Rights and Permits Frequently Asked Questions

Will my electrical service installation have to be approved at a hearing?
Due to Massachusetts state regulations, installations in the “public way” (including the sidewalk) require a City or public hearing. NSTAR is required to obtain what is called a Grant of Location from the city or town for conduit installed in the public way.

My installation needs to go to a public hearing, how long will that take?
The timing depends upon when the selectmen or alderman in your town or city meet. Massachusetts state regulations require a seven-day notice to abutters of the installation, which can affect timing as well.

Can I install my own conduit?
In the majority of cities and towns NSTAR serves, customers are allowed to install their own conduit. However, it is important to note that in Boston NSTAR must install the conduit.

Why does my bank also need to sign onto an NSTAR Easement?
Your bank must also sign onto an NSTAR Easement because all property interest holders must agree to the granting of easements.

The service to my new house is going to cross over my neighbor’s property. Do you need an Easement from my neighbor?
Yes. The Easement is an important protection for you and for NSTAR. Without an Easement your neighbor could tell NSTAR to remove your service at anytime.

I have a pole on my property providing service to others. I would like to have it removed. What is the process?
If you feel that this pole should not be on your property, the first step is to place a request in writing to NSTAR with your address and the pole number if possible. NSTAR will then determine if the pole should be removed.

Will you be able to obtain a street opening permit if there is a winter moratorium on excavating in my town?
Most communities do impose a winter moratorium and it usually runs from mid November to April 1. What NSTAR can do is approach the Public Works Department in your area and request the street opening permit. NSTAR may request a letter from you stating why you cannot wait until the moratorium is over. With a good weather forecast at the time of the request, it is possible the permit could be issued.

I have a request in for electric service that requires NSTAR to excavate, but my town is getting ready to pave the street. What should I do?
You need to contact your Public Works Department immediately and let them know that you have excavation work to be done by NSTAR. You should then call your NSTAR Sales Representative to let us also know about the proposed paving.

Is it ok to put signs or posters on the utility pole in front of my house?
Any attachments to poles must be reviewed and approved in writing by the pole owners before hanging anything on the pole.

I just received a request from you for rights to put your facilities on my property to serve my building. Do I need to sign these papers in order to receive my service?
In order to provide service to your building, NSTAR must obtain signed permissions/rights from the property owner prior to the installation of equipment on private property.