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Assessor

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1. How often does the valuation of properties change?

Every year the Assessors subject the arms-length sales that occurred in the prior calendar year to a statistical examination based on market area, style of house, age of house, effective area, size of lot, and sale price to see what changes the market has shown. The tables used in the Computer-Assisted Mass Appraisal (CAMA) system are adjusted so that the median assessment of the sales sample is within 10% of 100% of market value and the dispersion of the assessments to sales ratios in the sample are within State guidelines. These new factors are then applied to all properties for the new fiscal year.

Every third year the Department of Revenue (DOR) requires each city or town to conduct a revaluation. This is a year-long process during which the DOR examines every phase of the assessing operation before certifying the values. During the two years in between revaluations, the Assessors may change the values if sales activity so indicates. These yearly updates are called Interim Year Adjustments. There was an adjustment to the values for FY09.

2. How will the new valuation affect my tax bill? If my assessment went down, how can my tax bill go up?

Individual assessments may rise or fall depending on characteristics of the property. The purpose of mass appraisal is to value all property by the same standards at the same time to create an equitable distribution of the tax levy. If the same amount of money is to be raised for the current year after a valuation update from the previous year, and each assessment has doubled, the tax rate would be cut in half. And vice versa, if each assessment decreased by 20%, and the same amount of money was to be raised, the tax rate would increase by 20%. Increases or decreases in assessed values do not cause a tax increase or decrease.

3. What's the difference between an abatement and an exemption?

An exemption is a discharge from the obligation to pay all or part of a real estate tax based on certain age, income, military, or disability status as set forth by the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. An abatement happens as a result of an adjustment that lowers a property valuation after the actual (not preliminary) tax bill has been issued. Exemptions are available for seniors, low-income seniors, surviving spouse or surviving minor child, veterans with disabilities, and blind persons.

4. What is the current tax rate?

The FY 2011 tax rate is $18.08.

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Building Department

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1. What do I need a building permit for?

The Massachusetts State building Code states that “it shall be unlawful to construct, reconstruct, alter, repair, remove, or demolish a structure; or to change the use or occupancy of a building or structure; or to install or alter any equipment for which provision is made or the installation of which is regulated be the code” without first obtaining a building permit.

This includes, but is not limited to new structures, additions, dormers, chimneys, woodstoves, decks, roofing, siding, swimming pools, antennae, and sheds. The only exception is an ordinary repair. An ordinary repair does not require a building permit.

For more information, contact the Building Department at (978) 264-9632.

2. What information do I need to apply for a permit?

Most projects will require three sets of construction plans, a certified plot plan, along with the permit fee.

For more information, contact the Building Department at (978) 264-9632.

3. What are my property set-backs?

Please refer to the zoning bylaw and zoning map to determine your set-backs. You may also find out by contacting the Planning Department at (978) 264-9636.

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Cemetery

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1. How many cemeteries are there in Acton and where are they?

Woodlawn Cemetery was established in 1737 is located at 104 Concord Rd. The Forest Cemetery on Carlisle Rd. was established in 1750 and the Mount Hope Cemetery on Central St. was established 1848.

2. How do I buy a lot?

You will need to contact the Cemetery office and schedule an appointment to view available lots in person.

3. How much does it cost to buy a lot?

Please see our rate schedule. Please note that the rate schedule is periodically reviewed and subject to change. Please call or e-mail our office for an up-to-date rate schedule.

4. I am not an Acton resident. Can I buy a lot in an Acton Cemetery?

Yes, although non-resident pricing is slightly higher than the resident rate.

5. Are there any additional costs after I buy a lot?

There is a fee charged for the following services: Opening and closing a grave, installing a foundation for a monument, installing a marker and planting woody shrubs (must be approved and planted by Cemetery department) on a lot.

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Collector / Treasurer

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1. How are real estate taxes calculated?

The amount of tax shown on the first and second quarter bills (issued 7/01/08 and 10/01/08 respectively) was estimated. Generally, each bill was based on 1/4 of the prior year (FY2008) tax bill plus amounts to reflect the 2.5% growth in the Town's tax levy allowed under Proposition 2 1/2 and other approved overrides.

The third and fourth quarter bills (issuance dates of 12/31/08 and 3/31/09 respectively) are actual tax bills based on tax rates adopted by the Board of Selectmen in December 2008.

2. What is the CPA billed on my account?

On November 5, 2002, voters approved the provisions of the Massachusetts General Laws, known as the Community Preservation Act (CPA). The revenue for this fund includes a 1.5% property tax surcharge. The Town also accepted provisions that allow us to exempt up to $100,000 of your residential assessed value for determination of this surcharge. The calculation is determined by multiplying your adjusted CPA valuation (assessed value less the $100,000 exemption) by the surcharge of 1.5%, and then multiplying this amount by the current tax rate.

Please note: You may be eligible for an additional exemption. The Town also accepted provisions that allow low-income individuals of any age and for seniors with up to moderate income a complete CPA exemption. The income criteria is based on the area-wide median household income as determined annually by the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development. Please call for complete details or for an application for exemption.

For more information on the CPA, please call the Assessors Office at (978) 264-9622.

3. What is the Sewer Bet and Sewbet Int. billed on my account?

If your property is located in the Middle Fort Pond Sewer District, then you have been assessed a betterment. That assessment was payable by two methods: in full or the time payment option. If the time payment option was chosen, you have two components: one is the principal amount of the payment (Sewer Bet) and the other interest portion being 1.55% (Sewbet Int.). These two combined represent the total quarterly installment of your betterment assessment.

For more information on the Betterment, please call the Assessors Office at (978) 264-9622.

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Conservation Commission

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1. How do I reserve a camp site at Camp Acton?

Please call the Recreation department at 978-264-9608 to reserve a site.
View the Camp Acton Permit Application, Rules & Regulations

2. Does Acton have conservation land trail maps?

You can access the conservation land trail maps at the following website, or you can purchase a trail guide book for $10 at:

• Conservation Office at Town Hall


• Butter Brooks Organic Farms


• Pedal Power Bike & Ski


• EMS

3. Does Acton have a Wetlands Protection Bylaw that exceeds the Wetlands Protection Act?

Yes, view the Wetlands Protection Bylaw

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Council on Aging

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1. What age range does the Council on Aging serve?

The Council On Aging primarily serves residents 60 and over and their families. We also provide resource information to younger residents. For questions, please call (978) 264-9643.

2. Do you charge fees for senior center programs?

Most of our programs are free to Acton seniors. A fee may be asked to cover supplies required for crafts workshops. For questions, please call (978) 264-9643.

3. Does Acton offer any transportation options for seniors?

The Acton Council on Aging offers wheelchair-accessible van transportation Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM - 3:30 PM within Acton, Concord, and Maynard. Please call our van dispatcher between 8:00 AM and 12:00 noon to schedule rides at least one day in advance. A second van service, the Road Runner, is available Tuesday through Thursday. To schedule, call (800) 589-5782.

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Domestic Violence - Police

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1. What is the legal definition of abuse?

Chapter 209A, the Massachusetts Abuse Prevention Act, defines abuse as the occurrence of one or more of the following between family or household members:

• Attempting to cause or causing physical harm
• Placing another in fear of imminent serious physical harm
• Causing another to engage involuntarily in sexual relations by force, threat, or duress

2. What is an Abuse Prevention Order?

An Abuse Prevention Order, called a 209A Order, or a Protective Order, or a Restraining order, is a civil court order intended to provide protection from physical or sexual harm caused by force or threat of harm from a family or household member.

3. Who is a family or household member?

Chapter 209A, the Massachusetts Abuse Prevention Act, defines family or household members as persons who:

• Are or were married to one another
• Are or were residing together in the same household
• Are or were related by blood or marriage
• Having a child in common regardless of whether they have ever married or lived together
• Or are or have been in a substantive dating or engagement relationship, which shall be adjudged by district, probate or Boston municipal courts, by considering the following factors: the length of time of the relationship; the type of relationship; the frequency of interaction between the parties; and if the relationship has been terminated by either person, and the length of time elapsed since the termination of the relationship

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Engineering

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1. How do I get a planning deed for my property?

Please go to the Registry of Deeds. A copy may also be obtained at the Engineering Department for $0.25 a copy.

2. How do I find out if there are sidewalks planned for my neighborhood?

Please contact the Sidewalk Committee.

3. Who do I contact if I have questions or problems with a parking meter?

Email the Parking Clerk.

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Health Department

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1. What question should I ask before having my septic system replaced?

Read the Septic System Replacement Guide

2. What can I do to protect myself from tick bites?

View the Tick Information Sheet

3. How should I dispose of unwanted medication?

Do not flush prescription drugs down the toilet or drain unless the label or accompanying patient information specifically instructs you to do so. The following steps will allow you to dispose of medication in a safe way.

• Take your prescription drugs out of their original containers.


• Mix drugs with an undesirable substance, such as cat litter or used coffee ground.


• Put this mixture into a disposable container with a lid, such as an empty margarine tub, or into a sealable bag.


• Conceal or remove any personal information, including Rx number, on the empty containers by covering it with black permanent marker or duct tape, or by scratching it off.


• Place the sealed container with the mixture, and the empty drug containers, in the trash.

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Planning Department

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1. Can I operate and run a business out of my home?

Home occupations are accessory uses which are allowed in all zoning districts on the same lot as the principal use (the residence). A home occupation, other than retail sales, which is conducted entirely within the dwelling or an accessory building by a resident, and employing no persons other than the residents, is allowed.

Within the Village Residential District in West Acton, the portion of the dwelling unit or accessory building utilized for a home occupation is limited to 500 square feet of net floor area.

The Board of Appeals may authorize by special permit a home occupation which conducts retail sales, or employs non-residents, provided that no more than two such non-resident employees shall be present on the premises at any one time.

For more information or to learn in which zoning district a property is located, please contact the Planning Department at (978) 264-9636.

2. Can I build a fence on my property line and how high can it be?

Fences are allowed at the property line up to a maximum height of eight feet without requiring a building permit from the Town without regard to the applicable zoning setback.

Other more or less grade level structures such as driveways, walkways, uncovered steps, ramps, underground storage tanks, septic tanks and systems are also allowed within the minimum required zoning setbacks.

Above grade structures such as the principal dwelling unit, any accessory building or structure (such as garages, studios, workshops, etc.), decks, storage sheds, mechanical equipment, swimming pools, etc. must comply with the minimum required zoning setbacks.

For more information or to learn what the minimum required setback dimensions are of a specific zoning district, please contact the Planning Department at (978) 264-9636.

3. Am I permitted to keep and raise livestock on my property?

On a parcel of land with more than five acres, all agricultural activities including the boarding and keeping or raising of livestock are allowed as long as all of the activities are in conformance with the definitions and requirements for these activities under Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 40A, Section 3.

On a parcel of land with more than two acres, the boarding, keeping, and raising of not more than one horse, goat or sheep, plus its offspring up to one year of age is allowed.

The boarding and raising of other small livestock such as chickens and rabbits for personal domestic use is generally allowed regardless of the size of the property.

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Police

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1. How do I get a copy of an incident report?

Contact the Records Clerk at the Police Department at (978) 264-9638.

2. How do I get a car seat installed or inspected?

Call (978) 264-9638 and ask to schedule an appointment with Detective Gower or Detective Prehl.

3. How do I find out if there are any sex offenders living in the Town of Acton?

Visit the Sex Offender Registry Board or contact the Detective Department at the Acton Police Department at (978) 264-9638.

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Recreation Department

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1. How do I rent a picnic area or field?

View Fields and Facilities

2. Do I need to do anything to use the NARA beach?

View NARA Beach Information

3. How do I register my child / children for NARA summer programs?

View NARA Summer Camp Program

4. How do I contact AB Youth Soccer, AB Little League, Pop Warner, etc.

YOUTH SPORTS

Acton Boxborough Youth Baseball: www.abyb.org
Sanjay Khosla, (617) 901-0407, president@abyb.org

Acton Boxborough Pop Warner Cheerleading:
Tammy Sarnelli, tammy.sarnelli@biogenidec.com

Acton Boxborough Field Hockey:
Steve Desy, ABRHS Director of Athletics, (978) 264-4700 x3422 or x4320

Acton Boxborough Pop Warner Football: www.abpw.org
Gerry McGavick, (978) 264-0071, gmcgavick@hearst.com
Jim Harer, Director of Fields, (978) 263-0793, harerj@marcor.com

Acton Boxborough Youth Ice Hockey: www.abyha.org
David Peduto, (978) 263-5151, director@abyha.org

Acton Boxborough Boys Youth Lacrosse: www.ablax.org
Bill Brumback (978) 264-4876, wbrumback@verizon.net
Cliff Larsen, Field Scheduler, cliff.larsen@verizon.net
Bill Troy (978) 263-6851, billtroy3rd@hotmail.com

Acton Boxborough Girls Youth Lacrosse:
Kelly McEwen, mcewen@comcast.net

Acton Boxborough Youth Soccer: www.abys.org
Seth Tower, (978) 635-0775, stower@gunndesign.com
Sue Reuther, ABYS Registrar & Board Secretary, (978) 266-1490, sreuther@comcast.net,
Cliff Larsen, Field Scheduler, cliff.larsen@verizon.net
Dave Scheuer, Exec. Director (978) 263-2105, dave.scheuer@interactivedata.com

Acton Boxborough Youth Softball: www.absoftball.com
Tom Reuther, President (978) 266-1490 TomReuther@comcast.net
Gary Ropiak, Summer Director, (978) 635-0391, garyropiak@gmail.com

ADULT SPORTS

Abunted Over the Hill:
Will Bigelow (978) 263-0863
Mark Giglio (978) 264-3950
Antonio Furlan (978) 635-9209

Men's Senior Baseball (Acton Orioles): www.400hitter.com
Bob Major (978) 448-2797 / (978) 729-8321, actonorioles@yahoo.com
Phil Belanger (978) 266-1995

Acton Adult Softball League: www.actonasl.com
Rich Gottesman, Commissioner (978) 808-0766 rich@actonasl.com
Matt Murphy, Asst. Commissioner/Webmaster (617) 877-3961, matt@actonasl.com

OTHER RECREATION CONTACTS:

Acton Boxborough Regional High School: http://ab.mec.edu/abrhs/
Steve Desy, Director of Athletics (978) 264-4700 x3422 or x4320

Acton Boxborough Community Education: www.comed.ab.mec.edu
Erin O’Brien Bettez, Director (978) 266-2525, ebettez@mail.ab.mec.edu

Acton Garden Club:
Pat Kosicki, (978) 263-2812

Acton Pickup Soccer (weekdays/lunchtime):
Andrew Valente, (978) 489-2203, avathome@yahoo.com

All Seasons Tennis Club:
Ron Parlman, (978) 263-3660

Boxborough Recreation:
Sue Reuther, (978) 266-1490, sreuther@comcast.net

Next Champion Tennis: www.thenextchampions.com
Moe Leclerc, (978) 369-8747,

NARA Park Beach Office:
Seasonal – Memorial Day thru last Wed. in August, (978) 929-6640

5. What is your Tax ID#?

046-001-062

6. Water quality at NARA Pond?

State regulations require that public swimming areas be tested periodically for acceptable levels of E.coli bacteria, to protect the health of the bathing public. NARA pond is a freshwater ecosystem that supports fish, turtles, frogs and other forms of life. Unlike other ponds and lakes open to swimming in the area, NARA is tested weekly, far more frequently than chlorinated public or residential pools, which are tested daily for chlorine levels. Testing is performed by the Health Department on Mondays and a water sample is sent to a lab with results made available in 24 hours. Bacteria testing requires this incubation period. A result that exceeds 235 ppm will trigger the closing of the beach to swimmers, until follow up testing, which will be performed daily, shows a reduction to acceptable bacteria levels. It should be noted that beach closings at NARA are not a frequent event. Please contact the Board of Health if you would like additional information at 978-929-6632.

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Town Clerk

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1. How do I apply for a marriage license?

View How to Obtain a Marriage License

2. How do I register my dog?

Fill out the Dog License Application (along with a self addressed stamped envelope), and drop it off or mail it to:
Town Clerks Office
472 Main St.
Acton, MA 01720

3. How do I register to vote?

You need to fill out a voter registration form and submit it to the Town Clerk's office.

You can have a form sent to you by the Town Clerk's office or request one online.

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Town of Acton FAQs

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1. How do I get to Town Hall?

Town Hall is located at 472 Main St. Click on the "Get Directions" link at the link below for exact directions from wherever you are coming from. Map of Town Hall

2. How can I contact Town Hall?

The phone number for Town Hall is (978) 929-6611. You may also visit us at 472 Main St.

3. What are Town Hall Hours?

Town Hall is open 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM Monday through Friday. View other department hours at the link below. Department Hours

4. What transportation services are available for Acton residents?

Acton offers two public transportation options for residents: the Dial-a-Ride Program and Rail Shuttle are operated by MinuteVan. Please visit their website for details. Go to the MinuteVan Site