Frequently Asked Questions

The City 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.

$25 for residential and commercial.

You can also apply and pay online here or download a copy of the application here:

Yes, Real Estate, Personal Property, and Water bills are available online at: CityHall Systems

BANK BILL PAY – SET UP INFORMATION:

To pay a Real Estate Bill:

What is the Account #? Use your Parcel Identification number as your account number instead of the Real Estate bill number.  

Real estate bill numbers change every fiscal year so it is more effective to list a Parcel ID.

Where To Mail?:   

City of Framingham

P.O. Box 847035

Boston, MA 02284-7035

To pay a Utility Bill:

What is the Account #? Please include your Utility billing account number as the account number or in the memo section of the check.

Where To Mail?:

City of Framingham

P.O. Box 847035

Boston, MA 02284-7035

To pay an Excise Bill:

What is the Account #? The Registration or Plate number of the vehicle which you are trying to pay.  

The name of the person paying on the check should match the registration number that the bill is for.  Excise payments must be paid in full and can be mailed to:

Where To Mail:

City of Framingham

P.O. Box 847040

Boston, MA 02284-7040

Often plot plans are included in the mortgage documents received at time of closing for a property. Plot plans can sometimes be found on-line at the South Middlesex Registry of Deeds. There is a slight chance the Building and Wire Department may have a copy in its archives, but only if a plot plan was submitted as part of a building permit application for a given property. (Until the Building and Wire Department can digitize its records, there is a $30 fee for retrieving records from the archives.) Please note that plot plans are not reliable for determining property lines. Always consult with a registered, licensed land surveyor for accurate information about a property.

A building permit is required for all fences over seven feet in height. Any fence over seven feet in height must also meet the applicable property setbacks. A fence seven feet or less in height can be placed on the owner’s property line.

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.

The Inspectional Services Department will respond to informal requests for zoning information when an applicant submits an application for zoning information.

The grant is administered by the City of Framingham’s Community and Economic Development Division. For more information, please visit the Brownfields website or contact Erika Jerram, Assistant Director, at 508-532-5455 or by email.

Brownfields can pose a number of threats to a community's well being, including:

• Attract vandals, open dumping, or other illegal activity
• Contribute to unnecessary development of limited greenspace, instead of taking advantage of existing infrastructure and development
• Limit economic growth and development
• Lower surrounding property values and contribute to neighborhood deterioration
• Potentially harm human health and the environment
• Reduce local employment opportunities and tax revenue

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
• Creating good will within the community
• Enhancing the marketability of a property by reducing uncertainty regarding environmental liabilities and addressing due diligence steps typically required by lenders
• 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
• Reducing the potential need to address liabilities associated with the property in financial statements and Securities and Exchange Commission filings

If the event is private and invitation-only, you do not. However, if you will be placing a tent on your property, you may need a permit. Please contact Inspectional Services to inquire, 508-532-5500.

You do not need a special alcohol license if you are using a 12C caterer for a private event. However, the caterer must comply with requirements under the Caterer's License. If the event is open to the public, a one-day (special) alcohol license is required.  

Alcohol Intervention Methods (A.I.M.): 508-877-0105

Server Training On Premises (S.T.O.P): 401-943-5454 or FJFaubert@Hotmail.com 

Classroom Training for Intervention Procedures (TIPS): 800-438-8477 or https://gettips.com/class/index.html

Online Training for Intervention Procedures (TIPS): 877-851-7272 or  https://www.tipsalcohol.com/massachusetts-tips-training.html?gclid=EAIaIQobChMIqoXj1OzM8gIVgo7ICh1LYwNpEAAYASAAEgIDv_D_BwE

ServSafe® - ServSafe Alcohol training, responsible alcohol management /  for MA  800-765-2122

For Package Stores Only: Beverage  Alcohol Training Program (BAT): (508)-366-1100 or http://www.masspack.org/ 

Click to see a Food & Ice Cream Truck Table PDF to determine whether you need a Framingham Hawker/Peddler License and a Mobile Food Service Unit Permit from the Health Department (508-532-5470) and a Hawker/Pedler License from the Com. of MA Division of Standards. For questions about the local food permit, please contact the Health Department at 508-532-5470.

If you are a sole proprietor, corporation, or partnership doing business under a different name, you will need a business certificate. Massachusetts General Laws, Chapter 110, Section 5 

Applications must be submitted with payment to the Licensing Office, Room 213 for the following licenses before a Business Certificate will be issued. Licenses are granted after a hearing with the appropriate Licensing Authority, 

• The eat-in restaurant requires a Common Victualer's License. - Board of License Commissioners
• Car dealer or car salvage business requires a Class I, II, or III License - Board of License Commissioners
• Inn, Hotel, or Motel requires an Innholder's License - Board of License Commissioners
• Lodging House requires a Lodging House License - Board of License Commissioners
• Fortune Teller requires a Fortune Teller License - Board of License Commissioners
• Taxi Company requires a Taxi Permit - Board of License Commissioners
• Livery Service requires a Livery License - Board of License Commissioners
• Second Hand, Junk or Old Metals Dealer requires a Second Hand/Junk/Old Metals License - Board of License Commissioners
• Hawker/Peddler, Transient Vendor or Solicitor requires Hawker/Peddler/Transient Vendor/Solicitor License - See FAQ regarding same.

If approved, you can present the license/permit to the City Clerk's Office, Room 105. You can apply for and be issued a Business Certificate, a copy of which must be brought to the Licensing Office, Room 213 to be filed with your application.

Unfortunately, no. An event open to the public and/or advertised requires a One-Day Special Alcohol License. Follow this link to Liquor Special One-day & Entertainment Applications: http://www.framinghamma.gov/398/Licensing

Alcohol must be purchased from a state-licensed supplier. Donations cannot be accepted nor can alcohol be purchased from a retailer or package store.

You do not need a license from the City of Framingham. However, one is required from the Mass. Board of Registration of Cosmetology and Barbering. They can be reached at 617-727-9940 or https://www.mass.gov/orgs/board-of-registration-of-cosmetology-and-barbering

The type of business you are opening will determine what Framingham license you need, if any.  This link provides information on starting a new business in Massachusetts. 

Once you choose a location, you should contact the Deputy Building Commissioner, 508-532-5500, to confirm the location is zoned to conduct the type of business.

See FAQ for business certificates which also explains licenses you may require from the Licensing Department 508-532-5402.

If you are selling or serving food, contact the Health Department 508-532-5470.

Driver’s Licenses are can be renewed at the MA Registry of Motor Vehicles.  You can contact them by going to their web page: https://www.mass.gov/orgs/massachusetts-registry-of-motor-vehicles.

Follow this link for the application process.

If you are employed by the City of Framingham on a permanent basis, holding a position which requires you to work a minimum of 20 hours per year, you are eligible to become a member of the Framingham Contributory Retirement System.

According to the Massachusetts Retirement Law (Chapter 32 of the Massachusetts General Laws), you must become a member of the system if you meet the eligibility requirements.

You are required to contribute a set percentage of your salary and an additional 2% on any salary over $30,000 through regular payroll deductions. The Massachusetts Retirement Law establishes your contribution rate. It is determined by the date you first became eligible for membership in a Massachusetts contributory retirement system and from which you continuously maintained your funds on account. The following rates depend on the date on which you became a member of a Massachusetts contributory retirement system:

• Before January 1, 1975: 5%
• January 1, 1975 through December 31, 1983: 7%
• January 1, 1984 through June 30, 1996: 8%
• July 1, 1996 or After: 9%

Whether you are subject to the 2% over $30,000 deduction is determined by your membership date. If the date on which you became a member of the Massachusetts contributory retirement system and from which you continuously maintain your funds on account is:

• Before January 1, 1979: not subject to 2%
• On or after January 1, 1979: subject to 2%

The retirement office establishes and maintains an individual annuity savings account in your name for your retirement. At the end of every calendar year, you will receive a statement showing the balance of your contributions accumulated interest so you know how much you have in your account.

Your pension plan is considered a defined benefit plan that operates as a qualified employer plan under section 401(a) of the Internal Revenue Code. As a defined benefit plan, your retirement allowance is calculated using:

• Your years of credible service
• Your age at retirement
• Your highest average salary for 36 consecutive months if you become a member on or before April 2, 2012.
• Your highest average salary for 60 consecutive months if you become a member after April 2, 2012.

Your retirement allowance is not solely based on your contributions to the system.

No. The funds must remain in your account with the system until your retire, die, or become an inactive member who is eligible to receive a refund of the money.

You will be vested to receive a retirement allowance when you have at least 10 years of creditable service.

The Community Preservation Act (CPA) was enacted by the Commonwealth of Massachusetts in 2000: Massachusetts General Law (MGL) Chapter 44B.

Communities vote to adopt the CPA and the level of property surcharge (up to 3%) to create the base funding for CPA-eligible projects in that city or town.  The Commonwealth of Massachusetts provides annual matching funds for CPA cities and towns.

CPA funds can be used for Community Housing, Historic Preservation, Open Space, and Outdoor Recreation.

The City of Framingham adopted CPA in November 2020, imposing a 1% CPA tax surcharge on Real Estate tax bills.

The CPC oversees CPA funds and administers the CPA application process. This includes soliciting, evaluating, and recommending projects to the City Council for approval of CPA funding. It is responsible for upholding a process that is accessible, ethical, transparent, and representative of Framingham's diverse geographic and demographic population.

The CPC is composed of 9 members:

• Conservation Commission: 1 member
• Framingham Housing Authority: 1 member
• Framingham Historical Commission: 1 member
• Parks and Recreation Commission: 1 member
• Planning Board: 1 member
• At large (appointed by City Council): 4 members

CPA funds are overseen by the Community Preservation Committee (CPC). The CPC solicits, evaluates, and recommends projects and funding amounts to the City Council. The CPC is responsible for ensuring that the CPA process is accessible, ethical, transparent, and representative of all Framingham residents.  

CPA funds are collected through a yearly 1% surcharge on Real Estate Taxes. Additionally, the Commonwealth of Massachusetts provides a State Match from the Community Preservation Trust Fund as determined by the Department of Revenue.

For further information see: https://www.communitypreservation.org/funding

The 1% surcharge is based on your real estate taxes (after a $100,000 exemption). For example:

1. Your property is valued at $600,000.  In FY’24, the residential tax rate is $12.46 per thousand dollars of assessed value.   The real estate tax is: 600 X $12.46 = $7,476
2. The CPA surcharge is first calculated by subtracting $100,000 from the assessed property value.  $600,000 - $100,000 = $500,000
3. The CPA surcharge in FY24 would be 500 X $12.46 = $6,230, 1% of $6,230 = $62.30
4. Your total annual real estate taxes, with the CPA surcharge, would then be $7.476 + $62.30 = $7,538.30.

Property owners will have a separate line on their tax bill called “CPA surcharge.”  The total CPA surcharge is divided equally over the quarterly Real Estate tax bills.

The following are exempt from the surcharge:

1. Property owned and occupied as a domicile by any person who qualifies for low-income housing or low or moderate-income senior housing in the City, as defined in Section 2 of Massachusetts General Law (MGL) Chapter 44B.
2. $100,000 of the value of each taxable parcel of residential real property
3. $100,000 of the value of each taxable parcel of class three commercial property and class four industrial property as defined in Section 2A of said Massachusetts General Law (MGL) Chapter 59
4. A taxpayer receiving a regular property tax abatement or exemption will also receive a pro-rata reduction in surcharge
5. A qualified taxpayer who is 60 or older as of January 1 and who has a household annual income that is no more than the area-wide median income determined annually by the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development can request an exemption of the entire CPA surcharge attributable to the real estate tax assessed on the residential assessed value of the property. To do so, a resident must submit appropriate exemption request paperwork with the City Assessor’s office”. State Tax Form CP-4 is available online or in hard copy at the Assessor's Office in City Hall.

All CPA projects must be in these three funding categories: Community Housing, Historic Preservation, and Open Space/Outdoor Recreation.  Each year, 10% of the funding must be allocated to these three CPA funding categories. Communities can use up to 5% of their annual funds for administrative costs. The remaining available funds (typically 65%) can be allocated for any eligible project at the discretion of the Community Preservation Committee (CPC).  

In general, the CPC meets on the second and fourth Mondays of the month. According to CPA law, a Public Hearing is required once a year. At the Public Hearing, residents can provide feedback on Framingham’s Community Preservation Plan and share ideas for potential projects. For the 2024 Calendar, click here.

• Email the CPC email address: cpc@framinghamma.gov
• Contact Heather O’Donnell, Community Preservation Coordinator, by email hodonnell@framinghamma.gov or call (508) 532-5683
• Attend a CPC meeting:  CPC Calendar or Public Meeting Portal

The Community Preservation Plan (CPP) is a document that:

• Guides the Community Preservation Committee (CPC) in prioritizing projects for funding
• Outlines the CPC’s processes and procedures for review of project applications. 
• Describes the four CPA funding categories: historic preservation, open space, outdoor recreation, and community housing
• Highlights the City’s priorities for funding for each of the funding categories
• The CPC reviews and updates the CPP annually

The Community Preservation Act allows funding to be spent for activities in four categories:

1. The acquisition, creation, and preservation of land for open space.
2. The acquisition, preservation, rehabilitation, and restoration of historic resources.
3. The acquisition, creation, preservation, rehabilitation, and restoration of land for recreational use.
4. The acquisition, creation, preservation, and support of community housing.
5. Rehabilitation and restoration of open space or community housing can be done only if they have been acquired or created using money from the CPA fund.

CPA funds can only be used for eligible activities in the four categories.  However, funds cannot be used for operations, maintenance, programming, community events, or to replace funds already appropriated from other sources.   CPA funds must be used to advance a public purpose.  For example, CPA funds have been used for historic rehabilitation or preservation on private property, but the work must have a community benefit, and often, it will require a historic preservation restriction.

Not every project application will be funded. The Community Preservation Committee must review all CPA projects for eligibility and public benefit.  

No.  CPC members cannot submit or create CPA projects due to Framingham’s Conflict of Interest Guidelines.  Upon leaving the CPC, members must wait one year from resignation or the end of the term before presenting a project request. 

Each year, the CPC announces the deadline for submitting funding applications. The CPA application has two steps: 

1. Eligibility Form: Applicants fill out a form, which the CPC reviews to determine whether the project meets the qualifications for funding under CPA legislation.
2. Full Application: Applicants with eligible projects are invited to submit a full application. The CPC reviews applications and annually selects projects to recommend to the City Council.

1. When can I submit an Eligibility Form?
    Eligibility Forms are accepted once a year. The CPC will announce when they are available, generally starting in July.  

Once per year, the CPC will announce when Application Forms are accepted, generally from September through November.

1. Applicants attend the Public Hearing to learn about the CPC’s goals and priorities and to determine what types of projects are eligible.
2. Applicants must submit an Eligibility Form.
3. CPC reviews the Eligibility Form, deems the project eligible, or rejects the project as not eligible. 
4. If the proposed project is not eligible, the CPC may guide the applicant in defining an eligible project.
5. If a project is deemed eligible, the Applicant may submit a Full Application.
6. CPC reviews all Applications.
7. Applicants may be contacted to provide more information if needed.
8. Applicants present their projects to the CPC.
9. CPC makes recommendations for project funding to the City Council.  
10. The City Council can approve or reject the CPC’s recommendations or approve them with a smaller funding amount. It cannot change the scope or conditions of the CPC's recommendations.  
11. If a project is rejected for funding, the Applicant may resubmit in the following Application cycle.

https://framinghamma.gov/FormCenter/CPC-32/CPA-FY25-Project-Eligibility-Form-146

The Eligibility Form is an online electronic form, which can be viewed in multiple languages. The Application is a fillable PDF form that will be available in English, Spanish, and Portuguese.

Contact Heather O’Donnell, Community Preservation Coordinator, by phone at (508) 532-5683 or by email at hdonnell@framinghamma.gov. Please note that an electronic submission is required. 

Grant recipients must sign a grant agreement with the City of Framingham before beginning work. Funds are provided on a reimbursement basis and can be spent for three years from the date the Agreement is signed.

Once projects are approved by City Council, an authorized representative must sign a grant agreement with the City of Framingham.  The grant agreement includes a disbursement schedule, with required deliverables to accomplish before receiving funding.  Some grants are subject to conditions determined by the Community Preservation Committee.  These conditions must be met before receiving funding.

Grant recipients will not receive a check for their CPA grant.  CPA projects are subject to the City of Framingham’s procurement policies and procedures.  Depending on the project amount, quotes or bids will be required prior to entering into any contract with a vendor for goods or services. Please note that all funds are provided on a reimbursement basis.  Goods and services must be provided before invoices are submitted.  

Public lots will open at 4 p.m. Do not arrive early, as you may be turned away.

There will be public parking at Cushing Memorial Park. 

The entrance to these 2,500-plus parking spaces will be off Dr. Harvey Cushing Way. Spaces are free and first come, first served.

There will also be parking at Keefe Technical High School. These spaces are free. The only entrance for that parking will be on Fountain Street. You cannot access Keefe or Cushing parking lots from Winter Street.

See the maps in English, Spanish, & Portuguese for parking locations and how to access them.

Yes. There is a parking lot at the intersection of Dudley Road and Dr. Harvey Cushing Road with about 140 spaces, plus there are scores of additional spaces at Loring Arena.

These parking spaces are first come, first served.

There are viewing areas for those with disabilities near the stage, tennis/basketball courts near Loring Arena, and Cushing Memorial Chapel. Please bring chairs.

Yes. Parking is prohibited on Dr. Harvey Cushing Way, Fountain Street, and Winter Street. Vehicles parked on those roads may be towed.

Parking on side streets off of Winter Street is restricted to the odd side of the road. Vehicles parked on even sides that could impact emergency vehicles are subject to being towed. Framingham Police will be enforcing parking rules during this event.

Dudley Road will be closed from Dr. Harvey Cushing Road to Fountain Street for all vehicles from 4:30  p.m. to midnight.

This event is a permitted event approved by the Police Department, Fire Department, and Parks and Recreation Department. These permits grant us control over the closed stretch of Dudley Road, the sidewalks, and the parks. Only approved food trucks that have received event permits will be allowed to operate in this area.

Spectators entering this permitted event are strongly discouraged from bringing any of the items listed below. Anyone carrying large items or bags should be aware that they may be subject to search by law enforcement.

Prohibited Items:

• Weapons or items that may be used as weapons, including firearms, knives, mace, etc.

• Backpacks or similar items carried over the shoulder

• Suitcases, rolling bags, or rollers

• Coolers (Soft-shell coolers are allowed but are still subject to search)

• Alcohol, glass containers, or cans

• Flammable liquids, fuels, fireworks, or explosives

• Containers capable of carrying more than 1 liter of liquid

• Handbags, packages, or bulky items larger than 12" x 12" x 6"

• Tents, beach umbrellas, or canopies

• Boats, kayaks, inflatable rafts, or paddleboards

• Costumes that cover the face or bulky outfits that extend beyond the body’s perimeter

• Props (including sporting equipment and military or fire gear)

Additionally, public safety officials request your assistance in maintaining a No-Drone Zone. The use of drones (unmanned aerial vehicles) is strictly prohibited within the event area unless authorized by the Framingham Police Department.

Bicycles (pedal, electric, or motorized) are not allowed to be ridden within the event area. They are encouraged as transportation to and from the event and may be secured at designated bike parking areas.

• Please utilize the Reunification and First Aid Area at the MRC tent if needed.

• Please do not litter.

• If you see something, say something.

Yes! Food trucks will be on-site, offering a variety of food and drinks for purchase.

Service will begin around 5:00 p.m. and continue until the fireworks begin.
Please note: Food and drink service will not be available after the fireworks.

As part of the celebration of Framingham’s 325th Anniversary, the Veterans Council will be giving away 1,000 cupcakes—first come, first served!

Confirmed and approved by the Framingham Health Department are:

Dessert Trucks

• Eastleigh Farm Ice Cream
• Moo-Licious, The Mooving Cookie Bakery
• Kona Ice of Framingham
• Atrevete a probar “piña colada booth”
• Refreshin' Concessions
• Boston Nut Roasters (at Loring Arena)
• Berrysweets
• Velma's Kettle Corn
• Boston Events Ice Cream

Savory Trucks

• Roadhouse Grille
• All-purpose bakery & Grill
• FGF Gluten Free
• Trolley Dogs
• Birds Nest Italian Street Food
• Sabrosa Venezuela Inc.
• Atrevete a probar
• The Cod Squad
• Papi’s Stuffed Sopapillas
• Taco Dude
• Mr. Gourmet
• Boston Events (multiple vehicles)

At Long Baseball Fields next to Albie's Sound Truck

• Big Ts
• Uhlman's Ice Cream
• Uncle Joey's Cannoli

• Please bring sunscreen and bug spray.
• Feel free to bring blankets & chairs.
• You may also bring your food and drink from home as the wait time for food trucks may be long

 Entertainment on the stage will begin at 5 pm—fireworks to follow.

Fireworks are scheduled to go off after 9 p.m

 The fireworks will be ignited from a barge in the middle of Farm Pond. 

No boats, kayaks, canoes, paddleboards, or inflatable devices will be allowed in Farm Pond, per Framingham Fire and Framingham Police, who will be patrolling the water.

Viewing areas include Farm Pond Park, Cushing Memorial Park, Long Field Complex, and other areas along the pond. 

The baseball complex fields, Farm Pond Park, and portions of Cushing Memorial Park will be open for chairs and blankets. 

Individuals will be prohibited from being on the train tracks or the aqueduct path.

Yes. The fireworks will go off about 400 feet in the air, above most of the treeline around the pond. Cloud conditions, however, may impact the visibility of the fireworks.

About 20 minutes

No.

If there's lightning, the fireworks may be delayed. Rain won't prevent the fireworks from happening. However, if winds exceed 20 miles per hour, the fireworks will be postponed until the wind speed drops below 20 miles per hour.

Yes. The Medical Reserve Corps will have a Reunification Area and First Aid tent located in the front of Barbieri Elementary School along Dudley Road. EMS will also be on-site.

Yes, there are portable bathrooms & accessible bathrooms located throughout the area. (See maps in English, Spanish, and Portuguese. for those locations.)

The Stars & Stripes Over Framingham event will be recorded by Access Framingham TV (AFTV) and aired at a later date on the following AFTV cable channels:

• Astound HD Channel 1100
• Astound (RCN) Channel 3
• Comcast Channel 9
• Verizon Channel 43

The event will also be broadcast live on the Access Framingham YouTube channel.

An FM radio broadcast will also be available in the immediate area (channel TBD).

The City of Framingham is partnering with Keep Framingham Beautiful (KFB) on litter prevention strategies to help keep our community clean. While efforts are being made to reduce waste during the event, some litter is inevitable.

KFB will lead a community cleanup of the entire Dudley Road area on Saturday, June 28, from 9:00 a.m. to 10:30 a.m.

If you can help, please sign up using the form below. Your support makes a big difference!

Sign up here

Yes, Edgell Grove has in-the-ground plots for casket burials and cremations.   There are crypts and niches available in the community Mausoleum and exterior Columbarium.

Yes, appointments are preferred.

Yes, restrictions are posted at the Main Entrance and lot owners are given the Rules & Regulations at the time of purchase.

Yes, to be explained at the time of lot purchase. Or the monument dealers in the area are familiar with our rules.

Office hours are Monday thru Friday 8:00 am to 2:00 pm, or by appointment.

Mastercard, Visa, cash and check.

Yes – Edgell Grove is non-sectarian.

No, please contact the office.

Yes, cremations can be placed in a grave with a full burial.

The Cemetery can provide a list of monument dealers in the area and familiar with our Cemetery.

Historic districts help preserve the historic architectural character of the properties they include. This protects unique qualities that contribute to quality of life – both for the property owners and for everyone in their community. Historic districts are the focus of civic pride, which can help maintain their property values while promoting the entire city as an appealing place to live.

No, only that part of your property that is visible from a public way is subject to review.

No, you do not have to remove the vinyl siding as that is an existing condition from before the property’s addition to the historic district.

No, you can maintain the current look of your house.

No, paint COLORS are not under the purview of the Historic District Commission. However, the appropriateness, or inappropriateness, of painting certain exterior surfaces, like masonry, are under the purview of the Historic District Commission and require review.

If you are interested in using historically appropriate paint colors see “Paint” in the Resource section.

Studies show that that prices for homes in historic districts have been consistently higher than those outside historic districts. As such, if your property were to remain or be entered into a historic district – it is likely that your property value will increase over time.

The development of a vacant lot in a historic district would be subject to review of the Historic District Commission.

New development is permitted in a local historic district but is subject to review by the HDC. The development need not replicate historic styles, but should complement the current surrounding historic streetscape. 

A local historic district cannot force homeowners to maintain their properties. The local building department has jurisdiction in this regard and may issue a nuisance ordinance violation for properties that are considered unsafe or left to fall into disrepair.  

For any homeowners struggling to maintain their home, hardship waivers can be granted by the Historic District Commission for extenuating circumstances. The HDC is a resource for homeowners and we would encourage you to reach out so that we can assist in finding solutions and resources to help maintain your historic home.

A National Register of Historic Places District provides formal recognition of a property's significance and provides potential tax incentives for owners of income-producing property but provides only limited protection from adverse effects by Federal or State involved projects; the recognition does not provide any further protection for the property. 

No. Date plaques only document the age of the house.

The Framingham Historic District Commission was established by a special act of the State Legislature under Chapter 447 of the Acts of 1956, as amended. It has jurisdiction over all registered historic districts in the city. The Commission is responsible for approving all exterior architectural changes to buildings and structures within the historic districts and visible from a public way, including demolition, construction, exterior renovation, and signs. The City Council appoints all Commissioners.

The Framingham Historical Commission maintains an inventory of all buildings, areas and sites of architectural or historical importance in the city. Individual property descriptions, as well as information about historical periods and architectural styles of Framingham buildings, may be reviewed on the Historical Commission's web site. The Historical Commission also holds public hearings for any proposed demolition that is not in one of the historic districts but affects a property older than 75 years of age.

The Framingham History Center is a non-profit corporation that manages the Village Hall on the Common, the Edgell Memorial Library, and the Old Academy building. The History Center maintains collections and information covering many different aspects of Framingham’s history as well as other resources such as maps and directories. They also manage exhibits about Framingham’s history and sponsor ongoing lecture and education events.

The splash pad is designed for all ages, with separate zones for toddlers, children, and families.

Yes! Restroom facilities will be available on-site for your convenience.

No, the splash pad will be free for the public to enjoy.

Sign up for our newsletter or follow us on social media for the latest updates and announcements.

The MassDEP maintains a searchable database of all documents related to releases and sites submitted to the agency. You can access it at the Energy & Environmental Affairs Data Portal.

Framingham is part of the Northeast Region of MassDEP, with the regional office located in Woburn, MA. Issues or complaints can be reported in the following ways:

• Online: Report Environmental Violations
• Phone: Call the Environmental Strike Force at 1-888-846-5283

No. Due to space limitations, the Health Department no longer maintains these records. All MCP documents are now submitted electronically, and historic documents have been scanned by MassDEP into digital format. All submitted documents are available through the Energy & Environmental Affairs Data Portal.

Yes. Licensed Site Professionals (LSPs) are authorized by the Commonwealth of Massachusetts to oversee the assessment and cleanup of contaminated sites. They may also be hired to interpret information in MCP files and answer questions. A list of LSPs can be found at Find an LSP.

Yes. Many releases are minor and do not result in any future restrictions on the property. More complex releases can limit future uses of a property, but it is rare for a release to result in a total restriction of all uses.

The City of Framingham’s Brownfields Program can assist with development of properties that have a history of contamination. Learn more at Brownfields Redevelopment | City of Framingham.

The Brownfields Program is a federally funded initiative that promotes the redevelopment of environmentally impacted properties through grants, technical assistance, and tax incentives. More information is available on the City’s Brownfields Redevelopment page.

Composting is the managed, aerobic (oxygen-required) biological decomposition of organic materials by microorganisms. Organic (carbon-based) materials include grass clippings, leaves, yard and tree trimmings, and food scraps. The end product is compost, a biologically stable soil amendment that can be used to build soil health and provide nutrients to plants. Microorganisms feed on the materials added to the compost pile during the composting process. They use carbon and nitrogen to grow and reproduce, water to digest materials, and oxygen to breathe.

Curbside composting in the City of Framingham is serviced by Black Earth Compost. Black Earth Compost will provide your pickup day for your compostable waste upon subscription. Compostable materials placed in the green Black Earth Compost cart will be picked up separately from waste and recycling.

Black Earth Compost accepts raw, cooked, and spoiled food scraps, soiled paper products, and certified compostable serviceware. This can account for up to 40% of your trash and is more than can be composted in a backyard pile.

The City of Framingham's initiative provides one free 13-gallon compost cart to each residence with a new Black Earth Compost subscription, while supplies last. The subscription price varies, and details are available on the Black Earth Compost website. If a resident chooses to terminate their subscription with Black Earth Compost or relocate outside of Framingham, they will return the cart to the Framingham Department of Public Works.

A new cart can be purchased through Black Earth Compost.

Your compost day will be assigned through Black Earth Compost. If your pickup day is the same day as your trash and recycling collection day, please ensure that it is placed at least 3 feet away from your other carts. The compost cart must be placed curbside by 7 a.m. on the pick-up day, but no earlier than 6 p.m. the night before.

Black Earth Compost accepts compostable liners, plates, utensils, cups, and other items that have the proper third-party certification for compostability. This certification ensures that the material will break down in an industrial compost facility within a specified timeframe into non-toxic, acceptable substrates.

The words biodegradable, compostable, or ASTM-6400 alone are not enough for Black Earth Compost to accept a product. It needs to have one of the following third-party certifications.

• Biodegradable Products Institute (BPI)
• OK Compost! / TUV Austria Home or Industrial / Seedling (TUV)
• Compost Manufacturing Alliance (CMA)

The City of Framingham has partnered with Black Earth Compost. Black Earth Compost will provide all services.

Please check out the Black Earth Compost Website at https://blackearthcompost.com/ for more information. They can be contacted through the website with any additional questions.

PRODUCE STICKERS are not compostable and need to be removed from all fruits and vegetables.

GROCERY STORE PRODUCE BAGS may look compostable, but most are NOT. It will be clear when one is acceptable because a BPI, TUV, or CMA certification logo will be printed directly on the bag.

WAXED CARDBOARD, MILK CARTONS, PAPER CUPS or similar items not certified compostable are not accepted.

PAPER is best recycled. We are not a paper recycling outlet. We don't accept cardboard, pizza boxes, junk mail, magazines, office paper, etc. Food-soiled napkins or paper products are okay, though.

GRASS CLIPPINGS can contain harmful chemicals. Unless you are a subscriber to Black Earth Compost Organic Lawn Care Partners, which can be found on your Black Earth Compost customer dashboard, we will not accept your grass clippings.

Licenses to carry firearms (LTC) and firearms identification (FID) cards are issued by the police department where you reside.

Yes. The Firearms Records Bureau issues nonresident LTCs as the designee of the Colonel of the State Police.

No firearms license is required to possess an air gun in Massachusetts. However, air guns are regulated by M.G.L. c. 269, § 128 which limits their use by minors.

Yes. At a minimum you need an FID Card for non-large capacity (not semiautomatic) rifles and shotguns. For handguns, you need an LTC or an FID Card + a PTP.

Yes. DCJIS has deployed the public-facing MIRCS Firearms Licensing Portal, which allows for individuals to apply for firearms licenses online and complete basic functions such as changing an address, retrieving a PIN, and checking the status of a firearms license application. The link to this site can be found on: https://www.mass.gov/firearms-services. You will be required to create an account with a user name and password.

If you are a Massachusetts resident, you should contact the police department where you applied. You can also call the DCJIS firearms license application hotline at (617) 660-4722 Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. DCJIS has deployed the public-facing MIRCS Firearms Licensing Portal, which allows for individuals to apply for firearms licenses online and complete basic functions such as changing an address, retrieving a PIN, and checking the status of a firearms license application. The link to this site can be found on: https://www.mass.gov/firearms-services. If you are a non-resident, call the Firearms Records Bureau at (617) 660-4782.

You can contact your local firearms licensing officer, or the DCJIS PIN hotline at (617) 660-4722. This  service is available Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. or by retrieving yourself from your online firearms licensing account at https://www.mass.gov/firearms-services

Renewals are free for people over 70. A person is over 70 after their 70th birthday. For practical purposes the day after his 70th birthday, an applicant should be entitled to a free LTC or FID Card renewal.

A person issued an FID Card or LTC must report any change of address via the electronic firearm website where you can create an account for firearms licensing. This is administered by the commissioner of the department of criminal justice information services. Such notification shall be made online within 30 days of the move. Failure to make notice could result in suspension. NOTE: You no longer have to notify the PD you were originally licensed with or the PD in whose jurisdiction you are moving. 

You may request a name change through the licensing authority that issued the license, or complete a name change form online through the Firearms Records Bureau.

Yes. The applicant can have the application "stayed" pending judicial review, or the FID Card can be suspended for suitability. However, while the suspension takes effect upon notification, the process also requires filing a petition with the court for a hearing as specified under chapter 140, § 129B.

No. The law was changed in 2024 to require persons to apply where they reside.

The licensing authority is required to suspend a license any time they become aware of a disqualification or make a determination of unsuitability that would have resulted in a denial at time of application.

No. While both licenses arc issued pursuant to §131 of chapter 140, both allow possession of different weapons. A person possessing machine gun license still needs to have an LTC.