FAQs • Ipswich, MA • CivicEngage

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Assessor

1. When do I get my tax bills?: The Fiscal Year begins July 1 and runs through June 30. Real estate and personal property tax bills are due on a quarterly basis. Preliminary bills are mailed no later than June 30, and actual bills are mailed no later than December 31. Each mailing contains 2 quarterly bills. The preliminary bills consist of the 1st and 2nd quarter of the fiscal year, and are normally due on or before August 1 (1st quarter) and November 1 (2nd quarter). The actual bills consisting of the 3rd and 4th quarter, are issued once the tax rate for the fiscal year is established in December. They are mailed no later than December 31, and are normally due on or before February 1 (3rd quarter) and May 1 (4th quarter).

2. How can I apply for an abatement on my tax bill (real estate, personal property, motor vehicle excise, boat excise)?

If you disagree with the assessed value of your real estate or personal property you may file an abatement application (PDF). Abatement applications on real estate and personal property are accepted from January 1 until February 1. Motor vehicle and boat abatements may be applied for within 3 years after the excise was due, or 1 year after the excise was paid, whichever is later. Those wishing to apply for a motor vehicle excise abatement must furnish proof of 2 items:

Disposition of the vehicle, was it sold or traded for example
Disposition of the vehicle’s plates in the form of a plate return receipt from the Registry of Motor Vehicles

Boat abatement applications (PDF) are available if you have sold or traded your boat, or believe your boat bill to be otherwise incorrect.

3. How often does the value on property change?: The Assessor is required to value property at market value. Reassessments are mandatory every 3 years, and inspections are required at least once every 10 years in accordance with Massachusetts law, however, in order to more accurately reflect market values, interim year adjustments are made annually.

4. How does the Assessor determine the value of my property?

Several factors are used in determining the value of your property. These include but are not limited to:

Age of the building
Amount of land
Central air conditioning, central VAC
Condition of the residence
Construction costs
Construction grade
Enclosed and open porches
Exterior covering
Fireplaces, heating
Full and half baths
Garages, attic, basement
Land value
Neighborhood
Number of bedrooms and total rooms
Recreation room
Square footage of the residence
Story height
Style of home
Number of living units
View

5. What is fair market value?: Fair market value is the price that a willing buyer and a willing seller can agree upon when neither party is under any undue pressure to complete the sale. The amount a well-informed buyer is willing to pay for a property. Qualified sales are used to determine fair market value. To represent fair market value, a sale must be an arm’s length transaction, i.e., it must be a sale in which there is no relationship between the buyer and the seller that may influence the price, such as a transaction between family members. A listing of recent sales is available on the counter at the Assessor’s office. Information may also be obtained through Banker and Tradesman’s newspaper or the Essex Registry of Deeds.

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Building Department

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1. When is a building permit required?: Current codes require a permit for almost all work on existing structures and for all new construction. This includes roofing, siding, insulation, demolition, wood and pellet stoves, and interior remodeling. If you're uncertain if a permit is required, please call and ask.

2. Can I do the construction myself? If so, do I have to be licensed?: A homeowner may act as their own general contractor and perform work on their own property exclusive of plumbing, gasfitting or wiring. Those disciplines require duly licensed professionals. Anyone perfuming work as contractor must possess a Construction Supervisor's License (CSL). There a specialty construction supervisor licenses for contractors who install wood or pellet stoves, insulation, roofing, siding, and windows. To qualify, one must pass an exam and once licensed, take minimum hours of continuing education courses. Anyone who does home improvements on owner/occupied one to four family dwellings, must possess a Home Improvement Registration (HIC). This program provides consumers protection through a Guarantee Fund. Homeowners aggrieved by a contractor may be able to collect up to $10,000.00 from this state fund. Bylaws

3. Can I apply for a permit application? My contractor told me to apply for the permit.: A homeowner may apply for their own permit and act as a general contractor. By doing so, they would be taking on any and all responsibility for code and zoning compliance. Also, anyone who performs work on an owner occupied one-to-four-family home must possess a Home Improvement Contractor's Registration (HIC). This program has an associated Guarantee Fund.

4. How do I apply for a permit?: All permitting is done online. The online permitting link is available on the Town website. Information about required documentation and permit fees is also available on the Town website.

5. Can I begin work once I submit my online permit application?: No. Work should not commence until the permit has been issued and posted visible from the street.

6. How long does it take to obtain a permit?: The amount of time before a permit is issued often varies. Projects involving a great scope of work may and usually do take longer to review and issue than a permit to install a new roof surface. If all required information is included this will help expedite the review process. Permits authorizing roofing, siding, interior bath or kitchen remodeling and similar work are usually issued in less that an week after submission. Larger projects especially those that require the review of other departments can take several weeks especially if plans submitted require revisions or additional information is required causing a delay. The required permit fee must also be paid prior to issuing a permit. Though previous codes required the building official to review and grant or deny an application in writing within thirty days, the current code is not prescriptive and requires it be done in a reasonable amount of time.

7. How do I schedule a plumbing/gas inspection?: To schedule a Plumbing or Gas inspection, contact the inspection "hotline" at 978-356-6605 before 8:00 AM the day of request. Inspections are performed Monday, Wednesday and Thursday starting at 9:30 AM.

8. Can I do my own wiring, plumbing or gas work on my own residence?: No. A licensed plumber, gas fitter, and electrician must perform work under those disciplines.

9. Do I need a permit for an above ground swimming pool?: Yes. Any pool with the ability to contain 24 inches of water requires a permit. Pools are also subject to minimum setback distances from property boundaries.

10. When are wiring inspections performed?: Wiring inspections are conducted on Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday starting at 9:30 AM. No on time inspections. To schedule an inspection contact the inspection "hotline" at 978-356-6605 ext 1 before 8:00 AM the day of request.

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Cemetery

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1. How much does a cemetery plot cost?: The cost of a plot is $800 per grave.

2. How do I purchase a plot?: Call the office at 978-356-6643 to set up an appointment.

3. Who can purchase a cemetery plot?: Any Ipswich resident who is currently living here for a minimum of 3 years.

4. I'm looking for a deceased relative. How do I find out where they are buried?: Call our office or email cemetery@ipswich-ma.gov with the name, date of death and the name of cemetery along with any other information that you have.

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Child Passenger Safety

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1. Why does my child need a booster seat?

Beginning July 10, 2008 a child passenger restraint is required by law for children 5-7 years of age or until they reach 4 feet 9 inches in height in the state of Massachusetts. This means that for children who have grown out of their forward facing child safety seat, the next step is the booster seat.
A booster seat helps your child fit correctly in your vehicle’s safety belt. It positions the lap belt on the hips and the shoulder belt across the chest, providing the greatest amount of protection.
Motor vehicle crashes are the #1 killer of children between the ages of 4-8. Booster seats can reduce those injury rates by 58% over seat belt use for that age group.

2. What does the new booster seat law say?

Its says that “no child under the age of 8 and measuring less than 57 inches shall ride as a passenger in a motor vehicle on any way unless such child is properly fastened and secured, according to the manufacturers’ instructions, by a child passenger restraint”.
The previous law only required children under 5 years of age and under 40 pounds to ride in a child safety seat.
The new law also states that children ages 8 to 12 are required to wear a safety belt when traveling in a motor vehicle.
To read the law visit The Commonwealth of Massachusetts website.

3. When did the law go into effect?: The booster seat law went into effect on July 10, 2008.

4. What is the fine if my child is not riding in a booster seat?: The driver can be stopped by the police and fined $25.

5. How do I know when my child needs to move from a car seat to a booster seat?

Children need to move from a child safety seat to a booster seat when they reach the weight limit on their forward facing child safety seat.
Your forward facing child safety seat will have a sticker telling you its weight limit.
If your child’s ears are above the back of the child’s safety seat and/or their shoulders are above the top strap slots they are ready to move from a child safety seat into a booster seat.

6. How do I put my child’s booster seat in my vehicle?: Booster seats are generally easy to use. Read your vehicle’s owners manual and the booster seat installation manual for instructions. A certified Child Passenger Safety technician can check your child safety seat or booster seat for safety and assure proper fit. These checkpoints are free but usually require an appointment. Contact certified Child Passenger Safety technician firefighters Mike Bonaiuto or Jeremy Dalton, at the Ipswich Fire Department. Or to find a technician near you call the Car Safe Line at 1-800-CAR-SAFE (1-800-227-7233) at the MA Department of Public Health or visit the Mass.gov website.

7. What is the best kind of booster seat to buy?

The 2 most widely used booster seats are a “high back” or a “backless” booster seat. Both must be used with the vehicles lap/shoulder belt for proper positioning.
No 1 booster seat is the “safest”. Choose the seat that best fits your child and your car. Check the label on the booster seat for height and weight limits and then make sure it is used properly.

8. How much do booster seats cost?: Prices range from $15 up to $150. Price is not necessarily a factor in the safety of the booster seat.

9. What if I can’t afford a booster seat?: For more information on where to get free or discounted booster seats call the Car Safe Line at 1-800-CAR-SAFE (1-800-227-7233) or visit Mass.gov Public Safety or Parents Central.

10. When can I take my child out of a booster seat and have them use a seat belt?

When your child is at least 8 years old or 4 feet 9 inches tall according to the new MA law
To check the fit of your child’s seat belt once they move out of their booster seat make sure that:
- They are tall enough to sit without slouching, generally over 4 feet 9 inches and 80 pounds.
- Their shoulder belt rests comfortably across the shoulder and chest, not on the neck or throat.
- Their lap belt fits securely, low and snug on hips.
- They can sit with their back and buttocks against the vehicle seat.
- Their knees completely bend over the edge of the vehicle seat.

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Conservation Committee & Wetland Processes

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1. How does the Ipswich Conservation Commission administer the Massachusetts Wetlands Protection Act and the Ipswich Wetland Protection Bylaw?: The Commission meets twice a month, normally on the 1st and 3rd Wednesday evenings, to hold public hearings related to permit applications filed under the Massachusetts Wetlands Protection Act and the Ipswich Wetland Protection Bylaw, as well as enforcement matters related to violations of the Wetlands Protection Act and the Wetland Protection Bylaw. The public has a right to ask questions and comment on relevant matters. If you have any questions, please contact the Conservation Department.

2. How can I find out if my project is allowable under the Wetlands Protection Act and the Ipswich Wetland Protection Bylaw?: Only the Conservation Commission can make that determination. You can attend a Conservation Commission meeting and ask a question during the Citizen’s Query portion of the meeting. Citizen’s Queries are limited to 5 minutes per person. You can also ask the Conservation Agent, but the Agent can only give you their opinion. They cannot tell you definitively is a project is allowable. Please be aware that the Commission may offer advice during a Citizen’s Query, but they may not approve a project.

If you have any questions, please contact the Conservation Department.

3. What types of permits does the Ipswich Conservation Commission issue?

The Conservation Commission issues 3 types of permits:

Determination of Applicability in response to a Request for Determination of Applicability
Order of Resource Area Delineation, in response to a Notice of Resource Area Delineation
Order of Conditions, in response to either an Abbreviated Notice of Intent or a Notice of Intent

These permits can be to approve a project or deny a project or resource area delineation, as appropriate. If you have any questions, please contact the Conservation Department.

4. Can the Commission’s decisions be appealed?: Yes, decisions can be appealed. Appeals under the Massachusetts Wetlands Protection Act are made to the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection’s (DEP’s) regional office in Wilmington. Appeals under the Ipswich Wetland Protection Bylaw are made to Superior Court. Appeals must be made under both, if an applicant wishes to have the Commission’s decision overturned. There are strict statutory deadlines for filing an appeal which must be adhered to, as well as requirements for who can appeal a decision.

If you have any questions, please contact the Conservation Department.

5. What is the Conservation Commission’s jurisdiction under the Wetlands Protection Act and the Wetland Protection Bylaw?: The Conservation Commission has jurisdiction over projects proposed within 100 feet of a jurisdictional wetland (the Buffer Zone to wetlands), 150 feet of an Area of Critical Environmental Concern (the Buffer Zone to ACEC), and 200 feet of a river or perennial stream (the Riverfront Area). If you have any questions, please contact the Conservation Department.

6. Can the Conservation Agent approve my project?: The Conservation Agent cannot approve your project. The Conservation Agent does not have the authority to approve projects under the Massachusetts Wetlands Protection Act or the Ipswich Wetland Protection Bylaw. Only the Conservation Commission may approve projects, as part of a formal public hearing process. If you have any questions, please contact the Conservation Department.

7. Why does the Conservation Agent have to approve my building permit, and what is the process?: The Conservation Agent makes a determination as to whether a proposed project is located within the jurisdiction of the Conservation Commission (See Frequently Asked Question #6). If it is located in the Commission’s jurisdiction, the agent will not sign the building permit, and directs the applicant to file either a Request for Determination of Applicability or a Notice of Intent so that the Commission may review the project for approval or denial.The agent may also mark the application as incomplete, and request additional information; or mark the project as Not Applicable, if it is not located within the Commission’s jurisdiction.

The agent generally processes building permit applications within 7 days of notification. If you have any questions, please contact the Conservation Department.

8. What is a Buffer Zone to a Jurisdictional Resource Area?: The Buffer Zone is the land within 100 feet of a jurisdictional resource area. Jurisdictional resource areas include freshwater and saltwater wetlands that border a water body, such as a stream, river, pond, or the ocean; as well as tide flats, beaches, Coastal Bank and Coastal Dunes. An isolated wetland that is greater than 5,000 square feet in size is also jurisdictional, and has a 100 feet Buffer Zone. All activities that could alter the Buffer Zone must be approved by the Commission under the Wetlands Protection Act and the Wetland Protection Bylaw.

Land subject to tidal action, land subject to coastal storm flowage, and land subject to flooding are also jurisdictional resource areas, but they do not have Buffer Zones. If you have any questions, please contact the Conservation Department.

9. What is Riverfront Area?: The Riverfront Area is the land within 200 feet of a river or perennial stream. All activities that could alter the Riverfront Area must be approved by the Commission under the Wetlands Protection Act and the Wetland Protection Bylaw. If you have any questions, please contact the Conservation Department.

10. What is an Area of Critical Environmental Concern?: Areas of Critical Environmental Concern, or ACECs, are designated by the state. Ipswich is partially located within the Great Marsh ACEC. This ACEC is defined as elevation 10 feet (10 feet above sea level) in coastal areas, including the Ipswich River up to the Town Landing. All activities proposed within 150 feet of an ACEC must be approved by the Commission under the Wetlands Protection Act and the Wetland Protection Bylaw.

If you have any questions, please contact the Conservation Department.

11. What are the Commission’s mandatory setbacks?: The Ipswich Wetland Protection Bylaw mandates a 50 feet No-Disturbance Zone (NDZ, areas within 50 feet of jurisdictional wetlands) and a 15 feet No-Build Zone (NBZ, areas within 65 feet of jurisdictional wetlands). For previously developed lots, such as existing single family homes built before 2001, the NDZ is grandfathered at 25 feet, within the 15 feet NBZ remaining the same (areas within 40 feet of jurisdictional wetlands). Properties where a change in use is proposed are subject to the more restrictive setbacks. If you have any questions, please contact the Conservation Department.

12. What can I do in the Commission’s Mandatory No-Disturbance Zone?

You cannot do anything that is defined as an alteration by the Ipswich Wetland protection bylaw. This includes, but is not limited to:

Changing of preexisting drainage characteristics
Dumping (of any kind including yard debris and grass clippings), discharging or filling with any material which may degrade water quality or alter the preexisting elevation; or certain destruction of plant life
Removal, excavation, or dredging of soil or sediment

If you have any questions, please contact the Conservation Department.

13. What can I do in the Commission’s Mandatory No-Build Zone?

You cannot build anything defined as a structure by the Ipswich Wetland Protection Bylaw. This includes, but is not limited to:

Buildings (permanent or temporary)
Discharge channel, drainage basin, and grading associated with storm water management
Drainage structures such as culverts and discharge trenches
Fences
Mobile homes
Observation decks
Pavement
Platforms
Radio towers and microwave antennas or receivers
Sheds
Signs
Storage bins
Swimming pools (permanent or temporary)
Tennis and sports courts
Walkways
Walls
Wells

If you have any questions, please contact the Conservation Department.

14. May I request a waiver of the No-Disturbance Zone or the No-Build Zone?: Yes, if you can prove hardship. But the Commission is not required to approve the waiver request. If the waiver request is approved, there is a requirement for mitigation of impacts at a rate of 3:2 (mitigation to impact). If you have any questions, please contact the Conservation Department.

15. Do I have to file with the Commission for a deck that will be the same size and on the same footings on my property?: No, as long as your project will not disturb any soil or access jurisdictional areas (see Frequently Asked Question #6) with heavy equipment. If you plan to disturb the soil, or need to use heavy equipment in the Commission’s jurisdiction, you would have to file a Request for Determination of Applicability or a Notice of Intent (See Frequently Asked Question #29). If you have any questions, please contact the Conservation Department.

16. Do I have to file with the Commission for a temporary (seasonal) pool on my property?: Yes. You would have to file a Request for Determination of Applicability, unless the pool proposed within one of the mandatory setbacks (See Frequently Asked Questions #12-15), in which case you would need to file a Notice of Intent. If you have any questions, please contact the Conservation Department.

17. Do I have to file with the Commission for a seasonal dock?: Yes, you would have to file a Notice of Intent. You would also have to file for a permit from the Harbor Master, and the State of Massachusetts under the Chapter 91 program. If you have any questions, please contact the Conservation Department.

18. Do I have to file with the Commission for an addition to my house?: Yes, you would have to file a Notice of Intent if that addition is located within the jurisdiction of the Conservation Commission (See Frequently Asked Question #6). If you have any questions, please contact the Conservation Department.

19. Do I have to file with the Commission for a shed on my property?: Yes, if that shed is proposed within the jurisdiction of the Conservation Commission (See Frequently Asked Question #6). These are considered structures and must meet mandatory setbacks (Frequently Asked Questions #12-15), unless a waiver is granted by the Commission. Generally the Commission will review a shed under a Request for Determination of Applicability, as long as the mandatory setbacks are met (Frequently Asked Question #29).

If you have any questions, please contact the Conservation Department.

20. Do I have to file with the Commission for a chicken coop or a dog pen on my property?: Yes, if that chicken coop or dog pen is proposed within the jurisdiction of the Conservation Commission (See Frequently Asked Questions #6). These are considered structures and must meet mandatory setbacks, unless a waiver is granted by the Commission (Frequently Asked Questions #12-15). Generally the Commission will review a these structures under a Request for Determination of Applicability, as long as the mandatory setbacks are met (Frequently Asked Question #29).

If you have any questions, please contact the Conservation Department.

21. Do I have to file with the Commission for a non-permanent / temporary structure, such as a Quonset hut or hoop house on my property?: If that structure is proposed within the jurisdiction of the Conservation Commission (See Frequently Asked Question #6) you must obtain approval of the Conservation Commission by filing either a Notice of Intent or a Request for Determination of Applicability (See Frequently Asked Question #29). These are considered “structures” and must meet mandatory setbacks, unless a waiver is granted by the Commission (See Frequently Asked Questions #12-15). If you have any questions, please contact the Conservation Department.

22. Do I have to file with the Commission for a gravel / stone walkway on my property?: If that walkway is proposed within the jurisdiction of the Conservation Commission (See Frequently Asked Question #6) you must obtain approval of the Conservation Commission by filing either a Notice of Intent or a Request for Determination of Applicability (See Frequently Asked Question #29). These are considered “structures” and must meet mandatory setbacks, unless a waiver is granted by the Commission (See Frequently Asked Questions #12-15).

If you have any questions, please contact the Conservation Department.

23. Do I have to file with the Commission to cut down one or more trees on my property?: If the tree is located within the jurisdiction of the Conservation Commission (See Frequently Asked Question #6) and is clearly dead or dying and is determined by the Conservation Agent to be dangerous, the Conservation Administrator can approve its removal. If not dead or dying and dangerous, you must obtain approval of the Conservation Commission by filing either a Notice of Intent or a Request for Determination of Applicability (See Frequently Asked Question #29).

Exceptions are made if the tree cutting is conducted as part of an approved tree cutting plan, or for use as firewood for the homeowner, but certain restriction apply. Standing dead trees, especially in wetlands, should always be left in place whenever possible, as they provide vital wildlife habitat. If you have any questions, please contact the Conservation Department.

24. Do I have to file with the Commission to prune trees and shrubs on my property?: If the tree branches represent a safety concern, as determined by the Conservation Administrator, she can approve moderate pruning. Vista pruning of branches and shrubs more than 50 feet from wetlands are exempt from the Wetlands Protection Act but not under the Ipswich Wetland Protection Bylaw. Contact the Conservation Agent to determine if the pruning you want to do requires filing under the local bylaw. Normal maintenance of landscaped areas and mowing of lawns is exempt from the Wetlands Protection Act and Ipswich Wetland Protection Bylaw.

If you have any questions, please contact the Conservation Department.

25. Do I have to have my wetland delineated by a professional wetland scientist?: You are required to have your wetland professionally delineated when submitting a Notice of Intent, unless the Commission grants a waiver of the delineation. When submitting a Request for Determination of Applicability, the Commission may require a professional delineation. If you have any questions, please contact the Conservation Department.

26. Do I have to submit plans prepared by an engineer or can I submit a hand-drawn sketch of my project if I file a Request for Determination of Applicability?: The Commission may require a drawing showing boundaries of all inland and coastal wetlands, ponds and streams, as defined in the Wetlands By-Law. The drawing shall also contain the name(s) and contact information of all person(s) who prepared the drawing. The Commission strongly encourages and may require that all such drawings be prepared by a registered professional engineer, land surveyor, architect or landscape architect. If you have any questions, please contact the Conservation Department.

27. Do I have to submit plans prepared by an engineer or can I submit a hand-drawn sketch of my project if I file a Notices of Intent?: You are required to submit plans prepared by an engineer unless the Commission grants a waiver of the requirement. If you have any questions, please contact the Conservation Department.

28. When do I have to file a Notice of Intent and when can I file a Request for Determination of Applicability instead?: It depends upon the nature of the project, and only the Commission can make that determination. Generally, if a project meets all mandatory setbacks, is not permanent by nature, does not include a permanent foundation or machine excavation, and requires no significant regrading, a Request for Determination of Applicability is acceptable. If you have any questions, please contact the Conservation Department.

29. Are there fees for submitting permit applications under the Wetlands Protection Act and the Ipswich Wetland Protection Bylaw?: Yes, there are separate fees under the state law and the bylaw. Fees must be paid in full under both, for the Commission to open the public hearing. If you have any questions, please contact the Conservation Department.

30. Do I have to be present at the public hearing?: Yes, unless you have a duly authorized representative to attend on your behalf. If you have any questions, please contact the Conservation Department.

31. Is my home in a floodplain?: FEMA determines where floodplains are located. Neither the Conservation Agent nor the Conservation Commission may change the location of a floodplain. The Commission uses best available evidence, according to the regulations to determine if a home is in the floodplain. In the case of Ipswich, we use the online maps prepared by FEMA. This website is found at . Enter your address in the search box below Search by Address and follow the prompts. You can make an appointment with the Conservation Assistant or Agent, and they can help you print out a FIRMette (a FEMA floodplain map).

In addition to the FEMA maps, other credible evidence may be presented to FEMA, if you believe your property is shown in the floodplain in error. The Conservation Office may not assist in rebutting the location of the FEMA floodplain. If you have any questions, please contact the Conservation Department.

32. Are there wetlands on my property?: The only way to know for sure is to hire a wetland scientist, and then have the wetland scientist’s determination reviewed and approved by the Conservation Commission. The Conservation Agent does not have the authority to make this determination, however, you can make an appointment for the agent to visit your property and she can give you her opinion.

In addition, you can inquire of the Conservation Assistant if there have been previous wetland filings for your property, or neighboring properties. If there was a wetland there in the past, it is most likely still there. If you have any questions, please contact the Conservation Department.

33. Can I plant shrubs and herbaceous plants in the buffer zone to wetlands or the Riverfront Area?: If they are native plants, yes. You can also ask the Conservation Assistant for the recommended buffer zone plantings species native to eastern Massachusetts. For additional native plant ideas, visit one of the following websites about native shrubs and plant value (PDF). If you have any questions, please contact the Conservation Department.

34. Can the expiration date of my order of conditions be extended?: Yes, an extension may be approved for periods of up to 3 years, but the request must be made at least 30 days prior to the expiration date, or state law will not allow its extension. If you have any questions, please contact the Conservation Department.

35. Can the expiration date of my Determination of Applicability be extended, or the project approved by my Determination of Applicability be amended?: No, the expiration date cannot be extended and the approved project cannot be amended. If you have any questions, please contact the Conservation Department.

36. Can the expiration date of my Order of Resource Area Delineation be extended?: Yes, as long as conditions have not changed, as determined by a site visit. An extension may be approved for periods of up to 3 years, but the request must be made at least 30 days prior to the expiration date, or state law will not allow its extension. If you have any questions, please contact the Conservation Department.

37. Do I have to notify abutters to my project?: You must only notify abutters if you are filing a Notice of Intent or Notice of Resource Area Delineation. If you have any questions, please contact the Conservation Department.

38. Since they are biodegradable, can I throw leaves, brush, and grass clippings into the wetland?: You may not throw biodegradable items in the wetland. This is considered fill in wetlands. Filling wetlands can harm water quality and wildlife habitat, and can lead to flooding on properties downstream the fill area. If you have any questions, please contact the Conservation Department.

39. How do I close out an Order of Conditions (OOC)?: To close out your OOC, you must file a Request for a Certificate of Compliance (COC) with the Commission. The specific requirements for what must accompany the Request for a COC are listed in your Order of Conditions, and generally include an as-built or record conditions plan prepared and stamped by an engineer showing all work completed; a letter from an engineer stating that the work was performed in accordance with the OOC, the local filing fee worksheet, and a check to the Town of Ipswich for the amount of the filing fee. If you have any questions, please contact the Conservation Department.

40. Can the Conservation Agent approve my Request for a Certificate of Compliance?: No, the agent may not approve a Request for a Certificate of Compliance (COC). The agent will perform a site visit to ensure that the work was done in accordance with the Order of Conditions, and make a recommendation, but only the Conservation Commission may approve a Request for a COC. If you have any questions, please contact the Conservation Department.

41. How soon can the Conservation Commission approve my Request for a Certificate of Compliance?: All Requests for Certificates of Compliance (COCs) must be voted on by the Conservation Commission at a regularly scheduled public meeting. In order to be heard at a meeting, the Request for a COC and all required materials must be submitted to the Conservation Office no later than 3 p.m. 1 week before the meeting. If you have any questions, please contact the Conservation Department.

42. Can I make changes to a Negative Determination of Applicability?: No, if you need to make changes to your approved project, you need to file a new Request for Determination of Applicability. If you have any questions, please contact the Conservation Department.

43. Can I make changes to my Order of Conditions?: It depends. You must receive pre-approval of the Conservation Commission for any proposed changes. For minor project changes, you may request a Minor Modification. For more substantive changes, an amended OOC must be requested. For major changes, a new Notice of Intent may be required. For additional information go to the DEP’s website. If you have any questions, please contact the Conservation Department.

44. What is a minor project change?: These are changes that correct obvious mistakes such as citing a wrong file number or typographical errors, or minor changes to a the project that will have unchanged or less impact on the interests protected by the act. Only the Commission may determine if a proposed project change is minor. If you have any questions, please contact the Conservation Department.

45. How does the Commission determine if a change is a substantial project change?: The issuing authority first makes a determination whether the requested change is great enough to warrant the filing of a new Notice of Intent. In making this determination, the issuing authority should consider such factors as whether the purpose of the project has changed, whether the scope of the project has increased, whether the project meets relevant performance standards, and whether the potential for adverse impacts to the protected statutory interests will be increased. Relatively minor changes which result in the same or decreased impact on the interests protected by the act are appropriate for amendments.

If you have any questions, please contact the Conservation Department.

46. Can I appeal to Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) if the Commission denies my request for a minor modification or amendment?: No. Per the DEP website, “Amending a Final Order of Conditions is at the discretion of the body that issued the Final Order of Conditions ("the issuing authority"). There is no provision in the wetland regulations that requires the issuing authority to consider or act upon a request to amend a Final Order of Conditions. There is no right to request a Superseding Order of Conditions or an Adjudicatory Hearing if a request to amend is not granted. If the issuing authority refuses to amend a Final Order of Conditions, the only opportunity for further review is the filing of a new Notice of Intent.”

Approved Amended OOCs may be appealed. If you have any questions, please contact the Conservation Department.

47. What is the procedure to request a minor modification of my Order of Conditions?: You must submit a narrative description of the requested change, along with revised plans, as appropriate. This information must be submitted to the Conservation Office no later than 3 p.m. 1 week before the meeting. You must attend the Conservation Commission meeting and be prepared to discuss why this modification is required. If you have any questions, please contact the Conservation Department.

48. What is the procedure to request an amendment of my Order of Conditions?: You must submit a detailed narrative description of the requested change, along with revised plans, as appropriate. This information must be submitted to the Conservation Office in accordance with the regular Conservation Commission filing deadline schedule (available on our website). The Conservation Commission will publish newspaper notice (at the applicant's expense) in the same way as when you originally filed your Notice of Intent.

In addition, you must notify abutters, as if filing a new Notice of Intent. Proof of this notice must be provided to the Commission. You must attend the Conservation Commission meeting and be prepared to discuss why this amendment is required. If you have any questions, please contact the Conservation Department.

49. Do I have to file with the Commission to install test pits for a new or replacement septic system on my property?: Yes, if the test pits are proposed within the jurisdiction of the Conservation Commission (See Frequently Asked Question #6). Generally the Commission will review test pits under a Request for Determination of Applicability. If you have any questions, please contact the Conservation Department.

50. How many copies are required to be submitted with my application?

This can vary depending on how many Commissioners are currently on the Conservation Commission. Currently we have 7 Commissioners however only 5 of them require hard copies of plans. Effective 7/5/16, the following number of copies should be submitted.

For RDAs, NOIs, Minor Modifications, Formal Amendments:

1 Full set of application documents and plans (Hard copy of the Original)
1 Full set of application documents and plans (Electronic copy of the Original, emailed to both Aliciag@ipswich-ma.gov and Gails@ipswich-ma.gov)
1 Complete Copy of the Original (Hard copy Copy)
5 Full sets of plans larger than 8.5x11 (Hard copy Plans only)

Note: At some point we may require additional hard copy plans when a newly appointed Commissioner starts but will let you know.

For COCs please provide:

1 Full set of application documents and plans (Hard copy of the Original)
1 Full set of application documents and plans (Electronic copy of the Original, emailed to both Aliciag@ipswich-ma.gov and Gails@ipswich-ma.gov)
1 Complete Copy of the Original (Hard copy Copy)
* in some cases, additional plan copies may be requested at the Agent's discretion.

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Curbside Composting

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1. What is the Curbside Collection Program?

Household organics (food scraps, meat, bones, etc.) are collected by the resident in a provided cart and picked up by a special truck on Wednesdays. Residents pay less than $2 per week to participate in this program. Organics collected are composted instead of incinerated with the trash and go to a commercial composting facility in Ipswich, where they are transformed into finished compost.

The Ipswich Waste Reduction Advisory Committee, in conjunction with the Department of Public Works Office and the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection, started this curbside food waste collection pilot in Fall 2011.

2. What is the cost?: The fee to participate in this program is $95 per year for residents. The Department of Public Works pays an additional $17 and provides a free collection cart, with financial assistance from MassDEP.

3. Who can participate? Is it too late to join?: All Ipswich residents with town trash pickup can participate, but residents with private trash may be eligible as well. You can join at any time by signing up online at Black Earth Compost. Now is a great time to join!

4. What are organics?: Organics are materials that break down naturally and can be turned into compost. Composting organics diverts them from incinerators or landfills, which is costly. The town currently pays $76.85 per ton to dispose of its trash, and diverting organics saves the town approximately 275 tons per year.

5. What is accepted?: There are so many organics and other items that you can put in your composting cart!

6. What is not accepted?

The list below includes examples of items that are not accepted. Check here for a complete list.

Branches (Bring branches no larger than 4" in diameter to the Transfer Station at 180 Town Farm Road)
Cigarettes
Dead animals
Diapers (not even compostable diapers)
Dog waste
Leaves (Compost them in your backyard or bring them to the Transfer Station)
Plastic bags! (You can line your bin with paper towels or newspaper or purchase Bags to Earth paper bags or BPI-Certified Compostable bags)
Sanitary products
Sticks, dirt, pebbles
Textiles
Wood

7. Why is Ipswich promoting this organics program?: Organics comprise to 40% of household waste! Organics collection is one of the major strategies to further reduce our waste and our trash costs. It also reduces our environmental impact and turns the organics into valuable finished compost. This private-pay collection pilot also provides us with useful information to enhance our other diversion efforts (recycling and leaf composting). We track how much food waste and other organics are diverted from the trash, and we hope to build support for townwide collection.

8. What is my fee paying for?: The fee covers organics pickup at your curb, transportation to the composting facility, composting the food waste, and 50 gallons of finished compost twice per year. You receive a free compost cart upon signup.

9. When is my payment due? How do I pay?

Payment is due when you sign up for the program online at Black Earth Compost. If you prefer to sign up by check, you may do so by bringing $95 cash or a check made to Town of Ipswich.

Pick up your cart at the DPW office at town hall (2nd floor).

10. How will the food waste be collected?: Black Earth Compost, a local hauler and compost company, picks up the food waste curbside in their own collection truck.

11. Can I put my food in plastic bags and then put it in the organics cart?: No! Plastic bags are a contaminant and can turn the town’s entire load of compostable material into trash if bags are in the cart. Use BPI-certified compostable bags.

12. I go away in the winter. Can I get a reduced rate?: Unfortunately, no. You could compost in your backyard for now and then sign up in the spring when you return.

13. Where will the organics be composted?: Black Earth Compost brings the organics to Agresource in Ipswich to be composted. Agresource is permitted by the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection to accept food waste for composting.

14. How can I minimize odors in my collection cart?

Rinse your cart out often.
Use a BPI-certified compost bag, a paper bag or newspaper as a liner.
Compost food-soiled napkins and paper towels (no cleaners or bodily fluids).
Wrap meat and fish in newspaper or paper bags.
Freeze food waste before collection.

15. Can I compost my biodegradable/compostable plastic foodware?: Only tableware and bags labeled BPI-Certified Compostable can be placed in your cart. Items marked biodegradable are not allowed. Accepted items include Bag to Earth paper bags, #7 PLA made from corn (cups, straws, lids), and plates, bowls, containers and utensils made from sugarcane.

16. Is there a limit to the accepted food waste that I can put out?: You may put out up to four paper leaf bags of additional organics with your cart each week. Remember, no leaves or branches!

17. Can I put paper yard bags out with the cart for pickup?: Large paper lawn bags (up to four) can be used for overflow organics, lawn clippings, and yard waste ONLY. Leaves and branches must be brought to the Transfer Station.

18. Why aren’t leaves accepted? They’re organic.

The collection trucks do not have compactors and leaves would quickly fill up the collection truck, increasing trips to the compost facility and raising our costs.

The town offers curbside leaf pickup in November each year (the week before Thanksgiving, on your regular trash day). Additionally, you can drop off your leaf and yard waste year-round at the Transfer Station at 180 Town Farm Road.

19. Kitty litter?? With or without poop?: Only bentonite-free kitty litter is accepted. All natural animal bedding with waste (poop) is acceptable.

20. Why is dog waste not accepted?: Dog waste invites plastic bags, which can contaminate an entire load. Please be sure to place dog waste in a plastic bag and then in your trash.

21. Can I pay to have just acceptable yard waste picked up?: House plants, flowers, floral trimmings, grass clippings, weeds and other yard clippings are all accepted but need to be in a paper leaf bag. Remember, no leaves, stumps or branches!

22. What about shellfish shells?: Lobster, crab, oyster and clam shells are allowed. Be sure to remove elastic bands.

23. Can I continue my backyard composting?: Yes, you may continue your backyard composting. We encourage you to also participate in the curbside program, because we accept additional items you can’t compost in your backyard (such as meat, fish products, food-soiled paper, pizza boxes, bentonite-free kitty litter and much more).

24. What if I don't want to participate?: At this time, the curbside composting program is optional for residents.

25. I use 100% natural biodegradable diapers for our baby. Can I put them in my green cart?: No. We cannot accept any kind of diapers or other biodegradable items.

26. How long is the composting process from the time delivered to the finished product?: Composting time, start to finish, is about a year.

27. How many tons of organics are processed per week?: Ipswich currently diverts an average of 5.5 tons of organic waste per week. More participants means more organic waste diverted and lower trash costs.

28. When and where can I pick up my free compost?: You can pick up your compost at the Transfer Station at the end of Town Farm Road. This compost is only for participants in this program, and you are allowed to take 50 gallons (in your containers). Shovels are provided at the compost pile. Please do not fill up a truck bed!

29. How will diverting my food scraps save the town money?: The program removes more than 277 tons of organic waste per year from the trash stream, reducing the cost to dispose of it. Ipswich currently pays $76.85 per ton to incinerate its trash at Wheelabrator in North Andover, so composting benefits the town both financially and environmentally.

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Electric

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1. How do I apply for electric service?: Please call the office at 978-356-6635 or visit our moving page for more information on how to apply for electric service.

2. How do I pay my bill?

You can pay your Electric, Water and Sewer bills any one of 3 ways!

Use our UniPay website https://unipaygold.unibank.com/CustomerInfo.aspx. Once you locate your account, you can chose to make a one-time payment or set up automatic payments.
Process a payment using your financial institution's online bill pay feature. Please contact your bank directly for more information or assistance to set up payments.
Hand deliver or mail a check to our office located at 272 High Street.

3. How do I set up automatic payments?

To set up auto-pay visit https://unipaygold.unibank.com/transactioninfo.aspx?TID=156 and follow the instructions.

4. How do I report a power outage?: Generally power outages occur during severe weather, but occasionally can be a result of things like, motor vehicle accidents near power lines, fallen trees, construction work near power lines etc. It is important that if you see downed or sparking wires that you keep away from the area and contact the IELD immediately at 978-356-6635. Please do not use 911 to report outages.

5. How do I cancel electric service?: Please call the office at 978-356-6635 or visit our moving page for more information on how to cancel your electric service.

6. How do I change my name on my account?: Use our update contact information form or call us at 978-356-6635. Changes of name will require proof of legal name change. Please click on the link for more information.

7. How do I report a street light outage?: Please fill out this Contact Form form to report a street light outage.

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Employment

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1. Are all Town of Ipswich employment opportunities listed on this site?: All current opportunities for the Town of Ipswich can be found on this site. To assist with your career search we immediately remove positions that have been filled from this site. If you have any questions, please contact Human Resources.

2. I searched your site but didn’t see the right position for me; should I submit a resume anyways?: While we would like to accommodate each interested applicant, due to the small size of the department we can only receive resumes for positions that we are currently recruiting for. We encourage you to check our site frequently as it is updated daily with newly added or filled positions. If you have any questions, please contact Human Resources.

3. What is the best way to apply for a position at the Town of Ipswich?: You should complete the application and submit it via email to the Human Resource Director. You should also include a cover letter and resume. If you have any questions, please contact Human Resources.

4. I applied for an available position, what happens next?: When you apply via email or the website for a specific position your information immediately becomes available to our Human Resources Department. Once the job posting closes, applications are reviewed, and those candidates chosen for interviews will be contacted. We kindly ask, due to the volume of applications we receive, that you do not call or email to inquire about the status of your application. If you have any questions, please contact Human Resources.

5. Can I ask questions about working for the Town of Ipswich?: Yes, we encourage you to call or email any questions you may have. Please contact Human Resources with your questions.

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Fire

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1. How do I report a fire?: Get off of your computer and get out of the building. Call 9-1-1.
Fire Department Contact Information

2. How do i want to install my Smoke and carbon monoxide detectors?: Please see the page here on the proper installation of your smoke and CO detectors. Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detector FAQ's

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Park

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1. I would like to use a field at Bialek Park, how do I go about it?: Give us a call and check the field schedule (PDF) calendar for availability, fill out the field usage application, bring by the office or send in an email.

2. Can I play a game under the lights?: As long as the field is available, there is a minimum charge of $20 for up to 3 hours of use. Fill out a Bialek light application.

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Planning

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1. How do I contact the Planning office?: The Planning office is located on the first floor of Town Hall, 25 Green Street, Ipswich
The staff contact is Ethan Parsons, Senior Planner: ethanp@ipswich-ma.gov or 978-356-6607 ex.2
Drop-ins are welcome; however, contacting the office first enables us to serve you better.

2. How can I find a map of my parcel?: The Building Department and Planning office may have a copy of a plot plan for a property. The Assessor's parcel maps and zoning, building, and other data is available through the GIS & Mapping link on the home page.

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Police

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1. I was involved in an accident. Do I have to report it?

Any accident where:

Damage to property is over $1,000
There were injuries sustained
The driver of one of the vehicle left the scene

Must be reported to the police. Even if you were involved in a "fender bender", please stop and speak with the other driver and

Exchange name
Address
Phone numbers
License/registration information

2. If I have been involved in an accident described above, what should I do now?: Call yourself, or have someone else call the police to the scene. Let them know where the accident took place, if anyone is injured and how many cars are involved. If it is safe to do so, move the vehicles out of the roadway. Collect your driver's license and vehicle registration and have them available for the responding officers. Avoid arguments with the other driver about who caused the collision. The responding officers will ask you questions about the accident and the possible causes.

3. Do I have to complete an accident report?: If your accident is one of the three types described above, yes you must complete an accident report. You may pick up a copy of this report at the front desk of the police station. You are able to download the form from this website. Three copies of the report must be completed. One copy will be returned to the police station, one copy submitted to the Registry of Motor Vehicles, and one copy may be required by your insurance company.

4. When does the accident report have to be finished?: Massachusetts law states that an accident report must be completed and returned to the police department that investigated the incident, within 5 business days.

5. How do I get a restraining order?

Go to the Ipswich District Courthouse at 188 State Street Newburyport from 8:30 a.m. - 4 p.m. Monday through Friday, please go directly to the courthouse and the staff there will assist you.

If the situation is an emergency and the courthouse is closed, please call the Ipswich Police Department at 978-356-4343 or 911 if you are in imminent danger. An officer will be dispatched to your location to speak with you. In some circumstances, a temporary restraining can be issued at the scene by an on-call judge.

Once you receive a restraining order, keep a copy near or with you at all times in the event the defendant attempts to contact or harm you.

6. What can I do about the annoying or harassing phone calls I have been receiving?: If you are receiving annoying or harassing telephone calls, call the Police Department. Making such calls is against the law. An officer will speak with you and provide you with an "incident number" that your carrier will need. Call your carrier and request to speak with a representative from their Annoyance Call Bureau. Your phone carrier will give you detailed instructions on handling further calls and then will attempt to determine the origin of the calls. Once the location of the calls has been identified, the phone carrier will notify the Ipswich Police and an officer will investigate the incident. The Verizon "Unlawful Call Center" can be reached at 1-877-TRACE4U (877-872-2348).

7. How do I report a crime or suspicious activities?: If you think the incident is an emergency, dial 911 right away and report what you saw to the dispatcher, who will then send the appropriate response to investigate. If it is not an emergency, call the Police Department business number at 978-356-4343 and tell the dispatcher what happened. In either case, give as much information as you can, as this will help resolve the problem that much sooner.

8. What can I do about speeding vehicles on my street?: Call the police station, ask to speak to the Shift Supervisor and explain the problem in your area. He will then have the officer assigned to that patrol area conduct radar during the problem times. Please remember that other calls for service/emergencies may take priority and an officer might not be on your street every day. You can also visit the traffic website and request a radar trailer of stealth radar unit deployment on your street.

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Public Health

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1. How do I properly dispose of prescription medication?: Bring your unused and expired prescription medication to the Ipswich Town Hall located at 25 Green Street or Police Department located at 15 Elm Street. At Town Hall there is a secure Drop-Off Box located in the lower level by the Council of Aging cafeteria. Also, there is a secure Drop-Off Box located in the Police Department lobby. The Police will have the drugs destroyed in an environmentally safe manner. If you have any questions, call 978-356-4343.

2. Where can I properly dispose of needles, syringes and lancets (sharps)?: Beverly Hospital and Addison Gilbert Hospital have sharps disposal kiosks in their lobbies. Beverly Hospital is located at 85 Herrick Street, Beverly and Addison Gilbert Hospital is located at 298 Washington Street, Gloucester.

3. Where can I dispose of household chemicals?: Contact the Public Works Office at 978-356-6612 and find out when the next household hazardous waste collection day is.

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Public Works

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1. How often is recycling?: Recycling is weekly on the same day as your trash pickup, and recycling is mandatory in Ipswich. Please put your recycling and trash at the curb by 6 AM on your trash day to ensure both will be picked up.

2. My trash wasn't picked up. What should I do?

Recycling is mandatory for trash pickup, so both must be at the curb by 6 AM. Also, make sure your trash is bagged and/or you haven't exceeded the one-barrel limit.

If it's your usual trash day (and not a holiday), call the DPW at 978-356-6612. If it's a holiday week, your trash and recycling must be at the curb the following day by 6 AM.

If you exceeded the one-barrel limit and did not put your extra trash in an official overthrow bag, you can purchase overthrow bags at the following stores in Ipswich: Aubuchon, Conley's Drug, Cumberland Farms, DJ's Variety, Richdale, Shaw's and Tedford's. Please remember that trash bags cannot weigh more than 50 pounds each.

3. Some of my trash was not picked up. What happened?

Recycling is mandatory for trash pickup, so both need to be at the curb by 6 AM. Also, check to make sure your trash is bagged and/or you haven't exceeded the one-barrel limit.

If it's your usual trash day (and not a holiday), call the DPW at 978-356-6612. If it's a holiday week, make sure your trash and recycling are out for pickup the following day by 6 AM.

4. What is the Curbside Compost Collection Program?

Household organics are collected by participants, placed in a provided cart and picked up by a special truck on Wednesday mornings. Residents pay $95 per year to participate and the DPW subsidizes this program with grant funds and provides a free compost cart.

Finished compost is available for participants, up to 50 gallons twice per year.

The Ipswich Waste Reduction Advisory Committee, with the Department of Public Works and MassDEP, started this curbside collection pilot in Fall 2011. More than 1,074 tons of organics have been composted instead of incinerated with the trash.

5. How much do the Ipswich Overthrow Bags cost?

Ipswich’s official Overthrow Bags cost $2 per bag and are sold in a 5-bag pack for $10. These bags are necessary only when you dispose of trash in excess of one 35-gallon bag or barrel per week.

Please remember that all trash needs to be in a bag. Overthrow bags should be placed on top of or next to the first free bag/barrel.

Overthrow bags can be purchased at Aubuchon, Conley's Drug, Cumberland Farms, DJ's Variety, Richdale, Shaw's and Tedford's.

6. Where can I purchase the Overthrow Bags?: Ipswich’s official Overthrow Bags cost $2 per bag and are sold in a 5-bag pack for $10 at these locations: Aubuchon, Conley's Drug, Cumberland Farms, DJ's Variety, Richdale, Shaw's and Tedford's.

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Purchasing

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1. Where does the Town of Ipswich advertise for bids?: The Town of Ipswich encourages people to take interest in our bid opportunities and advertises by several different methods. The Town of Ipswich must give two weeks notice to any interested bidders. The Central Register is published by the Secretary of State and is a clearing house for all Town bids. The Town of Ipswich also advertises in the local newspaper. The Town of Ipswich Purchasing website is also another place to learn about bids.

2. Will you put my company on the approved bidder list?: The Town of Ipswich does not maintain approved bidder lists. All companies and individuals are encouraged to bid on our projects. Companies should check the Central Register website and the Town website often to learn more about bids.

3. Who do I contact to make a presentation about our products or services?: The Purchasing Office is not responsible for making the decision to purchase any product, service or work. Various vendors may contact any interested Town departments. The Town of Ipswich works to ensure that individual departments are following the bidding rules when doing any purchasing using public funding.

4. Do I have to pay prevailing wages when I bid on a project?: Bidders must pay prevailing wages when doing a public construction project for the Town of Ipswich. The purchase of goods and services is not subject to prevailing wage rules. The Town of Ipswich must receive certified payroll forms from contractors who are doing public construction.

5. Where are the rules to determine if a project is subject to bidding rules.: The Town of Ipswich maintains a Purchasing Guidelines document which outlines the bidding requirements. The posted Chart of Procurement is your guide to the bidding process.

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Recreation

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1. What is Friday Noon Dance?: Friday noon Dance is an open opportunity for all to dance and stretch and dance and play for one full hour, Noon to 1pm, in the Town Hall Gym, 25 Green Street, Ipswich Massachusetts.
Noon Dance Flier

2. What is Lifelong Learners?: Lifelong Learners is part of Ipswich U! A group that meets biweekly on the Hip-o-campus for a rigorous Discourse on a multitude of topics. Themes are identified, links to online enrichment sent, subscribers for viewing at their convenience, then we meet for a rigorous Discourse! Join the conversation!

3. Support Services

Enrichment:

Ipswich Family Birth to Three Family Center

Ipswich Family YMCA Ipswich Family YMCA

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Recycling

Show All Answers

1. How often is recycling?: Recycling is mandatory in Ipswich and is on the same weekly schedule as your trash pickup. Please put your recycling and trash at the curb by 6 AM on your trash day to ensure both will be picked up.

2. My trash was not picked up. What should I do?

Recycling is mandatory for trash pickup, so both must be at the curb by 6 AM. Also, make sure your trash is bagged and/or you haven't exceeded the one-barrel limit.

If it's your usual trash day (and not a holiday), call the DPW at 978-356-6612. If it's a holiday week, your trash and recycling must be at the curb the following day by 6 AM.

3. Can I recycle plastic bags in my curbside bin?

No. Because they create safety hazards at the recycling facility, plastic bags (grocery, newspaper, bread, food and snack, produce, and dry cleaning bags) and plastic packaging (case, pallet, and furniture wrap; napkin, paper towel, diaper packaging wrap; and beverage case wrap) cannot be put in your curbside bin.

Recycle them in the drop-off bins at grocery stores (Shaw's, Market Basket) and other retail outlets (Target, Lowe's, Kohl's, Walmart, Staples). They accept and recycle this plastic, even if you did not purchase it at their store.

4. Is there a weekly recycling limit?

Residents may put out unlimited recycling of accepted items, although the filled bin and/or container cannot exceed 50 pounds. Ipswich participates in single-stream recycling, so all recycling can be placed in the same container. Remember to recycle everything allowed.

Large quantities of cardboard (emptied and flattened) should be brought to the cardboard dumpster at the DPW yard (100 County Road) at your convenience or to the transfer station (180 Town Farm Road) on Wednesdays or Saturdays from 8 AM to 3:30 PM.

Please call the DPW (978-356-6612) in advance if you will be putting out large quantities of recycling so we can alert the recycling crew.

5. How do the styrofoam and single-use plastic bag bans affect residents?: These bans apply to businesses, which will be offering alternatives to plastic bags and Styrofoam. Residents are allowed to use single-use plastic bags acquired from shopping in other towns, but we encourage residents to bring reusable bags when shopping. More information can be found here.

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Smoke & Carbon Monoxide Detector

Show All Answers

1. What are the smoke detector requirements?

In general, the requirements for smoke detectors vary depending on when the residence was constructed. For example, some residences may require battery-powered detectors, others might need interconnected hard-wired detectors only or a combination of both. Others might need interconnected hard-wired detectors with battery backup. On April 5, 2010, a significant change in the Massachusetts’ smoke detector requirements will become effective for all residences subject to MGL c. 148, s. 26F upon sale or transfer. Now, all smoke detectors installed within 20 feet of kitchens or bathrooms (containing a bathtub or shower) will be required to be photoelectric detectors. The risk of nuisance alarms from steam and cooking is lower with photoelectric only detectors. All installed smoke detectors outside of 20 feet of kitchens or bathrooms (containing a bathtub or shower) must utilize either:

A dual detector (containing both ionization and photoelectric technologies); or
Two separate detectors (one photoelectric and one ionization).

Note: In residences not subject to MGL c. 148, s. 26F (built after January 1975), the smoke detector upgrade is recommended, but is not required by law.

2. What is the difference between ionization and photoelectric technologies?

Ionization smoke detectors:

Use radiation to detect smoke.
More effective in detecting flaming fires.
Increased risk of nuisance alarms caused by steam or cooking smoke.

Photoelectric smoke detectors:

Use light to detect smoke.
More effective in detecting smoldering fires, which have been attributed to more fires involving death.
Low voltage or wireless low voltage systems only use photoelectric detectors.

3. What are the carbon monoxide alarm requirements?: Since March 31, 2006, carbon monoxide alarms have been required in all residences that have either: fossil fuel burning equipment or an attached enclosed garage. This law applied to all such residences whether or not the residence is being sold or transferred.

4. What is fossil fuel burning equipment?

Fossil fuel burning equipment is any device, apparatus or appliance that is designed or used to consume fuel of any kind which emits carbon monoxide as a by-product of combustion. Some examples of a fossil fuel burning equipment include:

Water heaters
Oil or gas furnaces
Wood or gas fireplaces
Wood pellet stoves
Gas clothes dryers
Gas cooking stoves

5. How will I know what I need?: The word “typical” is used in the following guidelines only for purposes of illustration. The actual requirements may depend on when the building permit for the residence was actually applied for and if there have been any major renovations, additions, or modifications. It is best to check with your local Fire Department for detailed guidance.

6. What are the requirements if your 1 or 2 family house was built before January 1, 1975?

Smoke detectors are required as follows:

On every habitable level of the residence.
On the ceiling at the base of each stairway.
On the ceiling outside of each separate sleeping area.
The smoke detectors may either be battery powered, hardwired or a combination of the 2.
If the smoke detector is located within 20 feet of a kitchen or bathroom (containing a bathtub or shower), the smoke detector will be required to be a photoelectric detector.
If the smoke detector is outside of 20 feet of a kitchen or a bathroom (containing a bathtub or shower) you must utilize either:
A dual detector (containing both ionization and photoelectric technologies); or
Two separate detectors (1 photoelectric and 1 ionization).
Low voltage household warning systems are exempt from the dual detection requirement.

Carbon monoxide alarms are required as follows:

On every level of the residence, including habitable portions of basements and attics and must be located within 10 feet of each bedroom door.
Combination detectors (photoelectric smoke and carbon monoxide detector) may be used if the detector is within 20 feet of a kitchen or bathroom (containing a bathtub or shower).
Combination detectors (ionization smoke and carbon monoxide detector) may be used if the detector is outside of 20 feet of a kitchen or bathroom (containing a bathtub or shower).
May be either: battery powered, plug-in with battery backup, hardwired with battery backup, or system type.
Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for placement.

7. What are the requirements if your 1 or 2 family house was built between 1975 and August 27, 1997?

Smoke detectors are required as follows:

One smoke detector on every habitable level of the residence.
One smoke detector on the ceiling at the base of each stairway.
One smoke detector on the ceiling outside of each separate sleeping area.
A minimum of one smoke detector must be installed for every 1,200 square feet of living space per level.
Must be hardwired interconnected smoke detectors.

Carbon monoxide alarms are required as follows:

On every level of the residence, including habitable portions of basements and attics and must be located within 10 feet of each bedroom door.
Combination detectors (photoelectric smoke and carbon monoxide detector) may be used anywhere.
Combination detectors (ionization smoke and carbon monoxide detector) may be used if the detector is outside of 20 feet of a kitchen or bathroom (containing a bathtub or shower).
May be either: battery powered, plug-in with battery backup, hardwired with battery backup, or system type.
Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for placement.

8. What are the requirements if your 1 and 2 family house was built after August 27, 1997?

Smoke detectors are required as follows:

One smoke detector on every habitable level of the residence.
One smoke detector on the ceiling at the base of each stairway.
One smoke detector on the ceiling outside of each separate sleeping area.
A minimum of one smoke detector must be installed for every 1,200 square feet of living space per level.
Must be hardwired interconnected smoke detectors.

Carbon monoxide alarms are required as follows:

On every level of the residence, including habitable portions of basements and attics and must be located within 10 feet of each bedroom door.
Combination detectors (photoelectric smoke and carbon monoxide detector) may be used anywhere.
Combination detectors (ionization smoke and carbon monoxide detector) may be used if the detector is outside of 20 feet of a kitchen or bathroom (containing a bathtub or shower).
May be either: battery powered, plug-in with battery backup, hardwired with battery backup, or system type.
Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for placement.

9. What are the requirements if your 1 and 2 family house was built on or after January 1, 2008?

Smoke detectors are required as follows:

One smoke detector on every habitable level of the residence.
One smoke detector at the base of each stairway.
One smoke detector outside of each separate sleeping area.
One smoke detector inside every bedroom.
A minimum of one smoke detector must be installed for every 1,200 square feet of living space per level.
Must be hardwired and interconnected smoke detectors with battery backup.
If the smoke detector is within 20 feet of a kitchen or bathroom (containing a bathtub or shower), the smoke detector is required to be a photoelectric detector.
If the smoke detector is outside of 20 feet of a kitchen or a bathroom (containing a bathtub or shower), the smoke detector is required to be either a photoelectric detector or a dual detector (containing both ionization and photoelectric technologies).

Carbon monoxide alarms are required as follows:

On every level of the residence, including habitable portions of basements and attics and located within 10 feet of each bedroom door.
Combination detectors (photoelectric smoke and carbon monoxide detector) may be used.
Must be hardwired and interconnected with battery backup. (May be separately wired from the existing smoke detection system.)
Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for placement.
Heat detectors are required as follows:
Must have a single heat detector in any garage attached to or under the residence.
Must be hardwired and interconnected with or without battery backup to the existing smoke detection system.
Heat detectors are not required in older homes unless renovation, addition or modification occurs after Jan. 1, 2008.

10. How will I get a certificate of compliance?

After you have a closing date:

Contact the local Fire Department to schedule an inspection of your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors right away. Don’t wait until the last minute!
Fees are determined by each city/town.

Prior to the arrival of the Fire Department:

Make sure that your posted street number is visible from the street (MGL c.148 § 59);
Make sure that you have the proper type of detectors.
The local Fire Department may require that they be taken down for compliance verification.
Make sure that all detectors are installed in the proper locations.
Make sure that all detectors are working properly.
After passing the inspection, the local Fire Department will issue your Certificate of Compliance.
This document will probably be required at the closing and is only valid for 60 days.

11. How do I know which kind of smoke detector I have?: A new detector should be marked on the outside of the package to indicate if it uses ionization or photoelectric technology. For older or existing detectors you will need to remove the smoke detector and look on the backside.

The date of manufacture should be on the back; if not, the detector is most likely outdated and should be replaced to comply with the regulation. It is an ionization smoke detector if the word “AMERICIUM” is on the back.

12. Can I still have ionization smoke detectors if I am not selling or transferring my home?: Yes. The requirements in the new regulation only apply upon the sale or transfer of the residence. Even though the technology has changed, ionization detectors are still reliable. However, the risk of nuisance alarms from steam and cooking is higher with ionization detectors, particularly if located within 20 feet of a kitchen or bathroom.

13. Are combination carbon monoxide smoke detectors permitted?: Yes. Combination carbon monoxide (CO) and smoke detectors are permitted. They must have both a tone and simulated voice alarm to distinguish the type of emergency. Carbon monoxide detectors are required regardless of a sale or transfer. Combination ionization and CO detectors cannot be used within 20 feet of a kitchen or bathroom

14. Are there other recommendations?: The State Fire Marshal’s Office recommends that you test your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors monthly and replace the batteries twice a year. Remember, when you change the clocks, change the batteries. Unless otherwise recommended by the manufacturer’s published instructions, no smoke detectors (battery operated or hard-wired smoke detectors only!) shall remain in service after 10 years from the date of manufacture.

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Treasurer/Collector

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1. Do I need to come to the Treasurer/Collector’s Office at Town Hall to pay my bills?

No, there are many other ways to pay your bills without coming to the Treasurer/Collector’s Office at Town Hall.

Secure mail drop box at the front of Town Hall. There is a large white box next to the handicapped parking spaces. Please be sure to put your check and bill information in a sealed envelope before putting into the mail drop box. Do not leave cash in the mail drop box.
Mail-In Lockbox service. With each original mailed bill, a remittance slip and a returned envelope were enclosed. Simply mail your check with the remittance slip in the envelope provided.
Online Bill Payment Portal. On the Town of Ipswich homepage, click “Online Payments” then click the City Hall Systems icon to take you to the secure online payment portal. Select the type of bill you want to pay from the menu on the left. Payments can be made for Real Estate taxes, Motor Vehicle Excise taxes, Personal Property taxes, Boat Excise Taxes. Beach Stickers can also be purchased through the online bill payment portal.

2. How can I purchase a Beach Sticker without coming to Town Hall?

Beach stickers can be purchased online or by mail.

Go to our Online Bill Payment Portal (see above for directions to get there) Select “Beach Passes” from the menu on the left side. Enter your license plate number. If your plate is in our system, you will be allowed to continue to purchase your sticker online. The beach sticker will be mailed to you within a few days. If you want to go to the beach prior to receiving your sticker, print out your receipt showing that you purchased your beach sticker online and show it to the guard at Cranes Beach.
Purchase your beach sticker by mail. Go to the Treasurer/Collector’s webpage on the Town website and select “Purchase Beach Stickers” from the menu on the left. Click “Beach and Fishing Sticker Application Form” and fill out the form. Mail the form with a copy of the vehicle registration, a self-addressed stamped envelope and a check for $20 to Town of Ipswich, P.O. Box 608, Ipswich, MA 01938. Once received, a beach sticker will be mailed within a few days.

3. What if I have other questions for the Treasurer/Collector’s Office?: Please call
us at 978-356-6610.

4. How do I get a copy of my tax bill?: You can obtain a copy of your tax bill when you are logged in to the online bill pay through City Hall Systems, enter your bill info then click to view a copy of the bill. Any further questions please call the Treasurer/Collector's office at 978-356-6610.

5. How do I receive my beach sticker if I purchase one online?: Beach stickers purchased online will be mailed through the USPS within a few days after the purchase.

6. When are taxes due?: Taxes are Due August 1,November 1, February 1, May 1

7. Where can I pay my tax bills?: Taxes can be paid at the Town Hall Treasurer/Collectors Office, online at the Online Payments page, mailed using the envelope that came with the bill or payments can be left after hours in the drop box out front of Town Hall.

8. What do I do if I received an Excise Tax bill but I no longer live in Ipswich?: Contact the Assessors Office at 978-356-6603.

9. How do I change my mailing address on my Real Estate Tax bill?: Please contact the Assessors Office at 978-356-6603.

10. How do I change the mailing address on my Excise Tax bill?: Address changes on Motor Vehicle Excise Taxes are done through the Registry of Motor Vehicles.

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Waste Reduction Program

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1. My trash was not picked up. What should I do?

Recycling is mandatory for trash pickup, so both must be at the curb by 6 AM. Also, make sure your trash is bagged and/or you haven't exceeded the one-barrel limit.

If it's your usual trash day (and not a holiday), call the DPW at 978-356-6612. If it's a holiday week, your trash and recycling must be at the curb the following day by 6 AM.

2. Why is trash limited to one barrel in Ipswich?

Using overthrow bags for more than one barrel of trash benefits those who throw away only a little while offering a way for those who throw away more to pay their fair share.

The cost of disposing of our trash in 2009 was $97 per ton for the nearly 4,000 tons of trash Ipswich generated annually. The first year of the one-barrel limit reduced trash by 161 tons and by 2018 Ipswich reduced trash to 2,847 tons!

3. How does the Waste Reduction Program work?

The Waste Reduction Program, in effect since July 1, 2010, limits trash to 35 gallons per week per household and is collected at no charge (maximum volume of 35 gallons and maximum weight of 50 pounds). Excess trash must be disposed of in overthrow bags, Ipswich’s official trash bags.

Overthrow bags should be placed on top of or next to the first free bag/barrel. Overthrow bags can be purchased at Aubuchon, Conley’s Drug, Cumberland Farms, DJ's Variety, Richdale, Shaw’s and Tedford’s.

4. How much do the Ipswich Overthrow Bags cost?

Ipswich’s official Overthrow Bags cost $2 per bag and are sold in a 5-bag pack for $10. These bags are necessary only when you dispose of trash in excess of one 35-gallon bag or barrel per week.

Please remember that all trash needs to be in a bag. Overthrow bags should be placed on top of or next to the first free bag/barrel.

Overthrow bags can be purchased at Aubuchon, Conley's Drug, Cumberland Farms, DJ's Variety, Richdale, Shaw's and Tedford's.

5. Where can I purchase these special Overthrow Bags?

Ipswich’s official Overthrow Bags cost $2 per bag and are sold in a 5-bag pack for $10 at these locations: Aubuchon, Conley's Drug, Cumberland Farms, DJ's Variety, Richdale, Shaw's and Tedford's.

6. Why do I need to pay so much for these special bags? A regular bag costs less money.: The special bags include the disposal price for your extra trash. Any trash in excess of the one-barrel limit must be placed in these special bags or it cannot be picked up.

7. What if I live in a multifamily home?: Label your barrel with your street number and unit number to avoid confusion. Each unit is allowed one free 35-gallon bag or barrel. Free labels are available at the DPW office (town hall, second floor).

8. Is there a weekly recycling limit?

Please call the DPW (978-356-6612) in advance if you will be putting out large quantities of recycling so we can alert the recycling crew.

9. How will I dispose of sofas, mattresses or other large items that won’t fit into a bag?

Purchase a bulky item sticker ($10) from Conley’s Drug, Cumberland Farms (Central Street location only), DJ’s Variety, Richdale, Shaw’s or Tedford’s.

You may put out one stickered bulky item per week on your usual trash day. Carpet from ONE room must be cut into 4-foot widths and rolled up.

Electronics can be recycled curbside with the purchase of a $25 sticker, obtained from JRM by calling 978-536-2500. Many electronics items can be recycled at Best Buy or Staples (call first).

Additionally, electronics recycling events are held every May and September.

10. Does this program cost me more money?

With this Waste Reduction Program, residents only pay for the excess amount of trash they generate after the first bag or barrel. Ipswich’s Waste Reduction Program provides hauling service to all households and allows the first bag or barrel to be collected at no charge.

By recycling items at the curb, most residents are able to fit all of their trash into the one free container each week and experience little or no additional cost.

11. Do other cities and towns have Waste Reduction Programs (WRP)?: More than 130 municipalities in Massachusetts have either pay as you throw (PAYT) or WRP programs. In our region, neighboring communities (including Hamilton, Wenham and Topsfield) all have WRP programs.

12. Do residents in other municipalities like WRP?: In every municipality where WRP is proposed, some residents feel certain that they won’t like the program. However, once residents experience the program in action, they often come to support the program due to its inherent fairness and cost savings.

13. What can residents do to make this program work?

Recycle all items accepted through our curbside collection program, to the maximum extent possible.
Bring other accepted items to the transfer station.
Donate reusable items.
Join the curbside composting program.
Consider disposal issues before making purchases – choose items with less packaging or decide if/when you can avoid making a purchase.

14. Whom can I contact if I have any questions?: Contact the Department of Public Works by phone at 978-356-6612 or by email.

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