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Yes. You may vote by absentee ballot if you:
Apply in writing to your city or town clerk or election commission and include your:
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.
Yes, unless you are a "specially qualified voter". A specially qualified voter is a person:
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.
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.
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.
Your application must be filed with the Board of Assessors on or before the date the first installment payment of the actual tax bill mailed for the fiscal year is due. Actual tax bills are those issued after the tax rate is set. This deadline cannot be extended or waived by the Assessors for any reason. To be timely filed, your application must be (1) received by the Assessors on or before the filing deadline or (2) mailed by United States Mail, First Class Postage Prepaid, to the proper address of the Assessors, on or before the filing deadline, as shown by a postmark made by the United States Postal Service.
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.
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 City sell their homes for less, the assessments will decrease. If property owners sell their homes for more, the assessments will increase.
Assessment changes are always based on the real estate market. For example, if a property sells for $500,000 in calendar year 2017, there is no limit or minimum price it would sell for in calendar year 2018 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.
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.
Yes, we will offer a number of clinics to the public during the flu season, following the guidelines we receive from the Massachusetts Department of Health and the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention to determine priorities of age and medical conditions. All flu clinics are promoted on our website, our hotline number (508-532-5470), newspapers of general circulation, radio, cable, twitter, libraries, and other City buildings.
No, Framingham residents, children and adults, may come to our Nursing Office at 113 Concord StFramingham, MA01702.
If the vaccinations 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.
It depends on the age of the child and any prior vaccinations received. The School Health Services will give you a list of the vaccines required for school. Bring that list with you to the Nursing office 113 Concord StFramingham, MA 01702 during one of the public clinics. We will provide the paperwork for you to bring back to the school. the Health Department has each vaccine that is required for students in grades K-12. The Framingham Health Department participates in the Massachusetts Immunization Information System which logs all vaccines given by this office (and any historical vaccine information that is provided to us) to an online registry. This will make it easier for residents of the Commonwealth and their Health Care Providers to access their important vaccine records.
There is a sharps kiosk for residents of Framingham. It is located at 1 William Welch Way inside the lobby of the Framingham Police Station Headquarters (open 24/7). Needles must be in hard plastic containers. Needles may NOT be disposed of in household trash.
There is a prescription kiosk located at 1 William Welch Way inside the lobby of the Framingham Police Station which is open 24/7. The kiosk is for pills only. Do not put bottles, bubble packs or other pill containers inside the kiosk. If you are not able to get to the police station, please crush the pills, do not put medication of any kind down the drain or flush in the waste-water system (toilet). The preferred method is to crush medication and add to a garbage item such as kitty litter or coffee grounds (so that animals do not find it palatable) and dispose of in your regular household trash. Do not put it in the recycling bin. Do not put controlled medication bottles in the recycling bin. You do not want to alert anyone that there might be those substances in the home. If you have any questions, you can call the Board of Health Hotline 508-532-5478 or the main number 508-532-5470.
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:
In addition to providing benefits to surrounding communities, property owners that clean up and reuse their brownfield properties may benefit directly by:
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 six feet in height. Any fence over six feet in height must also meet the applicable property setbacks. A fence six feet or less in height can be placed on the owner’s property line.
Please click the link below to find out more about our programs and services... Program List By Category
Please call the Center (508) 532-5980 for other transportation options for Framingham residents, such as The RIDE, Busy Bee Transportation system and Dial-A-Ride with Tommy’s Taxi.
The Center also have volunteers who will take seniors in their own vehicles to various appointments. Please call at least one week in advance to arrange this service. MWRTA Website
Senior Property Tax Work-Off Program
Distracted driving kills. The friends, family, and neighbors of the thousands of people killed each year in distracted driving crashes will tell you it is a very serious safety problem. The nearly half a million people injured each year will agree.
Distraction occurs any time you take your eyes off the road, your hands off the wheel, and your mind off your primary task: driving safely. Any non-driving activity you engage in is a potential distraction and increases your risk of crashing.
Some people still don't know how dangerous distracted driving is. Others know about the risks of texting and talking while driving, but still choose to do so anyway. They make the mistake of thinking the statistics don't apply to them, that they can defy the odds. Still others simply lead busy, stressful lives and use cell phones and smartphones to stay connected with their families, friends, and workplaces. They forget or choose not to shut these devices off when they get behind the wheel.
Our youngest and most inexperienced drivers are most at risk, with 16% of all distracted driving crashes involving drivers under 20. But they are not alone. At any given moment during daylight hours, over 660,000 vehicles are being driven by someone using a hand-held cell phone.
Texting is the most alarming distraction because it involves manual, visual, and cognitive distraction simultaneously. Sending or reading a text takes your eyes off the road for 5 seconds. At 55 mph, that's like driving the length of an entire football field, blindfolded. It's very dangerous.
So far, the research indicates that the cognitive distraction of having a hands-free phone conversation causes drivers to miss the important visual and audio cues that would ordinarily help you avoid a crash.
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 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.
Yes. The City'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.
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.
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 City system has the capacity to handle the drainage discharge, residents may be permitted to connect a private drain to the City stormwater drainage system.
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 City’s Leaf Dump. The City is responsible for cleaning culverts under roadways.
If paying by credit card, you can now apply for the following permits online:
* Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detector Certification * Sprinkler System * Fire Alarm System * Oil Burner
Just visit our Permits & Plan Review page at the following link:
Permits & Plan Review
Please use the Report a Concern form if you would like to report damage to your mail box or lawn caused by snowplowing before filing an insurance claim. To ensure that your request is received in a timely fashion by the Public Works Highway Department, please provide as much information as possible (i.e. location, date, time, etc.) and include your email address and / or telephone number.
Under “Please select a Request / Comment” pull down menu, select Snow Plowing Damage.
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 waste into the storm drains as these will pollute your waterways.
Pests of Primary Concern
Yes, the City 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.
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.
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 at 508-532-5470.
Alcohol Intervention Methods (A.I.M.): 508-877-0105
Server Training On Premises (S.T.O.P): 401-943-5454 or FJFaubert@Hotmail.com
Training for Intervention Procedures (TIPS): (800)-438-8477 or https://www.gettips.com/inclass/index.shtml
For Package Stores Only: Beverage Alcohol Training Program (BAT): (508)-366-1100 or http://www.masspack.org/
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 203 for the following licenses before a Business Certificate will be issued. Licenses are granted after a hearing with the appropriate Licensing Authority,
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 203 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.
Click HERE for information about public skating.
$7.00 per person.
No. Lake Cochitutate State Park, and Callahan State Park are owned and operated by the Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR). For more information on Massachusetts State Parks please visit their website HERE.
Ashland State Park - 508-881-4092
Callahan State Park - 508-653-9641
Cochituate State Park - 508-653-9641
DCR Main Office Boston (617) 727-3180
Hopkinton State Park - 508-435-4303
There is a heated, (75 Degrees) indoor pool at Keefe Technical School located at 750 Winter Street, Framingham, Ma. Framingham Parks & Recreation offers a program called Public Swim (aka. Open Swim) at the Keefe Tech pool from October to April. The program is designed to allow residents to swim during certain times for a minimal fee. Times and Dates may change based on pool availability.
No. All youth sports leagues are run by separate organizations. Please visit our City page for Leagues & Organizations.
Organized group use for 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.
Family or individual beach tags are available for purchase at the Framingham Parks & Recreation Office located at 475 Union Ave, Framingham, Ma. or online at http://www.framinghamrec.com
There are lighted tennis courts at Bowditch Field, Butterworth Park and Framingham High School. The lights are on, weather permitting, until 10:00 pm. They are activated by pushing a button at the court. The lights at Bowditch Track follows the same schedule.
The Recreation Department offers swimming lessons for children ages 3-18 years old in the fall and spring at Keefe Technical School. We also offer two sessions of lessons outdoors at the beaches during the summer.
Non-residents can register on the second day of registration, if openings are available. All of our trips are open to non-residents.
Framingham Parks and Recreation offers programs for Pre-school, Youth, and Adult programs. Programs vary each season. Please visit the Recreation website for more offerings at http://www.framinghamrec.com
Due to contractual agreements, the Recreation Department has a no refund policy unless we can find someone to take your place.
State Parks Pass are sold by Massachusetts Dept. of Conservation and Recreation. A State Parks Pass allows access to State owned parks and beaches. For more info on State Parks and beaches visit Massachusetts State Parks website .
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:
When a city has a vacant slot(s) to fill for a police officer, the city requests a list of candidates from the Civil Service Board. Based on the number of slots a list is sent to the city. The city notifies those on the list to come in and sign that they will accept an appointment and to receive a city 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.
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 City of Framingham Human Resources Department. Applications for employment can be obtained at city hall ( the Memorial Building) in the personnel department.
The City of Framingham is currently seeking lateral transfer police officers under Massachusetts General Law Chapter 31. 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 City of Framingham is an equal opportunity employer. For compensation information, contact the Framingham Police Department by calling 508-872-1212 extension 4918 or submit letter of interest to: Framingham Police Department One William Welch Way Framingham, MA 01702 (508) 872-1212. The City of Framingham is an Affirmative Action Equal Opportunity Employer
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. Should you have any questions, please feel free to contact the Framingham Police Department at 508-532-5906.
To purchase any type of chemical spray in Massachusetts you must apply for a Firearms Identification Card (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.
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
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 Firearms Identification (FID) 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 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.
For an License To Carry (LTC), the minimum age requirement is 21 years of age. For an Firearms Identification Card (FID), 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
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.
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:
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.
A person may request sex offender information from the Sexual Offender Registry 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.
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 (Do not 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
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).
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 request form. Upon completion a letter will be generated by the department stating you either have no record in the City of Framingham only, or a list of your offenses in Framingham only. If you are seeking a state-wide, this must be done through the Criminal History Board at (617) 660-4600.
In the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, the police department may not obtain background checks on individuals as a public information request. This is called Criminal Offender Records Information (CORI) 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.
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 such accident, report in writing to the registrar on a form approved by him and send a copy thereof to the police department having jurisdiction on the way where such 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.
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."
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 will be more helpful.
To perform any excavation or work to public infrastructure on public/private property in the City of Framingham, it is required that you become licensed. To qualify for a Drain Layer’s license in the City of Framingham, a written application form must be submitted to the Department of Public Works. Along with the application, applicants are required to provide the following:
Drain Layers - Full List
Please click on the link:
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 City 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:
The following instructions are for property owners to use when they would like to report a claim against the City:
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.
Water can seep under pavement through cracks or from the side of the road. Over time, the water can cause the material under the pavement to erode, causing the pavement to sink down and break. During the winter, the water under the pavement freezes then thaws (contracting and expanding). This freeze / thaw cycle can cause the pavement to crack. Once cracked, the pavement deteriorates quickly under the weight of traffic and streets can seem to break out in potholes overnight.
The City experiences extensive freeze / thaw cycles. You can expect to see more potholes in the winter and spring, following periods of cold temperatures and rain or snow.
Making permanent repairs during the winter is difficult and expensive. In winter months, the Public Works Department fills potholes with both cold and hot patch. Temporary repairs are intended to maintain safety and minimize damage to vehicles. Permanent repairs require waiting until the spring thaw. In Spring, the Department of Public Works makes permanent repairs using hot asphalt.
Call the Department of Public Works, Highway Division at 508-532-6030.
To report a pothole on state-owned roads, motorists can call 511 using mobile devices or dial 617-973-7800, the Commonwealth's Highway Division switchboard.
On average it takes approximately 24 hours of notification to fill the typical pothole. Some potholes, because of their location in the road or proximity to other infrastructure such as manhole covers, are more difficult to fill and, consequently, take longer. The Public Works Department crews work to cover 550 lane miles of public roadway in the City of Framingham. Many times, when a crew goes to repair 1 pothole, they find several others in the same area. A single crew typically repairs 90 potholes a day.
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. Your contribution rate is established by the Massachusetts Retirement Law and is determined by the date on which 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:
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:
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 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.
Non-compliance warnings are an educational tool used to inform residents when they are not in compliance with current policies, by-laws/ordinances, state laws or regulations. The sticker should have a box checked indicating the reason for the warning.
Your trash and recycling is picked up from the curb weekly. Depending on where you live determines your collection day. If you do not know which day, call (508) 532-6001. Both trash and recycling need to be placed at curbside by 7:00 a.m. on the pick-up day, but no earlier than 6:00 p.m. the night before. The automated collecting truck cannot pick up trash or recycling that is not in an approved City of Framingham cart. Unacceptable material will be left at curbside.
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. Please reference this year’s holiday calendar of observed holidays.
Yes. By state regulation or Framingham City 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, plastic containers, 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.
The Sanitation Division conducts special bulky item pickups for a nominal fee. For information about bulky item pickups, please visit: https://www.framinghamma.gov/173/Bulky-Item-Disposal
Construction material such as lumber and demolition materials are not accepted at curbside or at the Recycling 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. You can easily find specialized contractors online.
Every Thursday, Friday and Saturday 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., and Sunday 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. year round (excluding holidays). Thursday is dedicated to RECYCLING ONLY. The RDC is ONLY open to permitted residents and businesses of Framingham.
Recyclables are currently brought to E.L. Harvey in Westborough, MA. Items are sorted and marketed to companies that can reuse the material.
The City’s sanitation trucks bring collected trash to the Waste Management Transfer Station located in Marlborough, MA.
Yard waste can be placed in biodegradable paper bags or in barrels clearly marked “Yard Waste." Please do not use plastic bags.
You can bring the yard waste to the Compost Area on Dudley Road, which is open seasonally. Please check the City website for information about curbside yard waste and brush pickup.
No, only vehicles that are registered in the City of Framingham can use the Recycling Drop-Off Center with a valid permit.
Biodegradable paper yard waste bags are available for purchase at most local hardware stores.
Call the Sanitation Division to find out when Household Hazardous Waste Collection Day is. 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).
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. Pieces of brush must be no more than 4” in diameter and no more than four feet long. Brush must be tied with string (no metal wire) and bundled in lengths of four feet or less and weigh no more than forty pounds per bundle.
Materials such as dirt, sand, sod, rocks, stumps or trunks will not be accepted.
Yard waste and brush not meeting the above criteria will not be accepted at the Dudley Road Yard Waste Drop-Off Site.
Latex paint can be mixed with kitty litter or speedy dry. Allow the paint to harden and dry completely and then place it in your trash container for collection.
The Sanitation Division conducts curbside pickup of bulky items by appointment and for a nominal fee. Residents may pay for and schedule a pickup online through the City website or in person the Department of Public Works Administration Office located in Room 213 at City Hall or the Recycling Center located at 255 Mt. Wayte Avenue, Thursday -Saturday 8:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m. and Sunday 11:00 a.m.- 3:00 p.m.
There is no charge for items taken to the Recycling Drop-Off Center EXCEPT FOR televisions, computer monitors, laptops, soft goods, mattresses, sleep sofas, tires, propane tanks, and items containing Freon. Please keep as much metal out of your trash as possible and recycle it.
Recyclables are picked up by DPW personnel. Please visit the City’s recycling page for more information.
The pink bag program allows residents to recycle clothing, textiles, and accessories at the curb. Simply place your items in the pink bag and leave the bag at the curb next to your recycling cart. A company known as Simple Recycling will pickup your pink bag on your collection day.
Residents can dispose of needles and medical sharps inside the lobby of the Framingham Police Station located at 1 William Welch Way.
Needles and sharps SHOULD NEVER BE DISPOSED OF AS TRASH. Needles must be placed in hard plastic containers.
$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 724
Reading, MA 01867-0405
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?:
P.O. Box 851
To pay an Excise Bill:
What is the Account #? The Registration or Plate number of the vehicle which you are trying to pay on.
The name of the person paying on the check should match the registration number that the bill is for. Excise payments should be mailed to:
Where To Mail:
P.O. Box 722
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.
There is an abatement policy set 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. Please contact the Framingham Public Work's Administration Office at (508) 532-5600.
Veterans Acupuncture Care offers free acupuncture every Saturday from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at St. Andrews Church, located at 3 Maple Street in Framingham. Call 508-626-0896 or visit https://vacmetrowest.com/ for more information.
The Commonwealth of Massachusetts provides an annuity in the amount of $2,000 to 100% service-connected disabled veterans and to the parents of men and women who die in service (Gold Star parents) and the unremarried spouses (Gold, Star wives or husbands) of veterans who gave their lives in the service of their country during wartime. Visit https://www.mass.gov/service-details/annuity for more information about this service or to apply.
The Commonwealth launched a new veterans web portal www.MassVetsAdvisor.org the web portal offers enhanced access to services and support for veterans living in the Commonwealth. This new site will help veterans and their family members access more than 200 state and federal benefits in one location, including programs for education, counseling, employment, health care and other services.
The Commonwealth of Massachusetts provides a one-time bonus to eligible veterans who served during wartime.
While most charities are reputable and worthy of financial support from the public, a few charities operate outside the bounds of fairness. A charitable donation is a financialtransaction - use the same consideration when making a donation as any other financial decision.
Any consumer or retailer with questions, concerns, or complaints about a charity may contact the Attorney General’s Office Non-Profit Organizations/ Public Charities Division at (617) 963-2315.
There are three veterans' cemeteries in Massachusetts.
Eligible veterans can be buried in state and federal cemeteries for free and spouses for a nominal fee.
Under Chapter 115 of Massachusetts General Laws, the Commonwealth provides a uniform program of financial and medical assistance for indigent veterans and their dependents. Qualifying veterans and their dependents receive necessary financial assistance for food, shelter, clothing, housing supplies, and medical care in accordance with a formula which takes into account the number of dependents and income from all sources. Eligible dependents of deceased veterans are provided with the same benefits as they would were the veteran still living. Please visit the Department of Veteran Services website at http://www.mass.gov/veterans/ for more information.
The Veteran's Treatment Court is located at the Framingham District Court located at 600 Concord Street in Framingham. The Treatment Court is a 12-24 month, five phase program intended to serve veterans who are criminal court involved and struggling with addiction and or mental health issues.
Veterans Benefits and Services
Room 11, 150 Concord Street
Framingham, MA 01702
Tel: (508)-532-5515/Fax (508)-532-5497
Documents and information required to apply for Veterans Benefits and Aid 1.
Veterans are eligible for tuition waivers at all state colleges and universities. Members of the Massachusetts National Guard receive a tuition and fee waiver at all state schools. Contact the Veterans' Representative at the state college/university of your choice for eligibility requirements and to apply. For more information visit the Massachusetts Department of Higher Education, http://www.mass.edu/forstufam/veterans/home.asp
Veterans are given preference for employment on the eligibility list for civil service positions. Job search and assistance is also available for veterans at The Executive Office of Employment and Training. The closest One-Stop Career Centers is located at 201 Boston Post Road, Marlborough, MA 01752. Tel 508-786-0928. Ask to be connected to the veteran's agent.
Yes, you can find the Framingham veterans Services on Facebook at www.facebook.com/pages/Framingham-Veteran-Services
Each year the veteran Agents asks for volunteers to come out and help put the flags on the veteran’s graves. Over 4,500 flags are replaced every year. If you would like to volunteer please call the Veterans Agent at 508-532-5515. If your veteran did not get a flag, please come by the Veterans Agent’s Office in the Memorial Building , Room B-7 and pick one up.
All Massachusetts residents who are Veterans of the U.S. Armed Forces and were honorably discharged can choose to have a Veteran’s Indicator on their Driver’s License, Learner’s Permit, Massachusetts ID card, or Liquor ID card. If they choose this, the word “Veteran” will be printed on the lower right corner of their license or ID card, or in the bottom center of their learner’s permit. There is no additional fee for the Veteran’s Indicator, but all regular transaction fees will apply.One of the following documents (typed, not handwritten) must be presented as proof of honorable discharge:
The Veteran’s Indicator cannot be added during an online transaction. To have the Veteran’s Indicator added to your license or ID card, you will need to visit an RMV branch and should not complete this transaction online. If you prefer not to visit a branch, you can continue with your online transaction, but the Veteran’s Indicator will not appear on your License or ID. There is a question on the Class D, M, or DM License and ID Card Application and the CDL Application asking if the customer is a veteran and if he/she would like the Veteran’s Indicator. A customer who wants the Veteran’s Indicator on his/her Driver’s License, Massachusetts ID card, or Liquor ID card must answer “yes” to this question when applying for, renewing, or ordering a duplicate license or ID card. For more information please visit http://www.massdot.state.ma.us/rmv/.
For a Federally issued photo ID card you can apply for Veterans Administration Health Care. The only card that you may qualify for would be the Veterans Administration’s medical ID card. You will need to complete a VA 1010ez form that can be located on the Veterans Administration Website: https://www.va.gov/vaforms/ . Bring the completed form with a copy of your DD214 to 61 Lincoln St, Room 112 (VA outpatient Clinic) and ask to have it submitted for "eligibility”. Once you have been approved for the VA medical benefits, they will help you get a photo ID that can be used as a discount card.
A Community Intervention Specialist (CIS) will assist veterans residents with accessing services they require, including but not limited to: veterans struggling with reintegration after deployments or service, homelessness, post traumatic stress disorder and traumatic brain injury issues, substance abuse, grieving, hording, need for elder services, or any other health and safety issues. The CIS does not provide long term case management.
Color Sergant Conrad Homan for his actions at the “Battle of the Crater”, Petersburg , VA, 1864. After weeks of preparation, on July 30, 1864, the Union soldiers exploded a mine in Burnside's IX Corps sector beneath Pegram's Salient, blowing a gap in the Confederate defenses of Petersburg in preparations for the fierce fighting later called the "Battle of the Crater". Unit after unit charged into and around the crater, where soldiers milled in confusion. The rebels quickly recovered and launched several counterattacks. The break was sealed off, and the Union Army repulsed with more than 7,000 men killed, wounded, or missing. Twenty three soldiers were awarded Medals of Honor for their valor in this deadly battle, including Color Sergeant Conrad Homan who fought his way through the enemy's lines with the regimental colors, continuing in his charge even after the rest of the color guard had been killed or captured. In all, a total of 64 Medals of Honor were earned in action at Petersburg, Virginia, in the period from March 25 to April 3, 1865. Sgt Homan is buried in Edawrds Cemetery, Framingham, MA.
The Massachusetts Medal of Liberty is awarded in the name of the Governor of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, as Commander-in-Chief of the Commonwealth, to any and all Massachusetts service man or woman killed in action or who died as a result of wounds received in action. It was designed by Sgt. Kristopher W. Adams. Authority to issue medal: Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 33, Section 67A.
Framingham Community Based Outpatient Clinic
61 Lincoln Street, Suite 112
Framingham, MA 01702
Monday - Friday
8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.
Phone: (508) 628-0205/Fax: (508) 628-8224
This community based outpatient clinic, established in 1998 was designed to bring primary care closer to where veterans live. The primary care team manages most health issues and provides veterans with access to a wide range of specialty care providers at the VA Boston Healthcare System when appropriate and necessary. The clinic offers ample free parking. Services Provided and/or arranged through the clinic include:
Advantages to using the clinic include:
Framingham subscribes to the INTERFACE Mental Health Referral Service. This service is staffed by the William James College and can be reached Mondays through Fridays from 9:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m. This helpline is available to all Framingham residents in need of mental health services. Visit https://interface.williamjames.edu/ to learn more about services offered.
Certain disabled veterans and former POWs are eligible for motor vehicle sales and excise tax exemptions. Contact the Department of Revenue at 617-887-6367. The Registry of Motor Vehicles provides a variety of veterans' license plates and a registration exemption for certain veterans. Plates that are available include: Veteran, Legion of Valor, EX-POW, Purple Heart, Pearl Harbor Survivor, Silver Star, Bronze Star, Distinguished Flying Cross, Gold Star Family, Disabled Veteran. Visit http://www.mass.gov/veterans/benefits-and-services/tax-and-vehicles/ for more information.
There are a number of exemptions available to certain disabled veterans and their survivors. Contact your local Veterans' Service Officer or city/town assessor. Visit http://www.sec.state.ma.us/cis/cisvet/vetprptax.htm for more information.
SAVE is a peer outreach program that helps veterans navigate the system of benefits and services through active outreach in the community. SAVE's mission is suicide prevention and advocacy of veterans benefits and services. Outreach coordinators are mobile and meet with veterans in the field. The outreach team is comprised of veterans and family members of veterans. Call SAVE at 888-844-2838 or email email@example.com for more information.
The Department of Veteran Services contracts with a range of non-profit organizations, which provide emergency housing services to eligible veterans. All require that residents maintain a sober and drug-free environment. Services are available to both male and female veterans. Visit http://www.mass.gov/veterans/housing/transitional/ for more information.
Under Chapter 115 of Massachusetts General Laws (M.G.L. ch. 115), the Commonwealth provides a uniform program of financial and medical assistance for indigent veterans and their dependents. Qualifying veterans and their dependents receive necessary financial assistance for food, shelter, clothing, housing supplies, and medical care in accordance with a formula which takes into account the number of dependents and income from all sources. Eligible dependents of deceased veterans are provided with the same benefits as they would were the veteran still living. Visit http://www.mass.gov/veterans/benefits-and-services/family-benefits/state-benefits-for-dependents-of-a-veteran.html for more information.
The Soldiers' Homes in Chelsea (617-884-5660) and Holyoke (413-532-9475) provide a variety of services to veterans, such as, acute hospital, domiciliary, and long-term care, physical and occupational therapy and more. Visit http://www.mass.gov/veterans/housing/soldiers-homes/ for more information.
The MetroWest Regional Transit Authority offers veterans shuttle on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursday. It is open to anyone wishing to go to any of the hospitals listed in the schedule below. Framingham and Natick residents have the option of being picked up and dropped off at their homes. Those not residing in Framingham or Natick must either be dropped off at either the Waverly or Blandin Hub or can be picked up at the Natick VFW Post 1274, located at 113 West Central Street, where there is also space available for those who wish to park free of charge. This shuttle has stops at the following hospitals:
Veterans must preregister with MWRTA before using the service. Visit http://www.mwrta.com for scheduling and application information. If you have any questions regarding this service, please contact the MWRTA Call Center at 1-508-820-4650.
The Disabled American Veterans (DAV) Volunteer VA Hospital Transportation coordinates limited, complimentary transportation services for veterans to the Brockton, West Roxbury, and Jamaica Plain VA hospitals. Service is available Monday through Friday for appointment times between 8:30 a.m. and 12:00 p.m. Please note that riders may need to wait for an extended time after their appointment for the van for the return trip. Riders must be ambulatory or require only a little assistance getting on or off of the van. Unfortunately, the van cannot accommodate wheelchair patients. Appointments are on a first-come, first-served basis and must be made a minimum of two weeks in advance. Because of high demand, DAV cannot accommodate appointments made less than two weeks in advance. To make or change a ride reservation, call 774-826-2264 between 8:00 a.m. and 12:00 P.M., Monday through Friday.
Please provide your name, address, phone number and time and location of your appointment if you reach the voicemail system.
Framingham Veterans Services is now accepting applications for the Veterans Tax Work-off Program. The Commonwealth announced this program as part of the 2012 Valor Act. The Framingham 2013 Town Meeting adopted the program for Framingham. Five positions were approved for veterans who have been residents for at least one year and are homeowners. The program is designed to find flexible hourly (day, night and weekends) work for veterans in exchange for a property tax abatement. For more information and an application please contact the Framingham Department of Veteran Services at 508-532-5515.
You are a veteran if you meet the Federal or Commonwealth requirements listed here. General Eligibility, Federal Eligibility for most VA benefits is based upon discharge from active military service under other than dishonorable conditions. Active service means full-time service, other than active duty for training, as a member of the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, Coast Guard, or as a commissioned officer of the Public Health Service, Environmental Science Services Administration or National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, or its predecessor, the Coast and Geodetic Survey. Generally, men and women veterans with similar service may be entitled to the same VA benefits. Dishonorable and bad conduct discharges issued by general courts-martial may bar VA benefits. Veterans in prison and parolees must contact a VA regional office to determine eligibility. VA benefits will not be provided to any veteran or dependent wanted for an outstanding felony warrant. Certain Federal VA Benefits Require Wartime Service:
General Eligibility, Commonwealth To be eligible for veterans' benefits, one must be a "veteran" or a dependent of a "veteran" under M.G.L. c. 4, sec. 7, cl. 43rd as amended by the Acts of 2005, ch. 130. See below for service requirements and exceptions. Era of Service Dates Requirement for Commonwealth Veteran Status:
For reservists to qualify, they must have been called to regular active duty, at which point their eligibility can be determined by the above chart. Training Duty Exception Active duty service in the armed forces shall not include active duty for training in the Army or Air National Guard or active duty for training as a Reservist in the Armed Forces of the United States.
The mission of the Women Veterans' Network is to provide women with information on benefits; expand awareness of the needs of women veterans; and identify available health and human resources to meet those needs. Call 617-210-5781. Visit http://www.mass.gov/veterans/women-veterans/ for more information.
There is free therapeutic yoga class for veterans held every Monday at 6:00 p.m. at the Parish Hall of Edwards Church in Framingham, behind the Stapleton School. Classes are sponsored by There & Back Again, a veteran wellness program located in Charlestown, MA and founded by Sue Lynch. Here is the info for the class: Mondays 6:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. at Edwards Church, Framingham, MA. Contact firstname.lastname@example.org or Sue Lynch by calling (800) 311-0187.
The first step is to gather all the required supporting documents listed on the first page. The application itself is called the VS1. It is five pages of demographic medical insurance and income questions. In addition there are an Information Release, Agreement to Reimburse and Dept of Revue Child Support check that must also be submitted. All these can be found in the TOF Document Center under VSI Application by clicking the link below.
The Department of Public Works maintains a list of all businesses that carry a drainlayer’s license in the City of Framingham. Click the link for the list of licensed drainlayers.
- 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.
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 City Highway Department is responsible for maintaining these.
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