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Assessing Department - Campground FAQs

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1. I just bought a camper/trailer/park model/mobile home…what do I need to do?

1. Provide a copy of the Bill of Sale to the Assessor’s Office. Copies can be sent via email to assessor@wellstown.org or by postal mail to Assessor, 208 Sanford Rd, Wells, ME 04090. The Bill of Sale should include the seller’s name, buyer’s name, location and description of the unit, date of sale, sale price, and mailing address where the buyer will receive the tax bill. 

2. Apply for a State of Maine title (for units 1995 model year or newer). Applications for a title can be obtained at the town’s Finance & Tax Collection office, at Maine Bureau of Motor Vehicle branch offices, or by contacting the Title Unit in Augusta at (207) 624-9000 x52138. 

3. If you purchased a camper or trailer (including park models) and the seller did not collect sales tax, file an Individual Use Tax Return (IUSE) with the State of Maine. Forms are available online from the Maine Revenue Services website or at the Assessor’s Office. If you purchased a used manufactured home (mobile home), your purchase is tax exempt and you do not need to file an IUSE form. 

2. I bought a unit; will I get a tax bill?

By state law, if your unit was in the Town of Wells on April 1, the unit is taxable for the tax year of July 1 – June 30, and you will receive a town property tax bill in the fall. The only exceptions to this are trailers with a current State of Maine registration (license plate) as of April 1 or motorhomes. If your unit is not taxable but you have other taxable property such as a shed or deck, you will receive a bill for only the taxable items. 

3. I bought my unit in the middle of the year. Do I have to pay all the tax?

Tax bills are not prorated by the town. Buyers and sellers are encouraged to make arrangements between themselves to apportion the property tax at the time of the sale. Taxes are assessed to the owner of record on April 1, however, for your convenience, tax bills are mailed to the current owner at the time the bills are issued. 

4. Can I get a beach sticker?

You must be a taxpayer in the Town of Wells to purchase a beach sticker. If your unit or other taxable property, such as a shed or deck, was in town as of April 1, you will receive a property tax bill in the fall and you are considered a taxpayer for the purpose of buying a beach sticker. If you brought your taxable property into town after April 1, you will not receive a tax bill for that year and you may not purchase a beach sticker; you will receive a tax bill and be eligible for a beach sticker the following year if your unit is still in town the following April 1. 

5. I just sold a camper/trailer/park model/mobile home…what do I need to do?

Provide a copy of the Bill of Sale to the Assessor’s Office. Copies can be sent via email to assessor@wellstown.org or by postal mail to Assessor, 208 Sanford Rd, Wells, ME 04090. The Bill of Sale should include the seller’s name, buyer’s name, location and description of the unit, date of sale, sale price, and mailing address where the buyer will receive the tax bill. 

6. Will I get a tax bill if I sold my unit?

If you sell your unit and your Bill of Sale has been submitted to the Assessor’s Office before tax bills are mailed in the fall, the tax bill will be sent to the new owner. If you receive a bill for a unit you have sold, you are responsible for forwarding the bill to the new owner. Tax bills are not prorated by the town. Buyers and sellers are encouraged to make arrangements between themselves to apportion the property tax at the time of the sale. 

7. I removed my unit this summer. Why did I get a tax bill?

By state law, if your unit was in the Town of Wells on April 1, the unit is taxable for the tax year of July 1 – June 30. The only exceptions to this are trailers with a current State of Maine registration (license plate) as of April 1 or motorhomes. Removing your unit from the town after April 1 does not affect your property tax bill nor remove your obligation to pay property tax for that year. 

8. Can I add another person as a co-owner of my unit?

Yes. You need to fill out an Additional Owner Form, available from the Assessor’s Office. The form must be signed by the current owner and the new additional owner(s). 

9. My friend is staying at my place this summer. Can they get a beach sticker?

Beach stickers are only available to Town of Wells taxpayers and must be used on vehicles owned by or assigned to the taxpayer.

10. I have more questions, who do I contact?

Call the Assessor’s Office at (207) 646-6081, send an email to assessor@wellstown.org, or visit us on the second floor of Town Hall at 208 Sanford Road, Wells, Maine. We are open Monday through Friday, 8 am to 4 pm, and 8 am to 6 pm on the first and third Tuesdays of each month.

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Assessing Department - General FAQs

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1. What is the difference between assessment year, fiscal year and commitment date?

The assessment year is April 1st of each year as set by state law. The ownership and condition of all property is fixed as of that date each year. Any ownership changes or improvements to the property made after the April 1st date will not change the tax bill. Those changes will be reflected the next April 1st date.

The fiscal year is July 1st thru June 30th. This is the year of the budget approved at the town meeting in June of each year. The tax bills issued in November covers the period of July 1st June 30th.

The commitment date is the date set each year when the Tax Assessor commits the town’s assessment roll to the Tax Collector to allow for the receipt of payment.

2. I purchased my property in June of this year, why is the former owner's name still listed on the tax bill?

In accordance with state statute, we are required to commit property taxes to the owner of record as of April 1st, the state-wide assessment date. The former owner's name is still listed because the sale took place after the date of April 1st.

3. I sold my property in May of this year, why is my name still on the tax bill?

We are required, by law, to commit property taxes to the owner of record as of April 1st. Whoever the owner was on that date, is the name that will appear on the bill. It would be in your best interest to forward this bill to the new owner in a timely manner. While they are now the owners of the property at risk, your name is on the bill and you are responsible for the taxes. We would encourage you to check your closing statement carefully to see how the proration of taxes was handled.

4. I sold my trailer over 8 months ago, the bill is still in my name. What do I do about the taxes?

Mobile homes and travel trailers are considered by law to be chattel. They are not transferred by deed. Therefore, we must rely on either buyers or sellers to provide us with bills of sale on these types of property in a timely manner. State law says that we assess this type of property to the last known owner of record. It would benefit buyers and sellers of these properties to consider prorating the taxes on these units, as you would in a real estate transfer.

5. How is the tax rate established?

The annual budget is set by way of the Town Meeting which occurs in June of each year. The tax rate is calculated by dividing the approved budget amount by the town’s total assessed property value, which is determined by the assessor after the yearly property review is done and new information processed which spans from the spring to the fall of each year.

6. I pulled my trailer out of the campground at the end of the summer, why am I getting a tax bill for July of this year through June of next year?

Mobile homes, campers, travel trailers and park models in Maine are assessed if they are on site as of April 1st of each year. The tax bill for the fiscal year is based on the preceding April 1st. There is nothing in State Law to allow for proration of taxes based on removal of the property. Please keep in mind that the first year your unit was on site in Wells, it was most likely put there after April 1st and you did not receive a tax bill that year.

7. What is market value?

Market value is the most probable price that a property will bring if offered for sale in the open market and sold as an arms-length transaction. A purchase price does not necessarily represent true market value if any special circumstances are involved in the sale.

Special circumstances include, but are not limited to:

• An abutter, or a lease-holder
• Financial duress
• Sale to a family member

Obviously, the more arms-length transactions that an assessor has to work with, the better any adjustments will be as a result.

8. What constitutes an arms-length transaction?

An arms-length transaction is a sale between a willing buyer and seller that isn't affected by any extraneous circumstances that might have caused the purchase price to be adjusted from the standard price. In order to consider sales that aren't arms-length transactions, we would have to rate the level of impact to the price, which would be a speculative task at best.

9. Is my assessed value what you think my house is actually worth?

Your tax assessed value at 100% average ratio is usually within 10% higher or lower than an actual sale might be.

While individual appraisals are opinions of property value based on a specific date and time and for a specific reason (refinancing, estate planning, etc), tax assessment is based on the mass appraisal method which deals with averages of sales in specific areas in a specific time period. Sales occurring after the assessment date are then part of the ongoing inventory of sales that determine when the next revaluation might occur.

10. My property has been on the market for a long time with no offers. Should my value be reduced?

Although the real estate sales market has improved, we are not seeing the excesses of sales that occurred between 8 and 10 years ago.

It does not mean that your property is necessarily listed or assessed too high. If the asking price is reduced enough, someone will buy your property, often times as an investment towards the future.

The worst situation that anyone could find themselves in is where one would have to sell their property.

11. Can the town assess me for more than market value or have a ratio of more than 100%?

The average ratio of 100% is the goal in assessing. If the town drops down below an average of 70% ratio (sales being higher than assessed value) and has a quality rating higher than 20, the state will tell us that it is time for us to consider a revaluation.

This will also happen when the average ratio climbs above 110% and has a quality rating of higher than 20. We have recently undergone the revaluation process which has adjusted values both up and down to a level closer to the desired average ratio of 100%.

12. I purchased my house for $275,000 and you have it assessed at $325,000. Will you reduce my assessment? If I had paid more, would you have increased the assessment?

We would not automatically reduce your assessment if you paid $50,000 less, nor would we automatically increase it if you paid $50,000 more for it. This information would be kept in our inventory of sales to be used at such time that another revaluation would occur.

What we would do is go over the information that we have on your property to make sure that we are assessing it correctly. The law does not allow for spot assessment. Unless a change in a property's land value is made for a specific reason pertaining to that specific property, any standard adjustments would have to be applied to all properties to maintain equity in valuation.

13. Why did my mortgage appraisal come in less than my assessment? Is my tax valuation too high?

A mortgage appraisal is an opinion of value. You probably paid for it, but it wasn’t done for you, it was done for the lending institution. Its purpose is to assess risk.

We like to review the appraisal to make sure that the basic data agrees with what we have on file. We also pay close attention to the comparable sales used in the appraisal, and often develop our own list of comparable sales. At that point, we have already checked our records to see if our information is correct and will then meet with you to discuss the issue.

14. If the Assessor asks to view the interior of my home, do I have to allow them entry?

No, you do not have to let us in. In order to make the process as fair as possible, however, each property should be fairly assessed on what is actually there, and not left to guess or interpretation. If you deny us permission to do an interior inspection, you may lose your right to appeal an assessment based on our estimation.

15. What causes an assessment to change?

Improvements made to your property, and any change in data discovered through inspection or online advertising if your property is listed for sale. In fact, you do not have to make any changes to your property for your value to change. A revaluation or a simple factoring of value will result in a change.

16. When will you do another revaluation?

We keep a close eye on sale prices, doing ratio studies each month as the information is received. A revaluation is typically done when the average ratio falls below 70% or rises above the 110% state guidelines and a solid trend is established.

Now that our cost and depreciation schedules have been rebuilt and updated, it may be possible to make yearly adjustments following the trend of sale value, whether up or down, thereby avoiding steep valuation cliffs where properties increase or decrease dramatically.

17. What if I think my taxes are too high?

The fact that you have a high tax bill is not, in itself, a valid reason for appeal.

The first thing you should do is come into the office or go online and review the information regarding your property to determine if it is cataloged correctly. Equity in assessment can be checked by reviewing other properties in your vicinity to see if they are being assessed using the same standards. The land around you should be assessed as yours is, and if not, there should be a rational explanation as to why it isn’t.

For example, if you have a cape-style home in a subdivision where all lots are somewhat the same size, the assessments are generally similar. What might make them different is the size and quality of the home, or the proximity to a view, for example. You can review sales that have occurred in your area. Another way to analyze the situation would be through an appraisal done for the purpose of disputing a tax assessment.

18. What are my rights and options as a taxpayer?

By state statute, each taxpayer has 185 days from the commitment date to submit an application for abatement. We encourage you to come in and review your property information with us before you file a formal application.

If you do end up filing an application, we have 60 days to respond. If you do not agree with the assessor’s determination, you can file an appeal with the local Board of Assessment Review. If you do not agree with the BAR decision, you can appeal to Superior Court.

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Code Enforcement Office

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1. When is a Building Permit Required?

• Construction or alteration of any building or structure
• Installation of a swimming pool of any kind
• Demolition of a structure (Hazard determination may be required)
• Change in use or occupancy to include change of use of unit/building or Tenant fit-up
• Buildings and structures moved into or within the Town of Wells
• Interior alterations
• Installation or replacement of a sign or banner prior to it being errected
• Plumbing work
• Window replacement
• Sheds and decks that are moved, built or rebuilt
• Driveway openings may require permits for one of the following: new, relocated or altered

The Code Enforcement Officer will not act upon any application for a building permit until all required documents or other permits which may be required by the Zoning Ordinance, and other local ordinances, or under State or Federal law/ regulations have been received.

Each application for a building permit shall include:
• Plot Plan - drawn to scale showing and stating the dimensions in feet of the lot;
location and size/dimensions of all buildings proposed, existing, moved, or
demolished on such lot, indicate distance from lot lines to buildings; show street(s), alleys or right of ways on or
adjacent to the lot; wetlands and any other water bodies, indicate with an arrow the direction of North (N)
• Statement of the use intended to be made of any buildings and the lot itself even
in event of demolition
• Scope/description of work to be completed
• Drawings/Plans;
- New Structures/Dwelling units require a full set of Architectural drawings, and an 8-1/2 x 11” copy
- Smaller scope projects require a drawing/sketch with details and dimensions/materials to be used
• Copy of deed (if property is bought or split within two years)
• Bill of sale (if bought within two years)
• Square footage of all the work to be completed on a provided “square footage sheet”

Additional documents or requirements that may be requested and or needed.
• Wastewater disposal system documentation i.e. Septic design or Sewer District, (connection approval)
• Water Test indicating water is potable on the property if project is a new single family dwelling in a subdivision
• Height and/or Elevation Certificate completed by a licensed Surveyor/Engineer
• A letter stating that the Foundation was pinned by a licensed Surveyor/Engineer
• If the property is in a Flood Zone a DEP Permit and/or flood permit may be required
• Sprinkler Systems requires two sets of plans from the designer of the system if it is part of a subdivision
• Demolition of a building will require all taxes to be paid on the structure prior to demolition approval
• If installing LVL or Steel Beams, Truss rafter systems, engineering specifications are required
• Sheds, if manufactured (store bought), a copy of design specifications
• For subdivisions, owners/contractors must refer to the site plan notes for additional requirements

If you are not sure what will be required for your project, please call the Code Office at 207-646-5187.

The information above is based on the most frequently asked question to the Code Enforcement Office

2. What are the Requirements and Process for Pinning Footings/ Foundations?

1. The following criteria will be used in the review process in determining those projects that will need to be pinned prior to pouring concrete for footings/foundations.
a. Projects with structures that are within five feet of any setbacks/buffers.
b. Projects with structures that fall within a specified building window/envelope that is within five feet of any specified control points/lines within the building window/envelope.
c. Projects that have required building to building distances.
d. Projects deemed by this office as necessary based on the above factors, and or past practices, as well as for any projects where a distance or factor warrants consideration.

2. The following outlines the process for compliance this office is requiring.
a. Prior to pouring concrete the footing/foundation will be pinned and clearly marked by a professional Surveyor/Engineer.
b. A formal letter from the individual or company who pinned the site is also required. The letter must be on company letter head, and signed. The letter should indicate the Map/Lot, address/location of where the work was completed and a brief statement indicating work completed; referencing the site pinned meets all required setbacks as outlined on the plot or site plan that was submitted for the project.

3. If a Code Enforcement official arrives for a scheduled inspections and the site is not pinned, and the letter has not been received the footings will not be inspected, which could delay your construction schedule, plan accordingly.

4. This policy has been in place for some time now, and is typically stated under the Zoning and Planning conditions of a permit. For all projects that have had Planning Board/Staff Review approval this condition is also noted on your approved site plans.

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Energy Advisory Committee

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1. How much energy used in Maine is renewable energy?

Estimates of 2020 show that 13.66% of ‘Energy Consumption’ in Maine was ‘Renewable Energy’ not including biomass but others such as wind, solar, hydroelectric, geothermal, etc.

https://www.eia.gov/state/print.php?sid=ME

As for ‘Electric Power’, 52% of electricity generated in Maine in 2021 was produced by hydroelectric, wind, and solar.

https://www.eia.gov/electricity/data/browser/#/topic/0?agg=2,0,1&fuel=vvvvu&geo=004&sec=g&freq=A&start=2001&end=2021&ctype=linechart<ype=pin&rtype=s&maptype=0&rse=0&pin=

2. How many cars sold in Maine are Electric Vehicles (EVs)?

As of April 2022, there were about 6,000 electric and/or hybrid vehicles in Maine. “At the end of 2021, there were 5,577 electric and hybrid vehicles registered in Maine, according to a progress report from the Maine Climate Council”

https://www.wmtw.com/article/maine-promotes-electric-vehicle-ownership-to-combat-climate-change/39412221

The number of total current registered electric vehicles in Maine is 1,920.

https://stacker.com/maine/see-how-many-electric-vehicles-are-registered-maine

3. What are the price ranges of EVs on the market today?

Right now, there are 34 fully electric 2022 car models from 20 brands available to buy with prices starting under $30 grand and that’s before including state or federal credit savings.

4. Are WEAC meetings open to the public?

Anyone is welcome to attend and watch our meetings which occur every third Wednesday of each month at the Town Hall unless scheduled otherwise.

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Footer FAQs

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1. When is the Transfer Station open?

The Transfer Station is Open:

Tuesday - Friday
8:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.
Saturday
8:00 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.
Closed Holidays
Hours subject to change.

2. How do I dispose of trash?

The Town has a Pay Per Bag program. Bags are available at selected local stores as well as the Town Hall and Transfer Station. The Transfer Station also accepts recyclables. Please call the Transfer Station for more information.

3. Where can I buy the orange “Pay-as-you Throw” trash bags?

Pay-as-you-Throw trash bags can be purchased at the following locations: 

Aubuchon Hardware

ClipperMart

Cumberland Farms 

Hannaford Supermarket 

Rite Aid 

Spillers Farm Store

Wells IGA

Wells Town Hall.

4. How do I recycle?

The Transfer Station accepts the following recyclable items at no charge: Cardboard, Paper, Bottles & Cans, Plastic (all numbers - EXCEPT Styrofoam & Plastic Bags), Oil, Grass & Leaves, Good Wood Pallets.

5. During what hours is Town Hall open?

The Town Hall is open Monday through Friday - 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Exceptions are for federal / state holidays and weather emergencies.

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General FAQs

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1. When is the Transfer Station open?

The Transfer Station, located at 386 Willie Hill Road in Wells, is open Tuesday – Friday 8:30 am to 4:00 pm and Saturday - 8:00 am to 3:30 pm. Closed Sunday, Monday & Holidays. Hours subject to change.

2. How do I dispose of trash?

Residents are required to purchase a roll of Pay-As-You Throw bags. These bags are orange in color with the town seal imprinted on the side of the bag. Bags are available in 3 sizes:

• 15 gallon for $8.00 for a roll of 5 bags
• 33 gallon for $10.50 for a roll of 5 bags
• 45 gallon for $20.50 for a roll of 5 bags.

Bags must be tied shut with nothing sticking out. Bags must then be brought to the Wells Transfer Station for proper disposal. An attendant can direct you to the appropriate area for trash disposal.

Large waste and bulky items that do not fit in the orange bags are subject to extra fees. An attendant must evaluate the item, determine a fee and receive payment prior to placing the item in the disposal area.

3. Where can I buy the orange "Pay-as-You-Throw" trash bags?

The bags are sold are various locations around town:

• Aubuchon Hardware, 1165 Post Road
• Hannaford Supermarket, 107 Wells Plaza
• Walgreens Wells, 1036 Post Road
• Spiller's Farm Store, 1054 Branch Road
• Wells Town Hall 208 Sanford Road
• Wells Transfer Station, 386 Willey Hill Road

4. During what hours is Town Hall open?

Town Hall is open Monday - Friday 8 a.m. - 4 p.m. and on the 1st and 3rd Tuesday of each Month 8 a.m. - 6 p.m.  Exceptions are for federal / state holidays and weather emergencies.

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Planning & Development

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1. How do I schedule a Pre-Construction Meeting?

Please contact the Office of Planning & Development with some suggested dates and time of day for your pre-construction meeting. We will co-ordinate with the appropriate Town Departments, town third party inspectors and other utility companies that have interest in the development. Once a date and time is set we will contact you so that you can co-ordinate with your contractors and subcontractors. Pre-Construction meetings are held at Town Hall.

2. When is the deadline for submitting an application to the Planning Office for Planning Board or Staff Review Committee consideration?

The initial submission of a site or subdivision application is strictly required to be provided to the Planning Office no later than 4 PM on the dates specified within the submission deadline calendar provided on this website here and posted in Town Hall. A good rule of thumb is no later than 4 PM, 10 business days before a desired scheduled meeting.

3. Who sends abutter notices?

The Office of Planning & Development is happy to mail notices to abutters on your behalf as this can provide some savings in postage costs for the applicant and ensures that the most up to date mailing addresses and all applicable abutters are notified of your proposed development. If you wish to prepare your own notices, we recommend you contact the Planning Office so we can assist you in preparing an accurate abutter mailing list. 

4. How many plan copies are needed?

• Copies of the site plan or subdivision plan for Planning Board applications to be provided in 1 of the following ways:

 3 plans measuring 24" by 36 inches plus 9 plans measuring 11" by 17 inches; or

 12 plans measuring 24" by 36 inches.  Please have plans pre-folded.

• Copies of the site plan for Staff Review Committee applications in 1 of the following ways:

 3 plans measuring 24" by 26 inches plus 5 plans measuring 11" by 17 inches; or

 8 plans measuring 24" by 36 inches. Please have plans pre-folded. 

5. What is a Reviewing Authority?

For applications seeking approval to operate a business the Town requires the business obtain site plan approval. The site plan is reviewed by the proper Reviewing Authority.  The Reviewing Authority for site plan approvals could be (1) the Code Enforcement Officer and Town Planner, the (2) Staff Review Committee, or the (3) Planning Board.  The Reviewing Authority Chart  defines which applications go before which Reviewing Authority.

For applications seeking subdivision approval for dwelling units and lots, the Town requires the subdivision obtain subdivision approval by the Planning Board. 

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Planning Board

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1. What does the Planning Board do?

The Planning Board is responsible for reviewing all subdivision applications and larger development proposals requiring site plan review. See the Land Use Ordinance (Chapter 145 of Town Code) and Subdivision Ordinance (Chapter 202 of the Town Code) for more information on requirements and processes.

See the Planning Department page for information and application forms. The Planning Board also participates in overall planning for the town and is involved in all proposed changes to the Land Use and Subdivision Ordinances.

2. When does the Planning Board meet?

The Planning Board meets 2 times per month, usually on the 1st and 3rd Monday of each month in the Littlefield Meeting Room located in Town Hall. Meetings typically begin at 7 p.m. All meetings are open to the public, however, not all meetings include public hearings.

If you wish to attend a meeting and / or speak at a meeting it is recommended you call the Planning Office to confirm meeting dates and times and to confirm that the project you wish to speak about is scheduled for a public hearing. Meetings are typically televised on the town public access channel. Review our meeting calendar for additional details.

3. Who attends scheduled site walks?

When the Planning Board receives an application they must consider scheduling a site walk of the property. The Planning Board typically schedules site walks for Saturday mornings, but it is always recommended that interested parties contact the Planning Office to confirm a date and time for a project of interest.

Site walks are open to the public and are held with a few Planning Board members, the applicant, the applicant's engineers, and concerned abutters in attendance. This is an opportunity for all attendants to better grasp the proposal, determine areas of concern or needed attention, and ask some general questions about the proposal. The results of the site walk will be formally reported at the next available Planning Board meeting.

Attendees of all site walks participate at their own risk and should keep in mind weather conditions, terrain, and be properly dressed and equipped. 

4. How does one become a member of the Planning Board?

To be considered for a position on the Planning Board one must be a year-round resident of the Town of Wells. All members and alternate members are volunteers who are able to devote 2 Monday evenings per month and an occasional Saturday morning for Planning Board meetings and scheduled site walks.

If you are interested in volunteering for a position on the Planning Board please contact the Volunteer Coordinator to fill out an application. As positions on the Planning Board become available, volunteer applications will be presented to the Board of Selectmen and a volunteer will be selected and appointed.

5. I have received an abutter notice. What should I do now?

If you have received an abutter notice for a subdivision or site plan application, this means a development is proposed on a lot that neighbors or is across the street from your own lot. It is recommended you call or visit the town Planning Office to review the proposal to better understand what is proposed.

Any comments or concerns you have should be made in writing and submitted to the Planning Office. Your comments will then be given to the applicant and the Planning Board members for review.

6. Are site walks held in bad weather?

The Planning Board does not schedule site walks during the months of January, February and March. The Planning Board also does not typically hold a scheduled site walk if the ground is covered with snow or during a storm. When possible the Planning Board will reschedule a site walk that was cancelled at the next available Planning Board meeting; or will have to wait until April to hold a site walk. If there is a concern about weather, it is recommended attendants call the Planning Office to confirm if a site walk will be held or not.

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Sex Offender FAQ

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1. Why is a sex offender moving into my community?

Unless there are court-ordered restrictions, sex offenders are constitutionally allowed to live wherever they choose. The Wells Police Department does not have the legal authority to dictate where sex offenders can live.

2. What is the Wells Police Department doing to keep my community safe from sex offenders?

The Wells Police verify home, work, and school addresses of all sex offenders in our community. We obtain current photographs and fingerprints for resident sex offenders. That information is shared with the State of Maine Sex Offender Registry to keep the registry up to date. We also do community notifications.

3. What is community notification, how is it done, and for which offenders?

Our community notifications involve the distribution of a bulletin when registered sex offenders move, work, or attend school in our community. The bulletin is distributed by hand to residents within approximately ¼ mile from the sex offender’s place of residence, work, or school. Additionally, we post the bulletin at public locations around Wells and maintain an email distribution list for those interested.

4. Which offenders are required to register, and for how long?

The State of Maine categorizes sex offenders as either 10 year registrants or lifetime registrants based on the amount of time they are required to be on the registry. Lifetime registrants are those who have been convicted of a sexually violent offense or have multiple convictions for a sex offense or offense that includes the essential elements of a sex offense or sexually violent offense. A 10 year registrant is a person who has been convicted of a sex offense.

5. If the offender is dangerous, why is he or she being released to the community?

Sex offenders and other criminals have always lived in our communities often without us being aware of their existence or criminal history. Offenders listed on the Maine Sex Offender Registry have all served the sentence required by the court system and are released under the supervision of law enforcement, corrections personnel, and the Maine Sex Offender Registry.

6. What can I do to protect my family?

Parents and guardians should be aware of grooming behaviors exhibited by known or unknown sex offenders. Grooming behaviors are actions deliberately undertaken with the goal of befriending a child in order to lower a child’s sexual inhibitions or establish an intimate friendship in preparation for the eventual act of sexual intercourse with the child.

Maintain open lines of communication with your children.

Share safety tips with your children, including Internet safety.

Query the Maine Sex Offender Registry periodically to identify registered sex offenders in your community. Additional queries can be made of the Dru Sjodin National Sex Offender Registry.

Statistics indicate that 90 percent of all sex crimes are committed by someone known to the victim, such as a family member or acquaintance.

7. What can I do if I observe a sex offender behaving suspiciously around children?

Report suspicious activity to the Wells Police Department.

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Staff Review Committee

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1. What does the Staff Review Committee do?

The Staff Review Committee reviews site plan applications that propose up to 6,000 square feet of gross floor area and / or land area; or fewer than 25 additional parking spaces; and the property is not subject to a prior site plan approval by a higher reviewing authority or the former Site Review Board. See the Land Use Reviewing Authority Chart in the Town Code chapter 145 for more information.

2. When does the Staff Review Committee meet?

The Staff Review Committee typically meets on the 2nd and 4th Tuesday of each month. Meetings typically begin at 9 a.m. and are held in the Town Hall Littlefield Meeting Room. To review meeting dates see our Meeting Calendar and Deadlines page.

3. Who are the Staff Review Committee members?

Staff Review Committee membership consists of representatives for the Road Commissioner, the Fire Chief, the Police Chief, the Code Enforcement Officer, and the Planning Director.

4. How does the Staff Review Committee differ from the Planning Board?

The Staff Review Committee does not conduct formal site walks or public hearings like the Planning Board does. Members of the public are welcome to attend Staff Review Committee meetings but must understand that these meetings are not public hearings and comments from the public are taken at the discretion of the committee.

All decisions made by the Staff Review Committee must be unanimous; if a vote for an application is not unanimous the application must go to the Planning Board, where votes are not required to be unanimous.

5. I've received an abutter notice for a project to be reviewed by the Staff Review Committee, what do I do now?

If you have received an abutter notice this means a development is proposed on a lot that neighbors or is across the street from your own lot. It is recommended abutters or those concerned call or visit the Planning Office to review the application as soon as possible.

Any comments, questions or concerns should be made in writing and submitted to the Planning Office so the Staff Review Committee can be made aware of possible issues that may exist.

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Town Clerk

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1. Where do I apply for a dog license?

Dog licenses are handled by the Town Clerk's Office. Forms are available at Town Hall, located at 208 Sanford Road. Cats do not require a license.

Town Clerk's Office

2. When do I license my dog?

Dog licenses are due by January 1st each year. Bring current rabies and neutering certificates, if applicable. Fee for male / female is $11, neutered / spayed is $6. This may be done by mail with updated information. Send certificate(s), fee, and a SASE to: Wells Town Clerk 208 Sanford Road Wells, ME 04090 For more information, please call 207-646-2882.

3. When are the polls open?

Visit the Town Meeting page to find out the date and time for upcoming poll openings here.   Please call the Town Clerk’s Office with questions at 207-646-2882.

4. Where in Wells do I vote?

All elections in Wells are held at the Wells Junior High School Gymnasium at 1470 Post Road (next to the Wells Library). Voter parking is located around the back of the Wells Junior High School building. Please follow the signs. Entry to the polling place is at the back of the building, Door #10. Use of the front parking area and front entrances of the school is strongly discouraged.

More Information on Town Meeting

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Town Hall

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1. During what hours is Town Hall open?

Town Hall is open Monday through Friday, from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. and 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. on the 1st and 3rd Tuesday of each month. Exceptions are for federal / state holidays and weather emergencies.

 

2. At what point does the Town declare a snow emergency?

A snow emergency is declared after a snowfall of more than three inches. Plowing starts on the snow emergency routes first and then continue on side streets.

3. Can I get a permit to operate a vehicle that is unregistered?

No, you must register a vehicle before operating on a public way. All registration requests can be handled at Town Hall, located at 208 Sanford Road. If your registration is a renewal, you may register online using the Rapid Renewal service. Rapid Renewal

4. How do I get a copy of an accident report?

Requests for accident reports are handled by the Records Department. They can be reached by calling the non-emergency phone number at 207-646-9354.

5. How do I get a permit to operate a vehicle that is not currently inspected?

You may come to the Police Department, located at 1563 Post Road, and request a permit. The officer will need your driver’s license and the vehicle registration in order to issue the permit. Permits are only valid from the point of origin directly to a local inspection station.

6. What is the non-emergency number for the Police Department?

Contact the Police Department at 207-646-9354 for non-emergency situations.

7. Where do I vote?

All residents vote at the Wells Junior High School Gymnasium located at 1470 Post Road, Wells, ME on the day of Town Meeting/ Elections. 

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Transfer Station

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1. When is the Transfer Station open?

The Transfer Station, located at 386 Willie Hill Road in Wells, is open Tuesday – Friday 8:30 am to 4:00 pm and Saturday - 8:00 am to 3:30 pm. Closed on Holidays. Hours subject to change.

View more information.

2. How do I dispose of trash?

Residents are required to purchase a roll of Pay-As-You Throw bags. These bags are orange in color with the town seal imprinted on the side of the bag. Bags are available in 3 sizes:

• 15 gallon for $8.00 for a roll of 5 bags
• 33 gallon for $10.50 for a roll of 5 bags
• 45 gallon for $20.50 for a roll of 5 bags.

Bags must be tied shut with nothing sticking out. Bags must then be brought to the Wells Transfer Station for proper disposal. An attendant can direct you to the appropriate area for trash disposal.

Large waste and bulky items that do not fit in the orange bags are subject to extra fees. An attendant must evaluate the item, determine a fee and receive payment prior to placing the item in the disposal area.

More Information about Pay as You Throw

3. Where can I buy the orange Pay-As-You-Throw trash bags?

The bags are sold are various locations around town:

• Aubuchon Hardware
  1165 Post Road
• Clipper Mart
  329 Post Road
• Cumberland Farms
  1547 Post Road
• Hannaford Supermarket
  107 Wells Plaza
• Rite Aid
  1036 Post Road
• Spiller's Farm Store
  1054 Branch Road
• Wells Super Food Market
  1517 Post Road
• Wells Town Hall 208 Sanford Road

More Information about Pay as You Throw

4. How do I recycle?

Recycling is free. The more you recycle the less trash you will generate and more you can save on orange bag purchases. Separate your recyclables at home ahead of time to reduce time and congestion when delivering your recycling to the Transfer Station.  The Transfer Station sorts Recycling into two ways: (1) All paper products; and (2) Co-mingled Recycling which includes glass, plastics and metals.   Please refer to the Transfer Station Brochure for more complete details. 

More Information

5. Where can I take my leftover Paint?

Aubuchon Hardware and Sherwin Williams in Wells. For Households and Businesses; Limit = 5 gallons per visit.

More Information on Leftover Paint

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Volunteers

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1. How do I become a volunteer?

We have many volunteer opportunities available: Boards, Commissions or Committees, Piping Plover Monitors, Healthy Beaches Water Quality Monitors, Library or Recreation. To volunteer, please complete a Volunteer Application, either online or through the Volunteer Application form. 

2. How do I apply online?

Applying to become a volunteer is just a click away! Apply today online by following the link below.  Please be sure to complete the application at one time, your responses will not be saved if you close out of the application before submitting it. 

Online Volunteer Application

3. Where can I find the form if I don't want to apply online?

Please complete the Town of Wells Volunteer Application form linked below and return by mail or by email.  

Volunteer Application

Return by mail to:

Rebekah Kelley
Volunteer and Communications Coordinator
Wells Town Office
208 Sanford Rd
Wells, Maine 04090

Or email to: 

rkelley@wellstown.org

Please include "Volunteer Application" in the subject of your email.  

4. How long will my application remain active?

Your Volunteer Application will remain active for 3 years. After that time, you will be required to reapply to any openings for Boards/ Committees that you are interested in.

5. What if I want to apply to be a volunteer at the Wells Public Library?

The Wells Public Library is seeking passionate, enthusiastic individuals to volunteers their time and efforts. 

Please complete and submit the Wells Library Volunteer Application to be considered for a role. 

Wells Public Library Volunteer Application

If you are under the age of 18, please return the form directly to: 

Cindy Appleby
Wells Public Library
1434 Post Road
Wells, Maine 04090

If you are over the age of 18, please return the completed form, as well as a background check to:

Rebekah Kelley
Wells Town Office
208 Sanford Road
Well, Maine 04090

or email to rkelley@wellstown.org

Please include "Library Volunteer Application" in your email.

6. What if I want to apply to be a volunteer within the Recreation Department?

The Recreation Department is always looking for new programs to offer to the community. If you have any interest or special talents and you would like to offer a program through us please fill out the Recreation Department's Volunteer / Coaches application, visit their volunteer page, or contact Tina LeBlanc at 207-646-5826. 

Please do not submit a general Volunteer Application form.