Town of Framingham Warns of Paving Scam

Over the last few weeks there have been contractors in the area soliciting residents to perform driveway paving and repair work. These contractors are pitching low prices and same or next day for an upfront cash payment. These contractors are not obtaining the appropriate permit (SOP – Street Opening Permit) required for this type of work and are not filing Dig Safe tickets, violating State Laws and Town Policies. The compliance violations include:

1. Not obtaining a Dig Safe ticket that is required by State Law to enable all utilities (Gas, Electric, Telecommunication, Cable, Sewer, Water, and Drainage) a 72 hour advance window opportunity to mark-out the locations of their facilities before excavation work is made. Digging without a Dig Safe ticket can be dangerous and can cause unwanted damages, expenses, outages and risks to the public.

2. Not complying with Town By Laws and Policy to secure obligatory permits that ensure the delivery of such work to be made with proper: Insurance and Bond protection coverage, Police traffic management of Public Way streets to maintain unimpeded passage way for emergency vehicles and supervised inspection work oversight.

The Town is sharing this message as violations of this type pose safety concerns to utility agencies and the general public. If you are considering plans to replace or to modify your driveway you should be aware that State Laws and Town Permits apply. 

Any prospective contractor you may be considering to do work of this type should know of and should comply with these requirements. 

If you would like to learn more about or have questions regarding this subject you can contact Department of Public Works at 508-532-6010.