Frequently Asked Questions

Answer goes here...

Answer goes here...

Answer goes here...

Answer goes here...

Answer goes here...

Answer goes here...

The amount of taxes you pay is determined by the appropriations in the annual Town budget.  The Town adopts a budget that reflects what services will be provided and the cost to provide those services.  After the Town adopts a budget, the amount of taxes to be raised is calculated in accordance with Proposition 2-1/2 and divided by the total taxable valuation of the Town to determine the projected single tax rate.  The Board of Assessors and the Board of Selectmen hold a public hearing called a Tax Classification Hearing to determine whether or not the Town wants to shift some of the residential tax burden onto commercial properties, commonly referred to as a split tax rate resulting in commercial properties paying a higher tax rate than residential properties.  The decision to have a single tax rate or a split tax rate is made by the Board of Selectmen.   All budget information is forwarded to the Department of Revenue for its review and approval.  The tax rate is then finalized to raise the needed dollars to pay for Town services.  The Fiscal Year 2021 tax rate is $11.32.  The Town has never adopted a split tax rate.

The assessed value (or assessment) is the value of property to be used for local taxation as determined by the Assessors according to Massachusetts General Laws and by Regulations set by the Commissioner of Revenue

Assessors must value all real and personal property within their communities annually to achieve full and fair cash value assessments in accordance with the requirements of Massachusetts General Laws.

No, the purpose of a revaluation is to make all parcels in a community fair and equitable in relation to each other, based on current market trends.  Whether taxes as a whole go up or down is based more on the Town's budget than on its assessments.

Since assessments must be set at market value, rising real estate values in the Town resulted in higher assessments.  As property values change in the marketplace (sales), those changes must be reflected in the assessments.  All properties, however, do not change in value to exactly the same degree.  Many factors influence values.  Among the numerous factors to be considered are location, condition, size, quality, number of baths, finished basement, garages, additions, and traffic.

If you believe that your property is over-assessed, not assessed fairly in comparison to other comparable properties, or that it is not classified correctly, you have the right to file for an abatement of taxes.  Applications for abatement are available and must be filed with the Assessors' Office.  In filing an abatement application you will want to be specific about why you disagree with your assessment.  Is there some misinformation on your property record card?  Did you find values of comparable properties lower than your property?  Please provide us with all the necessary information to support your position on valuation. 

• Abatement Application - Real Estate and Personal Property (PDF)

Applications must be filed with the Board of Assessors not later than the due date of the first actual tax payment for the fiscal year.  The first actual tax payment is the third quarter tax payment and is usually due on February 1st.

You may file an application if you are:

• The assessed or subsequent (acquiring title after January 1st) owner of the property;
• The owner's administrator or executor;
• A tenant paying rent who is obligated to pay more than one-half of the tax;
• A person owning or having an interest in or possession of the property;
• A mortgagee if the assessed owner has not applied. In some cases, you must pay all or a portion of the tax before you can file.

Filing an application does not stay the collection of your taxes.  In some cases, you must pay the tax when due to appeal the assessors' disposition of your application.  Failure to pay the tax assessed when due may also subject you to interest charges and to collection action. To avoid any loss of rights or additional charges, you should pay the tax as assessed.  If an abatement is granted and you have already paid the entire year's tax as abated, you will receive a refund of any overpayment.

Upon applying for an abatement, you may be asked to provide the Assessors with written information about the property and to permit them to inspect it.  Failure to provide the information or to permit an inspection within thirty (30) days of the request may result in the loss of your appeal rights.  The Assessors have three (3) months from the date your application is filed to act on it unless you agree in writing before that period expires to extend it for a specific time.  If the Assessors do not act on your application within the original (or extended) period, it is deemed denied.  You will be notified in writing whether an abatement has been granted or denied.

Yes, your appeal may be made to the Appellate Tax Board in Boston. The appeal must be filed within three months of the date your application was denied by vote of the Assessors or within three months of the date your application was deemed denied, whichever is applicable. With certain exceptions, you must also pay at least one-half the tax on personal property and, if the real property tax for the fiscal year is more than $3,000, all of the tax on real property without incurring interest on any installment payment in order for the Appellate Tax Board to hear the appeal. The Assessors may grant an abatement in the final settlement of your application during the period for filing an appeal. However, if a settlement is not reached and an abatement is not granted during that period, you must file a timely appeal for the Assessors to be able to take any further action on your application. The Appellate Tax Court is operated like a court of law with a hearing officer and sworn testimony. Taxpayers (the appellants) must present a convincing case before the hearing officer with the support of their value conclusions. The mailing address and telephone number for the Appellate Tax Board is as follows:

Commonwealth of Massachusetts

• Appellate Tax Board
  Saltonstall Building
  100 Cambridge Street, Second Floor, Suite 200
  Boston, MA 02114
• Phone: 617-727-3100

MLCs are $50

Request 1 MLC for each property

Mail or bring in a request along with $50 per MLC requested.

If you wish it mailed back to you, please include a self-addressed stamped envelope.

You may also pick it up at the Treasurer/Collector's office at 2 Spring Street, leave a phone number so we may contact you when MLCs are ready.

Fees are calculated on a per-inspection basis. For residential permits, permit fees are $45 per inspection. A new dwelling requiring a service, rough and final inspection, for example, will garner a $135 electrical permit fee. If the service is underground another $45 inspection fee will be added. Similarly, commercial permit fees are also based on the number of required inspections, but at the rate of $100 per inspection. Failed inspections are subject to an additional inspection fee, and must be re-inspected.

If it is a gas water heater, both a gas and plumbing permit will be required. The fee is $95 for both permits.

Pricing of a building permit is contingent upon the type of work being done and/or square footage of new construction. It is important to note that if electrical/plumbing and/or gas work is being done in connection with building changes, these permits must be obtained separately. Please refer to the 2019 Permit Fees posted on the left side of the webpage.

• First and foremost a permit must be obtained to ensure the work performed, or installation of a product, is done in accordance with the MA Building Codes and local regulations. The building department is in charge of ensuring this work is done properly to protect the safety of the occupants of the structure. It is in your best interest to call the building department to inquire if a permit is required if you are unsure. As the homeowner, you are ultimately responsible for any and all improvements on your property.
• Your insurance company can refuse to pay for claims for water, wind, fire, or vandalism damage or a personal injury claim that involves unpermitted improvements; i.e. new structures such as additions, decks, and swimming pools, just to name a few.
• You could be in violation of the building code; this can lead to fines and a potentially expensive path to rectify the violations. These violations could include flood zone regulations as well.
• There are no tax savings as you will be assessed on the improvements during a re-evaluation from the Assessors.
• In the event that you sell your home, the banks will become aware of the unpermitted work and will then require the proper documentation to be filed and inspections performed. This could delay the sale of your home significantly.
• If the work involves an addition or deck that constitutes a zoning violation, it could require a variance from the Zoning Board of Appeals (ZBA). Failure to obtain approval from the ZBA could result in the removal of any work that violates the zoning bylaws.
• The permit fee will be doubled for work that is performed without the necessary permits. These fees could be very costly.

All work to construct, repair, renovate, or demolish a structure requires a building permit. This includes major construction as well as smaller projects, including but not limited to:

• Wood/pellet stoves
• Vinyl siding
• Roof reshingling
• Replacement windows
• Swimming pools (inground and aboveground)
• Sheds of 200 square feet or larger for Residential only

The codes pertaining to work do not require a building permit. It is always best to check with the building department prior to starting any project of which you may be unsure. Also keep in mind that just because a building permit is not required other permits or approvals may be required such as electrical, plumbing, and gas, Zoning Board of Appeals, and Board of Health and Conservation to name a few.

R105.2 Work Exempt from Permit. Except for activities that may require a permit pursuant to other laws, and the specialized codes of M.G.L. c. 143, § 96, a building permit is not required for the following activities:

• One-story detached accessory structures provided that the floor area does not exceed 200 square feet (18.58 m2).
• Fences not over 7 feet (2134 mm) high.
• Retaining walls that are not over 4 feet (1219 mm) in height measured from the bottom of the footing to the top of the wall, unless supporting a surcharge.
• Water tanks are supported directly upon grade if the capacity does not exceed 5,000 gallons (18 927 L) and the ratio of height to diameter or width does not exceed 2 to 1.
• Sidewalks and driveways.
• Painting, papering, tiling, carpeting, cabinets, countertops, and similar finish work.
• Prefabricated swimming pools that are less than 24 inches (610 mm) deep.
• Swings and other playground equipment (also refer to 521 CMR for accessibility requirements as applicable)
• Window awnings are supported by an exterior wall that does not project more than 54 inches (1372 mm) from the exterior wall and do not require additional support.
• Decks not exceeding 200 square feet (18.58 m2) in area, that are not more than 30 inches (762 mm) above grade at any point, and are not attached to a dwelling do not serve the exit door required by Section R311.4. Proposed 9th Edition of 780 CMR (Residential Volume) 13
• Greenhouses are covered exclusively with plastic film. This exemption does not apply if the greenhouse is to be used for large assemblies of people or uses other than normally expected for this purpose.

Yes. The process is similar to that of requesting a Special Permit or Variance. A $300 fee still applies, as does the provision of 17 sets of plans/correspondence, legal notice, abutter notification, advertising, etc.

First, an application must be submitted to the Zoning Board of Appeals Administrative Assistant, along with a check for $300 and 17 copies of plans of your project, which must include configurations of the property to scale, including dimensional data; dimensioned location, and outline of any structures existing on the property or which are proposed; and elevation and plan drawings of structures which are subjects of the application, in sufficient detail to illustrate the intent of the application. Once the application is reviewed and determined to be complete, it will be processed within five days; a date within 90 days of the receipt of your application will be set for the hearing, and legal notices will be sent to you and your agent (if applicable) as well as all neighbors within 300 feet of your property. The hearing will also be advertised in a newspaper in general circulation within the town in two successive weekly editions, Various Town Boards and Departments will be notified, and the Zoning Board of all abutting towns will be notified.

The Building Commissioner can determine whether or not an appeal to the Zoning Board is necessary, and can advise you further what will be required to request a hearing with the Board.

If your lot is found to be "non-conforming" it means that your lot is not in conformance with current zoning regulations. In order to add on or alter structures on your property, you may need to obtain a Special Permit from the Zoning Board of Appeals, or a Variance from the zoning by-laws.

The Building Department has plans on file for many properties in town and may be able to assist you with this. Otherwise, you must contact a Registered Land Surveyor to prepare a plan for you

No. Plot plans can only be prepared by a Registered Land Surveyor, and must bear his/her stamp.

The purpose of a plot plan is to determination of compliance with dimensional controls of the Zoning By-Law. A mortgage plan is only a rough approximation of where the house is located and was prepared only for mortgage purposes. Due to the inaccuracy of these plans, they can only be used if the project is far in excess of the required setbacks. If the plan shows that your project will be close to the required setbacks, a more accurate plan will be required.

If the work involves a new structure (including such elements as sheds and swimming pools) or an addition to an existing structure, a plot plan, also called a site plan, is required by law.

Oil burners are permitted and inspected by the Fire Department. They can be reached to set up inspections and/or walk-throughs at 508-748-3595.

No. These calls must be made by a licensed plumber or electrician. (See more information about this under "Electrical" and "Plumbing" subheadings.)

This card must be posted in a location visible from the street and accessible to all inspectors. Generally, the best location is inside a front storm door. If the card is not accessible to an inspector at the time of the inspection, this will result in a failure of the inspection and will be subject to an additional inspection fee.

Yes. It is the responsibility of the permit holder to call the Building Department to arrange for the required inspections. Required inspections are indicated on the inspection record card, which you receive when your permit is approved. If you have questions about required inspections, we urge you to contact the office. If necessary inspections are skipped, it may result in the removal of walls, insulation, structure, etc., in order to gain access to the components which must be inspected.

All final inspections must be performed in order for a certificate of occupancy/completion to be issued. Final electrical, gas, and plumbing inspections must be set up, performed, and signed off. A final walk-through and sign-off by the Fire Department must also be completed. Once these are complete, call the Building Department to set up the final building inspection. Your certificate of occupancy/completion will be issued, contingent upon passing all final inspections, within 30 days of the final building inspection.

Section 114.3 of the State Building Code states that "any permit issued shall be deemed abandoned and invalid unless the work authorized by it shall have commenced within 6 months after its issuance." Extensions may be granted if necessary if such requests for extensions are submitted in writing. Once the work has commenced, and if inspections are being requested on a regular basis, there is no restriction on the amount of time given to complete a project.

The Building Department has a maximum of 30 days in which to issue or deny a building permit. The actual time can vary from one day up to the maximum 30-day limit, depending on the number of applications ahead of yours, and the scope of the work.

No. Work cannot proceed until the permit has been issued.

Call the Building Department. Our gas inspections are performed during afternoon hours Monday through Thursday. We can usually set up inspections within 24 hours of your request.

No. The inspection must be called in by the licensed gas fitter who performed the work.

Residential permits

• There is a $50 fee for the permit, which includes the rough and final inspection.  There is a $40 per inspection additional fee, plus $10 per fixture. 

Commercial permits

• There is a $60 fee for the permit, which includes the rough and final inspection.  There is a $60 per inspection additional fee, plus $15 per fixture. 
• Failed inspections are subject to an additional inspection fee, and must be re-inspected.

No. Massachusetts law requires that licensed gas fitters pull any and all gas permits.

Number A gas permit must be pulled by a licensed gas fitter in order to make renovations, additions, removals, or changes of any kind.

Call the Building Department. Our plumbing inspections are performed during afternoon hours Monday through Thursday. We can usually set up inspections within 24 hours of your request.

No. The inspection must be called in by the licensed plumber who performed the work.

Residential permits

• There is a $50 fee for the permit, which includes rough and final inspections. There is a $40 fee for each additional inspection, plus $10 per fixture.

Commercial permits

• There is a $50 fee for the permit, which includes rough and final inspections. There is a $60 per inspection additional fee, plus $15 per fixture.
• Failed inspections are subject to an additional inspection fee, and must be re-inspected.

No. Massachusetts law requires that a licensed plumber pull any and all plumbing permits.

Call the Building Department. Our Wiring Inspector performs inspections Monday through Thursday, between the hours of 4 and 5 pm If you call us by 2, we can usually set up the inspection for the same day.

No. The inspection must be called in by the licensed electrician who performed the work.

According to the Massachusetts Electrical Code, a homeowner may perform electrical work provided that:

• The work being done is residential, not commercial; and
• The person performing the work is the property owner; and
• The person performing the work resides at the property.
• The person performing the work must get prior approval from the Wiring Inspector.

All four of these conditions must be met in order for a homeowner to perform their own electrical work.

Not necessarily. It's best to ask your general contractor and/or electrician for copies of all necessary permits in order to ascertain the permits are being pulled. When permits of any kind are obtained from the Building Department, paper copies are always provided.

No. You must pull a separate electrical permit to make electrical renovations, additions, removals, or changes of any kind.

No. You must pull a separate electrical permit to make electrical renovations, additions, removals, or changes of any kind.

Yes. The process is similar to that of requesting a Special Permit or Variance. A $300 fee still applies, as does the provision of 17 sets of plans/correspondence, legal notice, abutter notification, advertising, etc.

First, an application must be submitted to the Zoning Board of Appeals Administrative Assistant, along with a check for $300 and 17 copies of plans of your project, which must include configurations of the property to scale, including dimensional data; dimensioned location, and outline of any structures existing on the property or which are proposed; and elevation and plan drawings of structures which are subjects of the application, in sufficient detail to illustrate the intent of the application. Once the application is reviewed and determined to be complete, it will be processed within five days; a date within 90 days of the receipt of your application will be set for the hearing, and legal notices will be sent to you and your agent (if applicable) as well as all neighbors within 300 feet of your property. The hearing will also be advertised in a newspaper in general circulation within the town in two successive weekly editions, Various Town Boards and Departments will be notified, and the Zoning Board of all abutting towns will be notified.

The Building Commissioner can determine whether or not an appeal to the Zoning Board is necessary, and can advise you further on what will be required to request a hearing with the Board.

If your lot is found to be "non-conforming" it means that your lot is not in conformance with current zoning regulations. In order to add on or alter structures on your property, you may need to obtain a Special Permit from the Zoning Board of Appeals, or a Variance from the zoning by-laws.

Yes! The Senior Work-Off Abatement Program allows taxpayers to provide services to the town in exchange for a reduction in their tax bill. One must be over the age of 60 and own and occupy, as a principal residence, the property for which Marion taxes are paid. Only one qualifying resident of the property may participate. Hourly compensation is based on the current state minimum wage and may not exceed $750.00. This program runs from November 1st through October 31st. Registration for this program takes place in October. Even if you have participated in this program in previous years you still have to register each year. When registering you must bring a photo id, a copy of your current tax bill, and a copy of your trust (if applicable). To find out when registration will be held an announcement will be placed in the COA newsletter or you may call the COA office at 508-748-3570.

The state of Massachusetts now offers a 24-hour, 7-day-a-week elder abuse hotline that is staffed by a live operator.

Protective Services are services designed to eliminate or alleviate abuse of an elder. Caseworkers work with family and community agencies to form a connection. Elder abuse can include physical, sexual, and emotional abuse along with caretaker neglect, financial exploitation, and self-neglect. Those 60 years and older living in the community are protected under the law.

Helpful services may include assistance with locating resources for things such as counseling, housing and legal services, safety planning, family intervention, money management, legal assistance, advocacy, transportation, and homemaker services.

Callers can remain anonymous. To report elder abuse call 800-922-2275. While the initial intake is centralized, all reports will be referred to local Protective Service Agencies for screening and if indicated investigation and service planning.

Coastline Elderly Services provides home-delivered Meals on Wheels five days a week to individuals who are unable to leave their homes without difficulty. On some occasions, weekend and/or pureed meals are also available. To find out if you or a loved one is eligible for home-delivered meal service, please call Coastline at 508-999-6400.

You must be at home to receive your meal. We are not legally allowed to leave a meal outside of our home. If you need to cancel your meal for one day or several days, you must call Coastline at 508-999-6400 at least 24 hours in advance.

Every once in a while, due to a hurricane or severe snowstorm, we have to cancel our meal delivery. In the event of severe weather, you can check our website or call our office to verify closing. We also announce the closing of local cable and radio stations.

Memory Café is a weekly gathering for individuals with early to moderate Alzheimer's type or other memory loss with their care partner, family, or friends, in a safe, supportive, and engaging environment. It's a time and place where everyone can interact, find support, establish friendships, and share concerns without feeling embarrassed or misunderstood.

Why attend? Experiencing memory loss can make the world a bit confusing and lonely at times. Word searching can be difficult and frustrating. Social outings used to be fun and something to look forward to but are now challenging. Staying home, and avoiding embarrassing moments is much easier. We worry about what others will think of us. Coming together with others who are experiencing the same challenges we are makes us feel more accepted and relaxed. A Café focuses on our strengths, allows us to meet new people and enjoy a relaxed atmosphere.

The Marion Waterfront Memory Café is free, including lunch. Donations are accepted. Registration is not mandatory but appreciated 508-748-3570. We meet every Wednesday (with the exception of the day before Thanksgiving) from 11:30 am - 2 pm.

Yes, but you may need to bring a travel companion. The Council on Aging is available to provide transportation if you’re having a medical procedure either at the doctor’s office or hospital. Before scheduling your ride, please check with the surgeon’s office regarding their discharge policies. If you’ve had anesthesia they may require you have a friend or travel companion with you.

Yes, but you may need to bring a travel companion. The Council on Aging is available to provide transportation if you’re having a medical procedure either at the doctor’s office or hospital. Before scheduling your ride, please check with the surgeon’s office regarding their discharge policies. If you’ve had anesthesia they may require you have a friend or travel companion with you.

From time to time, you may need to provide a tax ID number for the Town of Marion for the purpose of filing personal or business income taxes. The Federal Identification Number for the Town of Marion is 04-6001211. The address is Town of Marion, 2 Spring Street, Marion, MA 02738

The new system DOES allow you to register multiple children in one single transaction. To do so enter the first child's information into the system and input the corresponding fee for that child into the fee field. For instance (if the cost of 2 participants is $180 you would enter $90 into the fee field for the first child and add to your cart. You will see the below message.

To add the additional child simply click on the "I want to find more invoices" button located below the checkout button and select Marion Recreation which will bring you to the screen to add additional information.

Beginning on Wednesday, February 4, 2026, the following permits will be available for purchase in the Town Clerk's Office at the Marion Town House Annex, 14 Barnabas Road:

• Marion Resident Beach/Parking Permits
• Marion Resident Transfer Station Permits
• Marion Resident Guest Passes
• Marion Shellfish Licenses

They will no longer be available at the Harbormaster Building.

To view the Beach/Parking Sticker requirements please visit Town Sticker Requirements

To view the Transfer Station Sticker requirements please visit HERE

Thank you for your understanding and patience.

Please visit Trash and Recycling Information to be directed to the Department of Public Works webpage for further details.

In order to be placed on a waitlist, the appropriate form and $15 fee must be submitted to the Harbormaster's Office, 1 Island Wharf Road. More information is available by visiting this link: Wait List Information.

If you, or someone you know, are a victim of domestic violence, contact the Marion Police Department immediately. In case of emergency, call 911 immediately. For all other non-emergency questions, contact us at 508-748-1212.

In case of emergency, any on-duty officer can assist you. Do not hesitate to call. We are here to help you. Your safety is of utmost importance.

"Abuse is a way to gain power and control over another person. Abuse can happen anywhere, it happens among people regardless of their age, race, income, education, religion, or sexual preference."

Continue reading about Domestic Violence Information.

Always Recycle

Plastic Bottles and Containers

• Food and Beverage Cans
• Paper
• Flattened Cardboard and Paperboard
• Food and Beverage Cartons
• Glass Bottles and Containers

Do Not include it in your mixed recycling cart

• No food or liquid
• No foam cups and containers
• No clothing, furniture, and carpet
• No loose plastic bags, film, or bagged recyclables (put items directly into the cart)
• No batteries or needles in recycling OR trash (check for local drop-off programs for proper disposal)
• Please see the attachment for more details and an illustration
• Recycling Information (PDF)

Chapter 209A, the Massachusetts Abuse Prevention Act, defines abuse as :

• Actual physical abuse
• An attempt to harm another
• Placing another in fear of serious physical harm
• Causing another to engage in sexual relations by force, threat of force or duress

An Abuse Prevention Order called a "209A Order," or a "protective order," or "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. You can obtain an order against:

• A spouse or former spouse
• A present or former household member
• A relative by blood or a present or former relative by marriage
• The parent of your minor child
• A person with whom you have or had a substantial dating relationship

A 209A Order can be obtained in any District Court, Superior Court, or Probate and Family Court in Massachusetts. An emergency 209A Order can be obtained through any police department after court hours, on weekends and holidays. You do not need a lawyer to file for a 209A Order4 and there is no charge for filing.

Should you decide to go to a District Court for a 209A Order, you may go to the District Court in the area where you live or, if you have fled to another area to avoid abuse, you may go to the District Court in the area where you now live (Massachusetts Barnstable County Court Locations). Go to the Clerk's Office in the court and ask for a "protective order" or a "209A Order," You will receive a packet of forms to complete as an application for a protective order.

In some courts, there may be a Court Advocate from a local battered women's service agency to help you with the form. A Victim/Witness Advocate from the District Attorney's Office is also usually available for assistance and to discuss the option of filing criminal charges against your abuser. Ask someone at the Clerk's Office to direct you to the District Attorney's Victim/ Witness Office for help. You do not have to file criminal charges in order to obtain a 209A Order. However, criminal charges can be helpful in holding a batterer responsible for criminal acts committed against you. If there is a criminal violation, the Court can also require a batterer to obtain counseling or other treatment.

On the application or complaint forms for a 209A Order, you need to make a sworn statement (affidavit) describing the facts of any recent or past incidents of abuse. It is important to provide as much information about the abuser as possible. You must also disclose any other existing 209A Orders from any court or any Probate Court action you are involved in, including any divorce or child custody proceedings.

You may request the judge to order that the abuser:

• Stop or refrain from abusing you
• Have no contact with you or a child in your custody
• Vacate or move out of the house or apartment where you live

You may also request the judge to order that you receive support and temporary custody of your children if the abuser has a legal duty to support or share custody. You may request payment for medical costs incurred due to injuries caused by the abuser and related loss of wages. You may ask that the abuser not contact you at work or at a relative's home, and that your new address be kept confidential from the abuser for your safety.

A 209A Order from a District Court can provide you with temporary support and custody of your minor children. Only the Probate and Family Court, however, can decide child visitation rights. A 209A Order from that court may be more helpful in dealing with abuse protection that also involves divorce, long-term financial support, child custody, and visitation issues. You may want to speak with a private attorney for Probate Court or call one of the legal services or victim's services listed on this brochure for an attorney referral list. Pro bono (free) or reduced-fee legal services may be available.

After you have completed the 209A complaint or application forms, return them to the Clerk's Office and ask when the judge will hear the applications for protective orders. The Clerk's Office will tell you the time and courtroom location for your hearing.

At your hearing, the judge will ask why you need a protective order and will review your complaint or application forms and affidavit. The judge will be deciding whether it appears there is a substantial likelihood of immediate danger of abuse. He or she will probably ask you some clarifying questions. In some courts, a "209A Briefing Session " is held before the hearing and a Court Advocate or a District Attorney's Victim / Witness Advocate will explain the hearing process and be with you in the courtroom.

The judge may grant or deny the 209A Order after speaking with you. If the judge grants the Order, you will receive a Temporary Order for up to ten days. A court date will be scheduled within 10 court days for you to return to court for a Permanent Order, which lasts for a year and can be renewed. Keep your copy of the Order with you at all times. The judge will also order the abuser to surrender all guns and gun permits he or she possesses.

The police will deliver (serve) a copy of the Order to your abuser and will keep a copy on file at the police station. It is important to provide the abuser's home, work, or other likely addresses so that the police can serve the Order as quickly as possible and provide the required notice of the next court date.

A violation of certain terms of a 209A Order (orders to vacate the premises, refrain from abuse, and have no contact with you) requires that the police arrest your abuser. A violation of a 209A Order, once the abuser has notice of the Order, is a criminal offense.

The Ten-Day Hearing requires that you return to the court on the date given on the Order. If you do not return to court, the Order will not be in effect after that date. The hearing offers the chance for both parties, you and the abuser, to come before the judge and offer information (evidence) as to why a permanent 209A Order, which lasts for one year, should or should not be granted. Bring any hospital records, photographs or police reports you may have for the judge to review. You may also bring a support person with you. The abuser may be present at the ten-day hearing and may oppose the 209A Order. If the abuser is not present and has been served with the Order, the judge can still grant the Order for a one-year period.

If a 209A Order is issued by the judge for a year, you must return to the court for an extension of the Order at the end of that year or the Order will expire.

Any changes in the Order before that date must be made with both you and the abuser appearing in the same court where the Order was first given. A request to change or amend the Order can be made at the Clerk's Office, and a hearing will be arranged before a judge.

A minor under 18 years old can obtain a 209A Order with some restrictions. Generally, a parent or guardian needs to be present, but the judge can decide to issue a 209A Order without a parent present if the minor appears to be in danger. In some cases, the Department of Social Services may offer assistance in gaining help for a minor. Many high schools and colleges also offer support groups for students in violent relationships. A parent may also obtain a protective order for his or her child.

Once a 209A Order is issued, violation of certain terms of the Order is a criminal offense. Violations of orders to refrain from abuse, to have no contact, and to vacate a household, multiple-family dwelling, or workplace, can be prosecuted criminally under chapter 209A. If the abuser violates the order, call the police immediately. Show the Order to the police and explain how it was violated ( a punch, slap, or threat; entering your house or apartment or refusing to vacate; or, any contact with you at home or your workplace, either in person, by telephone or mail). The police must arrest the abuser if they believe or can see that the terms of the Order were violated. If you do not call the police, you may be able to file an application for a criminal complaint on your own at the Clerk's Office in the District Court. A Victim/Witness Advocate can assist you with that process.

If you put yourself in contact with the abuser, he is vulnerable to arrest. Therefore, if you want any terms of the order to no longer apply, you should return to court and ask that the order be modified or vacated.

If the abuser is arrested, seek assistance from the Victim/ Witness Advocate in the District Attorney's Office the next morning after a nighttime arrest, or at any time during the day at the courthouse. A Victim/Witness Advocate will explain what the charges mean and what will happen next. The Advocate will also offer ongoing information, referrals for services, and case updates throughout the time the case is in court.

In addition to the crime of violating a 209A Order, an abuser can be charged with a number of other crimes committed at or near the time of the violation, some of which may include:

• Assault (G.L. c. 265, Section 13A), which is an attempt or offer to do bodily injury by force or violence or attempt to batter
• Assault and Battery ( G.L. c. 265, Section 13A), which is a harmful or unjustified touching of another, no matter how slight, without a legal right to do so
• Assault and Battery by Means of a Dangerous Weapon ( G.L. c. 265, Section 15), which is a battery with a dangerous weapon, such as a baseball bat, a shod foot, a knife, or other object either inherently dangerous or used in a way that may cause serious injury or death to another
• Threats (G.L. c. 27, section 4), which are verbal or written threats to do harm that a victim reasonably believes the abuser can commit
• Trespassing ( G.L. c. 266, section 120), which is entering or remaining in a house or on land in violation of a 209A Order
• Malicious Destruction Of Personal Property (G.L. c. 266, section 127), which is the destruction of or injury to personal property, a house, or building in a manner that is willful and malicious
• Stalking (G.L. c. 265, section, 43 (a)), which is the willful, malicious, and repeated following or harassing of an individual and the making of threats with the intent to place that person in imminent fear of death or serious bodily injury. The penalties are greater for a conviction of a stalking crime committed in violation of a 209A Order

Once a criminal complaint has been issued or an arrest made, the abuser will be charged with the crime or crimes at an arraignment proceeding in the District Court. A bail hearing will be held to determine whether the defendant/abuser will be released from custody, the court must make a reasonable effort to notify you of the release, even if you are not present in court.

It is important to provide information to the Assistant District Attorney before the arraignment and bail hearing regarding the history of the abuse and a description of the most recent abuse, including any pictures or hospital records of injuries. You should also mention the location of any guns or other weapons that you believe the abuser has in his or her possession.

The Assistant District Attorney will bring this information to the attention of the judge, along with your safety concerns and fears at this time. The judge may also consider whether the defendant/ abuser should be jailed until trial; or, if the defendant/ abuser is to be released, what the bail and conditions of bail will be. The Assistant District Attorney represents the Commonwealth of Massachusetts in prosecuting the case and works with the Victim/Witness Advocate to address your interests and assist you during trial.

Interviews will be held with you before the trial, to gather information and evidence for prosecution. Every effort will be made to consider your needs and safety in going forward with the case. The safety of your children will also be a priority.

Prosecution may provide the means to gain batterer's intervention services for the defendant/abuser as part of a sentence recommendation. Very few batterer's seek or stay with these services on their own, without court orders and probation supervision. An Assistant District will speak with you about different sentences that can be imposed if the defendant /abuser is found guilty by a judge or jury or pleads guilty. The sentence asked for may include drug or alcohol counseling, required attendance at a batterer's intervention program, supervised probation, and /or jail time.

Certified batterer's intervention programs provide services in very strict group settings to try to help batterers learn to accept responsibility for their violence, as well as understand and change their controlling and abusive behavior.

The groups are led by certified batterer's intervention counselors trained in dealing with domestic violence offenders. The programs work with the courts and victim services to help make sure that partners of batterers remain safe. The programs may involve weekly sessions of 1 to 2 hours in length. The batterer must participate in the program for a minimum of 80 hours. Group leaders feel your safety is a priority concern and will keep ongoing contact with you.

There are no guarantees that the violence will stop because the abuser attends a certified batterer's intervention program. Many abusers drop out of programs do not comply with the requirements, or only reduce their abuse temporarily. If the judge requires attendance as part of a sentence, dropping out may mean the defendant/ abuser may have to serve jail time. The abuser must want to change the abusive behavior and work hard at making those changes. Promises to change, flowers, and apologies are not enough. You deserve to be safe and free from abuse.

Your Risk of Harm

Statistically, the most dangerous time for the victim is when leaving the batterer. The abuser may feel he is losing control and become dangerously angry. Take steps to protect yourself from abuse or punishment from your abuser. Please trust your instincts. If you are afraid that something may happen, take your feelings seriously and protect yourself. You know your situation better than anyone else.

Suggestions for Protection

• Develop a safety plan that includes an escape plan for you and your children should a violent incident occur. During an incident, try to move away from an area or room where access to weapons might increase your risk, such as the kitchen, or where you can be trapped or easily injured.
• Call the police or leave the house as soon as possible after an abusive incident. The police will respond and stay with you until you are safe or in a safe place. The police will also help you seek medical treatment if needed. If you feel you may be in danger, dial the police number and hang up before it rings, so that the redial button will automatically call the police if you need them quickly.
• Be alert when leaving the courthouse. If you have any reason to believe your abuser may be waiting for you, please ask someone in the District Attorney's Office or Court Advocate to help. A police officer or a court officer may be able to escort you to your car.
• Guns or weapons will be ordered turned over to the police by the judge, along with any license to carry the guns and firearms identification card. Inform the police of any guns/weapons the abuser may keep in the house.
• Consider changing the locks on your home. The judge can order the abuser to turn over the keys to your home and/or your car. Keep an extra set of keys in a safe place.
• Inform your neighbors if a 209A order is in place. Encourage them to call the police if they see or suspect that something is wrong.
• Make copies of important papers and keep them in a safe place. Make a list of the things you need to take with you (birth/medical records, marriage license, check/ bank books, credit cards, medications).
• Keep emergency money and extra clothes for yourself and your children in a safe place or with someone you trust. Include a few toys and favorite things for the children.
• Keep the victim's service agency number handy for emergency shelters and support groups.; You do not have to leave the abuser or have a 209A Order to attend the support groups. Information and support in making decisions are important.
• Get Medical attention as you may be injured much more seriously than you realize. Go to a hospital emergency room or your private doctor as soon as possible for treatment. Ask for a copy of the treatment record.
• Have pictures taken of your injuries and bruises at the hospital, police department, shelter, or District Attorney's Office.

Formed in 1980, this committee oversees the aquifer underlying the Mattapoisett River watershed.

Three Representatives from each of the four towns depending on the Mattapoisett River water supply for it drinking water, Fairhaven, Mattapoisett, Marion, and Rochester, are on the committee.

Ensuring a quality, safe, and abundant water supply for future generations is their primary concern.

• The Advisory Committee is constantly reviewing the following ongoing goals:
• Upgrading our water protection measures
• Supervising and exploring funding sources for purchasing land surrounding the aquifer to ensure protection of the Mattapoisett River
• Instigating engineering and other studies to insure quality and abundant water resources.
• Continue to develop public education programs to keep our residents informed about its water supply.
• Investigating measures to ensure water consumption.

In order to be placed on a waitlist, the appropriate form and $15 fee must be submitted to the Harbormaster's Office at the Marion Town House.

The forms are available at the Harbormaster's Office at the Marion Town House or by clicking HERE.

• Wait List Information

You may register to vote in person at the Town Clerk's Office; online at https:/www.sec.state.ma.us; or thru the RMV when you renew or change the address on your driver's license. Please note: if you apply for any state benefits (SNAP, Mass Health, Housing etc.) you will automatically be registered to vote as an unenrolled voter (no party enrollment) as long as you are a U.S. citizen. If you do not wish to be a registered voter, please notify the Town Clerk's office once you receive your acknowledgement letter.

If you move or wish to change parties, please notify this office in writing with your signature so we may move you to your new address. Federal law requires a signature by the voter before we can change any information.

Please notify the Town Clerk's office in writing so we may change your address or remove you as a registered voter in Marion. Federal law requires the signature of a voter before we can make any changes to your registration.

You may do it online (https:/www.sec.state.ma.us); in person at the Town Clerk's office or by sending a signed letter to the Town Clerk. We cannot change your party without your signature. As of 2024, the 3 recognized political parties in Massachusetts are Democratic, Libertarian and Republican. There are several designations; however, they are not political parties for the purposes of voting in primaries.

There are 3 recognized parties in Massachusetts: Democratic (D), Libertarian (L)and Republican (R). If you don't join one of these parties, you will be registered as unenrolled "U". You may vote in any primary by indicating which party ballot you would like and you will remain unenrolled. The term "Independent" has been replaced by "Unenrolled" in the state of Massachusetts; however, there are several political designations which use the word independent such as the American Independent Party, the Independent 3rd Party, the Massachusetts Independent Party and the United Independent Party. These are not actual political parties, they are designations. Anyone registered to vote in a political designation may vote in the primary and will remain in their chosen designation after the election.

If you are an unenrolled voter or a member of a Political Designation, you MUST indicate which party ballot you wish to receive if you are voting by mail or Absentee.