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1. Do I have to license my dog every year?

Yes, all dog licensees expire December 31 of that year.

2. Are there any mandatory shots my dog or cat needs?

Yes, all pets have to have a rabies shot.

3. Is there a leash law?

Yes, the Town of Ashland has a 24 hour leash law.

4. Do you take surrenders?

We can, call us at 508-881-0122 and we will or will direct you to someone who can.

5. What to do if you found a stray dog?

Call Animal Control at 508-811-0122 or the Police Department at 508-881-1212.

6. Were is the nearest veterinarian if I have an emergency?

- Ashland Animal Hospital during the day 508-881-2400
- Tufts Veterinarian in Grafton is 24 hours 508-839-5395

7. Do I need to pick-up my dogs poop?

Yes, we have a poop a scoop law.

8. What to do if I lose my pet?

Call Animal Control in your town as well as surrounding towns. Call the nearest veterinarians and other Humane Societies in our area.

9. What do you do if you are bitten by an animal?

Seek medical help first, then contact the Police Department at 508-881-1212 or the Animal Control Department at 508-881-0122.

10. What do you do when you see wildlife acting or looking sick?

Contact the Police Department at 508-881-1212 or Animal Control at 508-881-0122 immediately and do not approach.

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1. Where does the Food Pantry get all of its food?

Ashland residents, schools, local businesses, churches and organizations donate all food to the food pantry.

2. What do I need to bring with me on my first visit to the food pantry?

The food pantry only serves the residents of Ashland, a proof of residency is needed. In addition, an initial interview and discussion of financial need will be held at first visit. 

We may request proof of residence in Ashland by asking for the following either by self-report or encourages pantries to allow clients to self-report this information. Where verification is required, we will request rent receipts, health insurance cards, school records, letters from a landlord, or any documentation from a state or federal benefits program, or from a school, doctor, social worker or community based organization 

3. Do I need to make an appointment to utilize the Food Pantry?

No appointment is needed. Just come in during our regular hours, Monday, Wednesday and Thursday from 9 a.m. - 1 p.m. An appointment to speak with someone on any other issues is helpful to ensure someone will be in the office and time for meeting.

4. Does the Food Pantry take donations of household goods, toys, clothing, etc.?

We accept donations of new clothing and toys for use during the holidays and family emergencies. On limited basis we will accept some clothing in good condition and toys with all the pieces. Please call first to check because we do have limited storage space. Frequently we do have families in need of furniture and household goods. Just give us a call if you have these items to donate to a needy family.

5. I would like to donate to the food pantry. What do you need?

The food pantry accepts donations of any non-perishable food, paper products, toiletries, diapers, feminine products, household cleaners. We do have a freezer and refrigerator for perishable goods. We do not take food that has passed the expiration or opened. We also cannot distribute any over the counter medications or ointments.

6. I would like to volunteer. How can I be useful?

Please come down and visit us. We will take your name and number for anytime that we need some extra help. Holidays and major food drives such as the Post Office and Boy Scout food drives are busy and we can always use a few extra hands.

7. What services does Ashland Youth and Family Services Provide?

AYFS provides information and referrals to local services and agencies. AYFS houses the Ashland Food Pantry to residents in need, as well as Holiday assistance. Our department screens for and makes recommendations to the Ashland Emergency Fund. AYFS helps residents apply for campership, fuel assistance, food stamps and other assistance.

8. What holiday assistance does Ashland Youth and Family Services Provide?

AYFS provides families, with children, with toys and a holiday meal at Thanksgiving and Christmas/Hanukkah.

9. What are the Ashland Youth and Family Services hours?

Office hours are Monday  8:00 a.m. - 2:30 p.m. 

                          Tuesday 8:00 a.m. - 2:30 p.m

                    Wednesday 8:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m

                       Thursday 8:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m

                           Friday - Closed  

10. What are the Food Pantry service hours?

Monday, Wednesday, Thursday
          9 a.m. - 1 p.m.

11. Is personal and financial information, given by clients, confidential?

This department is committed to maintaining confidentiality. Any concerns or reports of child abuse or neglect, elder abuse or neglect, must be reported to appropriate agencies. Reports of wanting to harm yourself or others may not be kept confidential.

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1. What do I need to get a library card?

Massachusetts residents may obtain a library card by presenting a photo ID with proof of current address, such as a license. Children between the ages of 5 and 17 may obtain a library card when accompanied by a parent or legal guardian presenting proper identification such as a license.

2. How many items can I check out?

A maximum of 150 items may be checked out on your Minuteman library card. The only items we limit are DVDs with a “New” sticker on the binding and holiday and school assignment books in the Children’s Room.

3. Will I be charged for an item I accidentally damaged or lost?

Yes. If an item that is checked out to you is lost or damaged, you will be charged the current replacement cost. If the item belongs to another library, you should contact that library to find out their replacement policy.

4. Do you have computers for public use?

Yes. Computers are available on a first come, first served basis and cannot be reserved. Computers are available for up to two hours per person per day. Printing fees are $0.15 per sheet for black and white and $0.25 per sheet for color.

5. Does the library have a photocopier?

Yes, there are two black and white photocopiers available for public use. One is on the main floor of the library and another on the lower level in the Children’s Room. Copies are $0.15 each. Please pay for your photocopies at the front desk when you are finished copying.

6. Do you have a fax machine for public use?

No.

7. Does the library have a scanner for public use?

Yes.  There is no charge for scanning..

8. Does the library have a shredder for public use?

No.

9. How can I access my patron record online?

To renew and request items go to Minuteman Library Network and click on “My Account”. Enter your library card number (14 digits with no spaces) and PIN. If you do not have a PIN, follow the directions to set one. Your PIN can be between 3 and 30 characters. 

Minuteman Library Network

10. I forgot my PIN and can’t log onto my account, what should I do?

All PINs are encrypted so we cannot tell you what you selected. Please call the library at 508-881-0134 to ask about resetting your PIN.

11. How many items can I have on reserve?

There is a 50 item limit per Minuteman library card.

12. Can I pay my fines online?

Yes. Please go to Minuteman Library Network and click on “My Account”. Please have your library card number and PIN available.

Minuteman Library Network

13. How can I reserve a museum pass?

You can reserve a museum pass via Reserve a Museum Pass.  You will need your library card number and PIN to complete the reservation.  You can also reserve by calling the front desk at 508-881-0134. 

14. Does the library have meeting rooms available for public use?

Yes. The library has three rooms available for use by non-profit community groups and associations holding public meetings that are free of charge and open to the public. The large meeting room seats no more than 90 people, the Children’s program room seats no more than 25 people, and the Cheever Conference Room seats no more than 15 people. 

Library meeting rooms are primarily for the use of the library, library related organizations, and library sponsored programs and are not available for social gatherings, for the benefit of private individuals, for commercial enterprises, or any closed meeting.

15. Does the library have a notary public?

No. Please check your local bank to see if a notary public is available.

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1. What are your office hours?

The Assessors Office is open 8 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Monday, Tuesday, Thursday; 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. Wednesday; closed to the public Friday.

2. How often do you re-assess properties in Town?

The Assessors Office re-assesses all properties in Town on a yearly basis as mandated by the Department of Revenue. The benefit of this is that the assessments remain relatively close to the real estate market.

3. I recently purchased a house in Ashland but the tax bill still has the previous owner’s name on it. When will this change?

Massachusetts General Laws state that the tax bills must retain the owner of record (previous owner) as of January 1 each year. Depending on the date of the purchase, this should change for the first quarter tax bill July 1.

4. If I’m not satisfied with my assessment what recourse do I have?

The Massachusetts General Laws state that a taxpayer has the right to appeal an assessment once the third quarter bills are issued, which deadline to appeal is usually February 1.

5. Where can I find more information on the various tax exemptions?

The Assessors Office has all the information on the various tax exemptions; i.e. veterans exemption, blind exemption, elderly exemption, etc. You can either stop by the Assessors Office or check the Town’s website.

6. Where can I get a plot plan of my land?

Either the Assessors Office or the Building/Planning Departments may have a plot plan on record. If not, you might have to go to the Registry of Deeds.

7. I have moved out of state or no longer own my vehicle but keep getting an excise tax bill. What do I need to do?

You need to file for an abatement with our office by either downloading the Motor Vehicle Excise application for abatement from the website or picking up an application at the Assessors Office. Include a copy of your new registration (if applicable); a copy of the plate return receipt for Mass. plates (if applicable); and proof that you sold your car (if applicable). Fax it to 508-231-1503.

8. Are the town maps online?

Yes. Town maps can be located in the GIS Maps.

9. Are property record cards listed online?

Yes. Visit the parcel search.

Parcel Search.

10. Do you have applications for Abutters Lists online?

Yes, please download the Abutters Request Application (PDF)

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1. How can I serve on a Board or Committee?

Look over our Volunteer Opportunities to see what positions are open.  If you are interested in any of the available  positions, complete and submit a Talent Bank form.  For more information, contact Susan Robie at 508-881-0100 then press option 5. 

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1. Where are you located?

The Board of Health is located on the second floor of Town Hall and we look forward to meeting you and answering any questions that may relate to public and environmental health issues in your community.

2. When can I seek file information for a Title 5 inspection that I need to complete?

Septic system files are available at the Board of Health Office. Please contact us to set up a file for a file review.

Board of Health Office

3. Is the Town water safe?

The municipal water is regulated and tested to meet State requirements by the Water and Sewer Department. They can be reached at 508-881-0120, ext. 7943. This Department also publishes an annual report sent to all Water Customers.

4. What is the status of the Nyanza site?

Please contact Lisa Thuot at the Environmental Protection Agency. Her phone number is 617-918-1129.

5. Do you have information on my private well?

If your well was permitted after 1986, then we have records.

6. My septic system is failing, what is needed?

The septic system needs immediate service to prevent any above ground sewage. An engineer is needed to conduct soil tests and design a replacement septic system.

7. Where do I dispose of unused or expired prescription drugs?

A Drug Drop Box is now permanently located at the Ashland Community Center, 162 West Union Street.

8. Who do I call to join the Medical Reserve Corps (MRC)?

The Board of Health may be contacted to obtain the appropriate forms. We are always in need for volunteers to serve on the MRC.

Board of Health

9. Who investigates food illnesses?

The Board of Health investigates food borne illnesses and will request that you call to allow us to gather the needed information. All medical information is kept confidential.

10. Where do I get my flu shot?

The Ashland Board of Health will be conducting flu clinics at Town Hall, please find more information about upcoming flu clinics here:
https://www.ashlandmass.com/1096/Flu-Vaccine-Clinics
You may also reach out to your physician or local pharmacy.

11. Does your department handle the rubbish and recycling programs?

The rubbish and recycling programs are handled by David Miller at the DPW. He can be reached at 508-881-0120, ext. 7943.

12. Where do I find information in obtaining trash/recycling bags?

Call David Miller (DPW) at 508-881-0100, ext. 7943.

13. Who do I call for bulky item disposal at curbside?

Contact Waste Management at 800-972-4545.

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1. How do I sign up for a program?

- You can register online for almost everything we offer.
- By Mail. Complete the registration form and mail it to the Recreation Office along with payment.
- By Fax. We will accept a registration via fax only with Mastercard or Visa payment.
- In Person. Stop by the Recreation Office during business hours.

Recreation Department

2. Where are you located?

The Recreation Office is located in the Lower Level of the Community Center Building. Our street address is 162 W Union Street, also known as the entrance to the Ashland State Park.

3. Can I get a discount if I have more than one child?

No. Unfortunately all of our programs are fee supported and we are not able to offer discounted rates to any participants.

4. How do I sign my child up for youth sports?

All of the Youth Sports Programs in Ashland are private groups. Each group has their own elected boards and they conduct their own registrations.

5. When is Ashland State Park open?

Ashland State Park is managed by DCR and overseen locally by the staff at Hopkinton State Park. The main phone line for Hopkinton State Park is 508-435-4303.

6. Can non-residents sign up for programs and trips?

Yes! Registration for trips is open to anyone, resident or not immediately. For programs and classes a registration date is set for non-residents to allow Ashland residents first priority to register.

7. Can I use my American Express Card?

No, the Recreation Office only accepts cash, personal checks, MasterCard and Visa.

8. I am interested in teaching a class for the Recreation Department?

The Recreation Department is always looking for new programs to offer to the Residents of Ashland. If you are interested in teaching a class, please email the office with a brief description of the class you would like to offer and someone will be in touch with you.

If you have a suggestion for a class you would like to see offered please let us know and we will attempt to find a teacher! Recreation Department

9. Do you sell any discounted tickets?

YES! We sell discounted tickets to AMC Theatres, Regal Cinemas, Six Flags, Water Wizz and Water Country. AMC and Regal tickets are available year round, tickets range from $6.50 to $8. Six Flags, Water Wizz and Water Country tickets are available seasonally.

10. What is your Tax ID number?

046-001-074

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1. What is stormwater runoff?

Stormwater runoff occurs when rain or snowmelt flows over the ground. Impervious surfaces like driveways, sidewalks, and streets prevent stormwater from soaking into the ground.

2. Why is stormwater runoff a problem?

As stormwater flows over driveways, lawns, streets, and sidewalks it picks up debris, chemicals, dirt and other pollutants. Stormwater can flow into a storm sewer system or directly into a lake, stream, river or wetland. Anything that enters a storm sewer system is discharged untreated into the water bodies we use for swimming, fishing, and providing drinking water. Polluted runoff is the nation’s greatest threat to clean water.

3. What can I do to prevent stormwater pollution?

By practicing healthy household habits, homeowners can keep common pollutants like pesticides, pet waste, grass clippings, and automotive fluids off the ground and out of stormwater. Adopt these healthy household habits and help protect our lakes, streams, rivers, and wetlands. Remember to share these habits with your neighbors!

4. What can I do if I notice inappropriate dumping into or foul odors emanating from storm drains?

Call the Conservation Commission at 508-881-0100, ext. 656.

5. Why does Ashland have a Stormwater Management Bylaw?

The National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System Phase II program for the Clean Water Act mandated that all urbanized areas create a regulatory mechanism to control non-point source discharges into the nation’s waterways. Ashland passed its Stormwater Management Bylaw at 2006 Annual Town Meeting to protect the environment through the control of stormwater discharges.

6. Who needs a Stormwater Management Permit?

- Any activity subject to the Planning Department’s Site Plan Review
- Any activity resulting in soil disturbance of 10,000 square feet or greater
- Any residential development or redevelopment of five acres or more
- Any activity that will increase the impervious cover more than 50% of the lot
- Any activity that will disturb land 5,000 square feet of land with 15% slope or greater
- Any activity that will alter, fill or degrade a wetland, water body, floodplain or isolated depression subject to flooding

7. How do I get a Stormwater Management Permit?

Complete the Application for a Stormwater Management Permit, attached to the regulations, and file with the Conservation Commission along with the appropriate fee. A public hearing will be held at a regular Conservation Commission meeting.

8. If I need a Notice of Intent for work near wetlands do I also need a Stormwater Management Permit?

If you have an activity that requires a permit, then yes.

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1. Can I get my birth certificate here if I was born in another State but lived here for 20 years?

No. Births do not cross State Lines. Nor do any other Vital Records. i.e. marriage or death certificates.

2. Where do I file for a marriage license?

At any City or Town Clerk’s Office in the State and be married anywhere in the State but the record will always remain in the Town in which you filed. The couple must file their intentions together in person at the Clerk’s Office. The current filing fee is $40. Town Clerk, Cindy Livingstone and Deputy Town Clerk, Christopher P. Sullivan are Justices of the Peace. Please contact them at 508-881-0100 ext. 7127 to make an appointment for your special day.

3. Who are my Local State Representatives?

State Senate President Karen Spilka from Ashland represents the Middlesex & Norfolk District as of January 4, 2023.

State Representative Jack Patrick Lewis from Framingham represents the Seventh Middlesex District.  This was not changed.

Board of Selectmen.

4. How many precincts do we have?

Six Precincts as of December 31, 2021

5. Where do I vote?

All Ashland residents vote at Ashland High School.

6. Why did my precinct change?

Due to the 2020 Federal Census, changes were made to accommodate an additional precinct. The precincts must be equal; it is based on population. Please remember to fill out your census form each year. It is mailed to each household. Please include all children on the census form. 

Click here for the precinct map.

Precinct Map

7. When is the next Town Meeting and Town Election?

Town Meeting and Town Elections are held at the Ashland High School, 65 East Union St.  The first Night of the Annual Town Meeting begins at 7:00 PM sharp on Wednesday, May 3, 2023.  The Annual Town Election will be held on Tuesda,y May 16, 2023 - Polls open from 7:00 AM until 8:00 PM.  Unless otherwise noted.

Town Clerk's Page.

8. I don’t want any information from my census form to be distributed to anyone without my prior consent. I actually want it on file with the Town Clerk only. Why can’t I do that?

The Law states that the census information is a public record unless you are a Public Safety Official or under the age of 17.

9. Why am I not listed as a registered voter?

You must fill out a voter registration form. The law states that a voter may be dropped after four years of no activity including not returning your annual census form.

10. Do I have to file a business certificate with the Town?

Yes. M.G.L. Chapter 110 states that anyone doing business under a name other than their own is required to file a DBA (doing business as) certificate in the Town the business is in. If you were incorporated, you would file with the Secretary of State in Boston. You will find the forms on the website.  Please note that the Building Inspector must sign off on all business certificates are home-based businesses prior to filing with the Town Clerk.

11. I have a dog. Why do I have to register him?

Massachusetts General Law Chapter 140 Sections 137 and 137A states that you must license a dog. You must license the dog beginning at 6 months of age. Please include an updated rabies certificate and if the dog is spayed/neutered we will need that certificate as well. All paperwork that you submit will be returned with the license. If licensing the dog by mail, please include a self-addressed stamped envelope. Currently the fees are $15 for spayed/neutered dogs and $20 for intact dogs. Licensing begins January and you must license your dog by April 15th. If a dog is not licensed by April 15th you will be subject to a late fee of $50 per dog plus the license fee per the town bylaw.

12. I work all week. How can I come in when your hours are similar to mine?

We are open until 7:00 PM Wednesday evenings or you may send us a self-addressed stamped envelope; we will be pleased to accommodate you via the mail. With the exception of a marriage intention.

13. I need documents notarized. Where do I go?

It depends on the documents.  The law has changed and the Town Clerk’s Office is prevented from notarizing certain documents.  We are unable to notarize wills, Power of Attorney, Real Estate, etc. Please contact the office ahead of time to ask us if your particular document falls under this new rule.  The current fee to notarize a document is $1.25 per signature. Please bring a valid ID you when you come. Do not sign the documents prior to your visit.  There are notaries in the Town of Ashland that are listed on the website who are able to assist you outside of Town Hall.

14. I just became a Notary Public. I need to be sworn in. Where do I go?

The Town Clerk’s Office are Commissioners to Qualify. You will need to make an appointment to take your oath as two people must be present. There is no charge for this service at this time.

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1. I’ve been hearing a lot about “Tax Titles.” What does this mean?

When a taxpayer becomes delinquent in paying real estate taxes or other local charges that constitute liens on real estate, the town has statutory authority to take title to the taxpayer’s property and, subsequently, to undertake proceedings to foreclose the owner’s rights to redeem that property from tax title. Once the town completes the foreclosure in Land Court, the property becomes a “tax possession” of the town.

2. I fell behind in my taxes and there’s tax title lien on my property. What should I do?

Any person with an ownership interest in a tax title property can redeem that property with the Treasurer at any time until a petition to foreclose has been granted in the Land Court by paying all of the outstanding taxes, interest and other charges due on the property. A payment agreement can also be made with the Treasurer in order to prevent foreclosure. You should contact the Treasurer to schedule an appointment.

3. I’m interested in purchasing a tax possession. Who should I contact?

Properties acquired through tax foreclosure are not available for outright purchase. The town periodically reviews the properties acquired through tax foreclosure and will schedule and advertise auctions as required. You may also contact the Treasurer’s office for more information.

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1. When are real estate tax bills due?

Tax due dates are August 1, November 1, February 1 and May 1 of each year. Tax bills are mailed twice per year and each mailing contains two payment coupons. The first mailing is on July 1 and has payment coupons for preliminary taxes due on August and November 1. The second mailing is on January 1 and contains mailing coupons for the February and May 1 payments.

2. If I pay my property tax bill late will I be charged any interest and penalties?

Yes, interest is assessed at a rate of 14% per annum from the due date of the bill.

3. Is a postmark date acceptable as proof of timely payment?

No. A property tax payment mailed on or before the payment due date, but received by the collector after that date, is late and subject to interest charges because there is no statute permitting taxpayers to mail payments on or before the due date order to avoid interest as is the case with federal and state income tax statutes.

4. My mortgage company pays my tax bill. Can you bill them directly?

No. The law specifies that the bills be sent to the owner of record at the Registry of Deeds as of January 1. Often mortgages are sold or homeowners refinance the property which can result in an overdue bill. Oftentimes, mortgage companies obtain tax information electronically from the Town of Ashland. Homeowners should forward a copy of their bill to the Escrow Department of their bank/mortgage company or contact them direct to see if they are obtaining tax information electronically from the town.

5. I sold the property. Why do I still get bills in my name?

Real estate and personal property taxes are assessed to the owner of record as of January 1 of the year the taxes are assessed. For example, FY09 taxes are assessed to the owner of record as of January 1, 2008. If the property is sold, the tax bills cannot be changed until the following fiscal year.