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Animal Control

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1. What is considered an animal emergency?

A sick or injured animal, aggressive animals, and animal bites.

2. Does the Town of Needham have a leash law?

Yes. The Town of Needham has a strickly enforced leash law as well as a pooper scooper law. There are many parks and wooded areas to walk your pet. Your dog must remain leashed while on the public property at all times. We are seeing a huge increase of dog bites in town. Many of them happen while the dog is running at large. Animal Control will issue a citation for unleashed dogs as well as not picking up after your dog.

3. I found a baby racoon. Can I keep it?

No. It is illegal in The State of Massachusetts to keep or try to raise a wild animal without a license from the state. You will put your self in danger as well as the animal. It is not all fun and games raising a baby animal. They need certain things to survive and thrive as they grow. Only licensed rehabilitators know how to do this properly. If you have found a baby wild animal please do not touch it. Call Animal Control right away.

4. There is a dead bird in my yard, does it need to be tested for the West Nile Virus?

No. The state is no longer collecting dead birds for testing because they have sufficiently established that the virus is in the state. Additional testing will not reveal any more information for them. They need the time to do more research projects to find out more about the virus.

5. Will Animal Control come and remove the dead animal from my yard?

Animal Control does not remove deceased animals from private property. You need to dispose of it yourself. Avoid using bare hands. Gloves or an inverted plastic bag will work to place the animal in a garbage bag. Dispose of the animal with your routine trash.

6. What is a feral cat?

Feral cats are typically cats that were born outdoors and have never had any kind of human contact other than the occasional person who feeds the neighborhood cats. They pick an area and form a "colony" of cats. Feral cats over the age of 8-10 weeks old are not likely to become housecats. They were born and raised in the outdoors and are better left there. Needham Animal Control has been working with the Medfield Animal Shelter to trap Feral Cats around Needham, spay and neuter them so that they may not reproduce, and returns them to the colony from which they came. The Medfield Animal Shelter has been very generous to our town and runs only on donations. If you would like to make a donation to the Medfield Animal Shelter please call 508-359-8989.

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Assessor

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1. What does the Assessor do?

The Assessor is required under Massachusetts General laws: Chapter 59, to list and value all real and personal property. Valuation is subject to ad valorem taxation on an assessment roll each year. The "ad valorem" bases for taxation means that all property should be taxed "according to value" which is the definition. Assessed values in Massachusetts are based on full and fair cash value, or 100 percent of market value.

Assessors are required to submit these values to the Massachusetts Department of Revenue for certification every three years. In the years between certification the Assessors must also maintain values and make adjustments according to market conditions. The Town of Needham reassesses values each and every year. This is done so that the property taxpayer pays his or her fair share of the cost of local government in proportion to the amount of money the property is worth, on a yearly basis rather than every three years.

The Needham Assessors Office appraises and assesses approximately 12,000 parcels of real and personal property each year.

2. What doesn't the Assessor do?

The Assessor does not raise or lower taxes. The Assessor does not make the laws that affect property owners. The Assessors do not make property values. The Massachusetts Constitution requires that direct taxes on persons and property be proportionately and reasonably imposed. In addition, the Declaration of Rights, Part 1, Article 10, requires each individual to bear his fair share of the public expense.

The Board of Assessors is required to annually assess taxes in an amount sufficient to cover the state and local appropriations chargeable to the town. These taxes assessed will include state taxes, which have been duly certified to the Board, town taxes voted by the town (including Prop. 2 1/2), and all taxes voted and certified by the annual Town Meeting.

The Assessors' Office has nothing to do with the total amount of taxes collected. The Assessors' primary responsibility is to find and list the "full and fair cash value" of your property, so that you only pay your fair share of the taxes. The tax rate is determined by all the taxing agencies within the town, and is the basis for the budget needed or demanded by the voters to provide the services, such as schools, roads, and public safety. The tax rate is the factor that is applied to the total value of all property in the town and the levy.

3. What is the tax levy?

The tax levy is the amount of money that must be raised through local taxation. Once the town budget is determined through town meeting actions the amount of local aid, i.e. Cherry Sheet reimbursements, school aid and other sources are subtracted. The amount remaining must be paid for through local taxation.

4. What is Proposition 2 1/2?

In 1982, the people of Massachusetts through an initiative petition amended the Massachusetts Constitution by providing that this levy could only increase by 2 1/2 percent each year, plus the amount of "new growth" in the community. Proposition places restraints on the amount of money raised by the town and how much the levy can be increased from year-to-year. It provides the town with the annual increases in their levy limits of 2 1/2 percent over the previous year's levy plus an additional amount based the valuation of certain new construction and other allowable growth (i.e. new Personal Property accounts) that is not the result of property revaluation. This is known as "New Growth". Proposition 2 1/2 does not mean that one's property value cannot increase more than 2 1/2 percent each year. Historically speaking, under Proposition 2 1/2 taxpayers can expect a levy increase of a minimum of 2 1/2 percent each year since its inception.

5. How is your assessment determined?

To arrive at "full and fair" cash value for your property, the assessors must know what "willing sellers" and "willing buyers" are doing in the marketplace. The Assessor must collect, record and analyze a great deal of information about property and market characteristics in order to estimate the fair market value. Some of the things that the Assessor looks at include current construction costs, zoning changes, financing and local economic conditions and neighborhood character changes. The Assessor uses the internationally accepted appraisal approaches, Market, Income and Cost to arrive at the valuation. Massachusetts Assessors and most other states do not assess individual properties. Using Mass Appraisal techniques properties are stratified by neighborhoods, style, age, sale date and selling prices to determine values for all of the similar properties in the community.

The object of an assessment program is to estimate "full and fair" cash value as of January (known as the assessment date) of the year preceding the fiscal year.

6. How can my taxes increase?

When the people of the community vote for additional taxes, an individual's tax bill will increase. Property improvements such as new construction, additions, major renovations (kitchens and baths) can increase property values. The additional value is not calculated by the cost to renovate. It is determined by what similar properties with similar characteristics are selling for. The Assessor does not create value. Property owners make value by the transactions that take place in the real estate market. The Assessor has the legal and moral responsibility to appraise your property accordingly.

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Building Department

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1. When is a Building Permit required?

A Building Permit is required whenever a project includes construction, reconstruction, alteration, repair, removal or demolition of a structure. Also, a permit is required for any change of use of a building or structure, and/or the installation or alteration of any equipment that is regulated by the State Building Code.

2. Who can be issued a building permit?

Building Permits are issued to construction supervisors licensed by the State Department of Public Safety. An exception to this requirement is that a building permit can be issued to homeowners doing work to the single or two family dwelling where the homeowner resides. Homeowners who receive building permits under this exception may be liable for contracting work on their property and are not eligible for protection under the provisions of the Home Improvement Contractor Law.

3. How long will it take to get a building permit?

Permits are usually issued within a couple of weeks. However, it can take less time in some cases. The time it takes is often dependent on the completeness and accuracy of the application.

4. How long are permits valid?

Any building permit issued shall be deemed abandoned and invalid unless the work authorized by it shall have commenced within six months after issuance.

5. Do I need a Plot Plan as part of my building application?

Yes. A Plot Plan is required if the proposed construction involves a new structure, an addition to an existing structure, reconstruction, or if the department has no record of a plot plan for the property and the proposed work is structural and not an ordinary repair.

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Community Preservation Committee

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1. What is the Community Preservation Act and what can be funded?

The Community Preservation Act (CPA) enables towns to set up a Community Preservation Fund to be used for:
• The acquisition, creation and preservation of open space;
• The acquisition, preservation, rehabilitation and restoration of historic resources
• The acquisition, creation and preservation of land for recreational use;
• The creation, preservation and support of community housing
• The rehabilitation or restoration of open space, land for recreational use and community housing that is acquired or created as provided in this section.
CPA funds do not need to be used in the year they are collected. They can be set aside for future uses. The statute mandates that at least 10% of the CPA funds be used for open space, 10% for housing, and 10% for historic purposes. A maximum of 5% can be used for administering CPA. The remainder of CPA funds can be used in any percentage for open space, housing, historic, and recreation purposes.

2. Are there exemptions to paying the surcharge?

M.G.L Chapter 44B allows three exemptions, by local option, from the property tax surcharge. Needham adopted the following two exemptions:
A. Property owned and occupied as a domicile by a person who would qualify for low income housing or low or moderate income senior housing
o Low income is defined as “those persons and families whose annual income is less than 80 per cent of the area wide median income. The area wide median income shall be the area wide median income as determined by the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development.”
o Low or moderate-income senior housing is defined as “housing for those persons having reached the age of 60 or over who would qualify for low or moderate income housing.”
B. $100,000 of the assessed valuation of Class One, residential parcels.

3. How do I apply for an exemption?

For Exemption A, please contact the Needham Assessor’s Office at (781) 455-7507. Exemptions are not abatements, they are not automatic, and they are not public record. An application process is in place. The qualifying date is July 1st, the first day of the fiscal year. If an actual tax bill is sent to taxpayers, applications are due within 90 days of the third quarter tax bill postmark date. If an estimated bill is sent then applications are due within 90 days of the Spring bill postmark.

4. How can someone apply for funds?

It is recommended that you speak to a member of the CPC or a staff person before applying, to insure that all appropriate steps are taken. The actual application form is available on line or by contacting the Park and Recreation Department. More...

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Conservation

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1. What is the Conservation Commission?

The Needham Conservation Commission is a seven-member volunteer board appointed by the Board of Selectmen to protect the Town’s wetland resource areas. The Commission administers the Massachusetts Wetlands Protection Act and Regulations and the Needham Wetlands Protection Bylaw (Section 6) and regulations. The Commission also oversees the Town’s conservation lands, including Ridge Hill Reservation.

2. What is the Wetlands Protection Act?

The Massachusetts Wetlands Protection Act (MGL Ch. 131 S. 40) is a state law prohibiting the alteration of wetland resource areas or the associated 100-foot buffer zone without a permit from the Needham Conservation Commission. The Rivers Protection Act (MGL Ch. 258 of the Acts of 1996) provides similar protections within 200 feet of perennial stream and is incorporated into the Wetlands Protection Act. Massachusetts Wetlands Protection Act (MGL Ch. 131

3. Does Needham have a local Wetlands Protection Bylaw?

Yes.

Section 6 of the Town of Needham's General Bylaws

4. How do I know if I need a wetlands permit?

Wetlands permits are required for all work within 100' of a wetland resource area and within 200' of all perennial streams. Wetlands are dynamic and their limits can change over time. As a result, the best course of action to determine whether your work is within a jurisdictional area is to contact the Conservation Commission.

5. Can you recommend surveyors and engineers to help with my project?

No, we are not allowed to make recommendations. For any project you should check that a potential surveyor or engineer has a current Massachusetts registration (Professional Land Surveyor or Professional Engineer). It may be helpful to you in going through the process to have professionals who have worked in Needham and know what is expected by the Conservation Commission, however any registered professional who is familiar with wetlands and floodplains regulations is capable of doing the work.

6. What is a vernal pool?

A vernal pool is a temporary wetland, which fills annually from precipitation, melting snow and rising groundwater. Most years they become completely dry, losing water through evaporation and transpiration. The wet-dry cycle prevents fish populations from establishing but provides a productive, temporary habitat for a wide variety of species including salamanders, frogs and turtles to name a few.

7. Why are vernal pools important?

Vernal pools provide an essential habitat for portions of the life cycles of many species. They are important water sources for wildlife and act as links in the overland passage of amphibians and reptiles. Vernal pools also play a vital role in maintaining both local and global biodiversity. Rare amphibian and reptile species are known to be present in Boxborough's vernal pools.

Certifying a vernal pool with the Massachusetts Natural Heritage and Endangered Species Program provides the pool, and up to 100 feet beyond its boundary in some cases, certain protection under several local, state and federal laws.

These regulations help to eliminate direct impacts to certified vernal pools and to minimize indirect impacts. Massachusetts Natural Heritage and Endangered Spec

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Default

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1. How can I serve on a town board or commission?

All boards, commissions, and committees consist of citizens who contribute their time for the benefit of Needham. There are often times various opportunities available, which may correspond with your expertise and/or interest. Learn more about volunteering to serve on a board.

2. How do I request public records from the Town?

The Town of Needham has designated a Primary Records Access Officer to help residents access records. View the contact information for the officer and the rules regarding public records.

3. Where can I register for parks and recreation programs?

Use our online registration system to learn about upcoming programs and register yourself or your child.

4. How can I dispose of my recyclable materials?

The Town of Needham provides residents with recycling and waste disposal services at the town's transfer station, referred to as the RTS (Recycling and Transfer Station). View the rules for the RTS and its hours of operation.

5. Does the Town of Needham provide notary services?

Yes, services are available at the Town Clerk's Office. View the Clerk's hours and location.

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Easy Permits

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1. When is a Building Permit required?

A Building Permit is required whenever a project includes construction,reconstruction, alteration, repair, removal or demolition of a structure. Also, a permit is required for any change of use of a building or structure, and/or the installation or alteration of any equipment that is regulated by the State Building Code. Always call and speak to a Inspector to see if you need a permit.

2. Who can be issued a building permit?

Building Permits are issued to construction supervisors licensed by the Board of Building Regulation and Standards. An exception to this requirement is that a building permit can be issued to homeowners doing work to the single or two family dwelling where the homeowner resides or intends to reside. Homeowners who receive building permits under this exception may be liable for contracting work on their property and are not eligible for protection under the provisions of the Home Improvement Contractor Law (c. 142 A section 1).

3. How long does it take to obtain a building permit?

Permits are usually issued two to four weeks for larger residential and commercial work. However, it will take less time for smaller scope of work projects. The time it takes is often dependent on the scope of work and completeness and accuracy of the application.

4. How long are permits good for?

Any building permit issued shall be deemed abandoned and invalid unless the work authorized by it shall have commenced within six months after issuance or determined by the Building Commisioner.

5. Are permit applications on the Towns Website?

Yes. The building permit is a fillable PDF. We strongly encourage you to utilize it so the application is complete and legible. The plumbing, gas and electric are also on line.

6. What do I need to file an application for a building permit?

There are many components to the building permit application. Please see the Guided Process in Easy Permits to determine what you need.

7. Do I need a Plot Plan as part of my building application?

Possibly. A Plot Plan is required if the proposed construction involves a new structure, an addition to an existing structure, a swimming pool or accessory structure over 15 feet in height or is placed on a permanent foundation. Five copies are required at permit submittal then three copies for a final As-Built completed by a MA registered surveyor and stamped.

8. What do I need to obtain a plumbing, gas or wiring permits?

These permits are only issued to Massachusetts licensed plumbers, gasfitters and electricians.

9. When do I need to obtain a Sheet Metal Permit?

When any provision under 780 CMR 271 is performed. All new HVAC systems needs a Manual J for permitting. Any HVAC system that any duct or the air handler is outside of condition space will need a air leakage test for final inspection.

10. Do I need the property owner's signature on the building application?

The permit application can either be signed by the property owner or a contract signed by both parties in compliance with MGL 142 A section 1 (HIC Program) is provided. If the contract is not in compliance with MGL Ch. 142A (contents of the contract) it will not be accepted.

11. How many days notice is needed to plan for inspections?

Generally 1 - 2 days notice is needed for building, plumbing/gas and electrical.

12. Does the Fire Department review the plans?

The Fire Department review all Commercial projects and anytime section 14 is involved in the scope of work. The Fire Department reviews the plans in the Building Department 1 to 2 times per week.

13. Do I need separate approval from the Fire Department to complete my building permit?

Yes, the Fire Department will issue a separate permit for residential smoke detectors and a Fire Prevention Inspector will visit the site ( rough inspection) to check the location of the smoke detectors. The inspector will perform a final inspection after the detectors have been installed. Please call one week in advance to make these appointments.

14. When does the Fire department inspect the project?

The Fire Department performs a rough inspection before the finish work begins to approve the location of smoke detectors, and a final inspection to insure that everything is working properly.

15. During the reconstruction of my house, do I need to replace existing smoke detectors in rooms or areas of my house that are not under reconstruction?

Single-family Dwelling. When one or more sleeping rooms are added or created to an existing dwelling, the entire dwelling shall be provided with smoke, heat and carbon monoxide protection.

2. Two-family Dwelling. When one or more sleeping rooms are added or created to one dwelling unit that unit shall be provided with smoke, heat and carbon monoxide protection detectors. When sleeping rooms are added or created to both units the entire building shall be provided with smoke, heat and carbon monoxide protection.

3. Townhouses Dwelling Unit. When one or more sleeping rooms are added or
created to an existing dwelling unit, the entire unit shall be provided with
smoke, heat, and carbon monoxide protection.

Complete Reconstruction. If a dwelling or townhouse building undergoes reconstruction such that more than 50% of walls and ceilings are open to framing, then the entire existing building shall be provided with smoke, heat and
carbon monoxide protection.

16. When is a Wetland Permit required?

An Order of Conditions or negative Determination of Applicability is required if your work area is within 100' of wetlands or within the 200-foot Riverfront Area. A Registered Land Surveyor will guide you if you need to seek relief from Conservation.

17. Is there a list of licensed asbestos removers?

Yes. A list is available at the Health Department Office or can be viewed at the Massachusetts Division of Occupational Safety web site.

18. In addition to a rodent inspection, what other inspections must be conducted prior to a Demolition Permit being issued?

A rodent inspection and an asbestos inspection must be conducted prior to a demolition. Mercury thermostats must also be properly disposed of at the RTS or the Health Department. In addition the Fire Department needs to be notified and they will do a inspection of the property.

19. How long is the rodent inspection good for?

The rodent certification expires three months from the date of the inspection or at the end of the ten day baiting period if it was necessary.

20. Why do I need to hire a licensed asbestos inspector?

To determine if asbestos is present on the property, and to make sure it is removed according to state regulations.

21. What is a Surety Bond and when do I need one?

A Surety Bond is needed in order to get a Street Occupancy Permit and can take up to one week to obtain before the Street Occupancy Permit will be issued. A Surety Bond is a bond that will pay for the work to be done should the contractor refuse to do it.

22. Is there a fine for not properly disposing of mercury devices?

There is a $100 fine. It is the responsibility of the individual removing or replacing mercury devices to properly dispose of this mercury through an approved DEP collection and disposal program. The Needham RTS is one such program.

23. Is the Street Occupancy Permit needed to obtain a Building Permit?

Yes. If work is proposed in the street or sidewalk; if there are plans to occupy or obstruct the street or side walk; if heavy trucks will need to cross the sidewalk.

24. Who do I contact at utility companies to cut and cap utilities for a Demolition Permit?

Water / Sewer Town of Needham DPW 1-781-455-7534
Gas Lines NStar Gas 1-617-424-2675
Electric Lines NStar Electric 1-617-369-6356
Telephone Lines Verizon 1-781-555-1611
Cable Comcast 1-888-633-4266
Cable RCN 1-508-315-4502

25. If my builder is not familiar with Needham, what requirements are unique to Needham that I should highlight?

Zoning is unique to every community in the commonwealth. Your contractor and/or architect should review the Zoning By-Law in order to ensure that your proposed project will comply with local zoning.

Needham Zoning By-Law

26. Are there things that I should be aware of that can help during the building permit application process?

Some simple things to be watchful of to ensure a smooth Building Permit application process are:
- Complete ALL applicable sections on the permit application legible
- Check the contractors license, HIC registration and workman compensation and liability insurance binder.
-Complete a zoning analysis
- Make sure that all signature lines for either you and/or your builder/contractor have been signed.
- Take your time compiling all the data and paper work for your permit

27. Are there any restrictions on working hours?

Refer to the noise regulation found in the Town of Needham General By-Law section 3.8.1.
Needham General By Laws 3.8.1

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Engineering

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1. How do I get property information?

You can obtain a copy from the Town Engineering Department, however information is also available online. More...

2. How do I get property information

You can obtain a copy from the Engineering department, However information is available on line. More...

3. Can I have a copy of the Assessor's Map for my property?

Yes. If you come to the Engineering Division with the addess of the property we will scan a copy of the Assessor's Map for $1.00.

4. Can I get a copy of my sewer connection?

Yes, If you come to the Engineering Department with the address of the property, we will xerox it for you for a 1.00 charge.

5. Can I have a copy of the water service lateral for my property?

Yes, If you come to the engineering division with the address of the

6. How do I change my house number?

Write a letter to the Needham Public Works Department, Engineering Division, 470 Dedham Avenue, Needham, MA 02492 and request a house number change. Please indicate the house number you prefer. Remember the preferred number must be the same odd or even number type and must be close to your existing number.

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Excise

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1. If I did not physically receive an excise bill from the Town, am I still responsible for late charges?

According to Chapter 60A Section 2 of the Massachusetts General Laws, “failure to receive notice shall not affect the validity of the excise”. A person who does not receive a bill is still liable for the excise plus any charges. Therefore it is important to keep the Registry, Assessor’s Office and the Post Office informed of a current name and address so that excise bills can be delivered promptly. All owners of motor vehicles must pay excise tax; therefore it is the responsibility of the owner to contact the local assessor if he/she has not received a bill. The largest mailing of excise bills generally happens in February each year.

Registry

2. I have received an excise bill on my new car, but I have already paid the excise on my old car. What should I do?

Pay the bill. Your old bill is eligible to be abated through the Assessor’s Office (781) 455-7507, from which you will receive a refund from the Collector. Follow abatement instructions on the back of the bill. The Registry prorates your excise on a monthly basis. The annual excise due on a car registered after January 1 will be reduced, therefore, by one twelfth of the full years excise for every month prior to the one in which the vehicle was registered. Conversely, you will be due a refund of one twelfth the excise you paid on you old car by the number of months it was not registered to you, in most cases.

3. How do I pay an auto excise tax?

• If you have the bill, send a check and the Collector's copy of the bill in the envelope provided. If you don't have the envelope, send it to: Tax Collector, P.O. Box 920636 Needham, MA 02492-0908. Please do not include any correspondence as this address goes directly to the Town's bank.

• If you do not have the bill, send a check with the owner's name, the vehicle's license plate number, the tax period being paid and the amount being paid clearly indicated to: Tax Collector, Town of Needham, 1471 Highland Avenue, Needham, MA 02492.

• If you pay your bills via your personal computer, you may use the bill payer option from your own bank account. Please be sure to only reference the Tax Account ID # if you are paying an Excise tax bill. If you include any other verbiage, your payment may be rejected.

• If you want a receipt or need to pay by cash or simply want to pay in person, come to the Needham Town Hall at 1471 Highland Ave, 1st Floor Collector/Treasurer’s Office between the hours of 8:30 am and 5:00 pm Monday through Friday.

• If you have been notified by the Registry of Motor Vehicles that you can not renew a license or registration because of unpaid auto excise taxes, you must call the Office of the Deputy Collector @ (781) 828-4219 or visit
Mass. Deputy

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Fields

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1. How many athletic fields are in Needham?

There are 25 diamonds and 14 multi-purpose fields. The fields vary in size and not all can be used in the same season as the lay-outs cross over each other.

2. Who maintains the athletic fields?

The DPW Parks and Forestry Division provides maintenance to all public athletic fields, along with completing many other duties, including holding the responsibility for public trees.

3. Why do participants pay a $5 Field Maintenance fee?

Established in July, 2003 this fee provides a source of funding for needed maintenance tasks on all athletic fields. Maintenance is slowly shifting from “reactive” to “proactive” tasks, raising the safety level of most fields.

4. What kinds of projects are done with the Field Maintenance fee?

The projects vary from year to year, and are not done on all fields on a regular basis. Some examples are:

Diamonds: renovation, edging, infield mix and conditioner, organic weed control, backstop repair.

Multi-purpose Fields: aeration, sod for goal mouths, organic treatment, renovation, overseeding.

Miscellaneous: irrigation and bubbler repairs, equipment repair and parts, soil testing, soil amendments, fence repairs, supplies.

5. What are some of the successes funded by the Field Maintenance Fee?

The compaction on heavily used multi-purpose fields has decreased, and along with improved soil chemistry, has allowed for stronger turf growth.
Diamonds are all re-cut in the fall in preparation for the busy spring season.

6. What do I do if I have a maintenance question?

Please refer these to your league officials who will contact the Town, and notify other coaches/parents.

7. Who schedules the athletic fields?

The Park and Recreation Department schedules all athletic fields, including Memorial Park as of Spring 2006.

8. Why do I pay a Field Administration Fee?

Established in the early 1990’s, this fee is deposited into the Town’s General Fund in recognition of the amount of work that it takes to perform all the tasks related to administration of the fields. The fee is not available to be spent directly on field-related activities.

9. Are there scheduling priorities?

Yes. Needham High School sports are given first priority, as are school activities at their own site. Needham youth are the second priority, followed by Needham adults, and then all others.

10. If I’m a coach and need additional practice field space, whom should I contact?

The available field space was distributed, through permits, to all the leagues in bulk time slots, so only your league officials can provide individual time slots for your team. Park and Recreation will have minimal time slots available for Needham families & non-sport organizations.

11. Why are there more weeds on the fields than in the past?

In the 1980’s and 1990’s, it was a common practice throughout the United States to spray pesticides on weeds found on athletic fields. The removal of the weeds was to provide a safer facility for children, but the pesticides added a concern for long-term health. Needham gradually reduced its reliance on pesticides and began working within an Integrated Pest Management Policy that strives to find alternative methods to eliminating weeds and pests. This policy integrates with the new State requirements at schools and day cares.

12. So, if you can’t spray the weeds, what can be done?

The DPW has experimented with using an organic spray that has vinegar as a prime ingredient, but as it does not eliminate the root structure, the weeds return. In addition to continuing the research, here is what is being done:
Diamonds: In the fall, each diamond has the weeds mechanically removed as the infield is regraded.
Multi-Purpose: A strong turf does not allow for major weed growth, so efforts are underway to decrease compaction along with improved soil conditions, to make it possible to grow that strong turf.

13. Should I be concerned about mosquitoes?

Unfortunately, the answer is YES. Mosquitoes in Needham have been found to carry West Nile Virus, and on the South Shore and recently in Brookline, Eastern Equine Encephalitis has been found. Mosquito populations are primarily reduced at their earliest stages, but spraying can also be done for those grown to adulthood. The Health Department works closely with Norfolk County Mosquito Control to make the safest decisions for Needham.

14. Are deer ticks a concern in Needham?

There is an increase in the number of Needham residents diagnosed with Lyme disease. Check for deer ticks, especially if players have gone off the field for a lost ball.

15. Are the droppings from Canada Geese a health problem?

Though they create an unpleasant playing environment, there is no current evidence that any health risks are transferred from Canada Geese to humans. Canada Geese desire grass and a water source, available at some of the athletic fields. The only long-term solution is to keep the eggs from producing, which requires a federal permit. All other solutions tend to be temporary and not effective in the long-term, including sprays, dogs, swans, and artificial predators.

16. Why are some fields closed when the rain has stopped and it is sunny out?

Some of the fields were built on wetland areas and drain slower than others. For the safety of the players, fields remain closed until they are dry enough to allow for the proper footing. Performing your own patch to the areas can create a more dangerous situation for players! Caution: many fields have irrigation systems which attract lightning, and that shock can be transferred to people on the field.

17. Why am I asked not to bring my dog to watch a game?

There are several reasons. (1) The most well-behaved dog can be spooked, creating an unsafe situation for anyone in the area. (2) The dog’s urine is highly acidic, changing the soil conditions in those areas to one that is not conducive for growing turf. (3) The dog’s feces can carry unhealthy bacteria which can be transferred to humans who come in contact with it. (4) The Town’s by-laws do not permit the dog to be off of its leash. Please leave your dog at home!

18. Why do some school sites not have trash barrels?

Uncovered trash attracts animals and insects. With the number of children now diagnosed with life-threatening allergies to bee stings, it is a risk that many principals are not willing to take.

19. Why are the trash cans full some days?

The DPW Parks and Forestry Division takes two staff away from other duties, including mowing, in order to empty the more than 90 park barrels on Mondays and Fridays.
Please do your best to place all trash in the proper receptacles. The increase of trash on the fields decreases the time for mowing and other maintenance tasks. If all trash receptacles are full, please remove your own trash from the park - help us keep the parks safe and clean!

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Fire Department

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1. When am I allowed to burn brush outdoors?

The State Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) allows open burning to be conducted between January 15th and May 1st of each year between the hours of 10:00 am and 4:00 pm.

2. I was having a medical emergency and called 911 for an ambulance, but the fire department came. Why?

Many people mistakenly think the sole purpose of the Needham Fire Department is to put out fires, but we do much more including providing an advanced life support ambulance.

3. But I just wanted to be taken to the hospital emergency room where I can get the care I need. What can firefighters do to for my medical emergency?

Our firefighters are trained Emergency Medical Technicians and those assigned to the ambulance are all trained at the higher level of EMT-Paramedics. This is the highest degree of medical care available in the field. Our Paramedics can assess and treat critically ill or injured patients quickly and effectively on-scene with lifesaving measures.

4. I called for an ambulance, but a fire truck arrived first. Why wasn’t the ambulance sent before a fire truck, that’s what I asked for?

We dispatch all apparatus at the same time, but in certain areas of town, such as in Needham Heights the fire engine may arrive first. This is because our ambulance is stationed at our headquarters, Station I on Chestnut Street. This way EMT’s can begin the assessment and treatment can begin while the ambulance is still in route.

5. When I called 911, the dispatcher asked me a lot of questions. Why can’t they just send an ambulance?

Our dispatchers are Emergency Medical Dispatch trained and certified. The questions they ask are designed to help preliminary assess the situation on the phone. This means they can assist callers to begin life saving measures even before the arrival of our EMT’s.

6. Why did you have to send the fire truck and the ambulance? Wouldn’t it be better to just send the ambulance, they’re the ones providing EMS right?

Actually, the EMT’s assigned to the ambulance are only part of the response needed to adequately mitigate any emergency medical situation. While the EMT’s are taking vital signs and interviewing patients and witnesses, other personnel are busy doing other tasks. These tasks include bringing in stretchers, stair chairs or other specialized medical equipment. Further other personnel on scene help calmly explain to family members what is going on and keep them out of the way of the attending EMT’s. In some instances they have to move home furnishings and help in the extrication of injured parties. The fire truck is stocked with various specialized tools and equipment that may be needed at any given call. Personnel are also needed to help carry patients down stairways safely. In instances where CPR is being performed the personnel on the fire truck are needed to assist the Paramedics in performing lifesaving procedures, giving patients the best chance of survival. There are countless other ways in which the additional help from the engine company personnel is important at all emergency medical calls.

7. Why does the Fire Department provide ambulance service anyway?

Needham residents have had the benefit of a fire department based EMS system for over forty years, nearly half of which time has been at the advanced life support level. An advanced life support (ALS) ambulance service is the highest level of pre-hospital care that is currently available anywhere. The reasons why an EMS ambulance should be provided by the fire department are plentiful and include the following.
• The two fire stations in Town are geographically located so as to insure quick response times to all areas of Town. When a life threatening medical emergency occurs the amount of time it takes to initiate ALS care becomes a critical component to survivability.

• The Needham Firefighters/EMT’s have over 40 years of continued experience providing EMS care within the Town. They offer tremendous knowledge of the Town, it’s buildings, streets, fields and parks. There is no need to depend on GPS systems that transient workers would require. Further, fire personnel develop intimate relationships with sick and infirmed residents over time. These relationships help re-assure those most vulnerable of our Town and reduce the need to re-explain their medical history in depth over and over.

• A fire based EMS system allows for patient treatment to begin immediately, even if the patient is trapped in a building on fire, pinned in a car crash or in a collapsed building. The same people who will conduct extrication can also begin patient treatment during those operations.

• Firefighter/EMT’s are among the most stable workforce in Town. It is common place for fire service personnel to remain at their jobs for well over 30 years. This stability translates into a special commitment to the Town and its people that no private ambulance service could offer. Private ambulance workers are often transient, working shifts in a number of communities without commitment to any town in particular.
• Firefighter/EMT’s assigned to the ambulance are available to respond to all types of emergencies and can offer services beyond the scope of EMS when needed, thus increasing the productivity of our department services.

• A fire based EMS system is seamless and timely. Once the 911 call is made, dispatch needs only to make one announcement to activate a single response that will provide an all hazards response. There is no need to make a separate call to a private ambulance service, thus saving valuable time form the already tight critical time parameters available for effective response.

• A fire based EMS system insures that there is continuity of medical training, equipment, medical direction and administration. Unity of command is always maintained, as there is no competing agency on scene with their own protocols and procedures to contend with.

• Ambulance revenues help to offset personnel and related equipment costs.

8. So why shouldn’t the town hire a private ambulance service?

There are many reasons why reverting to a private ambulance service doesn’t make sense for the Town of Needham. Among those reasons are the following.

• Private ambulance services lack the infrastructure of the Needham Fire Department. At this time there is no ambulance service situated in Town that could offer the centrally geographical locations that the fire department already has. To acquire similarly located facilities may prove prohibitive for the introduction of a private ambulance company within town.

• Housing a private ambulance vehicle within either or both fire stations is impractical, as these buildings lack the space to accommodate more vehicles. Further there is no space to house private ambulance personnel either.

• If housing space were to be found within Town facilities, the Town would in effect be absorbing costs of a private enterprise, thereby creating a corporate welfare structure. Further, the burden of maintaining such buildings would likely add to the Town’s overall budget obligation.

• With a private ambulance model the Town would receive no EMS related revenues, as only the transporting ambulance can bill for services.

• The fire department would likely be needed to provide support services for most if not all EMS incidents that the private ambulance responds to without any remuneration. Firefighters would be used for lift assist, extrication and other tasks that a two person private ambulance could not provide.

• There are contractual obligations that the Town has to provide pay rates for various levels of EMS certifications that would need to continue until such time, if ever that they would be negotiated out of the collective bargaining agreement with the firefighters union.

• A private ambulance model would by definition require that profits be the primary motivator possibly even ahead of the level of patient care that our townspeople have come to expect over the past forty years.

• The staffing models of most private ambulance services depends heavily on the usage of newly trained EMT’s and generally offers little incentive for personnel to remain with the service. This model does not value experience in the same way as the fire service nor is it conducive to building patient relationships over time causing anxiety for our neighbors.

• The commitment to the Town and the obligations of a private ambulance service is only as good as that company’s business model and subject to be disrupted at any time. This cannot be better illustrated than by referencing the situation created by the bankruptcy of Med Corp EMS and their parent company First Med EMS. This company was one of the largest providers of ambulance services in the country at the time of their bankruptcy filing serving over 70 municipalities over six states. The company shut down ambulance services without notice or explanation over a weekend firing over 2,000 paramedics and other emergency workers. The move left communities scrambling to provide EMS services at a moment’s notice. To vary from the current fire based EMS system that our Townspeople now enjoy and shift to a model carrying this level of risk does not appear to be in the best interest of the community.

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Frequently Asked Question- DPW Permits

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1. Frequently Asked Question- DPW Permits

1. Can a homeowner obtain street permit?

- Yes, if homeowner obtains $5,000 bond, certificate of insurance & Needham Contractor Registration under their name; provides hoisting engineer license; provide plot plan and dig safe number.

2. Why do I need a $5000 Bond?

- If public property is damaged and not repaired within 30 days of Town notification, the Town will repair and take money from bond which will damage the bond owner’s credit.

3. Why do I need insurance certificate?

- If a person gets injured in public property, the insurance certificate will cover medical expenses, etc.

4. What is public property?

- Road, sidewalk, end of driveway (driveway apron), grass berm (between sidewalk & road) and 8 feet from paved road.

5. What is a Hoisting Engineer (HE) License?

- Any person who excavates is required to have this license.

6. Why do I need Hoisting Engineer License? 

- State requires it (Jackie’s Law).

7. How wide can I make my driveway apron?

- Maximum width is 24 ft. with 2 ft. rounding on each side of apron.

8. an I add a 2^nd driveway opening? (make a horseshoe driveway)

- Yes, but both driveway aprons combined cannot exceed 24 ft. with 2 ft. rounding on each side of apron.

9. What is needed in order to make existing driveway apron smaller so I can add 2^nd driveway opening? 

- Loam and seed and add more curb, if curb is existing.

10. How close to abutting properties may I install my driveway?

 - Right up to property lines. If unsure of property lines, the Town recommends survey.

11. How large can I make driveway on private property?

- As large as you want as it is private property. 

12. Why do I need a street permit for house addition?

 – Building a new home or addition or demolition of structure that requires the transportation of heavy vehicles and equipment (such as but not limited to, backhoe, front-end loader, dump truck, concrete deliveries, lumber deliveries, sheet rock and/or drywall deliveries) across curbs, grass berms, driveway aprons, sidewalks and/or borders of a public way with or without a sidewalk, in which damage may result that might cause the Town to expend funds to effect the repair. You don’t need a permit If you can prove that you’re using a “helicopter” to fly in heavy equipment (such as helicopter license or certificate) or using wheelbarrow to bring items onto property.

13. Why do I need a street permit for in-ground swimming pool?

 – Use of any heavy vehicles and equipment (such as but not limited to, backhoe, front-end loader, dump truck, concrete deliveries, lumber deliveries, sheet rock and/or drywall deliveries) across curbs, grass berms, driveway aprons, sidewalks and/or borders of a public way with or without a sidewalk, in which damage may result that might cause the Town to expend funds to effect the repair. You don’t need a permit If you can prove that you’re using a “helicopter” to fly in heavy equipment (such as helicopter license or certificate) or using wheelbarrow to bring items onto property.

14. Why do I need a street permit if excavating in private property?

 – Use of heavy vehicles and equipment (such as but not limited to, backhoe, front-end loader, dump truck, concrete deliveries, lumber deliveries, sheet rock and/or drywall deliveries) across curbs, grass berms, driveway aprons, sidewalks and/or borders of a public way with or without a sidewalk, in which damage may result that might cause the Town to expend funds to effect the repair. You don’t need a permit If you can prove that you’re using a “helicopter” to fly in heavy equipment (such as helicopter license or certificate) or using wheelbarrow to bring items onto property.

15. Do I need a permit to place a Storage Container onto private property?

- Yes.

 16. Do I need a permit to place a Storage Container into street?

- The Town does not allow storage containers in street.