Frequently Asked Questions

The Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRMs) and Flood Hazard Boundary Maps (FHBMs) portray the Special Flood Hazard Areas (SFHA), within which the purchase of flood insurance is required as a condition of obtaining a mortgage from a federally backed or federally regulated lending institution.  The lender must use the boundaries of the SFHAs shown on the flood maps to determine if the mandatory purchase of flood insurance applies. Thus, even though a site survey may indicate the property location is above the Base Flood Elevation (BFE), and is technically outside the floodplain, if the map indicates that the site is within the dark-shaded SFHA, the lender must require the purchase of flood insurance. The requirement to purchase flood insurance is a condition of any federally backed mortgage loan, including second mortgages, home equity loans, and refinancing of existing loans.

The flood maps are made using the best available topographic information. And the accuracy of the flood maps is dependent upon the accuracy of the topographic information used to develop the flood maps.  It is possible, therefore, that land that is high ground is shown as flood-prone, and some low areas are erroneously shown to be outside of the floodplain.  In addition, FEMA may not know that a developer has brought in earth fill to elevate a building site above the BFE.

FEMA created the Letter of Map Amendment (LOMA) and Letter of Map Revision Based on Fill (LOMR-F) processes to correct and change the flood maps (FIRMs and FHBMs) to reflect actual ground surveys or better topographic mapping. The Letters are issued by FEMA officially removing lots, portions of lots, or structures from the SFHA or changing the boundaries of the SFHA. These letters are dated and sent to the applicant and are also filed with the municipality or county within which the property is located. In the case of a LOMA, the property or building site is removed from the high-risk flood zones designated by the letters A or V, and placed in the less risk-prone flood zones designated as B, C, or X, which are not considered to be SFHAs.

When a LOMA or LOMR-F is issued removing a building site or lot from the SFHA, the mandatory insurance purchase requirement is lifted. However, the lender always has the option of requiring the purchase of flood insurance as a condition of the loan. For example, the proposed site might be just a few inches above the BFE, so the lender feels that there is still a threat of flood damage to the property -their interest.  On the plus side, once the flood zone has been changed to the B, C, or X zone, the building may qualify for a Preferred Risk Policy, the least expensive flood insurance policy available.

Letter of Map Amendment (LOMA): This is used to amend the effective flood map by letter and establishes a property's location in relation to the SFHA based on detailed elevation surveying and/or topographic mapping of natural conditions.  If the entire property or the building site, including the lowest floor of the building is above the BFE, FEMA can amend the FIRM or FHBM by letter to remove the lot or building from the SFHA.

Letter of Map Revision Based on FiJI (LOMR-F): When fill has been placed on the property to raise the lot or building site to an elevation that is above the BFE, FEMA can revise the FIRM or FHBM by letter to remove the raised area from the SFHA. This is a man-made change to the floodplain.

A property owner may apply for a LOMA or LOMR-F by using FEMA Form MT-I or MT-EZ. These forms are available from the FEMA Map Assistance Center by calling the toll-free number 1-877-FEMA-MAP or 877-336-2627. Download FEMA Form MT-I or MT-EZ

A LOMA is free of charge because it is based on existing natural conditions and provides information to refine or correct the flood map. A fee is charged for the LOMR-F because it involves a man-made change to the floodplain and, therefore, requires more extensive review to assure that the fill placement is sufficient to warrant removal from the SFHA. The amount of the fee is dependent on the complexity of the review.

Any property owner or developer may apply for a LOMA or LOMR-F. However, a site plan and boundary survey, property description, and Elevation Information Form, Elevation Data Sheet, or Elevation Certificate must accompany each application. The elevation information must be prepared, sealed, and certified by a Registered Professional Land Surveyor. The applicant is responsible for paying for this survey information.

It normally takes 6-8 weeks from the time an application is received until a LOMA or LOMR-F is issued.  Applications are processed on a first-come, first-served basis. Incomplete applications are not processed.  If Information is missing from the application, the processing is put on hold and the applicant is provided a written notice of what information is missing.  When the missing data is submitted, the application is re-entered at the end of the line of applications awaiting review.

Buy the flood insurance!  If you want to close without waiting 6-8 weeks for a LOMA or LOMR-F to be issued, buy the flood insurance and proceed with the closing.  If the lender approves, when the LOMA or LOMR-F is issued, the flood insurance may be canceled and the current year's premium will be refunded unless a claim has been paid or pending.

Usually, you can get a complete refund of the flood insurance premium when the LOMA or LOMR-F is approved. Following a map revision, the flood insurance policy can be canceled provided that the mortgage lender confirms in writing that: (1) the flood insurance was initially required as part of the mortgage; and, (2) because the LOMA or LOMR-F was issued, the requirement for flood insurance no longer applies. Provided no flood insurance claim has been paid or is pending, the full premium will be refunded for the current policy year.  If a claim has been paid or is pending, no refund is allowed. For instance, when a low mortgage interest rate has been locked in for a limited period of time, it may be beneficial to purchase the flood insurance and close the loan at a good interest rate. Then, when the LOMA or LOMR-F is issued, a refund of the premium can be requested. The other alternative is to apply for the LOMA or LOMR-F and wait until it is approved to close the mortgage loan without purchasing flood insurance. The choice is up to you.

Call the FEMA Map Assistance  Center at  1-877-FEMA-MAP (1-877-336-2627) to obtain a copy of the application forms.   If the LOMA  or LOMF-F will involve a single lot or single structure, the MT-EZ form may be used.  For multiple lots or multiple structures, the MT-1 form should be used.  You may download the MT-1 or MT-EZ forms directly from the FEMA web site.

East of the Mississippi River

FEMA Regions I-V
FEMA LOMA Depot
P.O. Box 2210
Merrifield, VA 22116-2210

West of the Mississippi River

FEMA Regions VI-X
FEMA LOMA Depot
3601 Eisenhower Avenue, Suite 600
Alexandria, VA 22304

If the property is in a Flood Zone A, without a letter or number after the "A", the flood zone is approximate and not based on a detailed flood study. No BFE has been determined for the area. FEMA can only approve a LOMA or LOMR-F if a BFE has been established using standard engineering methodology.

What to do? Sometimes, another government agency has actually conducted a flood study and determining flood elevations. Or possibly the prope1ty is located in a newly developed subdivision for which flood elevations were developed as part of the land development process. In any case, check with your local building, planning, zoning, or stormwater management office. If a BFE has been developed, we suggest that you request that the local government share this information with you.

If there is no existing flood study, one will have to be developed by a registered engineer in order to process a LOMA or LOMR-F. FEMA publication 263, entitled "Managing Floodplain Development in Approximate Zone A Areas", may help guide an engineer in conducting the necessary flood study. This manual may be ordered free of charge by calling 1-800-480-2520 or downloading the manual from the FEMA website.

A residential building permit is usually required for home renovations, repairs, and additions.

(Excluding  painting, putting up wallpaper and removing or changing interior floor coverings)

Do I need a permit for painting or wallpaper?

No. These activities, as well as minor repairs such as replacing a few shingles on your house, are considered “ordinary repairs” by the state building code and do not require a permit. The code defines ordinary repairs as “Any maintenance which does not affect the structure, egress, fire protection systems, fire ratings, energy conservation provisions, plumbing, sanitary, gas electrical or other utilities.”

 Is a permit required to replace windows in my home?

Yes. Window replacement is an energy conservation matter covered in the state building code.

 Do I need a permit to put up a fence? What is the Town of Tewksbury regulations concerning fences?

The town does not have its own fence regulations. Tewksbury defers to the state laws on fencing. A permit is not required to put up a fence up to 7 feet in height. However, if the property is located on a corner lot, the corner clearance regulations in the Tewksbury zoning by-law must be followed.

Please refer to Sections: 5.3.1. D and 5.3.1. E.5  of the Town of Tewksbury Zoning Bylaw

HOMEOWNERS ARE RESPONSIBLE FOR INSTALLING THE FENCE ON THIER PROPERTY.  Property lines can be determined by a Certified plot plan. 

  Do I need a permit to put a shed in my yard?

Possibly.   If the shed is over 200 sf A building permit and a plot plan is required .  If the shed is 200 sf or less a building permit is not required.  The shed must be under 20' high, it must be at least 10' from side and rear lot lines, 25' from all streets and behind the front set back of the existing house.  It is the homeowners responsibility to know where their lot lines are located.

Please refer to Section 5.3.1 E Accessory Structures of the Town of Tewksbury Zoning Bylaw

Please contact the Conservation Department before commencing any site work including, but not limited to, grading, filling, or otherwise altering the land.

To apply for a Building Permit Click this link:

https://tewksburyma.viewpointcloud.com/

The Building Department can be reached at 978-640-4430. 

A computer is available in the lobby for permits to be applied, if needed.

View Building Permit Fees

Possibly. You must Complete a Homeowners Affidavit, and you must meet the definition of a homeowner.

The owner of a one or two family dwelling is allowed to secure their own building permit, in lieu of a licensed general contractor. In essence, the homeowner becomes the general contractor and is responsible for all related work performed at the property, up to and including ensuring full compliance with all provisions covered under the Massachusetts State Building Code. All contractors hired by the homeowner are considered sub-contractors and should have the proper insurance otherwise the homeowner may be liable for any injuries incurred on the property through their homeowner's insurance. The homeowner is not allowed to secure permits for electrical work and plumbing/gas work; these permits must be secured by the respective licensed contractor.

Important Note: Owners not using registered contractors or obtaining their own permits cannot receive payment from the Massachusetts guaranty fund as outlined in the Home Improvement Contractor registration program.

No. It is required that a Massachusetts Licensed Plumber or Gas Fitter applies for permits and to perform plumbing and gas fitting work.

No. It is required that a Massachusetts Licensed Electrician applies for electrical permits and performs all the work. Permits are required for all wiring jobs, whether big or small. 

A BUILDING PERMIT IS REQUIRED FOR ANY POOL  THAT HOLDS 24" OR MORE OF WATER. This includes “portable”, "temporary" and “inflatable”

The following information must accompany the completed building permit application:

A certified plot plan, to scale, showing the location of the proposed swimming pool, accessory structures (i.e. cabanas, pool shed, etc.) and, if applicable, the location of septic tanks, cesspool and leaching fields. Swimming pools are required to be setback a minimum of ten feet from both side and rear property lines. The swimming pool is also required to be located behind the rearmost point of the dwelling and no closer than ten feet from another building on the same lot (i.e. dwelling, garage, cabana, shed, etc.). It is also required that the location of the fence that will be used to enclose the swimming pool be located on the plot plan as well.

Specifications / plans, to scale, of the swimming pool. These specifications/plans will show, among other things, size, depth, material used to construct pool, diving board location, if applicable, and technical/structural information. With respects to in-ground pools, the plans are stamped by an engineer certifying code compliance. Specifications for aboveground pools are usually found in the pool manufacturer's brochure. If not, the company selling and/or installing the pool should be able to provide this information for you.

Building Permit Application must be approved / signed-off by the Conservation Agent. Please note: if the swimming pool is located within wetland boundaries then approval by the Conservation Commission will be required prior to the building permit process moving forward.

The Massachusetts State Building Code has very specific requirements for Swimming bool barrier & enclosure. For more info-please refer to FAQ: What are the swimming pool barrier & enclosure requirements?

Licensed electrician must apply for wiring permit prior to building permit being issued.

A plot plan is a plan of the survey done of the property which shows the location of the principal structure(s) and accessory structures. The survey is prepared by a state licensed land surveyor. The building department MAY have a plot plan, only if submitted with a past building permit. Property files viewed in the Building Department during regular business hours. 

It is the homeowner's responsibility to hire a surveyor if a plot plan is needed.

The following is for guidance only, as may not cover all scenarios or situations. 

  A BUILDING PERMIT IS REQUIRED FOR ANY POOL THAT HAS WATER DEPTHS GREATER THAN 24"

The barrier provisions contained within Section 305 of the 2015 International Swimming Pool and Spa Code apply to indoor and outdoor swimming pools and hot tubs with water depths greater than 24”. This includes “portable”, "temporary" and “inflatable” swimming pools. 

Required pool barriers or fences must be at least 48” high and constructed to prevent climbing by children. Access gates must be self-closing and self-latching, swinging away from the pool with hardware arranged so that the gate cannot be opened from the side opposite the pool.

For above ground pools, the wall of the pool may serve as the barrier, provided it meets the 48 inch height requirement and access to the pool is via a “closable, lockable ladder” A removable ladder is NOT acceptable unless it is closable and lockable. 

In addition to outside walls or fences as barriers any doors or windows from the dwelling (where the walls of the dwelling are used as a portion of the pool enclosure) with direct access to the pool area must be equipped with alarms that are listed and labeled as a water hazard entrance alarm in accordance with UL 2017. The alarm must be audible in all portions of the home and activated
when the door is opened. 

See section 5.3 of the Tewksbury Zoning Bylaw:

https://www.tewksbury-ma.gov/696/Charter-Bylaws

• How can I view open permits for a specific property?

You can search for permit records by property address via the Tewksbury Town Website. Visit https://www.tewksbury-ma.gov and click on Departments, then Building and  Click on LINK https://tewksburyma.viewpointcloud.com/ in center of the page. Next, click on the “Search” tab found on the top right-hand corner.   In the “Locations” search box, search for the address.   Once you select the desired address, you can view all associated permits. Open permits are listed as “active” and closed permits are listed as “complete”. Click on the record number for further details. 

What does the status ACTIVE, COMPLETE, STOPPED mean?

Active

This Does not guarantee permit is ISSUED OR CURRENT. 

ACTIVE shows  when an application is still in review (not issued) 

ACTIVE shows when a permit is issued    

ACTIVE may be expired (but has not been marked as Stopped yet)

Complete

COMPLETE  shows when FINAL inspection was completed and Permit is considered COMPLETE/CLOSED

  Stopped

Stopped shows   when an application has been rejected (rejected for missing information)

Stopped shows   when an permit has been cancelled (by contractor/owner)

Stopped shows  when a permit is Expired

 Why is a permit still showing as active/open?   

 There are several inspections that take place during the life of a permit. In order for a permit to be closed out administratively, the project would need to “pass” the FINAL inspection.  If there is a permit showing as active/open, it is likely that a final inspection was never performed. It is the duty of the original licensed contractor/permit holder to call the Building Department to request the inspection.

• How can I close out a permit?  
  • Building Permits:  A permit cannot be closed out until a final inspection takes place.                                                                                                                                                  However, we cannot inspect under EXPIRED permits. If a permit is EXPIRED, a new permit may be required.
  • Plumbing, Gas & Electrical Permits:, in order to be closed out, a final inspection would need to take place.  The work to be inspected must be accessible to the inspector. If you cannot get in touch with the original licensed contractor/permit holder but you are insistent on closing out a permit, you would need to hire a new contractor, apply for a new permit, and undergo a final inspection. Please note that under the new permit, the work to be inspected would need to be compliant with current code. 
• My permit is showing as active/open but I know that a final inspection was done – now what?                                                                                                                             If you have proof that a final inspection was done, please provide our department with the necessary documentation. You would need to provide the original permit card showing the required signatures. 
   

 We always recommend you come into the office to view property file.

No. These activities, as well as minor repairs such as replacing a few shingles on your house, are considered “ordinary repairs” by the state building code and do not require a permit. The code defines ordinary repairs as “Any maintenance which does not affect the structure, egress, fire protection systems, fire ratings, energy conservation provisions, plumbing, sanitary, gas electrical or other utilities.”

Yes. Window replacement is an energy conservation matter covered in the state building code.

Yes. A building permit and electrical permit is required.  A plot plan is also needed.

The town does not have its own fence regulations. Tewksbury defers to the state laws on fencing. A permit is not required to put up a fence up to 7 feet in height. However, if the property is located on a corner, the corner clearance regulations in the Tewksbury zoning by-law must be followed.

https://www.tewksbury-ma.gov/DocumentCenter/View/4550/Zoning-Bylaw-January-2024

5.3 COMMUNITY DESIGN, DIMENSIONAL, AND DENSITY REQUIREMENTS  5.3.1. General Requirements  E. Accessory Structures

5. Fences not exceeding seven feet and flag poles not exceeding 20 feet shall be exempt from the setback requirements of this Section. Fences that serve as a buffer between abutting residential and industrial /commercial uses and between industrial and commercial uses may exceed seven feet with approval of the Planning Board and are not subject to setback requirements. In no event shall a fence over seven feet in height be permitted on a residential property abutting another residential use.

Yes.   If the shed is over 200 sf, a building permit and a plot plan is required .  If the shed is 200 sf or less no building permit is required.  The shed must be under 20' high, it must be at least 10' from side and rear lot lines, 25' from all streets and behind the front set back of the existing house.  It is the homeowners responsibility to know where their lot lines are located.

There is no implied compliance with other Town bylaws and regulations through this exemption. Please contact the Conservation Department for further review. 

Stormwater is any runoff from rain or snow melt that drains into the Town’s drainage systems and ultimately ends up in groundwater, ponds, streams and/or wetland resource areas.

As rain or snowmelt flows over paved surfaces it carries with it any pollutants such as oils, fertilizer, sand, and trash. Unlike sanitary sewer, stormwater is not treated. The pollutants will eventually enter groundwater, ponds, streams and / or wetland resource areas and can contaminate drinking water supplies, fish and wildlife habitat.

• Do not dump household waste such as paint, cleaning products, motor oils, antifreeze, pet waste or any other hazardous material into catch basins, streams, ponds and wetland areas
• Minimize the use of fertilizers near grated catch basins, streams, ponds and  wetland areas
• Maintain your home’s septic tank and leaching field by regularly  pumping and repairing when necessary
• Whenever possible use Environmentally friendly, biodegradable  products when cleaning outside
• Do not drain chlorinated swimming pools into grated catch basins or onto the street
• If you must wash your car at home, wash it on the lawn to encourage infiltration and use low-phosphate detergents
• Always dispose of pet waste in the trash
• Minimize salt use on walkways and driveways near streams, ponds and / or wetland areas
• Make sure your vehicle or yard equipment is not leaking any oils or fluids
• Always Remember: Only Rain in the Drain

• Keep your dumpster area clean and your dumpster's lid closed. Never fill it with liquid waste or hose it out
• Clean mats, filters and garbage cans in a mop sink, wash rack or floor drain connected to the sewer through a grease trap. Never wash them in a parking lot, sidewalk or street
• Use dry methods for spill cleanup. Never hose down spills
• Recycle grease and oil. Do not pour it into sinks, floor drains, catch basins or onto a parking lot
• Always keep waste liquid bins covered and contained
• Recycle solvents, oil, and used filters, anti-freeze, batteries, lubricants and metal filings
• Use drip pans underneath vehicles to capture fluids. Use absorbent cleaning agents instead of water to clean work areas

• Do not store or stockpile materials near a storm drain, catch basins, wetlands or streams
• Schedule excavation, grading, and paving operations for dry weather periods
• Maintain all hay bales and silt fence
• Protect stockpiles by storing under a roof, impermeable tarp, or plastic sheeting
• Prevent erosion by implementing soil stabilization practices such as mulching and temporary seeding
• Educate your employees and subcontractors about stormwater management requirements and their pollution prevention responsibilities

Carbon monoxide (CO) is an odorless, colorless gas that interferes with the delivery of oxygen in the blood to the rest of the body. It is produced by the incomplete combustion of fuels.
 

Carbon monoxide is produced as a result of incomplete burning of carbon-containing fuels including coal, wood, charcoal, natural gas, and fuel oil. It can be emitted by combustion sources such as unvented kerosene and gas space heaters, furnaces, woodstoves, gas stoves, fireplaces and water heaters, automobile exhaust from attached garages, and tobacco smoke. Problems can arise as a result of improper installation, maintenance, or inadequate ventilation.

Carbon monoxide interferes with the distribution of oxygen in the blood to the rest of the body. Depending on the amount inhaled, this gas can impede coordination, worsen cardiovascular conditions, and produce fatigue, headache, weakness, confusion, disorientation, nausea, and dizziness. Very high levels can cause death.

The symptoms are sometimes confused with the flu or food poisoning. Fetuses, infants, the elderly, and people with heart and respiratory illnesses are particularly at high risk for the adverse health effects of carbon monoxide.  An estimated 300 people die each year as a result of carbon monoxide poisoning and thousands of others end up in hospital emergency rooms.

• Do not burn charcoal inside a home, cabin, recreational vehicle, or camper.   
• Do not use ovens and gas ranges to heat your home.   
• Do not use unvented gas or kerosene space heaters in enclosed spaces.   
• Ensure that appliances are properly adjusted and working to manufacturers' instructions and local building codes.   
• Make sure stoves and heaters are vented to the outside and that exhaust systems do not leak.   
• Make sure your furnace has an adequate intake of outside air.  
• Never leave a car or lawnmower engine running in a shed or garage, or in any enclosed space.   
• Obtain annual inspections for heating systems, chimneys, and flues and have them cleaned by a qualified technician.   
• Open flues when fireplaces are in use.   
• Use proper fuel in kerosene space heaters.  

Don't ignore symptoms, especially if more than one person is feeling them. If you think you are suffering from carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning, you should

• Get fresh air immediately. Open doors and windows. Turn off combustion appliances and leave the house.
• Call 911 or go to an emergency room. Be sure to tell the EMT or physician that you suspect CO poisoning.

Be prepared to answer the following questions: Is anyone else in your household complaining of similar symptoms? Did everyone's symptoms appear about the same time? Are you using any fuel-burning appliances in the home? Has anyone inspected your appliances lately? Are you certain they are working properly?   

Carbon monoxide (CO) detectors can be used as a backup but not as a replacement for proper use and maintenance of your fuel-burning appliances. CO detector technology is still being developed and the detectors are not generally considered to be as reliable as the smoke detectors found in homes today. You should not choose a CO detector solely on the basis of cost; do some research on the different features available.  Carbon monoxide detectors should meet Underwriters Laboratories Inc. standards, have a long-term warranty, and be easily self-tested and reset to ensure proper functioning. For maximum effectiveness during sleeping hours, carbon monoxide detectors should be placed close to sleeping areas.  They should also be located in the area of your heating equipment.  

• Check to see if any member of your household is experiencing symptoms.   
• Have a qualified technician inspect your fuel-burning appliances and chimneys to make sure they are operating correctly.
• If no one is feeling symptoms, ventilate the home with fresh air and turn off all potential sources of CO.   
• If they are, get them out of the house immediately and seek medical attention.   
• If your CO detector goes off, you should:  
• Make sure it is the CO detector and not the smoke alarm.  

Backflow is when the normal flow of water is reversed from its intended direction in any pipeline or plumbing system. When cross-connections exist, this can cause containments to enter the pipeline or distribution system.

A cross-connection is when a non-potable substance comes into contact with the potable drinking water supply.

Backpressure is a resistance or force opposing the desired flow in a pipeline.

Back-Siphonage is the reversal of normal flow in a system caused by negative pressure. Things that can cause this would be a water break, or using a fire hydrant.

A backflow preventer is a testable or non-testable cross-connection control device that prevents potential pollutants and contaminants from flowing into the public water system.

Owners of any industrial, commercial, agricultural, municipal and / or private residence are required to eliminate any cross-connections. If the cross-connection cannot be eliminated, then a backflow device may be required.

Yes, you can call 911 on your cell phone. However, be prepared to give the 911 call taker information about your location, because it is not the same as calling 911 on your home or business phone. It is free to call 911 on your cell phone.

Assume the 911 call taker does not know your location. Even if your cell phone is able to provide location information, you will need to provide the 911 call taker with additional location information. Remember, the approximate location the 911 center receives could be as large as 3 football fields or more. Be prepared to give specific directions to your location if possible.

Look for landmarks, large buildings, street signs or anything nearby that may contain address information. Think back to the main street or highway you were near when your emergency occurred. If others are around, ask them where you are. Do not depend on your cell phone to tell 911 where you are!

Maybe or maybe not, depending upon your cell phone and the technology available within the 911 center your 911 call connects with. The safest way to approach the problem is to assume that the 911 call taker will not know your phone number and be prepared to provide them with that information.

All wireless 911 calls placed in Massachusetts are routed to call takers at regional communications centers or the Massachusetts State Police. If you dial 911 from a cellular phone while in Tewksbury, the call will be routed to the Essex County Regional Emergency Communications Center. Depending on the location and nature of the call, the caller will be transferred to the local 911 center for further assistance.

Always try to call 911 back. Don't wait for the 911 call taker to try to contact you. They may not have received your cell phone number in the initial 911 call and may need additional information.

It is usually best to pull over when calling 911, as there is less chance of the cell phone signal being dropped if in a stationary location. Additionally, any emergency instructions that need to be carried out can best be done while stopped. Finally, if help needs to reach you it is best to be in one place so help can get to you, instead of trying to meet them somewhere. If you cannot safely pull over to speak to 911 then stay calm, pay attention to the roadway with surrounding vehicles, and follow the 911 call taker's instructions.

No, please do not program 911 or use the auto 911 feature. There are numerous accidental calls to 911 from cell phones that have this feature. The callers often don't realize that their phone has called 911. Help reduce accidental calls to 911 by only calling when you have an emergency.

Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) is an emerging technology that allows voice quality calls to be made over Internet connections. To access a VoIP service, the customer needs the provided adapter which is placed in between the computer and high-speed internet and a standard household telephone.

Unlike the traditional Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN), VoIP uses advanced technology to convert your voice into data that allows you to place and receive calls over a high-speed broadband internet connection. Also VoIP is not confined to your home - VoIP service can be accessed from anywhere there is a high-speed broadband internet connection.

There are a number features that make VoIP appealing to consumers. The following are a few of those features:

• There is cost savings associated with making long distance calls over the Internet rather than the (PSTN). Since VoIP doesn't use a traditional telephone service there are no long distance charges to incur.
• VoIP is portable - a VoIP subscriber can take the VoIP adapter with them anywhere they go as long as there is a high speed broadband connection. This portability allows the subscriber to keep their local number when they are away from their home.
• Some VoIP providers allow customers to have Vanity Numbers, which lets you choose a specific sequence of digits that often spells a word or company name using the letters on your phone keypad.

Yes, with an adapter you can use it anywhere in the world where you have a high-speed broadband internet connection. You can bring your VoIP adapter anywhere and you won't pay long distance rates when calling back home. For example if a VoIP subscriber travels from their home in Boston to California they can call home to Boston and receive calls from Boston with no long distance charges even though they are physically in California.

Yes, your service will work even if you are simultaneously accessing the Internet, sending files or instant messaging over the same broadband connection with your computer.

It depends on your VoIP service provider. VoIP is regulated at the federal level, therefore VoIP service providers (VSPs) are not subject to the Commonwealth's E 911 requirement. In June of 2005 the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) issued an Order, (FCC 05-116) mandating that all VSPs deliver E 911 services no later than November 28, 2005.

The State 911 Department has worked with our E 911 service provider and VSPs serving Massachusetts to integrate the technology into our E 911 system. Before a VSP can be approved to provide VoIP service in Massachusetts they must go through a testing process with the State 911 Department to ensure the calls are delivered with complete and accurate information. For a list of VSPs currently approved to provide E 911 service in Massachusetts please visit the State 911 Department page.

A VoIP emergency service differs in a number of important ways from traditional emergency response services:

• A public safety answering point (PSAP) may get an emergency call on a regular ten digit line without location information or call back number.
• An accurate, up to date Service Address is required to route your calls to the closest PSAP in the event that you dial 911.
• If you relocate your VoIP Service phone on a temporary basis, such as taking your equipment with you when you go to a vacation home, you must use a different telephone to dial 911 from your new location.
• VoIP will not work during power outages, network outages network congestion. The use of data services at the same time as VoIP might also affect sound quality.

Here are some important tips when considering going to a VoIP phone service:

• Confirm with the VSP that they provide E 911 services and are in compliance with FCC Order 05-116.
• Provide your accurate physical address to your VSP to ensure that emergency services can be quickly sent to your location.
• Be familiar with your VSPs procedures for updating your address, and promptly update address information in the event of a change.
• Have a clear understanding of any limitations of your 911 service.
• Inform children, babysitters, and visitors about your VoIP service and its 911 limitations, if any.
• If the power is out or your broadband connection is down, be aware that your VoIP service may also be out. Consider installing a backup power supply, maintaining a traditional phone line and analog phone, or having a cellular phone as a backup.
• If you have questions about whether the phone service you are receiving is a VoIP service, contact your service provider for further information.

CodeRED is a new emergency notification service by which the Tewksbury Police Department can notify Tewksbury residents and businesses by telephone, cellular phone, text message, or electronic mail about time-sensitive emergency situations or important Community alerts. The system is capable of sending messages only to specific neighborhoods or the entire Town.

Any message regarding the safety or welfare of our community would be disseminated using the CodeRED system. Examples would include severe weather warnings and updates, hazardous traffic or road conditions inside the town or affecting local routes, and any other situation that could impact the safety, property, or welfare of the Community.

The CodeRED Database does use information received from public databases including regional phone books. Cellphones and Unlisted numbers may not be available. The home page of the Tewksbury Police Department website, has a link to a CodeRED registration form you can fill out online. This is the quickest way to sign up because the information you supply will immediately update Tewksbury's CodeRED telephone number database. If you do not have access to the internet at home, please consider using a computer at the Tewksbury Library or ask a friend or family member for assistance. Online registration is the most efficient, accurate and private way to supply your information.

To register online you might first have to adjust your internet browser to enable cookies, otherwise you may receive an error message. If you can not register online, you can call the Tewksbury Police Department at 978-851-7373, ext. 211. It is our intention and hope that every residence and commercial facility in our community will be included in the notification database.

Yes. Fill out the CodeRED online registration form but be sure to select the "This address is business" option. Please note that emergency calls can only be delivered to a direct dial number. Automated attendants will disrupt the process and the calls will not be delivered. Businesses should register their main number and establish a procedure for distributing the CodeRED message to their workforce.

After you submit the initial registration form, you may start the registration process again and submit more numbers for the same address.

CodeRED is a service of Network Emergency Communications (ECN) which takes security and privacy concerns very seriously and does not sell trade, lease or loan any data about clients to any third party.

A CodeRED Emergency message will have a caller ID of 866-419-5000. A CodeRED General message will have a caller ID 855-969-4636. We suggest you program both numbers in your cell phone as a "new contact" and use "CodeRED Emergency" and "CodeRED General" as the contact name. If you need to replay the emergency notification message again, simply dial the number and you will be able to hear the message again.

A CodeRED message will begin with the same standard announcement: "Hello, this is an emergency message from the Tewksbury Police Department". The message content will follow this standard introduction.

Listen carefully to the entire message. It will be brief and at the end of the message, you will have the option to repeat the message by pressing any key. Follow the instructions given. Do not hang up until you have heard the entire message or you might miss vital information. Do not call 911 for further information unless directed to do so or if you need immediate aid from the Police or Fire department.

1. Make sure you have at least one working corded telephone - and be sure to turn the ringer on.
2. The CodeRED sign-up form gives you the option of filling in both a Primary Phone number and an alternate phone number. You can fill in the Alternate Phone number with another contact number such as your cell phone number or work number. Entering an alternate phone number will cause both your primary and alternate phone numbers to be called.

Yes, CodeRED will leave a message on a machine or on voice mail. Part of the CodeRED solution is the patented ability to recognize answering devices and leave the message completely in one pass.

If the line is busy, CodeRED will try two more times to connect.

• If you have moved or changed your phone number and have not registered your new contact information, CodeRED may not be able to contact you.
• If you have only cordless phones in your residence, the power is out and you have not registered an alternate phone number, CodeRED will not be able to contact you.
• If your line is busy for an extended period and your calls do not forward to voice mail or an answering machine in a busy condition, after three tries CodeRED will stop calling your number. The Town will receive a report of undelivered calls and can instruct CodeRED to begin another round of calls to busy numbers. It's best to have an alternate phone number in the calling database for these situations.
• If you have privacy manager on your main phone service, CodeRED will not be able to contact you unless you have registered an alternate number that will accept the call.

Cloudiness or white water is indicative of air dissolved in the water. To test this theory fill a glass with water from affected tap and watch to see if the cloudiness dissipates. Generally, when breaks occur, water mains must be shut off. During the opening and closing of valves, air can be introduced into the distribution which causes the water to appear cloudy. This air will make its way out of the water in time. If the cloudiness persists there may be a plumbing issue within the household. Call the Water Treatment Plant at Phone: 978-858-0345 for further information.

Frequently, iron and manganese which are found in almost all water distributions may cause staining in toilets or sinks. Often times the bleach products we use to clean our toilet bowls will cause the small amount of iron and manganese that is dissolved in the water to "fall out" of solution or become deposited on the surface of the bowl. As more water flushes by, the deposit builds until it becomes a stain.

The best method of minimizing stains is by scrubbing them away, however, be careful to not scratch the surface. Scratches make for the perfect environment for particles to embed and further exasperate the problem. For heavy-duty scaling, try a Lime-Away type product or a non-bleach cleanser. Pink staining is a form of biofilm which can be a nuisance as well. These stains generally show up when the water lies in the presence of soap. The tiny bacteria that causes the stain, feeds on soap scum. The best preventative action to take, if you experience this type of staining, is to rinse and wipe down the walls of the showers and / or sinks.

Often times banging occurs when the flow of air and water are not appropriately mixed. This may indicate the need for a plumber.

Our water is considered soft. We generally maintain 1 - 2 grains of hardness in our finished water. This means that less soap is needed to do things like washing our hair, cleaning our clothes, and running our dishwashers.

Consult your dishwasher manuals to be sure just how much detergent is necessary to wash your dishes. You will be pleased to find you will probably need to use half of the detergent that will fit in the reservoir since dishwashers are made universally for all types of water. You may be wasting money and etching glasses by using too much detergent.

To determine the cause of the odor, fill a clean glass (smell it first to be sure it isn't the source) and walk away from the tap. Is the smell still there?

If so, you may be sensitive to the bleach we add to the water to keep it safe. As a preventative action bleach is added to our finish water (a tiny amount, less than 1 part per million), but this nearly de minimis amount ensures bacteria does not grow in the water as it travels to you through the pipes.

During seasonal variations in our Water Treatment Plant's source water, we may get an increase in naturally occurring organisms that cause taste and odor problems. Although they are unpleasant to our noses, they are harmless.

If the water you draw from the tap smells but does not smell when you fill a glass and walk away from the faucet, the problem may be the sink.

Often times odors related to garbage disposals or "u traps" are the culprit. Food particles caught in the disposal will rot and give off odors. Also, dishwashers may be a cause of odor since they are plumbed in line with a sink and could be depositing food particles. If you suspect either to be the cause, an easy and efficient way to clean the disposal is to pour 1/2 cup of bleach (residents with septic tanks should not use bleach), vinegar, or baking soda with a couple of ice cubes. Run cold water and the disposal. This will dislodge and flush away any food particles.

If you suspect the dishwasher is the problem check by keeping the door to the dishwasher closed, smell the sink drain then open the dishwasher and smell inside of it. If the dishwasher is the source try doing a rinse cycle without dishes. Also, be sure to scrap and/or rinse dishes before loading the dishwasher or run more frequently to minimize the chance of food particles rotting.

You could have a problem with drainage or your trap.

Try running a bleach load in an empty machine to see if the smell disappears.

If nothing helps, call the Water Treatment Plant at Phone: 978-858-0345.

Be sure to consult an aquarium reference for adding fish to water containing free chlorine. Our water has a free chlorine residual to protect against bacteria growth.

The Town of Tewksbury's wells is no longer in service. Our water is pumped from the Merrimack River and treated at our Water Treatment Plant on Merrimack Drive.

As of March 2022, $7.55 per 1000 gallons for the first 12,000 gallons, $10.67 per 1000 gallons for the next 12,000 gallons, $14.19 per 1000 gallons for 25,000 to 46,000 gallons, and $17.73 per 1000 gallons above 47,000 gallons.

Further questions, call Water Billing at Phone: 978-640-4350.

Call Water Billing with your pool size at Phone: 978-640-4350.

Check your clothes washer manual.

Are you using the appropriate amount of detergent for 1 - 2 grains of hardness? Try using 1 / 2 of the recommended dosage of detergent.

Are you properly rinsing out all the soap? Try doing an extra rinse cycle. Since most newer machines are more energy-efficient they use less water as well. Sometimes an excess of soap makes matters worse since some air-born bacteria love soap scum.

Call the Department of Public Works main line at Phone: 978-640-4440 or the Water and Sewer Division at Phone; 978-640-4440, extension 226.

Problems related to Sewer installation, call Phone: 978-640-4440, extension 224

Brown water is usually an indication of rust dissolved in the water. Rust can be drawn into the distribution by changes in flow or water main breaks. Generally, these episodes will clear if a cold water tap runs for a few minutes. If the discoloration doesn't clear contact the Water Treatment Plant at Phone: 978-858-0345 for further instructions. When experiencing brown water refrain from doing laundry. Do not use bleach since it will interact with the rust and cause staining.

Click this link for the State's Trash/Recycling instructions  

Click here to purchase trash and/or recycling toters and trash overflow stickers.

*Please note there is an additional fee of $145 per each additional trash cart, due annually by June 30th. Currently, there is no fee for additional recycling carts.

Click here to purchase a 65g trash toter and a 95g recycling toter for your new home.  Please select New Construction

Please click here to order

Republic Services will either repair or replace your toter free of charge. Please call the Town Manager's office at (978)640-4300 to request repair or replacement. 

There are three ways to pay a parking violation in the Town of Tewksbury:

• Pay Online
• Pay by mail: mail money order or check payable to the Parking Clerk
• Pay in person: visit the Office of the Parking Clerk in Town Hall

If a parking ticket is not paid and you do not appeal the ticket within 21 days, late fees will be assessed.

If you think a parking ticket that was issued to you was not valid, you can appeal the ticket in two ways:

• Hearing in Person: complete the Parking Violation Hearing in Person Request (PDF)
• Hearing by Mail or Email: complete the Parking Violation Hearing by Mail Request (PDF)
• Include a copy of the ticket and any supporting documentation, then submit it by email, or mail to:
  Parking Clerk
  Town Hall
  1009 Main Street
  Tewksbury, MA 01876

In accordance with Massachusetts General Law, if you choose to appeal your ticket by mail or email, there will be no further right of appeal.

We recognize that IT issues can slow you down. This new portal will allow us to receive & address your request faster! And, allow you to stay up to speed on the progress we're making on your request. 

1. Visit Help Portal
2. Enter your email address and login
3. Explain your request and click submit
4. Your issue is submitted - and you never even had to pick up the phone or leave your desk!
5. You can even check the status of your previous requests.

You may request this information in person or by mail.  If requesting by mail, please provide a self-addressed stamped envelope.  Additional fees may apply.

The fee is five dollars for tax services only. Duplicate bills can be found by logging into the City Hall Systems website and entering the bill Number and last name or we can reproduce a copy free for residents.

View the Online Presentment and Payment FAQs (PDF).

A return envelope is enclosed with each bill that is addressed to a post office box for our lockbox service. The lockbox service is provided by Century Bank of Medford, MA. The mail is opened, sorted, and then posted to a file which is electronically forwarded to the Town for posting to the taxpayer's individual accounts. Checks are deposited daily. Any correspondence that is out of the ordinary is returned to the Treasurer / Collector's Office for further attention.

Motor vehicle excise taxes are due 30 days from the date of issuance. The bills are generated from the Registry of Motor Vehicles and are produced from the information provided to the Registry from your vehicle registration.

Personal Property Tax is assessed to and is the responsibility of the owner of the record. The owner of the record is the owner of the property as of January 1st of the previous calendar year. Please contact the Assessor's Office to see if you are eligible for abatement.

Massachusetts General Laws, Chapter 60a, Section 2 states "So long as a municipality mails an excise bill to a registrant and the bill is sent to the registrant's address, as that address appears on the vehicle's registration, or as the person has otherwise specified in writing, the registrant is presumed to have received the bill, regardless whether he has received it in fact. If the registrant fails to receive such a bill, he is nevertheless, liable for its timely payment, and interest and fees will accrue if the bill is not paid on or before the due date.

All address changes must be made through the Registry of Motor Vehicles.

No, real estate and personal property taxes are due in the Tax Collectors office by the due date. Penalty interest will accrue at an annual rate of 14 percent.

Yes, there is a secure drop-off box located at the rear of the Town Hall Annex. This box is provided for your convenience and any mail deposited in the drop box is emptied and distributed to the appropriate department each day.

The Town of Tewksbury is on the quarterly tax billing system. Therefore, the bills are due on August 1st, November 1st, February 1st and May 1st of each year.

Yes, our mailing address is Tax Collector, Town of Tewksbury.

Tax Collector
Town of Tewksbury
11 Town Hall Avenue
Tewksbury, MA 01876

If you do not receive your bill within a few days of the issue date, please contact the Treasurer / Collector's Office immediately. Our phone number is 978-640-4340. Our office hours are Monday through Friday, 7:30 am to 4:30 pm.

Please remember that it is your responsibility to make sure that you obtain a tax bill. You are responsible for the payment of the taxes even if you did not receive the tax bill. We mail the tax bills to the address provided to us by the Assessor's Office.

The bills are mailed thirty days before the August 1st and February 1st due dates. Please note that you will not receive a separate bill for the November 1st or May 1st due dates. These amounts are included on the bills sent thirty days before the August and February due dates.

A BusinessCertificate is a registration of a business that is being conducted within the Town of Tewksbury.  Its purpose is primarily for consumer protection and allows the public to identify and locate the owner(s) of a business.  Most financial institutions require a copy of the Business Certificate prior to opening a business banking account.

Any person conducting business in the Town of Tewksbury, under any title other than the real name of the owner, whether individually or as a partnership. If a partnership, EACH individual must sign the application in the presence of the Town Clerk or a Notary Public.

A Business Certificate is in force and effect for four (4) years from the date of issue.  It must be renewed every four (4) years for as long as the business is operating.

A statement under oath must be filed with the Town Clerk upon discontinuing or withdrawal from the business or partnership. There is a $10.00 fee for address/location changes. If you wish to change the name of your business, you must "discontinue" the current Business Certificate and file a new certificate with the new business name.

The law states that copies must be available at the address at which the business is conducted and shall be furnished upon request during regular business hours to any person who has purchased goods or services from your business.

The BusinessCertificate does not allow or permit any business rights with respect to the provisions of the Town of Tewksbury Zoning Bylaws and is not a permit to conduct business in a residential district.  For any proposed use, a determination of the applicability of the Zoning Bylaws is to be made by the Zoning Enforcement Officer prior to commencing such use.

The law states that a fine of not more than $300 will punish violations for each month during which the violation continues.

Massachusetts General Law Chap. 51, Sec. 4 mandates an annual street listing of residents as of January 1st.  The Board of Registrars in coordination with the Town Clerk's Office sends out census forms to all Tewksbury households at the beginning of every year.  Look for your annual census form to arrive in the mail in early January.  The dog license renewal form is at the bottom of the census form. The census form asks for the name, gender, date of birth, and occupation of all residents in your household.

In accordance with Massachusetts General Law, Chap. 51, Sec. 6. the Annual List of Residents is published based on census data containing the names and addresses of all residents 17 years of age or older. The Annual List of Residents is available in July of each year for $20 as a hard copy, e-mailed PDF, or CD.

No. Voter registration in Tewksbury has never been easier than it is today. You may visit the Town Clerk’s Office in Tewksbury Town Hall, 1009 Main St. and complete a voter registration form in person. Or, you may download a Mail-In Voter Registration Form

In addition, the state registries of motor vehicles, social service agencies and military recruitment offices provide voter registration services.

Yes.  Party enrollment information is included on the census form designated by a letter. If there is not a letter to the left of your name, you are not registered to vote in Tewksbury.  If there is a "U" next to your name, it means that you are registered but not affiliated with a particular party. "U" stands for "Unenrolled", formerly known as "Independent."

No. We are unable to make changes to your voter registration from your census form. You must complete and sign a Change of Name Card or Change of Political Party Card and return it to the Town Clerk's Office.

An inactive voter is a voter who failed to return the census.  Any voter who does not respond to the annual census by the first Monday in June is made inactive.  Voters who are made inactive are immediately sent a confirmation card. This mailing notifies the voter that their name has been removed from the active voting list and has been placed on the inactive voting list and provides the voter with an opportunity to activate themselves by signing the postage prepaid confirmation card and returning it to the Town Clerk's Office. Voters can also be reinstated by voting in an election or town meeting or signing a petition or nomination paper.  

On Election Day or Town Meeting Day, inactive voters are allowed to vote, but they must provide ID matching the address listed on the voter’s list as well as complete an Affirmation of Current & Continuous Residence. This takes the voter and warden time to complete, so we encourage all voters to return their census forms.

Blank copies can be obtained by clicking on the link on the top of this page, or we can print one out if a voter comes into the office. If you have any questions contact us via email or by telephone at 978-640-4355.

Please call or email to set up an appointment to go over the claims process. All necessary VA forms will be provided.
 

Please see this website for more information:

http://tewksburypac.com/

Call Lisa Downey at 978-640-4485 or email Veteran Service's

View HUD Worksheet. 

For example, as of this writing in 2012, if the average home assessed value is $320,000 and at the current residential tax rate is $14.93 per $1000 of value in Tewksbury, the following illustrates the CPA surcharge that would be paid by an average homeowner.

Starting with the home value example - $320,000 

Deduct the first 100K exemption - $100,000

Yield - $220,000

$220,000 times the tax rate of $14.93/1000 = $3,284.60

$3,284.60 times 1.5% CPA surcharge = $49.27 per year CPA Surcharge

Note: This information is subject to change over time. For direction to more specific information, please contact the Tewksbury Office of Community Development, 978-640-4370.

According to the Community Preservation Coalition, the CPA surcharge would be treated the same as any other property tax and is deductible to the extent that any property taxes are. Yes, it is deductible.

The Planning Board has the responsibility to review certain proposed development projects in Town and make decisions on them in accordance with state and local bylaws. The Planning Board has five regular members who are elected. Planning Board members have a variety of backgrounds and volunteer to serve on the board. They are assisted by a professional staff that work in the Planning Division at the Town Offices during the day.

If you received a notice in the mail from the Planning Board, it means that you are an abutter (as defined by law) to a proposed development that will be reviewed by the Board at an upcoming meeting. The notice is required by state law to let you know that a public hearing is being held on the project. If you have questions about the notice that you received, please call the Community Development Office at 978-640-4370.

Copies of the application, plans, and supporting materials are on file at the Community Development office located in the lower level of Town Hall. You are welcome to review this information and may pay for copies of any information you would like to keep. The Community Development Office normal office hours are Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday from 7:30 AM to 4:30 PM, Tuesday from 7:30 AM to 6:00 PM, and Friday 7:30 AM to 12:30 PM.

The Planning Board regularly meets on two Mondays each month, except for July, August, and December where typically only one meeting is held.

The notice you received in the mail tells you when and where the public hearing is scheduled. It is also published in the legal notice section of the Tewksbury edition of the Town Crier.

At the first hearing, the applicant will present plans and explain the proposal to the Planning Board. The Board will ask questions, generally where clarification is needed. There will be an opportunity for those in the audience to ask questions or offer opinions. Comments may also be submitted in writing to the Planning Board prior to the hearing. Any correspondence should be emailed to alowder@tewksbury-ma.gov or mailed to the attention of the Planning Board at the Town Offices.

Since the Board often hears several projects in an evening, hearings last a specified period of time. At the end of this time, the hearing may be either closed or continued to a future meeting.

Occasionally, for simple projects, hearings can be completed in one night and are closed; meaning that no further testimony is taken. More often, hearings will be continued with direction given by the Board to the applicant on revisions to the plans or information that is needed. Continued hearings may be several weeks or months in the future depending on how long it takes the applicant to gather the required information and the Board's workload.

Occasionally the hearing process is delayed due to weather, the absence of a Board member or at the applicant's request. To verify that a hearing is being held on a scheduled date, you can call the Community Development Office on the day of the hearing at 978-640-4370.

Comments can be submitted in writing to the Planning Board prior to the close of the public hearing by email or mailed to the attention of the Planning Board at the Town Hall. Copies will be provided to the Planning Board members, staff, and placed in the public file. As with all testimony, it is most helpful to raise concerns early in the process.

The Planning Board is subject to the Massachusetts Open Meeting Law (M.G.L. c. 30A, §§ 18-25). If members of the Planning Board respond to a communication outside of the public hearing, it could be a violation of the Open Meeting Law. All communications will be discussed and responded to during the public hearings.

After the public hearing is closed by the Planning Board, no new information can be submitted. The Board deliberates and makes a decision at a Board meeting. The Board generally either approves a plan with conditions or denies it if it does not meet Town standards. Interested individuals are welcome to attend and listen, but may not make further comments. The Board will also make its decisions on any waiver requests at this time. The decision is voted on and filed with the Town Clerk by the decision deadline.

If you are a legal abutter to a development project who was notified of the public hearing, you will be notified by the Planning Board when their decision is filed with the Town Clerk. Any appeals may be filed during the 20-day appeal period as set forth in the decision notice.

The Town of Tewksbury has an Open Town Meeting form of government meaning that any registered voter may vote at Town Meeting.  Town Meeting is the legislative body of the Town. 

In the government structure of Tewksbury, registered voters attending TM are the "legislators." Town Meeting members are vested by the Commonwealth of Massachusetts and Tewksbury's Charter with the traditional powers of the legislative branch of any level of government: the power to make laws (in this case, called Bylaws) and the power to approve the expenditure of money. No money can be expended by the Town without the approval of Town Meeting. No general or zoning bylaws can be enacted by Tewksbury without the approval of Town Meeting. 

You can read these Zoning Bylaws, General Bylaw, and Tewksbury's Charter on the town website: https://www.tewksbury-ma.gov/696/Charter-Bylaws

Town Meeting considers and adopts an annual operating budget. It also considers and acts upon other matters which require Town Meeting action such as zoning changes, street acceptances, by-law additions and amendments. The business of each Town Meeting is contained in a document known as "the Warrant" which includes all matters on which the Town will act. The Warrant is posted on the Town website and mailed to each dwelling two weeks before any town meeting. Articles are inserted in the Warrant by the Select Board or by Citizen Petition. 

All registered voters may participate in Tewksbury’s Open Town Meeting. Participants display prominently ribbons which are given out at check-in before the beginning of the meeting and returned at its conclusion.  

Only Tewksbury residents who are registered voters are allowed in the voting sections of Town Meeting. Unregistered voters and non-residents may request admission by signing their names and addresses on the Visitor’s Log at the entrance of Town Meeting. The Moderator shall designate a place set apart from the general assembly where such persons may sit. The Moderator shall also set apart a space where accredited representatives of the press shall sit.

The Town Meeting form of government "speaks for the belief that a society is safer and freer when the bulk of its citizens understand the programs and goals that their government has chosen and when they have achieved this understanding because these programs and goals have been honestly discussed in public." Quote from Town Meeting Time: A Handbook of Parliamentary Law, published by the Massachusetts Moderators Association 2001

When we are removed from the decision-making process it is easy to feel that we have no control over the how and why of government. Attending TM gives us the opportunity to vote on local expenditures - for schools, roads, police, water/sewer, fire, etc., and to decide how we want to regulate our town through bylaws. We get to know our elected and appointed officials and town employees and they get to know us through our participation.

"Freedom in the concrete, freedom as it is experienced in daily life, is the experience of having a hand in the determining of issues that touch the individual closely and intimately." From Rockefeller Panel Report on American Democracy: The Power of the Democratic Idea

The Annual Town Meeting for the election of Town Officials shall be held on the first Saturday of April, and polls shall be open from 8 am to 8 pm, except when Easter Sunday falls on the day following the first Saturday of April the said election shall be held on the second Saturday of April as above provided.

The Annual Town Meeting for consideration of warrant articles shall begin on the first Monday in May at 7:30 pm and conclude at 11 pm, except as provided below. Subsequent meetings shall begin at 7:30 pm on Wednesday and Thursday of the same week and conclude at 11 pm, except as provided below. The same schedule shall be observed in the following weeks, if necessary. No business shall be conducted after 11 pm, at any session except to complete action on the article or departmental budget than under discussion.

The Annual Town Meeting shall be divided into three sections.

Section One

• Article 1. Annual Town Election - Accomplished in April

Section Two 

Section Two shall begin on the first Monday in May at 7:30 pm and shall include the following articles:              

• Article 2. Elected official salaries
• Article 3. Consent calendar
• Article 4. Budget article
• Article(s). Budget related articles
• Article(s). Amend Personnel bylaws
• Article(s). Amend Town bylaws
• General articles

If Section Two is completed before 11 pm the Annual Town Meeting shall adjourn to Wednesday at 7:30 pm to act on Section Three articles.

Section Three 

• Amend Zoning bylaws

Special Town Meetings

Special Town Meetings are at the call of the Select Board and typically occur on the first Wednesday in May & the first Tuesday in October at 7:00 pm.  Warrants will be issued in accordance with MGL Ch. 39, Section 10. 

Town Meeting is the business meeting of the town and TM members are the legislative branch of the town government. Only registered voters of the town are allowed to vote. 

Other interested persons may attend TM - residents who have not registered to vote, town employees, and business owners for example. When they arrive at TM, they will check in at the desk and will be required to sit in a separate "Visitors" area where votes will not be counted. The Moderator and Town Clerk will determine the location of the appropriate area based on the space needs of voters.

Only TM members, i.e. voters, can speak at TM. On occasion, someone else would like to bring some information to the attention of TM members or would like to share their opinion with TM. In that case, it is preferable for the person to make themselves known in advance to the Town Clerk or the Moderator. In any case, when the person steps to the microphone and is otherwise not eligible to speak, the Moderator can ask TM if they want to grant permission to the person to speak. If there is no objection from the voters, the Moderator will recognize the speaker.

The rules for the Town Meeting are in State law and also, in order of precedence, Tewksbury Town Charter, The Town General Bylaws, Town Meeting Time published by the Massachusetts Moderators Association, and custom of the Tewksbury Town Meeting.

In accordance with Massachusetts General Laws, the Town Moderator shall have complete jurisdiction over any Town Meeting held for the transaction of the Town's business. The Moderator runs the meeting and enforces the rules of Town Meeting.

Chapter 2.04 of the General Bylaws of the Town of Tewksbury lists Town Meeting Procedure in detail. These procedures outline in detail motions that can be made and action that can be taken by Town Meeting.

Click here to view the General Bylaws of the Town of Tewksbury.

Click here to view A Citizen's Guide to Town Meetings published by the Secretary of the Commonwealth.

Town Meeting Time: A Handbook of Parliamentary Law is available from the Bedford Public Library or you can order a copy from the Massachusetts Moderators Association.

The Warrant is a notice to all voters of the town as to the time and location of the TM. The warrant must state the subjects to be acted upon so that every voter knows what is being proposed. No action can be taken by TM unless the subject matter is contained in the Warrant.

The wording of the warrant does not have to be the exact wording of the motion at TM, but it must contain a sufficient description of what is proposed so that voters are aware of the subject matter.

So why would it be different? The Warrant has to be finalized to be sent to the printer more than one month before TM begins. In the intervening month, motions are fine-tuned for proper wording and dollar amounts are made most accurate, based on up-to-the-minute data in some cases.

And, in some cases, boards and committees concerned with the content of the warrant article have not come to a decision as to what they will recommend at TM. Printed copies of Finance Committee and Planning Board recommendations are available at TM on a table on your way into the gymnasium past the check in tables.

One Warrant will be mailed to each dwelling in the Town two weeks before any town meeting. In addition at the time of the posting the Warrant shall be placed on the Town Meeting Information page on the town website. Copies are also available for viewing at the Tewksbury Public Library, Senior Center, and Town Hall at the Town Clerk's Office. 

Warrants shall be available at the check-in tables before each town meeting

1.  Am I a registered voter?

Check your VOTER STATUS online.  

The deadline to register to vote to be eligible to vote at any town meeting is 10 days prior. Call the Town Clerk's Office at 978-640-4355 with any concerns.

2.  Is my voter status "active"?

Per state law, voters must return their signed census forms annually to the Town Clerk’s office to maintain an active voter status. Inactive voters are still eligible to vote but will be required to complete additional forms and show an ID at check in. 

When you arrive for Town Meeting and reach the teller you will need to tell them Your Name, then confirm Your Address. 

YOUR DRIVER’S LICENSE WILL ALLOW A FASTER LOOK-UP. This is only an OPTION and NOT being used for ID purposes, but merely as a LOOK-UP TOOL.

Petitioner's articles shall be submitted in written form. Ten signatures are required on a petition for the Annual Town Meeting Warrant and 100 signatures for the Special Town Meeting. The Town Clerk will verify the signatures. Please use this form: 

Warrant Article Submission Form with Instructions (PDF)

If you have a question about the article being discussed or if you want to share your thoughts, please go to the microphone in the center aisle. Wait in line until you are at the microphone and are recognized by the Moderator.

Speaking in public is not something that comes naturally to most of us, so before you get to the mic, take a few moments to think through the point you want to make or the question you want to ask. If someone else has already made the same point you wanted to make, it is fine for you to say, "I agree with the previous speaker and I support the passage of this motion." Please do not go over what has been already stated.

Town Meeting is not a debate so there is no back-and-forth conversation allowed between you and another speaker or presenter. You can make your point, or ask your question. The Moderator will not permit a debate.

Please also keep in mind the guidelines for civil discourse that are recommended for Town Meeting. In short, they are:

• Recognize a person's right to advocate ideas that are different from your own
• Show respect for others -discuss policies and ideas, not people
• Speak as you would like to be spoken to
• Speak for yourself, not for others

While noise from each BESS unit is between 60-90 dBA, that is measured at one meter from the container. Noise heard at surrounding properties will be far below this. Per Mass DEP requirements, noise levels from the project at nearby properties will not exceed 47 dBA. For reference, in the submitted sound report, monitoring during the day showed ambient volume at these properties is already at 38-67dBA. Per the report, “During the majority of the time, background sound levels are expected to be higher than those assumed in this evaluation and the resulting sound level impacts will be less.”

“A comprehensive sound level assessment has been conducted for the proposed Project. Substantial noise mitigation measures have been incorporated into the design of the proposed project to minimize noise impacts in the community. These mitigation measures include low noise equipment, equipment silencers, and sound attenuation barriers. Results of a complete sound level assessment demonstrate that the sound levels from the facility will comply with the requirements set forth in the MassDEP Noise Policy at all residential locations as well as the Town of Tewksbury Bylaws.” - Project Sound Level Report (LINK)

Each BESS project team must develop a custom emergency response plan in coordination with the local Fire Department. Ordering an evacuation in the event of a fire is up to the sole discretion of the fire department. The applicant’s role is to give the fire department the most accurate and up-to-date information so they can make an informed decision. The applicant has committed to ensuring subject matter experts will be on call in the case of an emergency to provide the most up to date information to the first responders in support of their response.

“The length of time which an energy storage system may burn is impacted by many factors, including the size of the system, the failure mode, the state of the system during the failure, State of Charge (SOC), the actions taken during the emergency response, and environmental and atmospheric conditions.  

ESRG (Energy Safety Response Group) has conducted numerous tests on large scale stationary energy storage systems and is aware of many more. In addition, ESRG has responded to numerous BESS fires in the field. First and foremost, no BESS has ever burned for more than five days, which was the duration of a very large, dedicated use building. Systems of the scale proposed here are subject to much shorter events. As we have stated, most battery fires in systems of this design, if they reach a fully involved state, take 2-8 hours to consume themselves entirely. In some cases, we’ve observed systems burning more slowly and taking longer. In these cases, the fire is smaller, well managed, and the emissions much less. Ultimately, as with any fire, the total fuel load is finite, limited by the volume of the enclosure, and the faster and hotter the fire burns, the shorter the duration. The opposite is also true.”

Nick Petrakis, ESRG, PE, Former Assistant Deputy Director New York City Fire Department’s (FDNY) Bureau of Fire Prevention Sustainability Unit, BESS safety expert, and involved with developing the standards for UL9540 and NFPA 855.

Medway Grid was approved to site a BESS in Medway’s “Agricultural-Residential II” zone, which is defined in Medway’s Zoning Bylaw as a “residential zone.”

No.