I’ve done a lot of SPT, and I think “required” to be at the theater can be the catch. Like Balletdork, I would not count normal pre-set time since really my crew is doing the work, so I think I should be there but am not sure it is “required.” I would count a dry tech or specific meeting to work with a designer or the director on an issue before actors arrive as required and falling into overtime. In working with your producer on this, I’d also clarify which Tech Notes you mean. I’ve usually heard the post-rehearsal notes for tech referred to as the production meeting, and the Tech Notes being the work that needs to be done by set, lights, etc, before the next rehearsal. If the producer is thinking like me, they may not think you need to be present for Tech Notes. But if they’re on the same page as you and thinking about post-rehearsal, I’d agree with others that the SM should be there. A final thing to remember is that as SM you have more hours in your contractual work week than the actors do. If your theater company is efficient, they may be able to accomplish notes quickly enough after rehearsal that you are kept within your maximum hours, so keep careful records of when you come and go.