Newfane Town Offices

The Town Clerk records, preserves and certifies the public records of Newfane. They issue licenses such as marriage, civil union, dog and hunting & fishing licenses. The Town Clerk maintains the Newfane Voter Checklist with the Board of Civil Authority and is the presiding election official at all elections. A member of the Board of Abatement and Board of Civil Authority, the Town Clerk hears tax abatement requests and appeals.

Contact
555 Vermont Route 30, PO Box 36, Newfane, VT 05345
Phone: 802-365-7772 Ext. 0
Email: tclerknewfane@newfanevt.com
Hours: Monday – Thursday, 8 AM to 5 PM
Services & Useful Links
      Records and Information
      Vital records (births, deaths, marriages)
      Land records (deeds, surveys, etc.)
      Town records (meeting minutes, ordinances, etc.)
      Birth & Death Record Certified Copies (Application. See FAQs below)
      Marriage Licenses (Application. See FAQs below)
      Dog Registration (In person or by mail. See FAQs below)
      Voter Registration (Form. Also see Voting Information)
      Motor Vehicle Renewals (In person or online. See FAQs below)
      Fish and Wildlife Licenses (In person or online. See FAQs below)
      Land Posting Records (In person. See FAQs below)
      Green Mountain Passport (Application. See FAQs below)
      Liquor Licenses (See FAQs below)

Current Town Clerk: Wannetta Powling

Read the Town Clerk’s Report in the Annual Town Report.
 
 
 
 

Frequently Asked Questions

• How do I get a copy of my deed?

  Ask the Town Clerk in person or by email. There is a $1 fee per page.

• How do I get a certified copy of a birth or death certificate?

  Complete this application and return it to the Town Clerk who will print the certified copy on special certificate paper from the Department of Health database. There is a $10 fee for each
  certified copy.

• How do I get a marriage license?

  Both people complete the application, which must be signed in person before the Town Clerk. Then the Clerk prepares the license, which is signed by both people and the Clerk. The fee is $80, which must be paid in cash or by check or money order. You should also order a certified copy of the license to be mailed to you, which is an additional $10 fee.

• How do I get a certified copy of a marriage license?

  If a marriage license was issued in Newfane, the license should be recorded in the vault. You can come into the office or send a letter with the information and a check for $10. The Town Clerk will copy the marriage license on the special certificate paper.

• How and when do I license my dog?

  Every year you must register your dog – do so by April 1st to avoid late fees. Bring a copy of the dog’s latest rabies certificate to the Town Clerk or mail it to the office with a check for the license fee – $12 if the dog is spayed or neutered and $17 if the dog is not. Please note that after April 1, 2025, the fees will be going up to $14.50 is the dog is spayed or neutered and $22 if the dog is not.

• How do I renew a car or truck registration?

  Bring the renewal notice to the Town Clerk’s office with a check or money order made out to the DMV for the renewal fee and an extra $3 fee for the Town. Most vehicles can also be renewed online, as long as the registration is less than 60 days overdue.

• How do I get a hunting or fishing license?

  The Town Clerk can issue hunting and fishing licenses. Come into the office and provide the necessary information. First-time applicants must show proof of completion of a hunting safety course. The fee must be paid by cash or check. You can also get the license directly from the Department of Fish and Wildlife. Their website provides information on regulations and seasons, big game reporting, and finding a place to hunt.

• How do I run for Town or School Board Office?

  First check out the list of current officials. Then submit a candidate consent form and a completed petition (signed by 15 registered Newfane voters) to the Town Clerk by the 6th Monday before the election (late January). Local elections take place on Town Meeting Day– the first Tuesday in March.

• What is a Green Mountain Passport, and how do I get one?

  This program is available to Vermont residents who are 62 years or older and/or armed forces Veterans. It provides free admission to state parks and historic sites. Applications must be filled out and notarized at the Town Clerk’s office for $2.

• What is the process for obtaining or renewing a liquor license?

  First, apply or renew and pay State fees online through the VT Department of Liquor Control. Completed applications are sent to the Town Clerk, which then goes to the Board of Liquor Control for approval. Applicants must pay local fees to the Town before the Selectboard meeting.

• What is the process for obtaining a cannabis license in Newfane?

  Newfane has voted to allow cannabis establishments (cultivators, manufacturers, wholesalers, adult-use retailers, or medical dispensaries) to operate within the Town. First, applicants must go through the pre-application and application process, plus pay fees through the VT Cannabis Control Board website. The final step is obtaining a local control license from the Local Cannabis Control Commission, which is the Selectboard in Newfane. This commission approves or denies applications based upon compliance with any bylaw adopted pursuant to 24 V.S.A. § 4414 and 24 V.S.A. § 2291.

• How do I post land?

  According to the State, private landowners must post their land against hunting, trapping and fishing each year. To record the posting, visit the Town Clerk with the $5 fee. See 10 V.S.A. § 5201 for more information.

The Treasurer / Delinquent Tax Collector is an elected position with a one-year term. They are responsible for keeping the Town’s accounting records, paying orders (with Selectboard approval), processing and keeping a record of taxes paid, and collecting delinquent taxes. They prepare the preliminary Town Budget and work with the Selectboard to finalize it. Additionally, the Treasurer works with auditors to settle accounts prior to Town Meeting Day.

Contact
555 Vermont Route 30, PO Box 36, Newfane, VT 05345

Phone: 802-365-7772 Ext. 2
Fax: 802-365-7692
Email: newfanetreasurer@newfanevt.com
Hours: Monday – Thursday, 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM

Services & Useful Links
      Pay real estate taxes (see FAQs below)
      Pay delinquent real estate taxes (see FAQs below)
      Set up a payment plan (see FAQs below)
      Request a tax bill (In person or by email)
      Change of address (In Person or by email)
      Request payment status (In person or by email)
      Tax Rates
      Pay taxes online
      Town Budget Report
      FY 2023 Audit Report
      Tax Sale Process (Coming soon)
      Tax Sale Policy (Coming soon)
      Tax Abatement Process
      Abatement Application

Current Town Treasurer: Melissa Brown
Melissa serves as the Town Treasurer and Delinquent Tax Collector for Newfane since 2017, bringing dedication and expertise to her role in local government. Outside of her professional responsibilities, she is a proud parent of two children and enjoys traveling whenever possible. A lover of animals, Melissa also values quality time with her dogs. With deep family roots in the Newfane community, she is committed to contributing to the area’s growth and well-being.

Read the Town Treasurer’s Report in the Annual Town Report

Frequently Asked Questions

• When are tax bills mailed?

  Tax bills are mailed once a year in July and have four quarterly coupons attached. Please send in the coupon with the payment to ensure proper posting.

• When are taxes due?

  • 1st Installment due August 15, 2024
  • 2nd Installment due October 15, 2024
  • 3rd Installment due January 15, 2025
  • 4th Installment due April 15, 2025

• How much interest is charged per month?

  • Past due taxes are charged 0.50% interest per month
  • Delinquent Taxes are charged 0.75% interest per month

• How much is the penalty on late taxes?

  Penalty is charged one time after the 4/15 installment at 8%

• How do I pay taxes?

  • Mail payments to Tax Collector, Town of Newfane, PO Box 221, Newfane, VT 05345
  • Pay online by following this link (subject to fees – see below)

• How much is it to pay online?

  • Echecks are processed for $1.50
  • Credit Cards are processed for 2.65% of the transaction
  • $3.00 minimum charged for either echeck or credit card

• What do I need to pay by echeck?

  Bank routing number and checking/savings account number

• How do I set up a payment plan for quarterly real estate taxes?

  Contact the delinquent tax collector at newfanetreasurer@newfanevt.com or 802-365-7772 Ext. 2

• What is tax abatement and what is the process?

  • Tax abatement is a statutory process for relieving taxpayers from the burden of property taxes, collection fees and interest. It exists to prevent an injustice or help a taxpayer who faces extraordinary circumstances that make it difficult to meet tax obligations.
  • See 24 V.S.A. § 1535 for legal grounds for abatement. Follow these links for the abatement process and application form.

• What is a Tax Sale?

  When the Town has to sell a property to collect on delinquent taxes. See the Tax Sale Process for more details.

• What is a homestead declaration and how do I file it?

  Every taxpayer who resides in Vermont and claims a homestead is required to file their
  Homestead Declaration every year, on or before April 15.
  • Click here to learn more about filing online.
  • Click here to find and print forms. Click on HS-122 / HI 144 Homestead Declaration and Household Income.

The Town Listers are responsible for maintaining the Grand List (a comprehensive list of all the properties in Newfane). They collect and record accurate property information including ownership, addresses, acreage and the assessed values. They assist the public– including attorneys, insurance companies, title searchers, appraisers– to obtain information such as Listers Cards (aka Property Cards) and current tax maps.

Contact
555 Vermont Route 30, Newfane, VT 05345
Phone: 802-365-7772 Ext. 1
Email: newfanelisters@newfanevt.com
Hours: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, 9 AM to 12 PM. Or by appointment.

Services & Useful Links

      2026 Reassessment Information
      Property Cards (lists the assessed values, acreage, building dimensions and pictures)
      Grand List information and/or questions
      Current Assessed Values
      Tax Maps
      Property Surveys
      Unofficial Property Cards
      E911 Maps
      Garbage & Recycling Information
      Homestead Declaration: Forms HI-144 & HS-122 (see FAQs below)
      Current Use (see FAQs below)

Current Listers: Doris Knechtel and Frank Suponski
We also are staffed by a contract Assessor Ryan Silvestri of New England Municipal Consultants, Ltd. He is available by appointment. 802-234-9576.

Read the Listers Report in the Annual Town Report

Frequently Asked Questions

• What is a Homestead Declaration and how do I file it?

  Every taxpayer who resides in Vermont and claims a homestead is required to file their
  Homestead Declaration every year, on or before April 15.
  • Click here to learn more about filing online.
  • Click here to find and print forms. Click on HS-122 / HI 144 Homestead Declaration and Household Income.

• What is Current Use and how do I apply for it?

  Current Use is a property tax incentive available to owners of agricultural and forestry land. Eligible landowners can apply to have their land appraised at its Current Use (farming or forestry) value rather than fair market value. Click here to learn more about the program, apply, or login into your online eCuse account.

The Zoning Administrator provides guidance on the permit application process, so residents are advised to contact them before making changes to, or starting a business on their property. The Zoning Administrator can help you identify the appropriate permit(s), advise on completing a permit application and what supplemental documentation is needed. The Zoning Administrator also processes permit applications, responds to complaints, and enforces zoning violations in accordance with Newfane Zoning and Subdivision Bylaws. They work closely with the Board of Listers, Planning Commission and Development Review Board.

Contact
555 Vermont Route 30, Newfane, VT 05345
Phone: 802-365-7772 Ext. 3
Email: zanewfane@newfanevt.com
Hours: Monday and Thursday 8:30AM – 11:30AM

Services & Useful Links

      Zoning Permits
      Newfane Zoning Bylaws
      Subdivision Bylaw
      Flood and Fluvial Erosion Hazard Regulations
      Newfane Town Plan
      Community Resources & Utilities Map
      Existing Land Use Map
      Natural Resources Map

Current Zoning Administrator: Katie Bristol

Katie brings a deep connection to the community and commitment to thoughtful land use & development to her role. As a mother of three, she values maintaining a healthy, vibrant environment for future generations. Katie loves spending time camping, gardening and appreciating the natural beauty of the area.

Read the Zoning Report in the Annual Town Report.
 

Frequently Asked Questions

• What are zoning permits and why would I need to apply for one?

  You should contact the Zoning Administrator before making changes to your property or before starting a business on your property that may fall under permitted uses. We can tell you if you will need to obtain a permit and give you guidance on how to complete the permit application and what documentation you need to provide.

• Will I need to get State permits for my construction project?

  State permits may be required for your project, especially for septic/plumbing and electrical. Check first with the Zoning Administrator. You can also call to speak to the State Permit Specialist before beginning any new construction 802-885-8850.

• What are Designated Village Centers?

  If your property is in one of Newfane’s villages– Newfane, South Newfane or Williamsville– you may be able to take advantage of tax credits for improvements to your property, primarily for historic and/or business properties. See this website for more information.

• How can I take advantage of State programs to make my home more energy efficient?

  Efficiency Vermont provides a range of services to help reduce energy use at home and in your business. Whether you’re looking for one-time advice or support with a project from start to finish, contact Efficiency Vermont at (888) 921-5990 or through their website.

• What are the Newfane Zoning Bylaw categories?

  A. Land Division (subdivisions)
  B. Dwellings
    New construction, additional, relocations of existing dwelling
    Accessory structures (e.g. barn, shed and stand-alone garage)
  C. Commercial
    New construction, additional, relocations of existing structure
  D. Other Structures
    Bridges, signs, fences
  E. Ponds
  F. Setbacks from roads, property lines and waterways
  G. Residential accessory uses such as home businesses, home child care, group homes and residential care homes

The Town Roads and Garage are administered by the Town Road Foreman in collaboration with the Town Road Commissioner. Together, they prioritize and plan infrastructure projects to ensure Town roads, bridges, and culverts are safe for public & emergency services use. The Road Foreman is a working supervisor, responsible for carrying out maintenance projects. This person also fields public feedback and questions, and reports to the Selectboard. Contact Depot Rd, Williamsville, VT 05362 Phone: 802-348-7949 Email: newfanegarage@newfanevt.com Hours: Monday through Friday, 6:30 AM to 3 PM (by phone) Services & Useful Links       Damaged roads & culverts; downed trees       Assessment of roads, bridges & culverts       List of current & future road projects       Bridge Restriction List by weight       Excess Weight Permit – Individual       Excess Weight Permit – Fleet       Access / Right of Way Permit       Vermont Electric Power Co: Permitted & Non-Permitted Uses Of Rights-of-Way Current Town Road Foreman: Jay Wilson Read the Road Foreman Report in the Annual Town Report               Current Road Projects Some of the bigger projects that are underway or in the planning stages (in 2025):

• Stabilization of the Rock River stream bank at the Green Iron bridge
• Completion of the Act 250 Permit for the new Town gravel pit
• Culvert replacement and stone lined ditches on Upper and Lower New Road
• Sand/Salt Shed redesign at the Town Garage
• Newfane Village RT 30 sidewalk and crosswalk project
• Implementation of the Eddy Road culvert which has been designed but is awaiting funding
• Implementation of the French Cabin Road culvert which has not yet designed but is also awaiting funding
• New decking in the Covered Bridge on Dover Road

Frequently Asked Questions

• How do I report damaged roads, culverts and downed trees?

  Call the Road Foreman to report a damaged road, culvert or downed trees and leave a voicemail message. If it is an emergency, dial 9-1-1.

• What is the process for getting damaged roads fixed?

  Damage mitigation is based on priority, which is assessed by the Road Foreman.

• When would I need to obtain an excess weight permit?

  View the Bridge Restriction List to see if you need to apply. Turn applications (single vehicle / fleet) into the Administrative Assistant for the Selectboard.

• What is the process for applying for access / right of way?

  Fill out and turn in the application to the Administrative Assistant for the Selectboard. The Road Foreman and Road Commissioner review the site and recommend action to the Selectboard who then vote to approve the application.

• Can I get road material from the Town Garage?

  Yes, you can pick up sand for your driveway or walkway. The Town Garage is located on Depot Road; the sand pile is located outside the garage gate at the end of the Town Forest parking lot.