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1. How do I apply for a building permit?

Residential Building Permit Fee SchedulePlease fill out the forms for building permit and return them to the Town Hall, 1st floor, Building Department. 

2. How to apply for an electric permit?

Electrical Permit 

3. How do I request a building inspection

You need to submit a written request for a building inspection

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1. Senior Tax Work Off Program FAQ

How Do I apply?

You may apply directly at the COA at 255 Hope St. You will be asked to fill out a brief application with basic information about yourself and your job preference. We will also need to take a copy of your driver’s license and real estate tax bill.

 Am I guaranteed a job?

Although we try our best to place every senior that applies you are not guaranteed a job.  Jobs are filled based on department head needs.

 Do I need to reapply every year?

Yes, you will need to reapply every year to remain in the program.

 How many hours can I work?

Currently, the maximum hours a senior can work is 100 hours which will earn you an abatement of $1,500.00 off your real estate tax bill. 

 When does the program begin and end?

The program begins on November 1st and ends the following October 31st of each calendar year. 

When will I see the exemption on my bill?

You will see the exemptions come off your 3^rd and 4^th Quarter Tax Bill. These are the bills that are mailed at the end of December and due in February and May

 

  

What are the requirements?

You must be a Mansfield resident 60 years of age or older and own and occupy the property listed on your tax bill.

 

Who Keeps Track of my hours?

You are responsible for keeping track of your hours.  You will need to pick up timesheets at the COA and your department head must sign off on your timesheets each month.  You will turn in completed timesheets monthly to the COA Program Coordinator. 

 

Why do I have to fill out an employee packet?

The Federal government considers this credit as income and requires the town to deduct taxes from the total amount earned.  In order for the town to make these deductions, we need to put you on our payroll.  If you are placed in a job you will need to stop into our Human Resources Department to fill out a package and CORI form.

 

Who do I contact with questions?

You may call the COA at 508-261-7368 and we will be glad to help you.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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1. What is a Wetland?

Its land that is wet

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1. How to Recycle in Mansfield?

The Mansfield Green will be open on Saturday and Sunday from 8:00AM to 3:45PM, Monday's from 8am to 12pm. Also, at this time due to liability issues, salvaging will no longer be allowed at the Green. All materials brought into the Green are the property of the Town of Mansfield and shall not be removed.

CURB SIDE RECYCLING

The Town of Mansfield has a curbside single stream recycling program. The town has selected to implement this program along with Waste Management in order to make recycling easier for Mansfield residents.

FLOURESCENT TUBE & PRESSURE TREATED WOOD DISPOSAL

Mansfield residents may now dispose of all types of fluorescent bulbs year round at no charge. Collection sites for compact fluorescent, four-and eight-foot U-Tube, circular and high intensity discharge (HID) lamps will be at Mansfield True Value Hardware, 284 North Main Street and at Mansfield Green Recycling Park, intersection of Pratt (Route 106) and East Streets.

Pressure treated wood is not accepted at the Household Hazardous Waste collection. Pressure treated wood and a variety of wastes (Acceptable Waste:  construction/demolition debris; landscape/yard waste; brick/concrete/fill;, pallets/ fencing/wood waste; tires; bulky items; general cleanouts; roofing materials) not taken by trash pickup or Mansfield Green can, for a fee, be taken to Trojan Recycling Transfer Station, 71 Forest Street, Brockton. Please call Trojan Recycling at 508-588-2332 for questions about the waste and fees.  Directions:  Montello Street (Route 28) to Perkins Avenue (over railroad bridge) 2nd right is Forest Street.

LATEX PAINT DISPOSAL

Latex paint and stain is no longer accepted at the Household Hazardous Waste collection. To dispose of latex paint and stain,simply mix latex paint hardener into the paint can, let solidify overnight and dispose of it in your weekly trash.

DISPOSAL OF MERCURY CONTAINING ITEMS

State law now mandates that mercury-added products cannot be placed in a regular trash collection. Mansfield residents are welcome to bring mercury thermometers and mercury thermostats to the Board of Health office for disposal and can offer up to two digital thermometers per household in exchange for mercury versions.

BUTTON BATTERIES - Button batteries are those small, silvery, button or coin-like batteries that power watches,
cameras, calculators, hearing aids, digital organizers and many other devices. When these batteries become used up
DON'T THROW THEM IN THE TRASH! They contain mercury, which when incinerated or buried in a landfill,
escapes into the environment.

The Mansfield Board of Health, with the assistance of the Animal Welfare Committee, has begun a button battery recycling
program. Please save and bring your button batteries to the following locations:

Mansfield True Value Hardware - 284 North Main Street
Rite Aid - 243 Chauncy Street
CVS - 261 Chauncy Street
Hefez and Sons Jewelers - 106 North Main Street
Council on Aging - 255 Hope Street
Health Department - 6 Park Row

If you have a large quantity of bulk mercury, please do not move it or bring it to the Health Department. Call us at
508-261-7366 and we will have the mercury safely removed.

Read more...

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1. What is the Conservation Commission’s role in Town?

The Conservation Department and Conservation Commission are responsible for permitting and enforcement of the Massachusetts Wetlands Protection Act and the more protective Wetland Bylaw, Chapter 172. Under the Conservation Commission Act they are charged with the protection of a community’s natural resources. They are involved with open space acquisition and the management of conservation lands. Contact the Conservation Commission at 508-261-7378  for more information.

2. Why do we protect wetlands?

Wetlands provide many invaluable functions to a healthy ecosystem and to society. Under the Wetlands Protection Act there are eight interests that are protected:

• Flood Control
• Prevention of Pollution
• Protection of Fisheries
• Protection of Ground Water Supply
• Protection of Land Containing Shellfish
• Protection of Public and Private Water Supply
• Protection of Wildlife Habitat
• Storm Damage Prevention

Additional Interests

Additional interests under the Town Bylaw, Chapter 172:

• Agriculture and aquaculture
• Biodiversity
• Rare species habitat
• Recreation
• Water quality

Contact Us

For more information contact the Conservation Commission at 508-261-7378.

3. When am I required to file an application with the Conservation Commission?

Under the Massachusetts Wetlands Protection Act Regulations (310 CMR 10) the Conservation Commission has statutory jurisdiction for activities within the 200 foot Riverfront Area of perennial streams and within 100 foot buffer zone to wetlands including, but not limited to inland banks, swamps, and marshes. The Mansfield Conservation Commission also has jurisdiction within the 100 Year Flood-plain and 100 feet from vernal pools under Chapter 15 of the Town’s General Bylaws.

Applications

There are two kinds of applications under these regulations. 

• For small projects 50 feet and greater away from wetland resources a Request for Determination of Applicability may be filed. Examples of small projects that may fall under this category could be the construction of decks, sheds, and native landscaping.
• The second type of filing is the Notice of Intent filing which is for more complex projects such as construction of:
  • Additions
  • Commercial/Industrial Buildings
  • Dwellings
  • Regrading
  • Removal of Vegetation
  • Subdivisions

Projects

These projects often require engineered plans showing the wetland resources on-site, abutter notification, and a public hearing.

Forms

Forms are available at the Conservation Commission’s Office or on the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection website.

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1. How to report a pothole?

You can email us with accurate details about the location of the pothole and how to contact you for a feedback. 

2. Where can I vote?

Please visit Elections and Voting page for most accurate information.

3. Where can I park and how can I pay?

Please visit our Downtown Parking page or MBTA (train station) Parking page for complete instructions.  

4. Where and how can I recycle?

Please visit our Public Works page for various information on recycling. 

5. What to do in water emergency?

Please call 911.

6. What to do in electric emergency?

Please call 508-261-7361. If your emergency occurred during non-business hours an auto-attendant will redirect your call our Emergency Crew. For more information visit Mansfield Municipal Electric Department.

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1. How to deal with clogged storm drains?

With approximately 2,750 Catch Basins throughout Town, our crews are on the lookout for clogged systems.  If you see a catch basin in your area covered with leaves or other debris, we ask that you please take a few minutes to assist in clearing off the top.  If it appears to be inside the basin, please contact the Highway Division at 508-261-7336.

2. How to deal with damage from snow plowing (lawns, irrigation, mailboxes)?

Damage to private property should be reported to the Department of Public Works office at 508-261-7335 or the Highway Division office at 508-261-7336.  A Work Order will then be generated for a Highway Division crew member to investigate damage.  Please review the Town’s policy with regards to damage to mailboxes as well as Post Master General’s guidelines for mailbox specifications (https://www.usps.com/manage/mailbxes.htm).

3. How to report pot holes?

Please report Pot Holes directly to the Department of Public Works at 508-261-7335, the Highway Division at 508-261-7336 or via the Pot Hole Email.  Please note Pot Holes found on State maintained roadways should be reported to MassDOT District 5 Dispatch at 508-884-4213.

4. How often street sweeping is performed?

Bi-Annual town wide Street Sweeping is conduct in the Spring and Fall, as needed. The Town conducts monthly sweeping for the Downtown Business District.

5. Who takes care of Town trees?

Town Trees that are found to be rotted, have dead limbs or otherwise pose a safety risk may be trimmed or removed.  Large tree trimming and removal is currently sub-contracted out and small tree trimming and removal is done by the Highway Division.

6. Placing Snow on Town Right of Way

In accordance with the Mansfield General By-Laws, Chapter 189 – Streets and Sidewalks, Section II Encroachments Prohibited; it is a violation to place snow on the Town right-of-way.

“No person shall allow any wood or coal or other obstruction to remain within the limits of a street or upon any sidewalk so as in any manner to obstruct the travel thereon, or for more than twenty-four hours after he has been notified to remove the same by the Town Manager or by officer having charge of the highway or any constable or police officer”

“Each day on which any violation exists shall be deemed to be a separate offense.”

Violations will be charged $50.00 per day.

The Town DPW Staff have observed that private snow plowing contractors continue to violate this.  The Town will be issuing violations to contractors and/or property owners violating this policy.

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1. When will my street be swept?

The Division does not publicize the exact schedule for Street Sweeping for 2 reasons: 1) The schedule is always changing due to weather, staffing and other work that may be ongoing, and 2) Some residents/businesses try cleaning their entire yard out into the street ahead of the Division’s operations.  The sweepers do not pick up twigs and heavy leaves very well, which is why it takes so long to sweep after bad wind storms.

2. How do I have my road considered for additional sweeping?

If there is debris on your road that you would like cleaned, please contact the DPW office at 508-261-7335 or the Highway Division at 508-261-7336, and a work order will be generated. The work order will be reviewed and prioritized by the Highway Division Staff and, depending on the work load, placed on the schedule for completion.

3. We had a heavy rainfall and my street is covered with debris, what will be done about it?

 The Division’s ability to perform Town-wide sweeping after a rain event is limited due to ongoing work and limited staffing.  We do our best to have 1 sweeper and a truck respond to the worse areas.  These are typically higher speed roads with curves and intersection, as they pose substantial risk to all users.

4. Why do the sweepers move so slowly?

Street sweepers have a traveling speed of 20-25 MPH when empty and 15-20 MPH loaded.  The working speed while sweeping is about 5-7 MPH.

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1. Are all Town of Mansfield employment opportunities listed on this site?

All current opportunities for the Town of Mansfield can be found on this site. To assist with your career search we immediately remove positions that have been filled from this site. For more information call the Human Resources department at 508-261-7480.

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 Human Resources 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. For more information call the Human Resources department at 508-261-7480.

3. What is the best way to apply for a position at the Town of Mansfield?

If you are responding to a posted or advertised position, you should submit a cover letter and your most recent resume via email to the Human Resources department.

4. May I mail or fax my resume to the Town of Mansfield?

Sending us your resume through mail or fax is discouraged. We strongly encourage you to take advantage of the many benefits of applying via email. If you don’t have access to a computer and would like to send your resume via mail, please send to:
Human Resources
6 Park Row
Town Hall, Third Floor
Mansfield, MA 02048

5. I applied for an available position, what happens next?

When you apply via email for a specific position, you will receive an email acknowledgment, and your information immediately becomes available to our Human Resources Department. Applications are reviewed after the submission cut-off date. You will be contacted if there is interest in pursuing you as a candidate for an open position. While we would like to respond to all phone/email inquiries, we may be unable to due to the volume of applicants for any given position. For more information call the Human Resources department at 508-261-7480.

6. Can I ask questions about working for the Town of Mansfield?

If you are called in for an interview for an open position, you will have ample opportunity to ask questions about working for the Town. For more information call the Human Resources department at 508-261-7480.

7. What should I do if I’m interesting in applying for a position with Mansfield Public Schools?

View all job opportunities with Mansfield Public Schools. You can apply for interested jobs from that website. For more information call the Human Resources department at 508-261-7480.

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1. Where can I park?

• If you are a resident of Mansfield you are eligible to get a resident sticker from the Town Clerk’s office.
• If you are from out of town the spaces you can choose from become limited.

Public Spaces

The train station parking lot spaces 1 through 48 are considered public spaces. Other public spaces are located on the other side of the tracks access through Highland and Draper Avenue and include 201 through 325 excluding 228, 355 through 372; 403 through 432; 455 through 493 and 652 through 677. This lot is called the River Street lot.

Private Lots

Their are 2 private lots located on the River Street side of the tracks.

Residential Parking

Parking Zone 380 is for residents and Zone 381 is for non-residents.

Contact Us

Learn more about parking in Mansfield.

2. How can I pay for parking?

Once you find a numbered space one needs to pay for the space. There are 2 ways to pay for parking. The town has provided 3 pay kiosks located on either side of the tracks. Any kiosk can be used to pay for any space.

Pay Machine

The pay machines are very easy to use. There are simple instructions on the front of the machine. You first must type in your space. Then the machine will ask you for method of payment: Cash or Credit card. At this point either put your money in the bill collector or swipe your credit card. These kiosks will take bill denominations of 1, 5 and 10 they will also take Visa, MasterCard and Discover. You will also be given change back. Once payment is completed the machine will print out a receipt and release any change due in the slot at the bottom of the machine. This receipt is for your records and your space is paid for the day.

Pay By Phone

You may download the PayByPhone App in the App Store or on Google Play to pay for Mansfield Commuter Parking. 

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1. Why do I need a permit?

When a permit is issued the holder of the permit is given legal permission to start construction or do modifications to a building. We can trace permit requirements back to ancient times. Today the construction industry standards have evolved into minimum standards designed to protect the general public’s health and safety. The Code Official’s job is to enforce the legislatively adopted laws of the Commonwealth for the benefit of the consumer.

Reducing Risks

No code can eliminate all risks. Reducing risks to acceptable levels helps prevent most potential hazards to the building’s occupants and users. “Safe buildings for a safe tomorrow” is the ultimate goal of all codes for the building environment. The development and use of regulatory documents and the acceptance of innovative products and systems are a byproduct of technical advances in our times.

Local Zoning Codes

Most individuals overlook the need for a permit until some catastrophic event occurs. We try to assure compliance with local zoning codes, the State Building Code, the State Wiring Code and the State Plumbing and Gas Code. From zoning issues to code review, from field inspections to structural conformity, from foundation to occupancy permits, the inspectors are looking out for your best interest!

No matter which area is of concern for you, all construction codes serve the same purpose: to protect the public health, safety, and welfare by requiring safe construction.

2. When do I need a permit?

Permits are typically required for the following, but remember to check with this office before beginning your specific project:

• Additions
• Burglar/Fire Alarm Systems
• Decks
• Demolition
• Electrical systems
• Fences over 6 feet high
• Finish basement or attic
• Fireplace/Wood stoves
• Heating, venting and air conditioning (HVAC) System
• New construction
• Parking Areas
• Plumbing Systems
• Prefabricated structures
• Retaining walls over 48 inches that retain a surcharge
• Sheds over 200 square feet for 1 and 2 family residence/120 square feet (for other than)
• Signs
• Swimming pools that contain more than 24 inches of water
• Temporary structures
• Tents - call for verification
• Windows - Doors, Roofing and Siding

3. What is the permit process?

The process is generally the same for building, wiring, plumbing and mechanical. In addition, fire prevention and sprinkler permits will also require the input and approval of the local fire department. The following is the permit process:

1. Submission of the application and documentation to the department. You may need to consult with other town departments, boards and committees for their approval.
2. Consideration and plan review of all of your applications, documents and plans against all applicable codes, rules and regulations.
3. Decision from the inspector. You may be approved or denied. There are appeal processes that will be explained to you if you receive a denial.
4. Inspection of the work in progress. Each phase must be inspected for completeness, compliance with the construction documents and the applicable codes.
5. Final acceptance and the issuance of the occupancy permit if required.

4. What should I do to prepare for a permit?

• Research your property before, not after! You are the property owner. You have invested time, energy and a substantial sum of money into your property. You will be relying on the structural safety of the building that surrounds you each day, at home and at work. Research your investment before and not after your purchase.
• Find out if there are outstanding code violations or zoning violations on the property. “Buyer beware” is an old saying, however it is very much evident when a problem arises later. Has all the work that has been done on the building been permitted and approved by the local officials? Are there records to substantiate this?
• Problems can be avoided if you do your homework first. Engineers, architects and other professionals may be needed if the work was done illegally or in violation of any codes. Your investment could be in jeopardy if the building is not in compliance.

5. What other information should I know?

Do you realize that before an occupancy permit could be issued for your building a building inspector made at least four inspections, and the wiring, plumbing/gas and mechanical inspectors at least two inspections each?

We do this to verify conformance with the minimum requirements of building, electrical, plumbing and gas, and mechanical codes. The changing aspects of our codes require each of us to keep up with technological advances by maintaining continuing education programs by attending training sessions; and for building officials, obtaining and maintaining certification.

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1. Planning Board Permitting

• Form A - Subdivision Fee Schedule (PDF)  
• Form A- Application (PDF)  
• Preliminary Subdivision Application (PDF)  
• Definitive Subdivision Application (PDF)
          
• Special Permit Application (PDF)  
• Special Permit Fee Schedule (PDF) 
• Site Plan Application Package (PDF) 
• Site Plan Application Engineering Checklist (PDF)
         
                         

2. What is the cost to file a Form A plan?

The cost for preliminary and definitive subdivision plans can be found at http://www.mansfieldma.com/wp-content/uploads/Fees-Subdivision.pdf

3. Where can I get the Zoning By-Laws?

You can access the Mansfield zoning by-laws through the following link https://www.ecode360.com/28866895

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1. How to obtain a Downtown Parking Permit?

When commuter train parking overflows into the downtown area, our parking enforcement officer issues tickets to the vehicles parked longer than the two-hour limit or four hour limit. For our residents and merchants downtown, we offer Central Business District (downtown) Parking Permits. Hanging this permit from your rearview mirror allows your vehicle to park in designated areas for longer than two hours or four hours without having to worry about a ticket – this DOES NOT supersede the Downtown Overnight Parking Ban. The hangers can be purchased for 20$ at the front desk at Mansfield Police Department. Here is a link to downtown parking page for more information. https://www.mansfieldma.com/276/Downtown-Parking

The 2022 Permits are here and ready to go! Each permit costs $20 and our issued here at the PD. Please make checks payable to “Town of Mansfield.”

2. What is a Crime Analyst do in a police department?

A crime analyst assists the agency in directing its attention and resources into the most efficient manner possible. There are 3 separate types of Analysis that are generally found and used 1. Crime analysis, 2. Intelligence analysis, 3. Administrative analysis. Crime analysis is used to determine who and what areas of the community are generating the greatest numbers of calls for service and most importantly why this is occurring. Intelligence analysis is the colating and disseminating to appropriate forums the wide array of intelligence available to police agencies. Administrative intelligence is the determination of how best to use the resources available to police administrators.

3. What does a Problem-Oriented Policing (POP) unit do?

The POP unit each month takes the list of the top 5 people and locations generating calls for service in the community and begin looking at "why" they are generating so many calls for service. Once the "why" is determined, the POP unit develops a plan to deal with the root cause for the problems that are generating so many calls for service. This involves going beyond the typical traditional police response and emphasizes helping citizens and families whenever possible while dealing with quality of life issues.

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1. What does the public health department do?

Prevent

Local health departments help prevent the start and spread of outbreaks and disease. We:

· Keep food and physical environments safe. Restaurant food we eat, hotels we visit and daycares where our children play are all safer thanks to local health departments. We also minimize health hazards such as lead and water pollution.

· Help prevent the occurrence and spread of disease. Local health departments work with healthcare and community partners to prevent and target the cause of disease outbreaks, and then determine the appropriate response.

· Prepare for and respond to disasters and emergencies. Local health departments work with emergency management and other local officials to plan for and respond to natural disasters, novel disease outbreaks, and bioterrorism threats that can dramatically impact health.

 

Promote

Local health departments promote healthy communities. We assure a healthcare safety net and champion proven practices to foster better health for everyone. We know prevention works and access to health services cuts costs for everyone. We:

· Promote better health throughout the lifespan. We help young people stay well and develop into healthy adults. We offer education and services to help reduce chronic illness and complications. A healthy community leads to a more productive workforce, reduced healthcare costs, and a better quality of life.

· Provide screening and education on the following: Blood Pressure Testing with education on hypertension prevention and management; Blood Glucose and A1C Testing with education on diabetes prevention and management; Cholesterol Testing with education on Hypercholesterolemia prevention and management; Weight testing for those patients that wish to track their weight but may not have a scale at home; B12 shots for those who have their own prescription; Fall Risk Screenings using the CDC Steadi Program. The Public Health Nursing Services are working on expanding programs which will be announced soon.

 

Protect

Local health departments protect community health and economic vitality through public health policy and community partnerships. We:

· Uphold policies we know improve our community’s health. Regulating the sale of tobacco and nicotine delivery systems and smoke-free places are examples of policies that have a major impact on the health of our children and neighbors. A healthy community has greater potential for positive economic growth.

· Continuously assess needs and improve capacity to promote better health. Whether assessing community health, implementing quality improvement efforts, or pursuing accreditation, local health departments maximize opportunities to improve public health practice and the public’s health.

2. What type of information is available to the public?

All food inspection reports, public/semi-public pool inspection reports, all licenses, and all permits. For copies, please contact the Health Department.

3. I am selling my house. Do I need to have the septic system inspected?

Yes. Title 5 requires the inspection of the septic system or cesspool when a property changes hands. The Health Department has a list of private sector state certified inspectors. If you do have a problem with your system, the inspector is compelled by law to provide you with a list of local septic system installers (prepared by the Board of Health) who can assist you in fixing the problem. If you have any questions, do not hesitate to call the Health Department.

4. How do I locate my septic system?

The Health Department files hold plans called “as-built plan”. This plan shows the location of your septic system. As-built plans became mandatory in May 1990, but were still commonly done prior to that. If your home was built prior to 1972, it is unlikely that a plan exists due to a fire that destroyed the town hall.

5. My apartment has a number of problems. Can you help me?

If you are having problems with the living conditions in your apartment, a housing inspection can be done. The result is an order to correct any violations of the housing code. However, the occupant is equally responsible to properly care for the landlord’s property.

Housing inspections are limited to conditions that endanger or impair the health, safety or well being of the occupant. Aesthetic and cosmetic conditions are not applicable.

6. When is the household hazardous waste collection?

Household hazardous waste collection is held annually, usually in the Spring or early summer.  Until then, there are numerous resources to assist you with understanding, handling and managing your household hazardous waste.

• Hazardous Household Products: Handling and Management
• Municipal Household Hazardous Waste Collection Facilities

Additionally, check out the Mansfield Green webpage to see if any of your waste is accepted there: Mansfield Green Recycling Park & Compost Area | Mansfield, MA (mansfieldma.com) 

7. What can I bring to the household hazardous waste collection?

Generally, household hazardous waste consists of:

• Automobile and Truck Tires
• Cleansers
• Household and Automotive Batteries
• Liquid Propane and Gas Grill Cylinders
• Oil Paint and Stain
• Pesticides
• Solvent Adhesives
• Solvents
• Used Motor Oil

A full list is available from the Health Department.

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1. Do you have the newest James Patterson book?

To find out if the library has the latest James Patterson book, please call the library at 508-261-7380 or go to the library website to reserved desired title.

2. What are your hours of operation?

Monday through Thursday 10:00am-8:00pm
Friday 10:00am-5:00pm
Saturday 10:00am-4:00pm

3. How due I pay my fine online?

To pay your library fines online, please go to the Sails Consortium website.

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1. What is sumithrin?

Sumithrin is a type I pyrethroid insecticide. Pyrethroids are synthetic versions of a natural insecticide produced by chrysanthemum flowers. Although pyrethroids are among the least toxic insecticides, they are nerve poisons. They act upon the sodium ion channels in nerve cell membranes.

The pesticide containing sumithrin being used in New York City and its suburbs is called Anvil. It is 10% sumithrin, 10% piperonyl butoxide and 80% inert ingredients. Piperonyl butoxide makes the pesticide more effective by preventing insects from detoxifying sumithrin.

Manufacturers are not required to disclose the inert ingredients, although they may be toxic also.

2. What are the symptoms of exposure to sumithrin?

Inhalation

Inhaling pyrethroid insecticides can cause:

• Chest Pain
• Coughing
• Difficulty Breathing
• Runny or Stuffy Nose
• Shortness of Breath
• Wheezing

Skin Contact

Skin contact can cause

• Blisters
• Itching
• Rashes

Piperonyl butoxide can cause skin and eye irritation. All the health effects of this chemical have not been fully researched.

3. What are the long term effects of sumithrin?

Rats fed high doses (1,000 milligrams per kilogram of body weight or millograms/kilogram) of pyrethrins (natural versions of pyrethroids) showed liver damage. There is also evidence that pyrethroids can harm the thyroid.

Pyrethroids, including sumithrin, have been shown in the lab to disrupt the endocrine system by mimicking the effects of the female sex hormone estrogen. In men, endocrine disruptors can lower the sperm count, and in women they can cause the growth of abnormal breast cells.

Piperonyl butoxide has been classified by the Environmental Protection Agency as a possible human carcinogen.

4. How does sumithrin affect other species?

Sumithrin is not very toxic to mammals, but it is highly toxic to bees and fish.

5. How long does sumithrin last in the environment?

The half-life of sumithrin in soil is one day to sixteen weeks, depending on the type of soil.

6. What should I know about sumithrin product labels?

Anvil is a brand name of a common sumithrin product. You can learn more about it from the details printed on the manufacturer’s product label.

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1. When do I need a Title 5 Inspections?

According to Title 5 regulations, all subsurface disposal systems must be inspected by a state-licensed inspector under the following conditions:

• If there is a change in use, i.e., a single family residence is converted to a shelter or to a business
• If there is an increase in design flow, such as adding a bedroom
• Whenever real estate is sold

A Title 5 Inspection report is good for 2 years.  If accompanied by pumping records showing the system has been pumped at least once a year since the last inspection, a title 5 inspection is valid for 3 years.

If you have any questions about the need for an inspection, please contact the Health Department at 508-261-7366.

2. What happens if my waste disposal system fails inspection?

If the subsurface disposal system fails an inspection, the owner normally has up to two years in which to correct the problem. However, the Board of Health may require that the owner address the problem within a shorter period should the failing system present a threat to the public health and the environment. If the property is sold, the new owner assumes responsibility for the failed septic system. The new owner may make an agreement with the town to connect to the municipal sewer system after taking ownership.

3. If my system fails, am I required to connect to the sewer system?

Yes. Title 5 requires that owners of septic systems meet the standard of “maximum feasible compliance” with the requirements of the State Code. The level of compliance that may be met–that is, whether the system is simply repaired, replaced, or the home connected to the sewer–will depend on the characteristics of the property involved and the availability of the sewer.

If the sewer is not available near the home, the homeowner must apply to the Board of Health for a variance and provide for approval by the Board of Health a design for a new system that meets the requirements of Title Five. Alternative systems to those specified in the state code must also be approved by the Board of Health.

4. Does the Board of Health do Title Five Inspections for homeowners?

No. Individual homeowners must hire their own licensed inspector. A list of state licensed Title 5 inspectors can be found at the New England Interstate Water Pollution Control Commission website.

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1. How do I register my Pet?

In order to register your pet, please fill out the Pet Registration Form and return it to .........

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1. What is the telephone number to the Boston & Brockton VA Hospital system?

(617) 232-9500

www.va.gov

2. What is the telephone number and website for the US Department of Veterans Affairs?

(800) 827-1000

VA Website

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1. How do I apply for a Water Installer license in Mansfield?

Submit a complete Application for Water Installer License /DocumentCenter/View/4314 along with required documents and check fee to Eleanor McCarter, Mansfield Water Operation Facility at 500B East St. in Mansfield, MA 02048.  Regular business hours are Monday-Friday 7:00 am - 3:00 pm.  For additional questions call 508-261-7376. 

2. Does Mansfield offer Water Conservation Rebates?

Yes, the Town currently offers incentive rebates for homeowners who take action to reduce water consumption.  Save money by replacing older high water use appliances with qualifying low water use appliances and devices (i.e. washers, dishwashers, toilets, house filters, automatic sprinkler shut-offs).  See water rebate form for details.  New home construction, kitchen/bath remodeling projects, and replacement of broken devices  are not eligible for rebates. Water Conservation Rebate - Application Form

3. Does Mansfield add Fluoride in the public water system?

Yes.  The Town began adding Fluoride to the public water system in 1995 to promote good dental health.

4. Can I pay my Water bill by phone?

Yes.  To pay your water/sewer bill by phone call 508-261-7335.  The Department of Public Works office located at Mansfield Town Hall handles all water/sewer billing inquires. Contact DPW-Water Billing Supervisor Vel Bishop, or DPW-Water Admin. Renee Gauthier for billing assistance.

5. What should I do if I suspect a water leak on my property?

Report suspected water leaks to the Department of Public Works Admin. Tel. 508-261-7330.  The Town will dispatch a Water Division representative to the property to determine if the leak is on private property or Town responsibility.  Leaks on private property are the responsibility of the homeowner.  

6. How do I request a final reading for my property?

The Department of Public Works office handles all inquires related to water/sewer billing.  For assistance call Tel. 508-261-7335 or visit the billing office located at the Mansfield Town Hall (6 Park Row, Mansfield, MA 02048) during regular business hours; Mon, Tues. & Thurs. 8am-4pm, Wed. 8am-8pm and Friday 8am-12pm Noon.

7. How do I change name and/or address on my water service?

The Department of Public Works office handles all inquires related to water/sewer billing.  To update your account  information call Tel. 508-261-7335 or visit the billing office located at the Mansfield Town Hall (6 Park Row, Mansfield, MA 02048) during regular business hours; Mon, Tues. & Thurs. 8am-4pm, Wed. 8am-8pm and Friday 8am-12pm Noon.

8. What should I do if I have a high (or low) water/sewer bill?

The Department of Public Works office handles all inquires related to water/sewer billing.  For assistance call Tel. 508-261-7335 or visit the billing office located at the Mansfield Town Hall (6 Park Row, Mansfield, MA 02048) during regular business hours; Mon, Tues. & Thurs. 8am-4pm, Wed. 8am-8pm and Friday 8am-12pm Noon.

9. Who do I call for a water emergency after hours?

Call "911" to request immediate on-site response from the Water Division due to a water emergency (broken water service, shut off valve, or pipe burst, etc).   

* Standard Call Out fee shall apply for water emergency calls received outside of the regular business work hours (7am-3pm).