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1. Do I need a permit for my project?

Application or notice to the code official is not required for ordinary repairs to structures. Such repairs shall NOT include: installation of siding, the cutting away of any wall, partition or portion thereof, the removal or cutting away of any structural beam or bearing support, or the removal or change of any required means of egress or rearrangement of parts of a structure affecting the exit requirements, alteration of, replacement or relocation of any standard pipe, water supply, sewer, drainage, drain leader, gas, soil, waste, vent or similar piping, electrical wiring, mechanical or other work which affects public health, safety or welfare. Permits are not required for one-story detached accessory structures provided the floor area does not exceed 64 square feet however, zoning approval is required.

2. Where is my septic system and well?

If the house was built in the last 10-15 years, we may have it on file. However, the Office of Water Resources at the State Department of Environmental Management will have it on file.

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1. What are Town Hall hours?

Richmond Town Hall is open Monday - Friday, 9am-4pm, except legal holidays. Some Town Departments close for lunch from Noon - 1pm.

2. When are Town Council meetings held?

Town Council meetings are held on the first and third Tuesdays of each month at 7pm except for the months of July and August when there is only one regular meeting.

3. How do I get a sticker for the dump?

Richmond residents may obtain a free sticker from the Town Hall by coming in with the registration of the vehicle that will be used at the transfer station. The vehicle must be registered in Richmond in order to obtain a sticker. A temporary pass may be issued for a new resident who has not yet registered their vehicle in Richmond. Hopkinton residents may obtain a sticker for the Richmond transfer station for a fee of $25 per year. They must present a Hopkinton registration for the vehicle they wish to use. No temporary permits are issued.

4. When is my tax payment due?

Tax payments are due on September 7th. Tax bills over $100.00 can be paid quarterly on or before September 7th, December 7th, March 7th and June 7th.

5. What forms of payment do you accept?

With the exception of tax payments, we accept cash or check only.

For tax payments: Payments may be made in cash, by check, or by credit card. Please be advised that there is a 3% technology fee for all credit card payments.

6. Is there a notary public at Town Hall and is there a fee?

Yes, there are multiple notaries at Town Hall. There is no fee.

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1. Can I subdivide my property?

Whether or not you can subdivide a parcel depends on several factors.

The Zoning Ordinance has information about the zoning district of the property, along with its minimum lot size and other dimensional requirements such as frontage and setback distances. The Land Development and Subdivision Regulations contain additional requirements to subdivide and develop land. The requirements of both of these documents must be met for a parcel to be subdivided.

The Planning Board approves subdivisions that create new lots. Subdivisions are categorized as either major or minor, and each of these has different stages of review. Before beginning any subdivision, it is advised that you make an informal appointment with the Town Planner to discuss the project and process.

2. How can I deed a portion of my land to a neighbor, or change a lot line?

A change to an existing lot line or the removal of a lot line, as in a lot merger, that does not create a new developable lot is an Administrative Subdivision. These are generally approved by the Administrative Officer, but may be reviewed by the Planning Board.

3. What is the process for commercial development?

There are two review processes for commercial development. Chapter 18.54 of the zoning ordinances describes the Development Plan Review requirements. The Land Development and Subdivision Regulations describe the process for Major and Minor land development projects. Before beginning any development, it is advised that you make an appointment with the Town Planner and Zoning Enforcement Officer to speak informally about your plans and what kind of review is appropriate.

The Planning Board reviews both development plans and land development projects.

4. How do I find out about Affordable Housing?

Please contact the Planning Department for the latest information.