HomeMy Public PortalAboutBusiness Guide to Permits & Licenses
Hopkinton Business
Guide
A Guide to Permits & Licenses
Town of Hopkinton
Massachusetts
September 21, 2016
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Table of Contents
Welcome to Our Community .................................................................. 4
Contact Information ............................................................................... 5
Permits and Licenses – Business Operations ........................................ 6
Alcoholic Beverages .............................................................................................. 6
Business (DBA) Certificate ................................................................................... 7
Entertainment License ......................................................................................... 8
Food – Common Victualler Licenses and Food Establishment Permits ............. 9
Miscellaneous and Practitioners Licenses and Permits ....................................... 10
o Auctioneers
o Body Art
o Camps
o Hawkers and Pedlers
o Innholders
o Junk dealers/Second hand goods
o Lodging House
o Swimming Pool (public and semi-public)
o Tobacco Product sales
Permits and Licenses – Construction and Development ....................... 12
Site Plan Review.................................................................................................... 12
Special Permit Uses .............................................................................................. 14
Historic District Commission Certificates ........................................................... 15
Wetlands Resource Area Permits and Approvals ................................................ 15
Building Permit ..................................................................................................... 16
Demolition Permit ................................................................................................ 16
Plumbing, Gas and Electrical Permit ................................................................... 17
Sign Permit ........................................................................................................... 18
Permit to Open, Occupy or Obstruct a Street ....................................................... 18
Trench Safety Permit ............................................................................................ 19
Driveway Opening Permit .................................................................................... 19
Stormwater Management Permit ......................................................................... 20
Construction Equipment and Commercial Activity Hours .................................. 21
Permits and Licenses - Short Term and Special Events ......................... 22
Alcoholic Beverage License .................................................................................. 22
Boston Marathon .................................................................................................. 22
Carnival License .................................................................................................... 22
Entertainment License ......................................................................................... 22
Parade Permit ....................................................................................................... 23
Temporary Food Establishment Permit ............................................................... 24
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Online Permit Applications .................................................................... 25
Online References .................................................................................. 27
Flow Charts ............................................................................................ 29
o Sign Permitting Process
o Project Review and Approval Process
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Welcome to Our Community
Welcome to the Town of Hopkinton. Hopkinton is a culturally and environmentally rich
community that works to achieve and maintain a secure, diverse and growing economic
base. We believe that the foundation of our community is an economic base that provides
employment opportunities for residents of all educational and age levels, produces goods
and services, and enhances our quality of life. Our citizens are active in their efforts to
enhance the town’s character, which includes encouraging a successful business
community. Citizens are also particularly interested in enhancing civic, educational, and
cultural resources, and preserving our parks and natural environment.
This is an informational guide that is intended to provide information and links to additional
resources. The guide does not list all of the permits that a project or business may need, but
should include the most common ones. The links and references to additional information
and resources will lead applicants to the applicable laws and regulations for specific
technical and procedural requirements. Many of the applications, bylaws and information
referred to in this Guide are posted on the Town’s web site, www.hopkintonma.gov.
We like to consider Hopkinton a community of choice for many new businesses and
entrepreneurs wishing to move, expand, or begin a business venture, and a community in
which businesses can grow and expand. Welcome!
Thank you,
Brian J. Herr, Chair
Board of Selectmen
Norman Khumalo,
Town Manager
Hopkinton Overarching Vision
Hopkinton is a vibrant welcoming community centrally located in New England and
nestled 26.2 miles west of Boston.
We are endowed with open space, natural resources, facilities and programs that
promote a well educated and healthy community.
We are respectful of our past, engaged in our present, and actively
preparing for our future.
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Contact Information
The following officials are located in the Town Hall at 18 Main Street:
Town Clerk’s Office – 508-497-9710
Connor Degan, Town Clerk
Brenda McCann, Assistant Town Clerk
Town Manager’s Office – 508-497-9700
Norman Khumalo, Town Manager
Elaine Lazarus, Director of Land Use and Town Operations
Maria Glynn, Executive Assistant
Department of Land Use, Planning and Permitting – 508-497-9745
Elaine Lazarus, Director of Land Use and Town Operations
Chuck Kadlik, Director of Municipal Inspections/Zoning Enforcement Officer
Don MacAdam, Conservation Administrator
Jennifer Burke, Principal Planner
Cobi Wallace, Permitting Assistant
Anna Rogers, Inspections Assistant
Board of Health – 508-497-9725
Ed Wirtanen, Board of Health, Director
Bryan Besso, Health Agent
The following officials are located outside the Town Hall, as noted below:
Department of Public Works
Administration and Highway - 508-497-9740 – Location: 66 Fruit Street; Mailing
address: P.O. Box 209, Hopkinton, MA 01748
John Westerling, Director
Judi Regan, Administrative Manager
Mike Mansir, Highway Manager
Water and Sewer - 508-497-9760 or 9765– Location: 85 Wood Street; Mailing address:
P.O. Box 209, Hopkinton, MA 01748
Eric Carty, Water/Sewer Manager
Fire Department – 508-497-2323 or 2325 – 73 Main Street
Stephen Slaman, Fire Chief
Police Department – 508-497-3401 – 74 Main Street
Edward Lee, Police Chief
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Permits and Licenses – Business Operations
Many of the permits and licenses which businesses require are of a routine nature, and
have automatic and predictable renewal periods and requirements. There are a variety
of such permits, which are described below.
It is important to note that licenses and permits will not be issued to those who owe
back taxes or fees to the Town.
Alcoholic Beverages
There are several types of licenses which may be issued to sell alcoholic beverages. The
most common are Retail off-premises licenses, on-premises licenses and seasonal
licenses. Short term and one-day licenses are addressed in the Short Term and Special
Events section of this Guide.
There are a limited number of on- and off-premises licenses that can be issued, as
alcoholic beverages are regulated by the Commonwealth of Massachusetts and the
maximum number is based on the Town’s population. Applications may be submitted
to the Town if licenses are available. In Hopkinton, there may be a maximum of:
15 on-premises all-alcoholic beverage licenses
5 on-premises wine and malt licenses
3 off premises all-alcoholic beverage licenses
5 off-premises wine and malt licenses
Staff in the Town Manager’s office at Town Hall will be able to provide information on
the number of available licenses at any given time.
The Board of Selectmen acts as the Local Licensing Authority for the Town. The Board
of Selectmen is required to hold a public hearing on every alcoholic beverage license
application. The Alcoholic Beverages Control Commission (ABCC) web site
(http://www.mass.gov/abcc/) contains specific information about the licenses and
regulations, and the application forms. Application forms are also available via the
Town website, Board of Selectmen page.
Regardless of when they are issued, all alcoholic beverage licenses expire on December
31st of each year. The Board of Selectmen has adopted an Alcoholic Beverage License
Policies document, which is effective January 1, 2017. The document provides
information about the licensing process and requirements.
Once licensed, licensees must make sure that they remain compliant with all State and
local license requirements and restrictions at all times. This includes seeking approval
promptly for any alteration of licensed premises or change of manager. Approval is
required from the Board of Selectmen and the ABCC.
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The process for obtaining the various types of licenses and the regulations applicable to
licensed premises are further explained on the ABCC web site at
http://www.mass.gov/abcc/licensing.htm. Staff at the ABCC and the Town Manager’s
office are available to answer questions.
New Alcoholic Beverage License Process »
1. Application forms consist of a local General License Application form
(http://www.hopkintonma.gov/home/government/boards/bos or at the Town
Manager’s office) and State application forms at
http://www.mass.gov/abcc/forms.htm. Applications will only be issued if a license is
available, so check to see if any are available first.
2. Complete and return application forms and all required supplemental information
with a fee payable to the Town of Hopkinton and the required fee payable to the
Alcoholic Beverage Control Commission, to the Town Manager’s office.
3. The license application will be forwarded by the Town Manager’s office staff to Town
departments, including the Police Department, for review and comment.
4. A public hearing will be scheduled by the Town Manager’s office. The hearing will be
held within 10 days of its receipt, and no sooner than 10 days after the publication of
the notice in the newspaper.
5. The applicant schedules inspections by the Director of Municipal Inspections, Fire
Department, and Board of Health.
6. Applicants for new on-premises licenses are required to submit a valid fire safety
certification issued by the Director of Municipal Inspections and the Fire Chief.
7. The Board of Selectmen must act on the license request within 30 days of its filing.
8. If the Board of Selectmen votes to approve the license, it must be forwarded to the
ABCC within 3 days.
9. The ABCC will review and investigate the license application and must give their full
and complete approval.
10. When the ABCC notifies the Board of Selectmen that it has approved the license, the
Board must issue the license within 7 days.
11. The Town Manager’s office will notify the applicant when the license is ready to be
picked up.
Alcoholic Beverage License Renewal Process »
1. The Town begins the renewal process in October and receives a renewal packet for
each license from the ABCC in mid-late October.
2. The Fire Department, Director of Municipal Inspections and other officials as
necessary arrange to inspect each licensed premises.
3. The Board of Selectmen will review and approve the renewals at a public meeting prior
to December 31.
Business (DBA) Certificate
All businesses require a Business/DBA (i.e. “Doing Business As”) Certificate from the
Town Clerk unless the business is operating under a person’s own name or a
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corporation. The Certificate must be renewed every 4 years. If there is a
discontinuance, withdrawal of partner, retirement or amendment to the Certificate
within the 4 year period, the Town Clerk must be notified. Forms are available at the
Town Clerk’s office and on the Town’s web site.
Process »
1. Obtain forms at the Town Clerk’s office or at
http://www.hopkintonma.gov/home/government/departments/clerk
2. The forms will need signatures of the Town Treasurer/Tax Collector, Zoning
Enforcement Officer and Board of Health.
3. Complete and return forms with $40.00 fee
Entertainment License
Entertainment licenses (year-round and for special events) are required for theatrical
exhibitions, public shows, concerts or dances on the premises where an alcoholic
beverage license, inn holder license, common victualler license and at any club or
restaurant required to be licensed under MGL c. 138 sec. 12 or c. 140 sec. 2, 21A or 21E,
and for any exhibition, show or amusement that is not exempt from the entertainment
license requirements of MGL c.140 sec. 182 (generally, entertainment held by religious
entities at usual places of worship, in school buildings by or for the benefit of the pupils,
and at private dwellings are exempt). The licenses are issued by the Board of Selectmen.
The Board must act within 45 days of the receipt of a complete application.
In accordance with MGL c. 140 sec. 183A, the Board of Selectmen shall grant the license
unless it finds that the license, taken alone or in combination with other licensed
activities on the premises, would adversely affect the public health, safety or order, in
that the proposed entertainment cannot be conducted in a manner so as to: a) protect
employees, patrons and members of the public inside or outside the premises from
disruptive conduct, criminal activity, or from health, safety or fire hazards; b) prevent an
unreasonable increase in the level of noise in the area caused by the licensed activity or
caused by patrons entering or leaving the premises; or c) prevent an unreasonable
increase in the number of vehicles to be parked in the area of the premises. Licenses
may be issued with conditions.
Applications are reviewed by the Director of Municipal Inspections who conducts a
zoning review. In addition, depending on the capacity of the premises, live
entertainment where alcohol is served can trigger a change of use pursuant to the State
Building Code from a restaurant to a night club. If that occurs, compliance with the
applicable life safety requirements will be needed.
Live commercial entertainment, whether or not paired with alcoholic beverage or other
licenses, is not allowed in some zoning districts and is allowed by special permit in other
zoning districts. An establishment in a district that allows live commercial
entertainment by special permit that wishes to provide live commercial entertainment
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must apply for a special permit from the Board of Appeals, whether or not the
entertainment is a regular feature of the business, sporadic or a one -time event. The
procedure for applying for a special permit is contained in the Construction and
Development section of this Guide.
Entertainment License (Board of Selectmen) process » Estimated time: 15 to 30 days
1. Obtain General License Application from the Town website or at the Town Manager’s
office.
2. Complete and return application and all required supplemental information to the
Town Manager’s office.
3. The license application will be forwarded by the Town Manager’s office staff to town
departments for review and comment.
4. The Board of Selectmen will discuss the application at a posted meeting. The Board
can grant the license or provide the opportunity to have a hearing. If a hearing will be
held, the Board will notify the applicant in writing 7 days prior to the hearing date.
5. If a license is granted without a hearing, the applicant will be notified by the Town
Manager’s office when it is issued.
6. If a public hearing is held, the applicant should appear and describe the request.
7. Within 30 days following the final date of the opportunity to hold a hearing, the Board
of Selectmen may grant the license or deliver a written notice of denial to the
applicant.
Food
Businesses which serve and/or sell food require separate licenses and permits from the
Board of Selectmen and the Board of Health. The Board of Selectmen issues Common
Victualler licenses (food sales and service with seating), and the Board of Health
issues permits for the operation of retail food establishments (any food sales, including
pre-packaged and mobile food trucks). The Board of Health also enforces several
Commonwealth of Massachusetts statutes and regulations relative to food safety, food
security and consumer protection.
Common Victualler licenses are issued annually and expire on December 31st of each
year. Board of Health food service permits are also issued annually and expire on June
30th.
The General License Application may be obtained from the Town website or at the Town
Manager’s office at Town Hall. Board of Health Food Establishment Permit
applications may be obtained at the Board of Health office in Town Hall. Applications
for new establishments must be submitted at least 30 days prior to the planned opening
date, in order to make sure that it will be in hand on opening day. When new
establishments need both the Common Victualler license and the Board of Health
permit, the Board of Health permit must be obtained prior to the Common Victualler
license.
Board of Health Food Establishment Permit Process »
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1. Obtain Food Establishment Permit application at the Board of Health office.
2. Consider a pre-application review with Board of Health staff.
3. Complete and return Food Establishment application.
4. Schedule a pre-opening inspection (new establishments only).
5. The Board of Health office will notify the applicant when the permit has been
approved.
Common Victualler License Process »
1. Obtain General License Application from the Town website or at the Town Manager’s
office.
2. Complete and return application and supporting documents with $50 fee and the Food
Establishment Permit issued by the Board of Health.
3. The license application will be forwarded by Town Manager office staff to Town
departments for review and comment.
4. Applicant schedules inspections by the Director of Municipal Inspections, Fire
Department, and Board of Health. The inspection must occur prior to issuance of the
license.
5. The Town Manager’s office will notify the applicant when the license has been
approved.
Renewal applications must be submitted prior to the expiration date.
Miscellaneous Licenses and Permits
Hawkers and Pedlers
The Board of Selectmen issues transient vendor/hawkers & pedlers licenses. Hawkers
and pedlers who sell food are also required to obtain a mobile food server permit from
the Board of Health.
Innholder License
Innholder licenses are issued by the Board of Selectmen pursuant to MGL c. 140. The
process is the same as for Common Victualler licenses. Licenses are issued for one year
and expire on December 31st of each year.
Lodging House Permit
Lodging house permits are issued by the Director of Municipal Inspections, and an
application submitted to the Land Use Department is required to initiate the process.
Permits are required when lodgings are let to 4 or more unrelated individuals in a
house.
Swimming Pool Permits
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Permits from the Board of Health are required to construct and operate a public or
semi-public swimming pool. A permit for Pool Construction may be issued for up to 2
years. A permit for Pool Operation is issued for one year and expires on June 30th or a
date determined by the Board. Each permit process is initiated by the submission of an
application and fee to the Board of Health. An application to operate a pool must be
submitted to the Board of Health at least 15 days prior to expiration of an existing
permit, or (re)opening of a pool.
Please see the Board of Health Regulations for Pool Construction Design Criteria and
Pool Operation Criteria.
Practitioner/Specialized Licenses and Permits
With respect to those licenses or permits listed below that are issued by the Board of
Health, please consult the Board of Health Regulations at
http://www.hopkintonma.gov/home/government/boards/boh for information specific
to each:
Auctioneer license (Commonwealth of Mass., Office of Consumer Affairs and
Business Regulation)
Body Art permit (Board of Health) – duration: one year; all permits expire
December 31.
Camp license (Board of Health) – duration: 3 months maximum.
Junk Dealer/Second Hand Goods license (Board of Selectmen) – duration: one
year; all licenses expire May 1.
Tobacco Product Sales
In order to sell tobacco products, a Permit to Sell Tobacco is required from the Board of
Health. The permits may be issued for periods up to one year and expire every June 30.
Applications for renewal must be submitted with the required fee to the Board of Health
prior to the expiration date. The Board of Health Regulations which contain the
requirements applicable to permit holders, and the application are posted on the Town’s
web site athttp://www.hopkintonma.gov/home/government/boards/boh.
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Permits and Licenses – Construction and Development
Following is a brief summary of some common permits required for construction and
development projects.
We suggest that you start by meeting with the Director of Municipal Inspections since
he/she must issue a permit for any construction, as well as many other land uses.
These include new construction, additions, accessory buildings, decks, sheds and docks.
The Director of Municipal Inspections is also the Zoning Enforcement Officer, and is the
official who can provide an interpretation of the Zoning Bylaw when it is unclear as to
whether a particular use or activity is allowed and under what circumstances. The
Director of Municipal Inspections is located in the Land Use, Planning and Permitting
Department, and this office is also responsible for many of the construction and
development related permits and inspections. The Zoning Bylaw is posted online at
http://www.hopkintonma.gov/home/government/departments/clerk.
The Land Use Department will be able to advise you of the regulations that may be
applicable to your project, and will provide you with a list of procedures and approvals
which must be obtained before a Building Permit can be issued. The Director of
Municipal Inspections checks compliance with the State Building Code, height and floor
area of all buildings, use of building, number of employees, anticipated seating capacity,
number of parking spaces required (where applicable) for the intended use, anticipated
hours of operation, and exterior facades of proposed structures, plus additions showing
features and types of materials to be used. The Director of Municipal Inspections also
performs inspections. The Director of Municipal Inspections enforces the Zoning Bylaw
and any special conditions imposed by decisions issued by the Planning Board and the
Board of Appeals.
Site Plan Review
Site Plan Review (Zoning Bylaw Article XX) and approval by the Planning Board is
required for certain non-residential construction projects. It is not required for
residential projects except those in the Open Space Mixed Use Development Overlay
District and the Neighborhood Mixed Use District. Non-residential projects that meet
the following criteria must apply to the Planning Board for Site Plan Review:
Major Project – Any construction project involving a change in the outside
appearance of a building or premises, or change of use, and which includes one or
more of the following:
A. Construction of 5,000 or more square feet of gross floor area, or
B. An increase in gross floor area by 50% or more which results in gross floor
area of at least 5,000 sq. ft., or
C. Construction of a parking area containing 25 or more parking spaces, or the
addition of 25 or more parking spaces to an existing parking lot.
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Minor Project – Any construction project or change of use, not included within the
definition of Major Project, that includes one or more of the following:
A. An increase in gross floor area of not more than 5,000 square feet or the
addition of rooftop HVAC or mechanical equipment, substantially visible
from a public or private street or public place, requiring a building permit; or
B. Construction, enlargement or alteration of a parking area containing 5 or
more parking spaces.
Site Plan Review is a process where the layout, scale, appearance, safety and
environmental impacts of allowed uses are reviewed and regulated. It is not a review of
the use itself. If any special permits or variances are required of the Board of Appeals, it
is the applicant’s decision as to the order of application. If any special permits are
required of the Planning Board, a simultaneous application to the Planning Board is
recommended so that it can consolidate the public hearings.
The Site Plan Review bylaw contains a list of site plan standards. Site Plans that comply
with the standards contained in the Zoning Bylaw will be approved.
The “Submission Requirements and Procedures” document adopted by the Planning
Board describe the application process and plan requirements and procedures. The
Procedures document and the application form are available at the Land Use
Department office and at
http://www.hopkintonma.gov/home/government/boards/planning.
Site Plan Approval Process » Estimated time: 20 to 35 days (minor projects); 45 to 80 days
(major projects)
1. Review the proposed concept with the Principal Planner and/or the Director of Municipal
Inspections to determine whether site plan review is required and whether it would be a
considered a minor or major project.
2. Obtain an Application for Site Plan Review, the Submission Requirements and Procedures
and the Planning Board Administrative Rules from the Land Use Department, either by
visiting or calling, or from www.hopkintonma.gov.
3. Consider a preliminary informational meeting with the Planning Board prior to formal
submission. For larger projects, this is strongly recommended. Schedule the meeting
appointment at the Land Use Department.
4. If the project is in within the boundaries of a Historic District, proceed through the
required process with the appropriate Historic District Commission. See page 15.
5. Return the completed application form, the application fee and the required
accompanying plans and documentation to the Land Use Dept. Include any Certificates
issued by the Historic District Commission if applicable.
6. The Land Use Dept. will schedule the public hearing with the Planning Board and notify
the abutters as necessary.
7. The Land Use Dept. will distribute copies of the application and materials to Town
departments/boards for review, including the Design Review Board. The Design Review
Board will review the application at a public meeting and invite the applicant to attend.
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8. The applicant or a representative must appear at the Planning Board public hearing.
9. The Planning Board’s decision will be filed with the Town Clerk, and a copy sent to the
applicant.
Special Permit Uses
The Zoning Bylaw (available at the Town Clerk’s office in Town Hall and at
www.hopkintonma.gov) lists the uses allowed by right and by special permit in each
zoning district. The zoning districts are shown on two maps, both of which are posted
on the Town Clerk’s page of the web site: 1) Zoning Map; and 2) Water Resources
Protection Overlay District Map. If a use is contained on the special permit list in the
zoning district (or overlay district) in which the land is located, then a special permit is
required from either the Board of Appeals or the Planning Board before the use can
operate in that location. The Zoning Bylaw specifies which Board is responsible for
issuing the special permit.
The issuance of special permits is discretionary, but the boards may not be arbitrary.
The criteria for issuance of special permits are contained in the Zoning Bylaw. Some
must only meet the statutory requirement that the special permit must be in harmony
with the general purpose and intent of the Zoning Bylaw. Other special permits must
meet additional standards, which are listed in the relevant bylaw provision. A 2/3 vote
of the Board is required to issue a special permit.
Special Permit Process » Estimated time: 45 to 80 days
1. Review the proposed use with the Director of Municipal Inspections, Principal Planner or
the Permitting Assistant in the Land Use Department.
2. Obtain an Application from the Land Use Department, either by visiting or calling, or
from www.hopkintonma.gov. The Board of Appeals and Planning Board use different
application forms.
3. If applying to the Planning Board, consider a preliminary informational meeting with the
Board prior to formal submission. Schedule the meeting appointment at the Land Use
Department.
4. If the project is within the boundaries of a Historic District, proceed through the required
process with the appropriate Historic District Commission (see page 15).
5. File the completed application form, the application fee and the required accompanying
plans and documentation with the Town Clerk, with the number of copies required by the
applicable board to the Land Use Department. Include any Certificates issued by the
Historic District Commission if applicable.
6. If Site Plan Review is also required, a simultaneous application to the Planning Board is
recommended.
7. The Land Use Dept. will work with each Board to schedule the public hearing and notify
the abutters as necessary. The public hearing must be held within 65 days of the
submission of the application.
8. The applicant or a representative must appear at the public hearing. At the conclusion of
the hearing, the Board will vote on the application.
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9. The decision will be filed with the Town Clerk, and a copy sent to the applicant. A
decision must be made 90 days from the close of the public hearing.
Historic District Certificates
There are two Historic Districts in Hopkinton: 1) Hopkinton Center; and 2) Woodville.
The boundaries are shown on a map available in the Town Clerk’s office and posted on
the Town Clerk’s page of the Town web site (www.hopkintonma.gov). The Hopkinton
Historic District Commission reviews projects in the Hopkinton Center Historic District,
and the Woodville Historic District reviews projects in the Woodville Historic District.
Each entity has a page on the Town web site with additional information and forms.
Any application that involves a change to exterior architectural features that are subject
to approval of the Commission will require a Certificate before a building permit, for
example, can be issued. Categorically exempt from Commission review are several
items listed in the bylaw (Chapter 123), including temporary signs used for a period of
not more than 30 days. For a complete list of exemptions in each historic district, see
Town Bylaw section 123-6.
The applicable Commission may issue a Certificate of Appropriateness, a Certificate of
Nonapplicability or a Certificate of Hardship.
Historic District Certificate Process » Estimated time: 14 to 60 days
1. Review the proposed project with the Director of Municipal Inspections or the Director of
Land Use and Town Operations.
2. Complete an online application:
Hopkinton Historic District
(http://www.hopkintonma.gov/home/government/boards/historic-district)
Woodville Historic District
(http://www.hopkintonma.gov/home/government/boards/woodville-historic)
3. Within 14 days, the Commission will determine whether the application involves any
exterior architectural features that are subject to its approval. If it does, then the
Commission will hold a public hearing unless it determines that the exterior architectural
feature involved or its category or color is so insubstantial in its effect on the District that
it may be reviewed without public hearing. All applicants will receive a Certificate
regardless of whether a public hearing is held.
4. Within 60 days after the filing of an application, the Commission must make a
determination on the application, issuing the appropriate Certificate.
Wetlands Resource Area Permits and Approvals
Proposed work or land alteration in or within 100 feet of a wetland or 200 feet of a river
(as defined in the Massachusetts Wetland Protection Act (WPA)) is regulated, enforced
and administered by the Hopkinton Conservation Commission. In general, work is
prohibited within the wetland itself, and regulated and restricted within the buffer zone.
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Work that is allowed may require an Order of Conditions from the Conservation
Commission to proceed with such work.
The Commission administers the WPA and the Hopkinton Wetlands Protection Bylaw
(Chapter 206 of the Bylaws of the Town of Hopkinton). The Commission has adopted
Regulations which further describe the permitting procedures. Both the Bylaw and the
Regulations are posted on www.hopkintonma.gov. The Conservation Administrator at
Town Hall is available to review preliminary plans and guide applicants through the
approval process, and information is posted on the Conservation Commission page of
the web site.
Building Permit
A building permit is required for just about every construction project or activity,
including most interior and exterior alterations, roofs, window replacement, additions
and new structures. The construction must comply with the provisions of the State
Building Code. A link to the State Building Code is provided on the Inspectional
Services page of www.hopkintonma.gov. In addition, the Town has adopted the Stretch
Energy Code component of the State Building Code, so certain projects will need to
comply with the applicable requirements. Applications that include a private water
source, sewage disposal system or for a new or renovated food establishment require
separate review and approval by the Board of Health.
The estimated processing time after all documents are completed and returned is 20
working days. Once issued, the work authorized by the permit must be commenced
within 6 months.
Building Permit Process » Estimated time: 20 working days
1. Review the proposed project or project idea with the Director of Municipal Inspections to
determine what, if any, permits/approvals are necessary in addition to a building permit.
2. Obtain an Application to Construct, Repair, Renovate, Demolish a Structure from the
Land Use Department or download forms at
http://www.hopkintonma.gov/home/government/departments/inspectional.
3. Return the completed application form and the application fee to the Land Use Dept. for
plan review.
4. The Land Use Dept. will notify the applicant when the permit has been approved and
signed and is ready to be picked up and/or if additional information is needed.
5. Call the Land Use Department to schedule inspections as construction progresses. The
inspection procedure is posted on the Inspectional Services page of the Town web site.
Demolition Permit
A demolition permit is required for the demolition of any structure or swimming pool.
The permits are issued by the Director of Municipal Inspections. The demolition of any
structure in Hopkinton that is 75 years old or older requires a review by the Hopkinton
Historical Commission, which may delay demolition for up to six months (see Chapter
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125 of the Bylaws of the Town of Hopkinton). The demolition of a structure in a Historic
District also requires a Certificate from the appropriate Historic District Commission.
The Town recommends an early consultation with the appropriate Historic District
Commission and/or the Historical Commission in such cases, well before a demolition
permit application is submitted.
The estimated processing time after all documents are completed and submitted to the
Land Use Department is 20 working days. Once issued, the work authorized by the permit
must be commenced within 6 months.
Demolition Permit Process » Estimated time: 20 working days
1. Review the proposed demolition with the Director of Municipal Inspections.
2. If the structure is 75 years old or older, review the proposed demolition with the Historical
Commission, and begin its approval process if necessary. If the structure is also located in
a historic district, review the proposed demolition with the appropriate Historic District
Commission, and begin its approval process if necessary (see page 15). It is recommended
that these processes occur simultaneously.
3. Obtain an Application to Construct, Repair, Renovate, Demolish a Structure from the
Land Use Department or download forms at
http://www.hopkintonma.gov/home/government/departments/inspectional.
4. Return the completed application form and the application fee to the Land Use Dept.
Include any Certificates issued by the Historic District Commission and/or the Historical
Commission if applicable. Payments may be made online at www.hopkintonma.gov
(Treasurer/Collector page), but should not be made until the Land Use Department has
calculated and provided the fee information to you.
5. The Land Use Dept. will notify the applicant when the permit has been approved and
signed and is ready to be picked up and/or if additional information is needed.
Plumbing, Gas and Electrical Permits
Plumbing, gasfitting and electrical permits are required for any such work as required by
the State Building Code.
The estimated processing time after all documents are completed is 5 working days. Once
issued, the work authorized by the permit must be commenced within 6 months.
Plumbing, Gas and Electrical Permit Process » Estimated time: 5 working days
1. Obtain the appropriate Application from the Land Use Department.
2. Return the completed application form and the application fee to the Land Use Dept.
Payments may be made online, but should not be made until the Land Use Department
has calculated and provided the fee information to you.
3. The Land Use Dept. will notify the applicant when the permit has been approved and is
ready to be picked up and/or if additional information is needed.
4. Call the Land Use Department to schedule inspections.
18
Sign Permits
A sign permit is required in order to erect all permanent signs and some temporary
signs, such as banners. The manner of attachment and the structural design must
comply with the provisions of the State Building Code, where applicable. A link to the
State Building Code is provided at
http://www.hopkintonma.gov/home/government/departments/inspectional. In addition, the
Town has adopted a provision in the Zoning Bylaw (Article XXVII, Signs) which
establishes the sign regulations, including the maximum number and size of signs. The
Town does not regulate sign content.
The estimated processing time after all documents are completed and returned is 20
working days. Once issued, the work authorized by the permit must be commenced
within 6 months.
Sign Permit Process » Estimated time: 30 working days
1. Review the proposed sign with the Principal Planner or the Director of Municipal
Inspections.
2. Determine whether the property is in a Historic District. If it is, then a Certificate of
Appropriateness must be in hand prior to the issuance of a Sign Permit. Certificates are
required for all permanent signs and any temporary sign that will be up for more than 30
days. See page 15 for the Historic District Certificate process. Signs within historic
districts do not need review by the Design Review Board – skip to #5 on this list.
3. Obtain a Design Review Board application from the Land Use Dept. or online at
http://www.hopkintonma.gov/home/government/departments/inspectional. Return the
completed application, fee and required plans/drawings to the Land Use Dept.
4. The Design Review Board will review the sign at its next meeting and provide a written
report to the Director of Municipal Inspections.
5. Obtain an Application to Construct, Repair, Renovate, Demolish a Structure (i.e. the Sign
Permit application) from the Land Use Department or download the forms at
http://www.hopkintonma.gov/home/government/departments/inspectional.
6. Return the completed Sign Permit application form and the application fee to the Land
Use Dept., or pay online. Include any Certificates issued by the Historic District
Commission if applicable.
7. The Land Use Dept. will notify the applicant when the permit has been approved and is
ready to be picked up and/or if additional information is needed.
Permit to Open, Occupy or Obstruct a Street
A permit from the Department of Public Works is required in order to open, occupy or
obstruct a public way, sometimes called a “road opening permit”. The applicant must
comply with the DPW’s policies and requirements with respect to such work, including
the posting of a performance bond and paving requirements. The application is posted
on the DPW page of www.hopkintonma.gov, along with the applicable policies and
requirements. The application form, fee and the required information must be
submitted to the DPW for review. The Director of Public Works, Highway Manager and
19
DPW administrative staff is available to answer questions and provide information to
prospective applicants.
Permit Process » Estimated time: 2 to 3 days
1. A complete permit application and the fee are submitted to the DPW at its administrative
office.
2. DPW staff will review the location of the proposed work and approve the permit as long as
all of the requirements are met.
3. The permit is then reviewed by the Police Department and a decision is made as to
whether a police detail is needed for the work. The Police Department will sign off on the
permit.
4. The permit is then sent by the DPW to the applicant in the mail.
Trench Safety Permits
A permit from the Department of Public Works is required prior to the excavation of
trenches. Trenches may pose a significant health and safety hazard, and the trench
work must comply with the applicable statutes in this regard. Permit recipients are
responsible for understanding and following the regulations. The application is posted
on the DPW page of www.hopkintonma.gov, along with the applicable policies and
requirements. The application form, fee and the required information must be
submitted to the DPW for review. The Director of Public Works, Highway Manager and
DPW administrative staff is available to answer questions and provide information to
prospective applicants.
Permit Process » Estimated time: 1 to 2 days
1. A complete permit application and the fee are submitted to the DPW at its administrative
office.
2. The permit reviewed for completeness and signed off.
3. The permit is sent by the DPW to the applicant in the mail.
Driveway Opening Permits
A permit to construct a driveway which enters upon a public way is required from the
Department of Public Works. The driveway must comply with the driveway entrance
specifications established by the DPW and the provisions of the Driveways Bylaw
(Article VII of Chapter 174 of the Bylaws of the Town of Hopkinton). The application is
posted on the DPW page of www.hopkintonma.gov, along with specifications. The
application form, fee and the required information must be submitted to the DPW for
review. The Director of Public Works, Highway Manager and DPW administrative staff
is available to answer questions and provide information to prospective applicants.
Permit Process » Estimated time: 2 to 3 days
20
1. A complete permit application and the fee are submitted to the DPW at its administrative
office.
2. DPW staff will review the location of the proposed driveway and approve the permit as long
as all of the requirements are met.
3. The permit is then sent by the DPW to the applicant in the mail.
Stormwater Management Permit
A Stormwater Management Permit may be required for certain construction activities
that will result in land disturbance of one acre or more or is part of a common plan for
development that will disturb one acre or more, that will disturb more than 10,000
square feet of land that has a 15% or greater slope, or will increase the amount of
impervious surface more than 50% of the area of a lot. Information is contained in
Chapter 172 of the Bylaws of the Town of Hopkinton, Stormwater Management and
Erosion Control, and in the Stormwater Management Regulations adopted by the
Planning Board. Both are posted on the Town web site. Together, these documents
work to control the adverse effects of increased post-development stormwater runoff
and nonpoint source pollution associated with new development. Many development
activities are exempt from requiring a Stormwater Management Permit because they are
permitted via a Site Plan Review application (see page 12), so applicants should review
the list of exemptions contained in the bylaw.
After the filing of a complete application, the Planning Board has up to 60 days to issue
a stormwater management permit.
Stormwater Management Permit Process » Estimated time: 45 days
1. Review the proposed activity with the Principal Planner or Director of Land Use and Town
Operations to determine whether a stormwater management permit is required.
2. Obtain Stormwater Management Permit application and the Stormwater Regulations from
the Land Use Department, either by visiting or calling, or from www.hopkintonma.gov.
3. Return the completed application form, the application fee and the required
accompanying plans and documentation to the Land Use Dept.
4. The Land Use Dept. will schedule the public hearing with the Planning Board and notify
the abutters as required.
5. The Land Use Dept. will distribute the application and materials to town departments for
review.
6. The applicant or a representative must appear at the public hearing.
7. The Planning Board’s decision will be filed with the Town Clerk, and a copy sent to the
applicant.
Construction Equipment and Commercial Activity Hours
While a permit or license is not required to operate construction equipment, the use of
such equipment is restricted by Town Bylaw (Chapter 141 of the Bylaws of the Town of
Hopkinton). Except in an emergency, outdoor construction activity (which includes the
use of construction, earthmoving or other such equipment or the delivery to or pick up
21
from a site of such equipment) is restricted to between 7:00 am and 7:00 pm Monday
through Friday and between 8:00 am and 4:00 pm on Saturday. No such activity may
occur on Sundays or holidays.
Outdoor commercial activity in Residence Lake Front, Residence A and Residence B
zoning districts is limited to the same days and hours as construction equipment
operation. Outdoor commercial activity includes all electric motors or internal
combustion engines, other commercial devices, tools or equipment that is started,
moved, left to idle or used in any commercial activity. Such activity includes delivery
trucks, refuse trucks, bulldozers, air compressors, generators, jackhammers, chain saws
and the like.
22
Permits and Licenses - Short Term and Special Events
The Town Common is a popular place for special events. The Common is under the
jurisdiction of the Parks and Recreation Commission, and all activities proposed to be
held on the Common require its approval.
Alcoholic Beverages
There are several types of one-day and short-term licenses that can be issued. Please
consult the ABCC web site (http://www.mass.gov/abcc/) for information about these
licenses. In general, the process is the same as for annual licensing. It is very important
that the applications be submitted well in advance, at least 30 days before, the event.
The application for a one day liquor license is available at the Town Manager’s office or
online at http://www.hopkintonma.gov/home/government/boards/bos.
Boston Marathon
The Town is very proud to host the start of the Boston Marathon every Patriot’s Day.
Vendors are located on the Town Common, which is under the jurisdiction of the Parks
and Recreation Commission. In order to obtain permits for the event, all vendors must
contact the Parks and Recreation Commission (508-497-9750). It is only through the
Commission that permits for food and other activities on the Common can be obtained.
All temporary food establishments must be inspected and obtain a license from the
Board of Health. If not located at the Town Common, then approval of the Hopkinton
Marathon Committee is required as well.
Any activities that will be occurring in the roadway on that day are subject to approval of
the Boston Athletic Association and require a Parade Permit from the Board of
Selectmen.
Signs and banners to be erected for the event must comply with the Town’s regulations
for signs. See the section of this Guide on Sign Permits for the process, which must be
commenced at least one month prior to the event.
Carnival License
Carnival Licenses are issued by the Board of Selectmen. The carnival rides are inspected
by the Commonwealth of Massachusetts and Town inspectors. All food vendors at the
carnival require an inspection and license from the Board of Health. If road closures are
needed, then a Parade Permit is also required from the Board of Selectmen.
Entertainment License
Entertainment licenses are required for special and one-time events for theatrical
exhibitions, public shows, concerts or dances on the premises where an alcoholic
23
beverage license, inn holder license, common victualler license and at any club or
restaurant required to be licensed under MGL c. 138 sec. 12 or c. 140 sec. 2, 21A or 21E,
and for any exhibition, show or amusement that is not exempt from the entertainment
license requirements of MGL c.140 sec. 182 (generally, entertainment held by religious
entities at usual places of worship, in school buildings by or for the benefit of the pupils,
and at private dwellings are exempt). The licenses are issued by the Board of Selectmen.
The Board must act within 45 days of the receipt of a complete application.
In accordance with MGL c. 140 sec. 183A, the Board of Selectmen shall grant the license
unless it finds that the license, taken alone or in combination with other licensed
activities on the premises, would adversely affect the public health, safety or order, in
that the proposed entertainment cannot be conducted in a manner so as to: a) protect
employees, patrons and members of the public inside or outside the premises from
disruptive conduct, criminal activity, or from health, safety or fire hazards; b) prevent an
unreasonable increase in the level of noise in the area caused by the licensed activity or
caused by patrons entering or leaving the premises; or c) prevent an unreasonable
increase in the number of vehicles to be parked in the area of the premises. Licenses
may be issued with conditions.
Live commercial entertainment, whether or not paired with alcoholic beverage or other
licenses, is not allowed in some zoning districts and is allowed by special permit in ot her
zoning districts. An establishment in a district that allows live commercial
entertainment by special permit that wishes to provide live commercial entertainment
must apply for a special permit from the Board of Appeals, whether or not the
entertainment is a regular feature of the business, sporadic or a one-time event. The
procedure for applying for a special permit is contained in the Construction and
Development section of this Guide.
Entertainment License process » Estimated time: 15 to 30 days
1. Obtain a General License Application at the Town Manager’s office.
2. Complete and return application and all required supplemental information to the
Town Manager’s office.
3. The license application will be forwarded by the Town Manager’s office staff to town
departments for review and comment.
4. The Board of Selectmen will discuss the application at a posted meeting. The Board
can grant the license or provide the opportunity to have a hearing. If a hearing will be
held, the Board will notify the applicant in writing 7 days prior to the hearing date.
5. If a license is granted without a hearing, the applicant will be notified by the Town
Manager’s office when it is issued.
6. If a public hearing is held, the applicant should appear and describe the request.
7. Within 30 days following the final date of the opportunity to hold a hearing, the Board
of Selectmen may grant the license or deliver a written notice of denial to the
applicant.
Parade Permit
24
A Parade Permit is needed in order to use the roads for an event in which the Police
Department is involved. Examples of the type of involvement that necessitates a Parade
Permit are an escort and/or traffic management for the event. The Board of Selectmen
issues Parade Permits.
Parade Permit process » Estimated time: 30 days
1. Obtain a Parade Permit application at the Town Manager’s office at Town Hall or at
http://www.hopkintonma.gov/home/government/boards/bos .
2. Complete and return application and all required supplemental information to the
Board of Selectmen’s office at least one month prior to the event.
3. The application will be forwarded by the Town Manager’s office to town departments
for review and comment.
4. The Board of Selectmen will discuss the application at a posted meeting.
5. The applicant will be notified by the Town Manager’s office when the permit is issued.
A $1,000,000 certificate of insurance naming the Town as additional insured, a map
detailing the route, and any operational plans are required and must be submitted at
least one month prior to the event.
Temporary Food Establishment Permit
Temporary Food Establishment Permits are issued by the Board of Health for a period
of time not to exceed 15 days. Applications may be obtained at the Town Hall and on the
Town’s web site, and must be submitted no less than 14 days before the event.
Board of Health Temporary Food Establishment Permit Process »
1. Obtain Temporary Food Establishment Permit application at the Board of Health
office or online at www.hopkintonma.gov.
2. Consider a pre-application review with Board of Health staff.
3. Complete and return Temporary Food Establishment Permit application and all
required supplemental information and the fee.
4. The Board of Health office will notify the applicant when the permit has been
approved.
25
Online Permit Applications:
Application Municipal
Department or
Agency
Online Address
Alcoholic
Beverage license
application
Board of
Selectmen
http://www.mass.gov/abcc/forms.htm
http://www.hopkintonma.gov/home/government/boards/bos
Application for a
Certificate
Hopkinton
Historic
District
Commission
or Woodville
Historic
District
Commission
Hopkinton Center:
http://www.hopkintonma.gov/home/government/boards/historic-
district
Woodville:
http://www.hopkintonma.gov/home/government/boards/woodville-
historic
Building,
demolition and
sign permit
application (i.e.
Application to
Construct, Repair,
Renovate,
Demolish a
Structure)
Land Use
Department
http://www.hopkintonma.gov/home/government/departments/inspec
tional
Design Review
Board application
(signs)
Land Use
Department
http://www.hopkintonma.gov/home/government/departments/inspec
tional
Business
Certificate
Registration (DBA
Certificate)
application
Town Clerk http://www.hopkintonma.gov/home/government/departments/clerk
Withdrawal from
Business Form
Town Clerk http://www.hopkintonma.gov/home/government/departments/clerk
Driveway Opening
permit application
Dept. of
Public Works
http://www.hopkintonma.gov/home/government/departments/dpw
One day liquor
license application
Board of
Selectmen
http://www.hopkintonma.gov/home/government/boards/bos
Temporary Food
Establishment
permit application
Board of
Health
http://www.hopkintonma.gov/home/government/boards/boh
Open, Occupy or
Obstruct a Street
(Road Opening) –
application
Dept. of
Public Works
http://www.hopkintonma.gov/home/government/departments/dpw
Parade permit
application
Board of
Selectmen
http://www.hopkintonma.gov/home/government/boards/bos
26
Site Plan Review
application
(Planning Board)
Land Use
Department
http://www.hopkintonma.gov/home/government/boards/planning
Special permit
application (Board
of Appeals)
Land Use
Department
http://www.hopkintonma.gov/home/government/boards/appeals
Special permit
application
(Planning Board)
Land Use
Department
http://www.hopkintonma.gov/home/government/boards/planning
Stormwater
Management
Permit (Planning
Board)
Land Use
Department
http://www.hopkintonma.gov/home/government/boards/planning
Dept. of Public
Works
Trench Safety
permit
application
http://www.hopkintonma.gov/home/government/departments/dpw
27
Online References
The Massachusetts General Laws (MGL):
http://www.malegislature.gov/Laws/GeneralLaws
Alcoholic Beverage Control Commission:
http://www.mass.gov/abcc/licensing.htm
Hopkinton General and Zoning Bylaws:
http://www.hopkintonma.gov/home/government/departments/clerk
Hopkinton Zoning Map:
http://www.hopkintonma.gov/home/government/departments/clerk
Hopkinton Town Clerk Certificates, Licenses and Fees:
http://www.hopkintonma.gov/home/government/departments/clerk
Board of Selectmen:
http://www.hopkintonma.gov/home/government/boards/bos
Inspectional Services:
http://www.hopkintonma.gov/home/government/departments/inspectional
Hopkinton Board of Health:
http://www.hopkintonma.gov/home/government/boards/boh
Hopkinton Board of Health Regulations:
http://www.hopkintonma.gov/home/government/boards/boh
Hopkinton DPW: http://www.hopkintonma.gov/home/government/departments/dpw
Hopkinton Board of Appeals:
http://www.hopkintonma.gov/home/government/boards/appeals
Hopkinton Planning Board:
http://www.hopkintonma.gov/home/government/boards/planning
Stormwater Regulations:
http://www.hopkintonma.gov/home/government/boards/planning
Downtown Design Guidelines:
http://www.hopkintonma.gov/home/government/boards/downtown-revitalization
Hopkinton Design Review Board Design Guidelines:
http://www.hopkintonma.gov/home/government/boards/planning
28
Hopkinton Conservation Commission:
http://www.hopkintonma.gov/home/government/boards/conservation
Hopkinton Historic District Commission:
http://www.hopkintonma.gov/home/government/boards/historic-district
Woodville Historic District Commission:
http://www.hopkintonma.gov/home/government/boards/woodville-historic
Hopkinton Master Plan:
http://www.hopkintonma.gov/home/government/boards/planning
Hopkinton Chamber of Commerce: http://www.hopchamber.com/
Sign Permitting Procedure
Building permit
application submitted
Review for
completeness
Building official
review
Building permit issued
Application to Board of
Appeals submitted if Special
Permit is required
Permitting Assistant review
for completeness
Board of Appeals public
hearing
Board of Appeals decision
filed with Town Clerk
20 day appeal
period/applicant files decision
in Registry of Deeds if granted
Submit to Design Review Board (DRB) or
Historic District Commission (HDC) for
review
DRB or HDC meeting
DRB issues recommendation/HDC issues
Certificate of Appropriateness
Project Review and Approval
Project Proposal
Consult Bylaws,
Regulations and Town
Officials
Use Permitted by
Right?
Use Allowed by Special
Permit?
Site Plan Review
Required?
File Special Permit
Application Denied
Approved
File Site Plan
Review Application
Apply for Building
Permit
Approved
No Yes
No Yes
No
Yes