City of Somerville Unclaimed

Streamlined access to city services and support for residents, businesses, and visitors.

Streamline the application process for permits and licenses in Somerville.

Easily order vital records online for personal and legal needs.

Empowers entrepreneurs to successfully establish and grow their businesses in Somerville.

Safe Overnight Shelter For Homeless Individuals During Winter.

Centralized non-emergency service request intake and case management across phone, web, chat, and mobile channels with alerting and open data for transparency and tracking.

Account-based online application, payment, review, and messaging workflow for building permits, zoning and historic submissions, and municipal licensing.

Programs and guidance to attract, start, and grow local businesses, including site search assistance, technical assistance, and virtual office hours.

Provision and fulfillment of certified vital records, genealogy search, and mail-order options for birth, marriage, domestic partnership, and death records.

Seasonal and emergency shelter operations and related health and social services for adults experiencing homelessness during severe weather and winter months.

311 Service Center

The 311 Service Center is the city’s centralized hub for reporting issues, making service requests, and obtaining city information. It supports online service requests, phone assistance, and accessibility options, and offers live chat, mobile apps, and emergency/city alerts. It also provides data resources via the Data.SomervilleMA.gov portal to track requests and city activity.

• Access via Phone
  24/7 phone support provides a crucial lifeline for those needing assistance, including specialized resources for the hearing impaired.
• Engage in Live Chat Support
  Instant communication with 311 representatives helps address queries quickly and efficiently.
• Utilize Mobile Applications
  Easily report issues like potholes or noise complaints and track service requests directly from your mobile device.
• Receive Timely Alerts
  Stay informed about critical updates, including city emergencies and important city events, ensuring residents are always connected.
• Make Online Requests
  Conveniently report issues and request services online, improving accessibility and efficiency for residents.
• Explore 311 Stats
  Gain insights into common issues and request statistics, providing transparency and facilitating community awareness.

CitizenServe portal (Permits & Licenses)

Online portal for applying for city permits and licenses, including zoning and historic preservation submissions. The city migrated to CitizenServe for online submissions, with online payments and in-platform messaging; accounts are required; in-progress submissions can be completed.

• Submit Applications Online
  Easily apply for permits from anywhere with internet access.
• Communicate Directly Through The Portal
  Engage with city staff without leaving the platform, ensuring clarity and efficiency.
• Apply For Zoning And Historic Permits Online
  Seamlessly transition to digital applications for zoning and historical preservation.
• Create An Account To Access Features
  Establish a secure account to manage all applications efficiently.
• Process Fees Seamlessly Within The Portal
  All transaction fees are handled directly in the platform for convenience.
• Complete Existing Applications Anytime
  Users can resume unfinished applications at their convenience.

Vital Records Ordering (City Clerk)

Online ordering of vital records including birth, marriage, domestic partnership, and death certificates. The service also offers mail-order options and genealogy record search via City Clerk resources.

• Order Vital Records Online
  Conveniently request vital records at your convenience, reducing the need for in-person visits.
• Access Genealogy Records
  Search family history documents through specialized resources provided by the City Clerk.
• Place Orders via Mail
  Submit requests for vital records through traditional mail, offering flexibility for those unable to order online.

Doing Business in Somerville

A guidance program to help entrepreneurs start, relocate, or grow a business in Somerville, with online guides, virtual office hours, and access to business resources and support services.

• Offers Step-by-Step Guidance
  Helps aspiring business owners understand the processes and requirements necessary for launching their ventures in the city.
• Provides Essential Resources
  Enables businesses to navigate various resources and assistance programs tailored to Somerville's local needs.
• Connects with City Staff
  Allows entrepreneurs to directly ask questions and get personalized guidance during scheduled online sessions.
• Links to Technical Support
  Provides businesses access to expert consultants who can assist in various operational and growth-related challenges.
• Facilitates Site Search
  Assists business owners in identifying and securing appropriate commercial spaces to launch or expand operations in the city.

Winter Warming Center

Somerville's Winter Warming Center provides a safe space for adults experiencing homelessness to spend the night during winter months.

• Provides Safe Overnight Accommodations
  The Winter Warming Center offers a secure environment for individuals to escape the harsh winter conditions, ensuring they have a warm place to stay at night.
• Ensures Safety During Storms
  The center remains operational during severe weather events, providing crucial shelter for those most vulnerable to extreme cold.
• Connects Users To Essential Services
  The center helps individuals not only find shelter but also connect with essential health services and support systems in the community.