Moving brings a lot of moving parts. In Newton, a smooth first month depends on getting utilities started on time, pulling the right permits, and knowing who to call. This step-by-step guide keeps everything in one place so you can settle in with confidence.
Why these essentials matter in Newton
Newton runs water, sewer, stormwater, and curbside collection through City departments, while private utilities handle electricity, gas, and internet. A little planning prevents last-minute fees, missed pickups, and delays with renovation projects. Below, you will find timelines, links to official pages, and a week-by-week checklist to keep you on track.
Set up utilities and connectivity
Gather this info before you start: ID, move-in date, full service address, unit number, and if available, the previous account number for faster setup. Plan to begin requests 5 to 10 days before move-in.
Electricity and natural gas setup
- Electricity: Eversource serves most Newton addresses. Create an account and request start or transfer online. You can also set bill alerts and enroll in outage notifications on the same site. If power goes out, use Eversource’s outage tools or phone lines to report it see Eversource service territory and start service.
- Natural gas: National Grid handles gas service in Newton. Gas often requires a technician visit to turn service on, so book 5 to 7 days ahead and plan for an appointment window. For any suspected leak, leave the building, call 911, then contact National Grid’s emergency line start, stop, transfer details and gas emergency contacts.
- Billing tips: Set up autopay and paperless billing once your accounts are active. Save confirmation emails and service dates in a moving folder.
Water, sewer, and trash service
- Water and sewer: The City of Newton manages water and sewer services and bills quarterly. If you are buying or selling, arrange final meter readings through the City to avoid closing day issues. The City also runs a meter replacement program and provides billing contacts if you have questions Utilities Division info and meter replacement and final read guidance.
- Trash, recycling, and organics: Newton’s Sustainable Materials Management team oversees curbside collection. Look up your pickup day, rules for carts, and how to schedule bulky items before move week. Check the Resource Recovery Center for drop-offs and special events trash and recycling details.
- Pro tip: On day one, photograph your water meter reading and trash cart serial numbers for your records.
Internet, TV, and mobile options
Newton neighborhoods commonly have Comcast Xfinity, Verizon Fios, and RCN/Astound. Availability varies by street, so check your exact address and book installation 1 to 2 weeks before move-in. If you need a specific speed for remote work, confirm the plan and equipment requirements when you schedule example Xfinity address tool.
Heating oil or propane delivery
Some homes in Newton use oil or propane. If your property does:
- Ask the seller for tank size, age, and recent service records.
- Schedule a safety inspection and first fill with a local supplier.
- Consider a service contract that includes annual cleaning and emergency calls.
- For propane, confirm whether the tank is owned or leased and add the supplier to your contact list.
Secure moving and project permits
Newton enforces parking rules, street use permits, and building codes. Planning ahead avoids tickets, delays, and re-inspections.
Moving truck and parking permissions
If your movers need to park on a restricted street or you must reserve curb space, contact the Police Traffic Bureau for temporary parking permissions. Larger moves that block a lane may require street occupancy coordination with Public Works and Police. Start this process early and keep your permit on hand on moving day Traffic Bureau and permits and Inspectional Services portal overview.
What to have ready:
- Date, time window, and exact location
- Vehicle size and license plate if known
- Any need to coned-off space or meter bagging
Renovation and repair permits
Many projects require permits and inspections through Inspectional Services. Typical residential permits include kitchens and baths, decks, roofing, structural changes, window changes, and any electrical, plumbing, or gas work. Licensed trades must pull the appropriate permits and schedule inspections before closing walls Inspectional Services main page and plumbing, gas, electrical details.
Exterior and site work approvals
- Trees: Newton’s Tree Preservation Ordinance requires permits for removal of certain private trees and for many exterior projects that impact trees. Review requirements early to account for replacement or mitigation deadlines Tree Preservation Ordinance.
- Other exterior work: Fences, driveways, sheds, pools, solar, and major façade changes can trigger review. If your property is historic or in a district, additional steps may apply Historical Commission and demolition rules.
- Construction hours: Follow local construction noise hours and apply for a waiver if you need work outside standard times ISD guidance.
Rental and home business registrations
If you plan to rent your property or operate a home-based business, check City requirements. Some uses require registration or inspections. Confirm rules with Inspectional Services before you advertise or open to avoid fines Inspectional Services.
Arrange waste, recycling, and pickups
Plan for extra boxes and bulky items during move week so debris does not pile up.
Carts, schedules, and service requests
- Look up your trash and recycling day and holiday shifts on the City site.
- Request cart repairs or replacements and report missed pickups through City customer service and online tools trash and recycling information.
- Set calendar reminders for yard waste season if you plan garden cleanups.
Bulk, yard, and hazardous items
- Bulky items: Schedule pickup in advance and follow set-out rules. Fees and accepted items are listed on the City pages.
- Yard waste: Check seasonal guidelines for bagging or cart use.
- Hazardous materials: Use City programs and events for paint, electronics, and chemicals to dispose safely trash and recycling information.
Transfer station and composting options
Newton’s Resource Recovery Center at Rumford Ave handles many drop-offs. Review hours, fees, and required documentation before you go. Some programs require proof of residency Resource Recovery Center details.
Save key city and community contacts
Create a master sheet with links and phone numbers. It will save you time in your first month.
City Hall, permits, and inspectional services
Public works and utilities support
Schools, childcare, and libraries
Once you are settled, bookmark Newton Public Schools for enrollment and calendars, and explore local libraries and after-school programs. If you need assistance programs during your transition, the City’s Human Services page lists fuel assistance and related contacts Human Services fuel assistance.
Transportation and parking resources
Use the Police and Traffic pages for parking rules, permits, and any temporary permissions. For larger street occupancy needs, coordinate with Public Works and check notices for planned closures Police Department and Traffic Bureau.
Healthcare and safety contacts
Save local hospitals and urgent care numbers, plus non-emergency police lines for quick access. For life-threatening emergencies, call 911. For power outages and gas leaks, use the utility emergency contacts listed above.
Your 30-day move-in checklist
One week before move
Move-in week
- Take photos of water, gas, and electric meters and note serial numbers.
- Label main shutoffs and circuit breakers for future reference.
- Set out recycling and trash correctly and schedule any bulky pickup trash and recycling.
- Meet the internet technician and test Wi-Fi where you plan to work.
- If using oil or propane, schedule a safety check and first fill.
- If permits are required for repairs, confirm inspection dates to avoid delays.
Weeks two to four
Make your Newton move seamless
A clean plan reduces stress. Use this guide to set up utilities, pull permits on time, and get your service contacts in order. If you would like a customized move timeline, vetted contractor introductions, or help coordinating permits and inspections, schedule a consultation with Luisa Cestari. You will get hands-on support, clear communication, and a smooth start in your new home.
FAQs
When should I start electric and gas service for my Newton home?
- Start requests 5 to 10 days before move-in. Gas turn-ons often require an appointment, so book early with National Grid. Eversource lets you start service online and set outage alerts.
How do I handle a final water meter reading when buying or selling?
- Contact the City to schedule a final read before closing and keep a photo of the meter on file. The Utilities Division provides guidance on billing and meter replacement programs.
Do I need a permit to park my moving truck on the street?
- You might. Newton’s Police Traffic Bureau issues temporary permissions for restricted streets and can advise on larger street occupancy needs. Apply in advance and post your permit on moving day.
Which projects need permits in Newton?
- Kitchens, baths, decks, roofing, structural changes, and all electrical, plumbing, and gas work typically need permits and inspections. Use licensed trades and apply through Inspectional Services.
What do I do with bulky items and packing debris?
- Schedule bulky pickup through the City and follow set-out rules. For items not accepted curbside, use the Resource Recovery Center and check accepted materials and hours.
Who do I call for a power outage or gas leak?
- For power outages, use Eversource’s outage tools or phone lines. For suspected gas leaks, leave immediately, call 911, then call National Grid’s emergency line.
Are there assistance programs if I need help with utility bills?
- Yes. The City lists fuel assistance and related programs through Human Services. Check eligibility and how to apply on the City site.
