a fence near the roadway?: Any work within the public Right-of-Way is regulated by the Department of Public Works and must be permitted through the Engineering Division. Unauthorized, non-permitted encroachments within the public Right-of-way are not allowed. Non-permitted encroachments can present safety hazards to the public and increase the costs of public infrastructure maintenance.

10. Do I need to have permission to widen, move or add another driveway on my property?: Yes. Each request for location or relocation of driveway aprons and curb cuts shall be made through an application for a Public Way Access Permit (PWAP). PWAP application forms and requirements are available at the Department of Public Works Engineering Division, Administration Division, and the Town's website. Such application should state the reasons for the driveway and shall be accompanied by a sketch showing the lot sidelines, approximate location of the house, any garage, location of sidewalk, the proposed driveway, and the existing driveway. The width of the proposed and existing driveway and curb cut must be provided. Please note that any proposed work within the public way will also require a Street Opening Permit. PWAP Application

11. What are the property line setback requirements for my property?: The property line building setback requirements are found in the Town of Framingham Zoning Bylaws, Section III Use and Dimensional Regulations, latest edition or contact the Framingham Building Department at 508-532-5500. The Town of Framingham Zoning Bylaw can be accessed online at: Zoning Bylaw

12. Where do I acquire a GIS map?: Town of Framingham Geographic Information System Data can be purchased at the Department of Public Works Engineering Division.

13. Do you have copies of zoning maps?: Town of Framingham Zoning Maps, Street Maps, and Precinct Maps can be purchased at the Department of Public Works Engineering Division. Zoning Maps and the full Town of Framingham Zoning Bylaw are available at the Planning Board Office and the Office of the Town Clerk, Town Hall (Memorial Building), 150 Concord Street. The Town of Framingham Zoning Bylaw can also be accessed online at: Zoning Bylaw

14. Does the Town have copies of the flood insurance maps developed for Framingham?: Yes. The Town’s Engineering Division has copies of FEMA flood insurance maps. However, the flood insurance rate maps (FIRMs) can also be viewed and printed, for a small fee, from FEMA’s website. The Conservation Commission and the Building Department also have copies of the flood insurance maps. FEMA Website

15. What is an easement?: An easement is a non-possessing interest held by one person in land of another whereby the first person is accorded partial use of such land for a specific purpose. An easement restricts but does not abridge the rights of the fee owner to the use and enjoyment of his land. Easements are typically used for, but not limited to, the following purposes: utility, electric, drain, sewer, water, footpath, etc.

16. Will the town locate my utility services for me?: Yes. The Department of Public Works Water, Sewer and Highway Divisions will locate the following utilities; water, sewer and storm drainage. Others are responsible for locating the electric, gas, telephone and cable TV utilities.

17. How do you decide to pave a road?: A comprehensive database is connected to a detailed pavement management system. The overall condition of any street is calculated and ranked in comparison with all other streets in Town. Based upon the potential benefit gained from repairs and the available funding, a repair program is scheduled each year. Minor repairs (potholes, etc.) are handled through the Highway Division (508-532-6030).

18. Can I get a lower speed limit on my street?: In order for a speed limit to be changed, a speed study must be performed. Speed studies take into account geometry of the roadway, physical characteristics of the area, and the speed of which the majority of the vehicles currently travel. In many cases, a study concludes that the speed limit should be raised.

19. Can I get stop signs erected to slow traffic?: Certain conditions must be met in order for a Stop sign to be erected. These conditions, or warrants, are set forth in the Manual for Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD). The MUTCD is a national code for traffic signage/regulation. Slowing or discouraging traffic is not a warrant for posting stop signs.

20. Does the Town allow residents/businesses to connect a private stormwater drain to the Town’s stormwater drainage system?: Private connections to the public stormwater drainage system are discouraged. However, if sufficient justification of hardship or safety are presented, an engineer-stamped drawing is provided meeting drainage connection requirements, and after the Engineering Division has checked the area to be certain that the Town system has the capacity to handle the drainage discharge, residents may be permitted to connect a private drain to the Town stormwater drainage system.

21. What do I do if I have a drainage problem from the roadway onto my property?: Call either the Engineering Division or the Highway Department (508-532-6030). Someone from the Highway Department will come to look at the property, and if it is determined to be a problem caused by the roadway, the Highway Department will fix the problem or work with the Engineering Division to find an engineering solution.

22. Who is responsible for cleaning out the drainage ditches (channels) on my property?: The property owner is responsible for keeping all open water channels on their property clear of debris. It is good neighborliness to clean out drainage channels on your property so that your upstream neighbors are not flooded. Please do not dump any vegetative waste or pet waste into the drainage channels. Instead, bag your yard waste and take it to the Town’s Leaf Dump. The Town is responsible for cleaning culverts under roadways.

23. Can I dump bagged pet waste or any other waste into storm drains?: No. Please do NOT dump any waste into the storm system drains. This includes bagged pet waste, grass clippings, used oil or other liquids, or anything except clean water. You can easily identify storm drains, also called catch basins. They have open, gridded covers, also called grates. The grates can be square, circular, D-shaped, or rectangular. The grid can be single-direction grids or two-direction grids (like waffles). Catch basins do not drain to the sanitary sewer system. Instead they flow to open streams, wetlands, ponds, lakes, and rivers. Dispose of bagged pet waste in the trash or flush un-bagged pet waste down the toilet. If you are near a wooded area, you may bury un-bagged pet waste to a depth of at least 5 inches but away from play areas or any open water; bring a small spade along for this purpose. Please help us keep our Town clean and beautiful.

▼
Fire Department

Show All Answers

1. Where can I obtain Fire Department related permits?: You must come to Framingham Fire Headquarters.
10 Loring Dr.
Framingham, MA 01702

2. How do I obtain a permit for outside open air burning?: Call (508) 532-5942.

▼
Highway

Show All Answers

1. How do I get the pothole on my street repaired?: Call the Highway Department at 508-532-6030 and let them know where the pothole is located. It will be put on the list and repaired as quickly as possible. Our highway crews usually find the potholes and repair them right away. But, in the spring when many potholes develop all over town, it’s sometimes hard for the Highway crews to be aware of them all. Your reporting of potholes is very helpful and welcome.

2. How can I report a claim involving a snow storm incident?: The following instructions are for property owners to use when they would like to report a claim against the Town: Claim Instructions

3. How do I get a tree trimmed or a dead tree removed?: Call the Highway Department at 508-532-6030 and let them know where the location of the tree is.

4. Where can I find out about the 2009 Roadway Restoration Plan?: Please click on this link. 2009 Roadway Restoration Plan

5. How do I get a missing street sign installed?: Call the Highway Department at 508-532-6030 and let them know where the sign is missing. It will be put on a list and repaired as quickly as possible.

6. I need to get out of my street, but the snow plow hasn’t come by yet. Whom do I call?: Call the Highway Department at 508-532-6030 and let them know if there is an emergency situation. If there is a medical emergency, call 911. If it’s not an emergency, please be patient, your street will be plowed as quickly as possible. Available plows must first clear all of the main roads before they begin the residential streets. However, the plows and/or sanders begin work as soon as the streets get icy or the snowfall begins. So, unless we have an unusually heavy blizzard, your street should be plowed before there is more than a three inch accumulation of snow. Remember, Framingham has over 250 miles of roads to plow.

7. The catch basin (storm drain) near my home is caving in or clogged. What should I do?: Call the Highway Department 508-532-6030 and let them know where the catch basin is located. It will be repaired (or cleaned) as quickly as possible. There are over 10,000 catch basins in Framingham. Also, please do not put oil or other wastes into the storm drains as these will pollute your waterways.

8. Several cars are parked on my street during the snow storm, and they impede complete plowing of the street. What can I do about this?: If cars are impeding the snow plowing, the Highway Department and Framingham Police will have them towed away, and the owners will have to pay a fine and towing fees. It is against the law to park on public ways during a snow storm. If the cars are not removed or towed, you can call the police at 508-872-1212, and they will take appropriate action.

9. Which insects are harmful to my trees?: Please click on the link:
Pests of Primary Concern

10. Does the Town of Framingham plant trees?: Yes, the town has a limit to the number of trees each year. Call the Highway Department at 508-532-6030 if interested in getting a tree planted.

▼
Loring Arena

Show All Answers

1. What is the cost to go public skating: $4.00 for anyone over 12 and $3.00 for anyone 12 and under

2. what is the cost for stick time: $5.00 for everone

3. do we need helmets to go public skating: no helments are not require for public skating

4. do you rent helmets: no

5. Do we need helmets for stick time: Yes everyone needs to were a helmet

6. What are the hours for public skating: Generally they are Sun 2-3:45, Mon 10:00 - 2:00,Tues - Fri 10:00 - 12:00, Sat 2:00 - 3:45. It is recomended to call the information line to see if there is a change the No. is 508 532 5950

▼
Parks and Recreation

Show All Answers

1. How often does a new schedule of activities come out?: Three times a year, in September for the fall, November for the winter, and March for the spring / summer.

2. How do I register for programs, can I register over the phone, and can I pay by credit card?: Registration is done in our office at 475 Union Ave., starting on the date specified on our program flyer (location & time may vary). It is done on a first come, first served basis. Phone registrations are not accepted. There are a number of slots released to the internet for online registration, and then check can be sent in the mail if we have openings. Acceptable payment methods are cash or check, we do not accept credit cards.

3. Are Lake Cochituate State Park or Callahan State Park run by the Framingham Parks and Recreation Department?: They are run by the Commonwealth of Massachusetts Division of Forest and Parks. The phone number is (508) 653-9641 for Cochituate and Callahan, or the phone number for the main office in Boston is (617) 727-3180.
Massachusetts Dept. of Conservation and Recreation

4. Does Framingham have a swimming pool which is open to the public?: There is a pool at Keefe Technical School. It is open for public swim from October through April on Saturdays from 3:00 pm to 4:30 pm and Sundays from 2:00 pm to 3:30 pm. There is a $2 fee. Senior citizens can swim on Saturdays from 2:00 pm to 3:00 pm without paying a fee.

5. Does Framingham Recreation have a Little League team, a soccer team, or Pop Warner Football?: The Little League is run by Framingham Baseball, which consists of volunteers, as is Framingham United Soccer and Pop Warner Football. Information is available on this website by going to Youth Groups and Organizations.

6. How can I obtain a permit for the use of Parks & Recreation facilities?

Organized group use for Town Parks and Recreation facilities requires a permit from the Park and Recreation Department. Permits may be obtained at the Parks and Recreation Administration Building located at 475 Union Avenue. Permit request may be made in person or via fax, mail, or email.

Permits are issued to Framingham residents and Businesses according to established departmental guidelines.

Requests for seasonal permits are accepted beginning February 1st for spring/summer season and beginning August 1st for the fall season. Seasonal requests must be renewed each season and from year to year.
Click HERE for more permit information.

7. How can I get a pass for the beaches in the summer?: Family or individual beach tags are available the Monday before the beaches open for the season at the Recreation office.

8. Are there tennis courts with lights in town? How late do the lights stay on at Bowditch for track and tennis?: There are lighted tennis courts at Bowditch Field and at Framingham High School. The lights are on, weather permitting, until 10:30 pm. They are activated by pushing a button at the court.

9. Does Framingham Recreation give swimming lessons?: The Recreation Department offers swimming lessons in the fall and spring at Keefe Technical School. We also have two sessions of lessons outdoors at the beaches during the summer.

10. Are non-residents permitted to register for programs and go on the trips?: Non-residents can register on the second day of registration, if openings are available. All of our trips are open to non-residents.

11. What programs are offered for infants and young children?: We have Playgroup for ages 2 1/2 to 4; Kids Crafts for ages two to four and other seasonal programs.

12. Can I get a refund if I cancel my reservation?: Due to contractual agreements, the Department has a no refund policy unless we can find someone to take your place.

▼
Police Department

Show All Answers

1. How do I become a police officer?: All Framingham Police Officers are hired through a civil service process, and are chosen from a civil service list. To be listed all Applicants must take a Civil Service Exam, and your score will determine your ranking and placement on the Civil Service List. Priority is also given to Framingham residents in the application process.
YOU ARE NOT LIKELY TO BE HIRED AS A FRAMINGHAM POLICE DEPARTMENT EMPLOYEE IF:
• Your work history shows a pattern of poor performance, discourtesy, unexcused absences, discipline, or discharge.

• Your personal life shows a history of poor judgment and refusal to confront problems.

• Your traffic record shows a continuing and recent pattern of poor decision making.

• You have recently or are currently misrepresenting yourself or ignoring any laws.

• People who know you have doubts about your honesty or character.
Applicants are also informed that your current employment as a police officer at another police agency does not guarantee success in our process. Each case will be considered on an individual basis, taking into account the unique circumstances of each applicant.

We seek to hire only those applicants who meet the high standards set by the Framingham Police Department; presently the applicant failure rate for positions in our agency is approximately 76%.

2. Where are civil service exams held?: All Civil Service Exams are conducted by the State. They are held at various locations throughout the state. To find when and where the next Exam is contact your local police department or the State Office of Civil Service. Civil Service Website

3. How are the final candidates chosen?: When a town has a vacant slot(s) to fill for a police officer, the town requests a list of candidates from the Civil Service Board. Based on the number of slots a list is sent to the town. The town notifies those on the list to come in and sign that they will accept an appointment and to receive a town application. After completion of the applications, a background check is conducted and the final candidates are brought in for an interview.
All candidates selected must attend and complete a Massachusetts Criminal Justice Training Council Police Academy.

4. Does the police department hire non police personnel for any positions?: The Framingham Police Department does have several positions that are filled by non police officers. Presently there are civilian dispatchers, personnel from the records bureau as well as other administrative positions who provide support to the department. In addition animal control officers and school crossing guards also are hired under the police department.
All civilian employees are hired through the Town of Framingham Personnel Department. Applications for employment can be obtained at town hall ( the Memorial Building) in the personnel department.

5. Do you have information on lateral transfers?

The Town of Framingham is currently seeking lateral transfer police officers under MGL Ch31.Candidates must have a minimum of three years, full-time patrol experience with a Massachusetts Civil Service police department. All Applicants must have successfully graduated from a full time Massachusetts Criminal Justice Training Academy. An extensive background investigation will be conducted on all Applicants
The Town of Framingham is an equal opportunity employer. For compensation information, call 508-872-1212 extention 4918

Submit letter of interest with resume to:
Lt. Michael Hill
Framingham Police Department
One William Welch Way
Framingham, MA 01702
(508) 872-1212 ext. 4918
Email: MFH@framinghamMa.gov

The Town of Framingham is an Affirmative Action Equal Opportunity Employer

6. How can I obtain a license to carry a firearm?: You must apply, in person, to the Records Bureau at the Framingham Police Department. The cost per application is $100.00 and if approved, will be valid for six years. You may obtain the application form either at the station or online
There are two different types of licenses: License to Carry and Firearms Identification Card which both vary in requirements, depending on what class of weapons license you are applying for. If you did not have a firearms license before June 1, 1998, you must present a gun safety certificate before filling out the application. It takes approximately 35 to 40 days for the license to be approved.
Please note: all weapons must have a trigger lock or be kept in a tamper proof receptacle or other suitable locking device. You may call Lt. Ronald Brandolini with questions

7. Are there any requirements to carry pepper spray? Also, where would I buy it?: To purchase any type of chemical spray in Massachusetts you must apply for a Firearms Identification Card or FID. This is applied for by filling out an application that can be picked up at your local Police Department.
Once this is approved you can purchase chemical sprays at most sporting good stores.

8. I have a license to carry from another state and am moving into the Town of Framingham.What procedures must I follow?: You must also apply for a Massachusetts firearms license as soon as possible at the Framingham Police Department. Applications and criteria are available at the police station

9. Who needs to have a Firearms License or FID card?

To comply with Massachusetts law, except in the case of an inheritance, or when a person moves here from another state, before any Massachusetts resident may lawfully purchase, receive or possess a rifle or shotgun or purchase ammunition, they must obtain either a license to carry a firearm or an FID (Firearms Identification) Card.
In order to purchase a firearm or possess a firearm outside of one's business property or residence, such person must have a license to carry.

In Massachusetts, any person who is a resident or has his place of business within the Commonwealth, or resides on a military base under federal jurisdiction within Massachusetts, may apply for an FID (Firearms Identification) Card from the local licensing authority.

While an FID Card allows it's holder to possess firearms, it does not allow them to carry firearms on their person or in their vehicle outside of their residence or place of employment. According to Massachusetts General Laws, with an FID Card the holder may keep their firearm at his residence or place of business, whichever is listed on the FID Card. Anyone who wishes to possess a firearm (i.e. a pistol or revolver) away from their residence or place of business must obtain a License to Carry a Firearm.

10. How old must I be to obtain a license?: For an LTC, the minimum age requirement is 21 years of age. For an FIC, the minimum age requirement is 15 years of age and must be accompanied with a written letter of approval by parent up until the age of l8. All applicants must pass a criminal record check and have no felony convictions. There are also other restrictions that can be discussed at the time that you meet with the Licensing Officer

11. What is a sexual offender?

A sex offender is any person who resides or works in the Commonwealth and who has been convicted of a sex offense, or who has been adjudicated as a youthful offender or as a delinquent juvenile by reason of a sex offense, or a person released from incarceration or parole or probation supervision or custody with the department of youth services for such a conviction or adjudication, or a person who has been adjudicated a sexually dangerous person or a person released from civil commitment on or after August 1, 1981.
Sex offenders will be classified according to the degree of dangerousness they pose to the public and their likelihood for reoffense. An offender's classification will be:

a Level 1 or "low risk" offender,
a Level 2 or "moderate risk" offender, or
a Level 3 or "high risk" offender.

In addition, if the Board, in finally giving an offender a Level 3 classification, also concludes that such sex offender should be designated a Sexually Violent Predator, the Board shall transmit a report to the sentencing court explaining the Board's reasons for so recommending, including specific identification of the sexually violent offense committed by such sex offender and the mental abnormality from which he suffers. The sentencing court shall then have the ultimate decision to determine whether such sex offender is a sexually violent predator.

12. What is a Level 1 Offender?: A Level 1 offender is deemed a low risk to re-offend and a low danger to the community. Police are notified if an offender lives in the community, but the information is not made public.

13. What is a Level 2 Offender?: A Level 2 offender is considred to be a moderate risk to re-offend, and a moderate danger to the community. Information on Level 2 offenders is available to the public through the police department, but must be requested.

14. What is a Level 3 Offender?: A Level 3 offender is considered to be dangerous and likely to commit another sexual offense, according to the state's Sexual Offender Registry Board. Local police departments are encouraged to be proactive in making sure residents know a Level 3 offender lives in the community.

15. Who may obtain information about a sexual offender?: Any member of the public who is at least 18 years of age or older may request sex offender information. The information will be provided to any person who is seeking the information for his/her own protection or for the protection of a child under the age of 18 or for the protection of another person whom the requesting person has responsibility, care, or custody.
You may request sex offender information at Local Police Departments or through the Sex Offender Registry Board directly.

16. Can I get information from my local police department?

A person may request sex offender information by going to his/her local city or town police station. After presenting proper identification, the requester must fill out a sex offender request form containing:
1. The name and address of the requester.

2. Information may be requested in the following manners:

Inquire whether a specifically named individual or a person described by sufficient identifying information to allow the police to identify the individual is a sex offender;
or

The requester may inquire whether any sex offenders live or work within the same city or town of a specific address, including, but not limited to, a residential address, business address, school, after school program, day care center, playground, recreational area or other identified address;
or

The requester may inquire whether any sex offenders live or work at a specific street address within the city or town where the person is requesting sex offender information; or

Where the police department is located in a city or town with more than one zip code area, the inquiry may ask whether any sex offenders live or work within a specified zip code. In Boston such inquiry may be made by specified police district.

3. The reason for the request.

4. The date and time of the request.

If the request results in the identification of a sex offender, the police will distribute the offender’s name, home address, work address, age, sex, height, weight, eye and hair color, the sex offenses committed and the dates of conviction and/or adjudication and a photo of the offender, if available.

The information will be provided free of charge.

All information provided to the public will include language prohibiting the misuse of sex offender information for harassment or discriminatory purposes.

All records of inquiry will be kept confidential, except to assist or defend in a criminal prosecution.

The police will not release information identifying the victim by name, address or relation to the offender.

For copies of the form to request sex offender information from your Local Police Departments please visit our Forms and Publications page.

NOTE: Any information provided by either the police or the Sex Offender Registry Board will be limited only to offenders who have been finally classified by the Board as Level 2 or Level 3 offenders or Sexually Violent Predators.The law prohibits the Board and police departments from disseminating any information on a sex offender who has not been finally classified by the Board or who has been finally classified as a Level 1 offender.

17. How do I obtain information from The SORI Board?

A person may request sex offender information from the Board. Requests must be made on a form approved by the Board. The Board will provide a report identifying whether the person is a sex offender with an obligation to register, the offenses for which he/she was convicted or adjudicated and the dates of such convictions or adjudications. The Board will only disseminate information on offenders who have been finally classified as a Level 2 (moderate risk) or Level 3 (high risk) offender. The law prohibits the dissemination of information unless and until the offender is finally classified as a Level 2 or a Level 3 offender. The law strictly prohibits the dissemination of information on Level 1 (low risk) offenders.
The information will be provided free of charge.

All information provided to the public will include language prohibiting the misuse of sex offender information for harassment or discriminatory purposes.

All records of inquiry will be kept confidential, except to assist or defend in a criminal prosecution.

For copies of the form to request sex offender information from the Sex Offender Registry Board please visit our Forms and Publications page.

NOTE: Any information provided by either the police or the Board will be limited only to offenders who have been finally classified by the Board as Level 2 or Level 3 offenders or Sexually Violent Predators. The law prohibits the Board and police departments from disseminating any information on a sex offender who has not been finally classified by the Board or who has been finally classified as a Level 1 offender.

18. What to do if you lose your PURSE or WALLET?

Cancel your credit cards immediately. It is important to have the toll free numbers and your card numbers handy so you know who to call. Keep those where you can find them easily (DON'T KEEP THEM IN YOUR WALLET OR PURSE).
Contact your bank if your checkbook or ATM card was also stolen along with your wallet or purse

File a police report immediately in the jurisdiction where it was stolen. This proves to credit providers you were diligent, and is a first step toward an investigation.

The most important step you can take to protect yourself: Call the three national credit reporting organizations immediately to place a fraud alert on your name and Social Security Number. The alert means any company that checks your credit knows your information was stolen and they have to contact you by phone to authorize new credit. They can reached at the following:

Experian (formerly TRW) (800) 301-7195

Equifax (800) 525-6285

TransUnion (800) 680-7289

Social Security Administration (800) 269-0271

19. What do I do if I am a victim of fraud over the internet?: A growing area of crime is on the internet. This is due to both the rapid increasing popularity as well as the vast distance this means of fraud covers.
If you are a victim of a scam or fraud over the internet, contact the Internet Fraud Complaint Center (IFCC)

20. How do I obtain a copy of my criminal record?: There are two different applications you can get, depending on what you are actually looking for.
If you are looking for a letter from your local police department, you can come to the police station and obtain a rquest form. Upon completion a letter will be generated by the department stating you either have no record in the town of Framingham only, or a list of your offenses in the town of Framingham only.
If you are seeking a state-wide, this must be done through the Criminal History Board at (617) 660-4600.

21. How can I get a criminal check on another person?: In the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, the police department may not obtain background checks on individuals as a public information request. This is called CORI - Criminal Offender Records Information and it is against the law for the police department to give out such information. However, you may call the Criminal History Board at (617) 660-4600 for more information on how to obtain a criminal check on an individual.

22. When is an operator required to fill out an accident report?

According to Massachusetts General Law Chapter 90 Section 26, every person operating a motor vehicle which is involved in an accident in which any person is killed or injured or in which there is damage in excess of one thousand dollars to any one vehicle or other property shall, within five days after the accident, report in writing to the registrar on a form approved and send a copy thereof to the police department having jurisdiction on the way where said accident occurred; provided, however, that such police department shall accept a report filed by an owner or operator whose vehicle has been damaged in an accident in which another person has unlawfully left the scene of such accident. Such report shall not be required during the period of incapacity of any person who is physically incapable of making a report. If the operator is not the owner of the vehicle and is physically incapable of making such written report, the owner shall within five days after the accident make such report based on such knowledge as he may have and such information as he can obtain regarding the accident. (Chgd. by L. 1985, chap. 168, eff. 10/16/85)
The Registrar may require any such operator or owner to file a supplementary written report whenever in the opinion of the Registrar the original report is insufficient.

The Registrar may revoke or suspend the license of any person violating any provision of this section (Hg. by L. 1985, chap. 168, eff. 10/16/85)

All persons that fall under the above category should make copies of their accident report for the following agencies:

The Registry of Motor Vehicles

The Police Department where the accident occurred

Your Insurance Company

Yourself

▼
Public Works

Show All Answers

1. Directions to the Public Works facility (100 Western Ave): The link below will provide you with directions to the Public Works Facility located at 100 Western Avenue. All internet and GPS mapping methods have been found to provide incorrect directions to our facility. We hope this this will be more helpful. Click here for directions

2. How can I become a licensed Drainlayer in Framingham?: In order to perform any excavation on public or private property in the Town of Framingham, it is required that you become licensed. The person taking the exam must be insured and possess a Hoisting Engineer's License with the proper restrictions. The exam can be taken at the Public Works Office in Room 213 in the Town Hall located at 150 Concord Street. The exam fee is $50 and the renewal fee is $25. Within 3-5 business days you will receive your results via telephone or mail.

3. Where can I find a list of contractors that are already licensed to work in the Town?: Click on this link. Licensed Drainlayer's List - Short

4. Which insects are harmful to my trees?: Please click on the link:
Pests of Primary Concern

5. How do I handle Water & Sewer utilities when preparing for a demolition?

When you are preparing to demolish a property you will need to prepare all utilities for discontinuation of service. The Public Works utilities you must discontinue are the water and sewer services. To get started, the property owner or contractor can pay the Water turn off fee at the Public Works Office in Town Hall, room 213, located at 150 Concord St. If this is not paid in advance then a service bill will be sent to the property owner. Your receipt will be faxed to the Water Operations Center, and you can then call 508-532-6050 to set up your appointment. The Water Technician will shut off the water from the outside valve and remove the meter. The read on the meter removed will be reported to the Utility Billing office.

It is then up to the property owner to hire a licensed contractor to cut and cap the Water and Sewer services, and schedule a utility inspection with the Engineering Division to meet part of the conditions for acquiring a demolition permit by the Building and Wire Department.

Link to the Building & Wire Department:
Building & Wire Department

6. How can you file a claim with the Town of Framingham?: The following instructions are for property owners to use when they would like to report a claim against the Town: Claim Instructions

7. Where can I report a sinkhole in the public way?

A sinkhole can be caused by many different reasons, so knowing which Department in Public Works to call may not be possible. If you are not sure you may call any of the following Departments to report the sinkhole. Some examples of specific Department related sinkholes are:

1. Highway Department 508-532-6030 - Potholes, or sinkholes around drainage fixtures (catch basins, storm drains).

2. Water Department - 508-532-6050 - Sinkholes around hydrants, water gate covers, or in areas where water work has taken place.

3. Sewer Department - 508-532-6060 - sinkholes around manhole covers, or in areas where sewer work has taken place.

▼
Solid Waste Management

Show All Answers

1. I just returned home to find a non-compliance warning sticker on my barrel. What is it for?: Non-compliance warnings are an educational tool used to inform residents when they are not in compliance with current policies, By-laws, state laws or regulations. The sticker should have a box checked indicating the reason for the warning. More...

2. I have been using this barrel for a long time and have not received a warning before, why?: The answer to this question is multi-facetted. Factors such as the employee safety, fiscal responsibility, and equitable policy enforcement influence the answer to this question. The policy upon which this enforcement is currently based was originally adopted in October of 1999. Organized and equitable enforcement of the policy began after it was reaffirmed in 2007. Enforcement was applied systematically to target the most severe offenders first with the largest barrels. Since early 2007 we have sent out more than 2,300 letters in an effort to educate our residents regarding the three barrel, 40 pound or 35 gallon capacity limit on trash and barrels. Barrel size enforcement was applied incrementally based on capacity. Currently we are in the last phase of the 50 to 36 gallon barrels.

3. Why does my barrel capacity matter?: Your collector will generally lift between 1500 to 2000 barrels (2000 to 6000 bags) during an average day. As a consequence of the repeated lifting motions involved, a natural tensioning of the back muscles occurs that make them more prone to strains . When confronted with over-sized barrels the collector is forced to either lift the container awkwardly or reach into it to remove the individual bags. Both actions have the potential to inflicted injury. If the collector lifts the barrel the incidence of back, knee and shoulder injury increases. If the collector reaches into a barrel there is the risk of being lacerated or stuck by illegally disposed of needles and syringes. “Each week in Massachusetts homes, patients use an estimated 2 million needles to inject medication to treat diabetes, arthritis, multiple sclerosis, and other ailments. Needles can be necessary, too, for women undergoing fertility treatments. And tens of thousands of needles deliver life-preserving drugs to ailing pets.”

4. Are we really saving money by limiting trash and barrel capacities?

Yes. In 2007 the Board of Selectmen reaffirmed this policy with the intention of not only protecting employees, but also as a way to increase recycling and cost savings through avoided trash disposal. With the combination of high disposal costs and recent tightening on all budgets, it has become necessary to continue to monitor the quantity of trash we dispose of weekly. For example, if we were to take what is perhaps the most common barrel tagged for non-compliance, the upright 45 gallon green barrel with wheels, and calculate the potential over weight estimations using this barrel and the number of households we service weekly, it could cost the Town an additional $23,348.53 per week.

Examples:

45 gallon barrel holds 51 pounds
35 gallon barrel holds 40 pounds
= 11 lbs extra.
3 barrels per household x 11 lbs extra
= 33 lbs extra per household.
33 lbs extra per household x 16,796 households serviced per week.
= 554,268 lbs extra per week
= 277.134 tons
277.134 tons @ approx $84.25 per ton
= $23,348.53 extra/week

5. What type of barrels can I use?: Acceptable barrels are less than or equal to 35 gallon capacity.

6. Can my barrel have wheels?: Yes.

7. Can my barrel have handles?: Yes. (Sturdy ones).

8. Can my barrel have a lid?: Yes.

9. Can my barrel have an attached/ hinged lid?: We do not recommend it. For the safety of our collectors we ask that the barrels not have hinged or tethered lids. The attached or tethered covers however do actually pose a significant problem for the routine handling of refuse in trash containers. The lids, either tethered or attached, frequently catch on the truck or interfere with the dumping action of the container. This frequently will cause the collector, in the effort to overcome the cover catching or closing during the dumping action, to make an exaggerated movement while holding a heavy container. This has resulted in back and face injuries to our personnel. The collector typically needs both hands free to empty a container, one for the top of the container and the other for the bottom of the container to assist the lifting action and to tip the container into the truck hopper. When a loose cover catches on or in the truck, or interferes with that movement, the collector will react and try to compensate by freeing one of the hands to address the problem. This becomes even more difficult when the collector is performing this work in pouring rain or pelting snow and, like the US mail; we are out collecting refuse every day no matter what the environmental conditions may be. In addition, regulations are currently being promulgated that could prohibit there use in the future.

10. Is the Town responsible for the clean-up of scattered refuse due to vermin?: No.

11. Is the Town providing these barrels to the residents?: No.

12. When is my trash picked up?: Your trash and recyclables are picked up at curbside once each week (as are your recyclables); the collection day depends on where you live. If you don’t know which day, call (508) 532-6001. All trash, and other items to be picked up, need to be placed at curbside by 7:00 am on the pick-up day, but no earlier than 6:00 pm the night before. Please be careful if you put them out the night before, since animals may tear open bags or get into trash barrels during the night. Collectors can not pick up trash that is not in a bag or barrel. Unacceptable material will be left at curbside. More...

13. What happens if my collection day falls on a holiday?: Your trash will be picked up the next day, and everyone else whose collection day follows the holiday will have their trash picked up one day later than usual, so that Friday’s trash will be picked up on Saturday for that week. Holidays in Framingham are: New Years Day, Martin Luther King's Birthday (Monday), President's Day (Monday), Patriots Day (Monday), Memorial Day (Monday), Independence Day, Labor Day (Monday), Columbus Day (Monday), Veteran's Day, Thanksgiving Day, and Christmas Day. More...

14. Are there any restrictions on what I can put in my trash?: Yes. By state ruling or Framingham By-Law the following are not allowed: hazardous wastes, rubber tires, most metal items, yard waste (grass, leaves, brush), Christmas Trees, recyclables such as newspapers, glass bottles, metal cans, television sets, computer monitors, fluorescent light bulbs, Ni-cad batteries, Lead Acid batteries, any Mercury containing items and lumber or other home construction materials from home repair. More...

15. So, what do I do with items that I cannot put in my trash?: The Solid Waste Management Department conducts special pickups for almost all of these items except propane tanks, lumber and demolition materials which are not accepted at curbside or at the Recycle Drop-off Center.
Some alternatives for disposal of construction/demolition materials are:
• Using the hired tradesman who did the work to dispose of the materials.
• Hire a hauling contractor for a fee. These contractors are listed in the yellow pages under "Rubbish and Garbage removal".
• Both Holliston Transfer Station on Rt.16 and Marlboro Transfer Station on Boston Post Rd. accept these materials. Call these sites beforehand to check on fees and policies.
More...

16. When is the Recycle Drop-off Center on Mt. Wayte Ave open?: Every Thursday, Friday and Saturday from 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., and Sundays from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. year round (except holidays). You will need to prove that you are a Framingham resident by showing a valid registration stating the vehicle is registered in Framingham. Purchase an annual vehicle identification sticker for $10.00 (Valid January thru December) to use the facility. Commercial vehicles are only authorized to use the facility on Thursdays 8am-3pm. More...

17. If I don't have a yellow barrel for recyclables, where do I get one?: You can pick one up at the Department of Public Works office in the Memorial Building or at the Recycle Drop-off Center on Mt. Wayte Avenue when it is open. The cost of the barrel is $10. More...

18. Where do my recyclables go?: These are currently brought by our collection contractor Waste Management to a Material Recovery Facility, sorted, and marketed to companies that can reuse the material.

19. Why can't I recycle my used pizza boxes?: Click here to find out the answer to: The Pizza Box Mystery

20. Where does my trash go?: Our sanitation trucks bring it to a transfer station in Marlboro owned by Waste Management.

21. Why do I have to put my leaves and grass in special paper bags?: You don’t have to put them in the special biodegradable bags. You can put them in barrels clearly marked “Yard Waste” and leave them out on the same day that your trash is collected during the weeks that yard waste is collected, no more than 40 lbs. No plastic bags are acceptable. Alternatively, you can bring the yard waste to the Compost Area on Dudley Road, which is open to coincide with the Recycle Drop-off Center (see above for hours). The paper bags are used because they are more cost efficient to pick up and are known to be biodegradable, thus saving the town (and the taxpayer) money in collection costs. Please call the Sanitation Department at 532-6001 if you have questions.

22. Can I use a borrowed or rental vehicle at the Recycling Drop-off Center?: No, only vehicles that are registered in the Town of Framingham can use the Recycling Drop-off Center with a valid permit.

23. Where can I get biodegradable leaf bags?: Biodegradable paper yard waste bags are available for purchase at most local hardware stores. Prices and availability may vary.

24. Are there any restrictions on the amount of trash and the size of the receptacle that can be placed for weekly curbside collection?: Yes, according to the Board of Selectmen’s Policy on Trash collection, “the amount of household trash that is eligible for curbside collection per week shall be limited to three (3) 35-gallon barrels or an equal amount in volume of bags and/or barrels …and shall weigh no more than 40 pounds each.” Any amount of trash in excess of these limits will be refused collection, tagged and a fine may be issued for non-compliance. Trash in excess of these limits may be taken to the Recycling Drop-off Center for disposal if the resident has a valid Permit. More...

25. When is household hazardous waste collection day held?: There is an annual Household Hazardous Waste Collection Day held in October of each year. Items listed as accepted may be disposed of during this event. Watch your newspaper for an announcement of the specific day. Items listed as NOT accepted require private contractor handling. All products must be labeled and placed in a box (no paper or plastic bags, please). More...

26. How must I bundle my brush and yard waste?: Yard Waste is defined as leaves, grass clippings, shrub trimmings, plant cuttings and non-woody organic garden waste only. Brush is defined as wood waste from bushes and trees that is less than four inches in diameter. Materials such as dirt, sand, sod, rocks, stumps or trunks will not be accepted. Pieces of brush must be no more than 4” in diameter and no more than four feet long. Brush must be tied and bundled in lengths of four feet or less and weigh no more than forty pounds per bundle. Brush not meeting the above criteria will not be accepted at the Dudley Road Yard Waste Drop-Off Site. This also makes it easier to load the brush into the trucks, and reduces the cost to the Town. More...

27. How do I dispose of latex paint?: Latex paint can be mixed with kitty litter or speedy dry. Allow the paint to harden and place it out at the curb with the cover off on your trash day. More...

28. Can I have bulky house hold items picked up curbside?: The Solid Waste Management Department conducts curbside pickup of bulky items by appointment and for a fee. Residents may pay for and schedule a pickup at the Department of Public Works office located in Room 213 (Hours - Mon 8:30-7:00, Tue-Fri 8:30-5:00) of the Memorial Building or at the Recycling Center located on Mt. Wayte Avenue (Hours - Fri-Sat 8:00-3:00, Sun 11:00-3:00). There is no charge for items taken to the Recycling Drop-off Center EXCEPT FOR televisions, computer monitors, lap tops, sleep sofas, tires and items containing FREON or propane tanks. Please keep as much metal out of your trash as possible and recycle it. Fees and Schedule

29. What can I recycle?: Recyclables are picked up by a contractor, Waste Management, on the same day as your trash. A recycling barrel can be purchased at the Recycling Drop-off Center on Mt. Wayte Ave. or at the DPW office in the Memorial Building. Newspapers and other paper items, corrugated cardboard, glass bottles, metal cans, aluminum foil, plastic bottles marked with a recycle symbol and any number 1 thru 7, can be recycled. A complete list is presented below. Just put the recycling bin/barrel out at the same time as your regular trash. Curbside Recycling

▼
Town Manager

Show All Answers

1. How do I appeal a parking ticket?: The Town Manager, by law, is not involved in issuing or hearing appeals on parking tickets. There is an appeal process for those who feel they have been wrongly ticketed. Appeals are scheduled through the Treasurer’s office by calling (508) 532-5430.

▼
Treasurer / Collector

Show All Answers

1. How much does an MLC cost?: $25 for residential and commercial.

2. Do you take payments over the phone and by credit card?: No payments over the phone, however credit cards accepted online for current bills only.

3. Can I view my tax bill online?: Not at this time.

▼
Utility Billing

Show All Answers

1. How often do I receive my water and sewer bill?: Homeowners are generally billed four times each year; large users (some businesses, apartment buildings, condominiums, etc.) are billed monthly. The water and sewer bill for any property must be in the owner’s name. The owner may request that bills be sent to another address but the owners name must appear on the bill. The owner is responsible for all charges against that account.

2. What if my meter isn't working?: Immediately call the Water Division (532-6050) to report this, and if necessary, your meter will be replaced at no charge to you. You will, however, be charged for water and sewer use up to the time of the repair. There is a charge to repair meters that freeze during the winter as residents should take care to see that meters are protected from freezing temperatures.

3. How do I obtain a final bill when I sell my house?

1. Final meter reads are scheduled on Tuesdays and Thursdays only.

2. Owner or Realtor must call the billing office to schedule a final read within 5 days prior to the closing date. ( No exceptions). Call the Business Office at 508-532-5605.

3. The new owner’s name must be provided on the day the appointment is made.

4. A contact phone number must be provided.

5. There will be a fee of $20.00 for the final reading included in the final bill amount.

6. If the appointment is missed, the next available time would be the next final read day. There will also be a charge for the missed appointment.

7. The final bills will be ready for pickup 1 hour after the last scheduled appointment. Please feel free to call our office to confirm that the bill is ready for pickup.

8. The final bills may be:
* Picked up in the office with a signature provided.
* By fax with a signed request received.
* By email with a delivery and read receipt requested.

9. The final bill amounts are due within 7 days of the date the final bill is issued. The final bills must be paid with cash or certified check to the Treasurer’s office. There is a daily annum interest rate of 14% assessed by the Treasurer’s Office for each day the bill remains unpaid.

4. What if there is a mistake on my bill?: You can call the Water Office at 508-532-5605 and see if the problem can be handled by phone, or come to the DPW office on the second floor of the Memorial Building, Room 213, and the staff will gladly assist you in explaining the bill or rectifying any errors. It is usually helpful if you write down the current reading from your inside meter before you call or visit. There is also information available in the DPW office for the resident to help determine if there is a leak at the property.

5. MWRA Water Quality Report: For last year's water quality report, or the monthly reports, please click on this link.
MWRA Water Quality Report

6. What can I do to detect a leak at my property?: Most leaks happen in toilets and are caused by defective valves and ball cocks. These are often silent and hard to detect. The Water Division will provide dye tablets, but is not responsible for the condition of pipes and fixtures upon private premises.

7. Is there a policy to seek relief on a high bill due to a leak on my property?: There is an abatement policy set by the Town Selectmen that states for major water leaks that result in a volume of water that exceeds twice the normal average for the preceding three years, a resident may submit an abatement application with necessary documentation for determination of eligibility.
If the high bill is due to filling a pool, the reasons must be because it is a brand new pool being filled for the first time, or a repair to the pool. The resident may submit an abatement application with necessary documentation for determination of eligibility.
Click the link below for an application:
Abatement Application

▼
Wastewater

Show All Answers

1. Where can I find a list of the Town of Framingham's licensed drainlayers?: The Public Works Department maintains a current list of all business's that carry a drainlayer's license in the Town of Framingham. Click the link for a short version of the list. Drainlayer's List - Short

2. What do I do if I see sewage in my house, yard, or street?: You should call the Wastewater Department immediately to report any visible signs of sewerage anywhere, or any signs of an impending clog (i.e. drains bubbling, drain gurgling sounds, or bad sewer odors.

3. Who is responsible for my sewer service?: The property owner is responsible for the entire length of their sewer service from their house to the sewer main. Any manholes that are along this private service are considered part of that private way and must be maintained by the property owner as well. If you are in need of a drain cleaning you can look under Plumbing – Drain & Waste Line Cleaning for some possible providers of this service. If you are in need of a sewer repair/replacement, you can click on the link to see our list of Licensed Drainlayer’s.
Licensed Drainlayer's List

4. How do I know if I have a sewer blockage?: Sewer blockages can occur in either the private sewer service or the Town sewer main. The first sign of a blockage generally shows up in the lowest drains within the structure (i.e. basement, or if slab, first floor). At the first sign of a problem, you should call the Wastewater Department at 508-532-6060. We can check the sewer main to rule out any problems there. If the sewer main looks fine, the technician will let you know it is a private incident and instruct you to call a drain cleaning service.

5. How can I protect myself from sewer blockages?

To avoid having blockages in your own private service and interior plumbing, you should make sure that you use the toilets and drains for correct methods of disposal. Here are some common mistakes made with drain usage:

- Only use paper products in your toilet that are made safe for flushing, like toilet papers, and tissues. Although flushable applicators are a product available, they are still responsible for many cases of toilet clogs. Avoid using the toilet as a trash can.

- Avoid pouring grease, cooking or otherwise, down your drains, as this is the main cause of drain clogging. If grease accidentally gets in your drains you should run hot water for a few minutes to better flush it through the lines. This is not a guaranteed solution however which is why an alternative manner of grease disposal is to allow the grease to cool in the pan and then use paper towels to scoop it into the waste basket.

- Hair is a very common way for internal plumbing, and private sewer services to become clogged. Making sure you have a drain cover over your drains, and not just an open hole is important in avoiding this. Regularly cleaning the hair on your drains is very helpful.

Blockages in the main can affect you in fixtures you may have below the sewer grade level, it is recommended that you have a check valve installed on your property. The device keeps the sewage from backing up into any fixtures below the level of the main. Prevention is a great way to deal with a main back-up because you never know when one can occur.

6. What is OK to flush down my toilet?: The best thing to do is to only flush toilet paper down your toilet. Even some products that promote themselves as flushable may be so, but are not 100% safe, and can cause blockages.

7. What is NOT ok to put in the sewer system?: It is illegal to pour any hazardous chemicals into the sewer system. Proper disposal of such chemicals should be dealt with according the laws of the Sanitation Division. It is not illegal for residents, but not recommended that you flush greases down your drains as this can cause blockages in your private sewer system and in the sewer main. Commercial properties in the food industry have to install grease traps in order to prevent grease problems in the main.

8. Can I sump pump flood water into the sewer?: No, it is not permitted to hook any private drainage into the sewer system as this can cause an overload in the mains, resulting in sewage backing up into all properties on the overloaded system. This same logic applies to opening manholes up to drain flooded areas.

9. What do I do if a Town manhole cover is making noise or visibly damaged?: Please report any instance of this to the Sewer Department so that we can schedule personnel to attend to these matters. There are many different metal fixtures in the road so it can be confusing to identify which is a sewer manhole, and which is a water gate valve cover, etc. Just guess the best you can and if you call the wrong cover in, any Public Works personnel should be able to forward the call or information to the right department. Although not always the case, here are a few descriptions of common road fixtures to help you with identifying.
- Sewer manhole cover – These are generally solid round covers, approximately 26” in diameter.
- Water gate valve cover – These are smaller solid round or square covers, generally 4”-10” in diameter.
- Catch basins – These are the open grated covers that allow for drainage, seen mostly in the streets and along sidewalks. The Town Highway Department is responsible for maintaining these.

10. Am I allowed to open a manhole cover myself?: No, it is not permitted for anyone but Town personnel to lift or attend to a manhole cover for any reason, especially for purposes of drainage. Open manholes left unattended could present a severe danger to the public.

▼
Water

Show All Answers

1. Why did I get a yellow letter regarding my meter?: These letters are what our Meter Technicians deliver to properties when there is a need to service a meter(s). Letters are dropped of so that property owners can call to make an appointment at there earliest convenience. These technicians work daily to update, repair, and inspect meters and their associated equipment to ensure accurate billing. Please call the Water Department for service at 508-532-6050 if you receive one of these letters.

2. Where can I find a list of the Town of Framingham's licensed drainlayers?: Please click link. Licensed Drainlayer's List

3. What do I do if I suddenly lose pressure or have no water at all?: Call the Water Department at 508-532-6050 immediately, as this could potentially be the sign of a water related break on your water service or on a Town water main in your area.

4. What do I do if I notice a possible water leak?: If a water pipe breaks and is leaking in your home or water starts to bubble up in your yard, on the sidewalk, or in the street, you should contact the Water Department immediately at 508-532-6050.

5. How do I obtain an irrigation meter?: Click here: Link to Irrigation Meter Information

6. Why is my water discolored?: Sometimes your water can become discolored when any activity on the water main (hydrants being used, main breaks, water gate valve work, etc.) is present in an area near your home. In most cases once the activity has stopped the water should begin to clear up, but if you encounter a situation where you have not seen any improvement following the completion of the project you should call the Water Department at 508-532-6050 for assistance.

7. Cold Weather Tips: Click on the link. Cold Weather Tips

8. Where can I find some Water Conservation Information?

There are many ways to lower your daily use of water, from devices installed on fixtures within your house to changing some everyday habits. The MWRA offers many useful tips. Some quick examples are:

1. Faucets - You can obtain different low flow fixtures for your home to lower the use of water in your shower head and other faucets.

2. Toilets - You can use dye tablets in your toilet tank to check for leaks. You can avoid use the toilet as a wastebasket to limit flushing. When installing a new toilet you can shop around for a brand with a lower rate per gallon.

3. Showers/Baths – Taking shorter showers, and filling the bath less is very useful.

4. Kitchen – Using basins instead of constant running water, using the disposal at the end instead of many times, and using only a full dishwasher are all great ways to cut back your usage.

Link to MWRA Water Conservation Tips
MWRA Water Conservation Tips

9. Is it possible that I could have lead in my Water?: Click here: Water Quality

10. What are the reflective poles I see on some hydrants?: The Water Department uses these reflective hydrant marking tools during the winter to help snow removal vehicles avoid coming in contact with any snow covered hydrants.

11. How can I find out about the cause of my ongoing low water pressure problem?: If you feel you have been experiencing a decrease in water pressure over a period of time then you should call the Water Department at 508-532-6050 to make an appointment for one of our technicians to come out to your home and inspect the issue. Recommendations on the right course of action for solving the problem can be discussed. Please note: although we can attempt to isolate the issue, we do not make any repairs to private property (only Town owned property). Also, if you have a sudden loss of pressure this could actually be a more serious issue and you should call the Water Department right away.

Town of Framingham
150 Concord St.
Framingham, MA 01702

Dedicated to Excellence in Public Service

Site Map

Categories

▼
Absentee Ballot Instructions

▼
Animal Control

▼
Assessors

▼
Board of Health

▼
Board of Selectmen

▼
Brownfields

▼
Building and Wire

▼
Building Services

▼
Community and Economic Development

▼
Community Development Block Grant

▼
Conservation Commission

▼
Council on Aging

▼
Engineering and Transportation

▼
Fire Department

▼
Highway

▼
Loring Arena

▼
Parks and Recreation

▼
Police Department

▼
Public Works

▼
Solid Waste Management

▼
Town Manager

▼
Treasurer / Collector

▼
Utility Billing

▼
Wastewater

▼
Water

Live Edit

Categories

▼ Absentee Ballot Instructions

▼ Animal Control

▼ Assessors

▼ Board of Health

▼ Board of Selectmen

▼ Brownfields

▼ Building and Wire

▼ Building Services

▼ Community and Economic Development

▼ Community Development Block Grant

▼ Conservation Commission

▼ Council on Aging

▼ Engineering and Transportation

▼ Fire Department

▼ Highway

▼ Loring Arena

▼ Parks and Recreation

▼ Police Department

▼ Public Works

▼ Solid Waste Management

▼ Town Manager

▼ Treasurer / Collector

▼ Utility Billing

▼ Wastewater

▼ Water

Live Edit

▼
Absentee Ballot Instructions

▼
Animal Control

▼
Assessors

▼
Board of Health

▼
Board of Selectmen

▼
Brownfields

▼
Building and Wire

▼
Building Services

▼
Community and Economic Development

▼
Community Development Block Grant

▼
Conservation Commission

▼
Council on Aging

▼
Engineering and Transportation

▼
Fire Department

▼
Highway

▼
Loring Arena

▼
Parks and Recreation

▼
Police Department

▼
Public Works

▼
Solid Waste Management

▼
Town Manager

▼
Treasurer / Collector

▼
Utility Billing

▼
Wastewater

▼
Water