FAQs

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

My organization is planning a raffle. Do we need a permit?

Are Town buildings available for use?

What do I do about potholes, fallen trees or dead animals on my road?

Do I need a pistol permit?

How do I find out about Meeting dates and hours?

Where is the Post Office in Bethany?

Where is the Town Hall located and how do I get there?

Do you have a Notary and is there a charge?

Do you know where we can find a Justice of the Peace for marriage?

Who are the local papers, and what are their numbers?

Do I need a permit for a tag sale?

How many tag sales can I hold per year?

Where can I get a passport in town?

How can I get working papers?

How can I get a voter I.D. card?

Is the Clerk of the Court, Probate Court Clerk and the Town Clerk one and the same?

Can I post signs on utility poles?

How are fees and charges set in the Town Clerk's Office?

Town Historian

Who is the Town Historian?

What is the difference between a local historic district and a national register district or place?

What is the difference between the Town Historian and the Historical Society?

What determines whether or not a building is historic?

What Bethany properties have been placed on the National Registers of Historic Places?

Is there a local Historical Society?

Town Sanitarian

Who is the Town Sanitarian?

What are the office hours?

How do I contact the Town Sanitarian?

How do I get my well water tested?

How often should I have my septic tank pumped out?

Town Treasurer

Who is the Town Treasurer?

How do I contact the Town Treasurer?

Zoning Enforcement

Who are the Zoning Enforcement staff?

What are the office hours?

How do I contact the Zoning Enforcement office?

What is the zoning for my property?

When is Site Plan approval from the Planning and Zoning Commission required to build?

Where can I find additional guidance?

What are the regulations governing home offices and home occupations?

What are the regulations regarding having animals on my property?

How does one report suspected zoning violations?

Can I subdivide my property?

Is it permissible to add an apartment in a single-family home?

What regulations govern the installation of fences and walls?

What regulations govern the installation and relocation of signs?

How do I obtain a house number and where must the number be displayed?

How large a house can I build?

What flood zone is my property in?

Where can I find more information about Building Zone and Subdivision Regulations?

Why do I need a variance?

What is a special exception?

How can I can get my property rezoned?

What are my setbacks?

Where are mobile homes permitted?

Can my neighbor or I have horses?

How many pets, such as dogs, can I have in my home?

Are commercial vehicles allowed to be parked in residential districts?

What is a non-conforming use?

What do I need to do to have a home occupation?

I am starting a Commercial Business. What do I need to do?

When do I need a building or mechanical permit?

What do I need to do if I intend to install or to remove above or underground storage tanks?

Do I need a permit to install or remove an oil fired appliance?

When do I need Erosion and Sedimentation Control Certification?

Do I need a permit to remove trees?

When do I need an application for the Zoning Board of Appeals?

When do I need to file an application for a Site Plan Approval?

When do I need to file for a Special Permit?

Do I need a permit to erect a sign?

Do I need a permit to alter the facade of a Business or Industrial building or to alter the site (i.e. parking lots) or to change the lighting?

When a property is being refinanced or sold why must the present owner be responsible to legalize additions or alterations that were done by previous owners many years ago?

When a property is being taxed for an addition or alteration,(that does not appear in the building department files) why is the addition or alteration not listed in the building department's property file and not considered legal?

Why must a property survey be submitted when you apply for a building permit for an addition to your home?

Why is an As Built survey required upon completion of a structure or addition for which a variance is granted?

Why is a building permit required for a shed or small moveable structure?

Whom do I speak with about Zoning issues?

My neighbor is building a deck on his house that is too close to my property line. Who handles code violations?

I want to change the sign in front of my business. Who handles sign permits?

How do I get information to correct a violation?

Can I appeal the decision of the Zoning Enforcement Officer or the Assistant Zoning Enforcement Officer?

How tall can a shed be?

Where can I place a shed?

Boards

Board of Assessment Appeals

Who are the members of the Board of Assessment Appeals? Back

Elizabeth L. Thornquist, Chairman

Robert C. Rogers

Gary Ross

Who are the Board of Assessment Appeals staff? Back

Jean Rushworth, Secretary

How do I contact the Board of Assessment Appeals? Back

Board of Assessment Appeals

Bethany Town Hall

40 Peck Road

Bethany, CT 06524-3338

203-393-2100 x112

When are the meetings? Back

Spring and fall, usually in March and September. Notices specifying dates and times are both sent to residents and posted in the local papers.

Board of Finance

Who are the members of the Board of Finance? Back

Richard G. Van Horn

Steven Squinto

Janet Brunwin, Chairman

Robert H. Brinton, Jr.

Eric C. Gallant

Sally A. Huyser

Who are the the Board of Finance staff? Back

June Riley, Clerk

When are office hours? Back

Hours: Monday through Friday 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM

How do I contact the Finance? Back

Board of Finance

Bethany Town Hall

40 Peck Road

Bethany, CT 06524-3338

203-393-2100 x100

When are the meetings? Back

The Board holds regular meetings on the first Tuesday of each month. During the budgeting season the Board usually meets two to three times per month. Contact the secretary for specific meeting times and agenda items.

Board of Selectmen

Who are the members of the Board of Selectmen? Back

Derrylyn Gorski, First Selectman

Steven C. Thornquist, Selectman

Walter G. Briggs, Selectman

Who are the the Board of Selectmen staff? Back

June Riley, Selectmen Assistant

Joyce Howard, Bookkeeper

When are office hours? Back

Hours: Monday through Friday 9:00 AM - 4:30 PM, and the second and fourth Monday evening of each month from 7:30 PM - 9:00 PM

How do I contact the Selectmen? Back

Board of Selectmen

Bethany Town Hall

40 Peck Road

Bethany, CT 06524

203-393-2100 x100

First Selectman, 203-393-2100 x101,

Selectmen Assistant, 203-393-2100 x100,

Bookkeeper, 203-393-2100 x109,

When are the meetings? Back

The Board of Selectmen meets regularly at the Town Hall at 7:30 p.m. on the second and fourth Mondays of each month. Any matters needing the attention of the Selectmen may be discussed at any of these regular meetings, which are open to the public. Contact:

Board of Selectmen

Bethany Town Hall

40 Peck Road

Bethany, CT 06524

203-393-2100 x100

First Selectman, 203-393-2100 x101,

Selectmen Assistant, 203-393-2100 x100,

Bookkeeper, 203-393-2100 x109,

for information on the agenda or to be given an appointment.

What is the Town Meeting all about, and when and where does it take place? Back

The Annual Town Meeting takes place the third Monday of May. The Annual Budget is passed or rejected at this meeting. Capital Expenditures are approved and any other matters proper to come before the meeting i.e. changes or additions to ordinances, approval of contract for Resident State Troopers.

How do I get appointed to a committee? Back

Contact the First Selectman or Chairman of either the Republican Town Committee or Democratic Town Committee.

Where do I complain about a nuisance? Back

Call or give a written complaint to either the First Selectman's Office or the Planning and Zoning/Inland Wetlands Office.

Where can I get more information about the noise ordinance? Back

Information can be obtained from the Zoning Enforcement Officer at:

Zoning Enforcement

Bethany Town Hall

40 Peck Road

Bethany, CT 06524-3338

203-393-2100 x115

203-393-0828 (fax)

Zoning Enforcement Officer, 203-393-2100 x135,

Clerk, 203-393-2100 x115,

How do I get a road repaired? Back

By calling either the Highway Department at:

Public Works

Bethany Town Hall

40 Peck Road

Bethany, CT 06524-3338

393-2100 x126 or 393-1555

or the Selectmen's Office at:

Board of Selectmen

Bethany Town Hall

40 Peck Road

Bethany, CT 06524

203-393-2100 x100

First Selectman, 203-393-2100 x101,

Selectmen Assistant, 203-393-2100 x100,

Bookkeeper, 203-393-2100 x109,

How do I slow down the traffic? Back

By calling the Resident Trooper:

Police

Resident Trooper David Merriam, 203-393-2100 x129

Resident Trooper Scott Pardales, 203-393-2100 x128

What is the address and telephone number of Town Hall? Back

The Bethany Town Hall is located on 40 Peck Road. The telephone number for the Bethany Town Hall is (203) 393-2100. The department directory will be given by the automated attendant.

How do I get on the Agenda for the Selectmen's Meeting? Back

To get on the agenda for the Selectmen's Meeting call the Selectmen's Office. Your request will be considered to see if it is an agenda item.

How do I get a copy of past meeting minutes? Back

Meeting minutes have been archived on the Board of Selectmen's web page for your convenience. They can also be obtained for a fee from the Town Clerk's Office.

How do I get permission to use the Town Hall or Lakeview Lodge for an activity? Back

Information on rental of the Town Hall gym or the Lakeview Lodge can be obtained by calling the Selectmen's Office.

How do I request a copy of a Public record? Back

Most documents created or received by the Board of Selectmen are considered "public documents" and are available under the rules of Freedom of Information upon request. To request a copy of a public document please submit the following information to the First Selectmen's Office or Town Clerk's Office in writing with your name, address, and the name and date of the document requested. A processing fee of $1.00 per page for information from the land records and $.50 per page for copies of minutes will be charged.

When does the Board of Selectmen meet? Back

The Board of Selectmen meet the second and fourth Monday of each month at 7:30 P.M. in the Conference Room of the Bethany Town Hall. Posting of special meeting for all Boards and Commissions are on the bulletin board opposite the Town Clerk's Office.

What is the form of the Town Government? Back

The Town of Bethany has a First Selectman and Selectmen form of government with Town Meetings. The specific responsibilities, authority and duties of the Town Government are outlined in the Code of the Town of Bethany. The Selectmen are elected for a 2-year term, and a term of office commencing on the 1 of July of each odd year (i.e.) 2003).

When are Town elections held? Back

Town elections are held the first Monday of May of each odd numbered year (i.e. 2003).

What are the requirements for voting in Town elections? Back

Complete information on the requirements for voting in Town election are available from the Town Clerk's Office.

What are the requirements for running for an elected Town position? Back

In order to be a candidate for First Selectman or Selectmen you must first get the endorsement of the political party. If running as an independent you must obtain information from the Town Clerk on how to become such a candidate.

What is the process for having my name placed on the ballot? Back

You must contact the Town Clerk's Office to obtain procedures as outlined by Connecticut State Statutes.

How does one get appointed to the Planning and Zoning Commission? Back

Members of the Planning and Zoning Commission are elected at a Town election.

Are there other Committees I can serve on? Back

Yes. One can serve on the Conservation Commission, Inland Wetlands Commission, Park and Recreation Commission, Planning and Zoning Commission.

Zoning Board of Appeals

Who are the members of the Zoning Board of Appeals? Back

Carol R Goldberg, Chairperson

Brian Sackett, Alternate

David M. Forman

Steven A. Massey, Secretary

Arnold E. Sabatelli, Vice Chairman

Rudolph W. Beckert, Jr.

James W. Foley, Alternate

Ruth Beardsley, Alternate

Who are the the Zoning Board of Appeals staff? Back

Isabel Kearns, Zoning Enforcement Officer

Antonia Marek, ZBA Clerk

When are office hours? Back

Hours: Weekdays 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM or by appointment

How do I contact the Zoning Board of Appeals? Back

Zoning Board of Appeals

Bethany Town Hall

40 Peck Road

Bethany, CT 06524-3338

203-393-2100 x115

203-393-0821 (fax)

ZBA Clerk, 203-393-2100 x115,

When are the meetings? Back

The Board as necessary at 8:00 PM in the Commission Room of the Bethany Town Hall at 40 Peck Road. Contact the ZBA Clerk for specific meeting times.

Do I need an attorney to present my case to the board? Back

The presence of any attorney is not required. An applicant may present his/her own case if he/she wishes. In many instances, particularly in more complicated cases, applicants have chosen to be represented by a professional, such as an attorney, a planning consultant, an architect, or a contractor, well versed in zoning matters. Sometimes an applicant will choose a relative or friend to represent him/her. This choice is entirely up to the applicant

How can I best prepare myself for an appearance before the Zoning Board of Appeals? Back

The best preparation for a Zoning Board of Appeals appearance is to attend a hearing before your own hearing is scheduled. By listening to the presentations and the questions asked by the Board, you will get a sense of the workings of the Board.

A Zoning Board of Appeals Hearing, while quasi-judicial in nature, is still relatively informal. The Board goes out of its way not to be intimidating. After all, the members of the Board are all volunteers, and are your neighbors

If I am seeking a zoning variance, should I present evidence of support from my neighbors? Back

In all zoning cases, the Board schedules a hearing. Neighbors may or may not choose to appear. However, the Board always welcomes the opinions of neighbors who may be affected by zoning variance. Therefore, while not required, input from neighbors can be helpful. If a neighbor does not choose to appear, a letter indicating support for or objection to an application may be submitted as evidence.

In cases where a variance is sought for a construction project, what supporting evidence must I submit to describe the project? Back

All applicants are required to submit an application and plans for the project. In addition, oral presentations are helpful to describe plans. In addition, drawings and photographs that show the property both before and after any planned construction will be helpful. Specific dimensions are required to describe the size of additions, decks, patios or other features. Where the slope of the lot is important to the location of any construction, an adequate description of the degree of slope and its location should be presented. Applicants are encouraged to have professionally prepared plans.

Where can I find all of the requirements for filing an application for a Zoning Variance? Back

Consult the Zoning Board of Appeals By-laws.

Commissions

Conservation Commission

Who are the members and alternates of the Conservation Commission? Back

Members serve 3 year terms, Alternates serve 5 year terms. All are appointed by the Selectmen.

Kenneth W. Martin, Chairman

William L. Brinton

Audrey Eisenstadt

Bruce G. Loomis

Constance Royster

Kimberly A. McClure, Alternate

Kristine Sullivan, Alternate

Who are the the Conservation Commission staff? Back

Rotating, Secretary

How do I contact the Conservation Commission? Back

Conservation Commission

Bethany Town Hall

40 Peck Road

Bethany, CT 06524-3338

203-393-0821 (fax) Att: Bethany Conservation Commission

When are the meetings? Back

Regular meetings are held on the second and fourth Thursday of each month, commencing at 8:00 p.m. In November and December, the meetings are held on the first and third Thursday, due to Thanksgiving and Christmas. Check with the Town Clerk for any changes in this schedule or for any special meetings.

Economic Development Commission

Who are the members of the Economic Development Commission? Back

Thomas Cavaliere, Chairman

Joseph Duhamel

Jack Ellison

Elizabeth Thornquist

Susan Hitchcock, Alternate

Stephen Squinto, Alternate

Valerie Knight-DiGangi

Horse Commissioner

Who is the Horse Commissioner? Back

Arnold M. Novenstein, Horse Commissioner

Richard Huxley, Council Member

Norma Kriz, Council Member

Judith Smith, Council Member

David Tressel, Council Member

Inland Wetlands Commission

Who are the members of the Inland Wetlands Commission? Back

Patricia M. McGregor, Chairman

Alexandra Breslin, Vice Chairman

Vacancy, Member

John Kane

Jon Painter

John Ellison, Alternate

Vacancy, Alternate

How do I contact the Inland Wetlands Commission? Back

Inland Wetlands

Bethany Town Hall

40 Peck Road

Bethany, CT 06524-3338

203-393-2100 x115

203-393-0821 (fax)

Clerk, 203-393-2100 x115,

When are meetings? Back

Regular meetings are generally scheduled on the third Monday of each month commencing at 7:30 PM. Check with the clerk or IWC Clerk (Toni Marek) for any special meetings or changes and for agenda items.

What are wetlands, and how do I know if they exist on my property? Back

Wetlands in the State of Connecticut are defined as areas consisting of poorly drained, very poorl