Sewer Use Fee FAQ

Who is subject to sewer use fees?

All users, abutters and owners of developed property which are directly served by a public sewer are subject to a sewer fee.

How often are sewer bills issued?

Sewer bills are issued once a year. Currently there is no set date that the bills are mail.

What time period do the bills cover?

Sewer bills are based on a fiscal year – July 1 to June 30.

What is the abatement process for sewer bills?

Requests must be made in writing on an approved form obtained from the Collector’s or Selectboard’s Office, within 30 days of the date of billing. The forms should be completed and filed at the Selectboard’s Office. The Selectboard, as Sewer Commissioners, have the authority to approve or deny sewer abatements.

What happens if I do not pay my sewer bill?

Whenever a sewer bill remains outstanding after 30 days from a billing date, a penalty shall be assessed in a percentage not to exceed the interest and penalty permitted to be charged on delinquent real estate taxes.

If a sewer bill is not paid by the third quarter of the following fiscal year a lien will be issued against the real estate.

Who is responsible for payment of sewer bills?

The owner of the property will be responsible for all sewer use fees. Sewer fees and charges not paid on or before their established due date become a lien upon the applicable real estate on the day immediately following the due day of such fees, pursuant to the provisions of Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 83, Section 16 through 16F inclusive. Failure of owner to receive bill does not relieve said owner from the obligation at any time. Change of ownership information should be furnished immediately to the Tax Collector’s Office.