▼

Assessment Appeals

Show All Answers

1. How do I appeal my assessment?

The taxpayer may file an Abatement Application with their municipality, from the time of receipt of the final tax bill (usually in November), until March 1st of the following year. The town has until July 1st to grant or deny the application. Simply stating that your value is too high is insufficient. Gather as much information as you can on similar properties in your neighborhood. Check with a real estate broker, or use the sales record book in our Assessing Office.

Abatement application forms are available in the Assessing Office, or you may go to Board of Tax and Land Appeals website, and click on Municipal Abatement Form in the Property Tax Forms section. The Town of Bow does not require Inventory Blanks, so check N/A on that question on page 1 of the application form.

Please Note: Applying for a property tax abatement does not mean you should postpone paying your taxes. Taxes should be paid as assessed, by the deadline stated on your tax bill, or you will be subject to interest charges. If an abatement is granted, a refund with interest will be made. Board of Tax and Land Appeals website.

2. What if I think that my taxes are too high?

A tax rate applied to your property's assessed value determines the amount of tax you pay. All the taxing agencies: the municipality, county, state education, and the local school district, determine the tax rate, depending on what is voted on at the Town Meeting, the School District Meeting, and what is needed to provide all the services that citizens benefit from. The assessor does not set the tax rate. The assessor's primary responsibility is to find the fair market value of your property, so that you pay only your fair share of the taxes.

3. What if I think my assessment is too high?

If your opinion of the value of your property differs from the assessor's, we will be glad to answer your questions about how the assessed value was arrived at, and explain how to appeal if you still disagree. Without complete and precise data, however, equity is impossible. You can help by allowing in-house reviews, and providing us with accurate information.

▼

Building Department

Show All Answers

1. Do I need a permit?

Most building, demolition and home projects require a building permit. It is the responsibility of the homeowner and/or contractor to ensure that the proper permits are acquired prior to beginning the work process. All new construction, additions, decks, garages, sheds (over 200 SF), most renovations, and swimming pools require permits. Maintenance work such as replacing siding, or replacing an old deck with a new one exactly the same, does not need a permit. If the job entails enlarging such as adding dormers when replacing a roof, or conversions, such as making a deck into a screen porch these types of projects require permits. Mechanical (HVAC), gas, electrical, plumbing and sign (including temporary signs) require separate permits. Obtaining a building permit application can be done in person at the office, online or by email.

2. Am I allowed to have an accessory apartment in my home? What are the restrictions?

Yes. An accessory apartment is allowed in an owner-occupied single family residence, provided the lot has the minimum lot area or frontage required by the Ordinance. The dwelling unit must not exceed 800 sq. ft. of habitable floor area. If total number of bedrooms exceeds the existing septic system a new design must be put into place. Per Bow Zoning Ordinance all ADU's are subject to $723 impact fee payable prior to Certificate of Occupancy issuance. 

Zoning Ordinance.

3. I want to build an addition. What do I need to do?

You will need to file a completed building permit application along with drawings to describe what you intend to build. A scaled floor plan with all rooms identified showing doors, windows, closets, a foundation plan, elevation drawings and a plot plan to verify the location of the addition with regard to the setback requirements from your property lines. The minimum setbacks from the property line for Residential and Rural Zones are: Front 35 feet; Side & Rear are 20 feet; Business Development, Industrial Zones, Commercial Zones differ.

If you don’t have a plot plan, we can help generate one from the computer mapping system, or Septic design.

You will also need electrical, mechanical (heating and A/C) and plumbing permits as well as an energy code analysis to verify compliance with the State energy code.

4. Do I need to install a new septic system if I wish to add a bedroom to my home?

If the additional bedroom exceeds the total number of bedrooms for which the existing system was designed then a new septic system must be designed for the property. The newly approved system is not required to be installed until such time when the existing system fails.

5. I want to install/build a shed. Do I need a building permit?

Yes, if a shed is over 200 square feet a building permit is required to build or place a shed on a lot. Please file a completed building permit application with a copy of a plot plan showing the location of the shed on the lot. We can generate a small plot plan in our office if you don’t have one.

6. I want to build a garage. What do I have to do?

You need to file a completed building permit application along with a plot plan showing the location of the structure and appropriate drawings of the garage including a floor plan, elevations and a foundation plan all in ¼” to the foot scale. If there is going to be electricity in the garage, an electrical permit is also required.

7. I want to turn my deck into a porch. What do I need?

You will need to file a completed building permit application along with scaled drawings to show the conversion including a floor plan, elevations. You will need to show that the current foundation system is capable of supporting the additional loads or show how the foundation is to be modified to support the additional loads. Any electrical work requires an electrical permit.

8. I want to turn my screened porch into living space. Do I need a permit?

Yes, you will need to file a completed building permit application along with a floor plan with rooms identified and drawings sufficient to show the extent of the work including elevation drawings and energy code compliance. You will also need to file for electrical and mechanical (heating) permits.

9. I want to finish off my basement. Do I need a permit?

Yes, a building permit is required to create finished space in a basement. You will need to file a completed building permit application along with drawings including a floor plan with rooms identified and showing the means of egress, if any bedrooms are being created how the emergency egress/rescue opening(s) requirements are going to be provided, and how the requirements for combustion/ventilation air for the fuel burning appliances is going to be provided and whether there are sufficient windows in the space for ventilation. Electrical, mechanical (heating/ventilation) permits must also be filed along with plumbing permits if applicable. There may be an EC1 Form required (Energy Form). The building inspector would be able to address this with you. Basement requirements

10. What setback requirements do I have to adhere to?

Setback requirements vary and are determined by the zoning district. If you don’t know what zone your property is in, we can help you find that information.

11. What fire rating do I need for the entry doors from the garage to the house? I have seen 20, 45, 60 and 90 minute ratings.

The International Residential Code for 1 and 2 family dwellings states that the opening between the garage and residence shall be equipped with solid wood doors not less than 1 3/8 inches in thickness, solid or honeycomb core steel doors not less than 1 3/8 inches thick, or 20 minute fire-rated doors.

12. What is the maximum height for a porch floor before you need railings? I have been told 24” and 30”.

The code refers to guards not railings. The language of the code is: 36 inches high guards shall be located along open-sided walking surfaces, including stairs, ramps and landings, that are located more than 30 inches measured vertically to the floor or grade below at any point within 3 feet horizontally to the edge of the open side. Insect screening shall not be considered a guard.

13. Do I need a permit to replace roof shingles or siding?

No, provided there is no structural work involved. If it is discovered that some portion of the building framing needs to be replaced because of moisture damage then a permit and follow-up inspection would be required. Contact the building department for layer restrictions.

14. What about emergency repairs?

When emergency equipment replacement and/to repair is required, the work can be done on an emergency basis as long as the permit application is submitted to the building inspector the next working business day.

15. When is the project considered complete by the Building Inspector?

A construction project is not complete until the Building Inspector has done a final inspection. You will receive a paper stating either a Certificate of Occupancy or a Certificate of Use.

16. Do signs require a Permit?

Yes, see our Sign Information and Permits.

17. What is a CO?

A "CO" is a Certificate of Occupancy, which is applied for and issued when all the required inspections are completed satisfactorily. You must receive a CO before you can legally occupy a residence or an addition. We also issue Certificates of Use, which must be received before using a deck or a pool, or any other structure which has received a Building Permit. A Certificate is also required when there is a change in use of an existing building or land, to a use of a different zoning classification according to the Zoning Ordinance's Table of Use Regulations.

18. What if I am just having my electrical service upgraded?

You still need a Permit, just supply us with the name and license number of the electrician, and a brief description of what is planned.

19. How do I hook up to the municipal sewer system?

You should complete Plumbing application and contact Finance Department for the fee schedule.

20. How long does it take to get a building permit after I apply?

If the application package is complete, you will be notified a few days, but usually not more than 30 days. In some instances the permit can be issued when you apply, if the required information for the permit is complete. In some instances a plan review may be necessary in which the Building Inspector will make a determination if additional information may be needed and you will be given a plan review list of what is needed to obtain your building permit.

21. How much does a building permit cost?

For Residential Projects, the fee is based on the square footage, plus a basic non refundable application fee. Payment is required when the Permit is picked up. Commercial Projects, the fee is based upon square footage or price per $1,000 which ever is greater along with a non refundable permit fee.

Mechanical, Electrical, Plumbing & Sign permits are individual permits with each having different costs and a small non refundable application fee.

22. How long is a permit good for?

Building Permits automatically expire if the work has not commenced within one year (1), or if the work has not been completed with a period of two years (2). In order to continue you must write a letter asking for an extension which may result in additional fees.

23. Do you need a permit for a pool?

Pools do require a permit. It is the responsibility of the homeowner and/or contractor to ensure that the proper permits are acquired prior to beginning the work process. Replacing an existing pool with one exactly the same size, does not need a permit, just write us a letter indicating such. If the pool is going to be enlarged or decreased in size or if location changes you will need a permit. Pool Permit Information

24. What is required for installing a swimming pool?

A. Classification of pools: Any constructed pool which is used, or intended to be used, as a swimming pool in connection with a single family residence and available only to the family of the householder and his private guests shall be classified as a private swimming pool.

B. Plans: Plans shall accurately show dimensions and construction of the pool and appurtenances and properly established distances to lot lines, building, walks, fences, leach field, wetlands and well.

C. How long is a permit good for? Pool Permits automatically expire if the work has not commenced within one year (1), or if the pool has not been completed with a period of two years (2). In order to continue you must write a letter asking for an extension which may result in additional fees.

25. (Pool) How do I know when to call for an inspection?

For In ground pools and above ground pool projects, you will receive a checklist with a list of inspections that will be checked off along with a phone number in which you will be required to call to request the inspection that you will be need. We require a 24 hour notice when requesting your inspection(s). When requesting an inspection we need your pool permit number and project address.

▼

Emergency Management Department

Show All Answers

1. What number do I call for an emergency?

You would call 911.

2. How do I sign-up for Functional Needs Assistance

Go to the Town Emergency management Page and see Functional Needs Form or click the following web site and for forms. WWW.abcdefg@comcast .net

▼

Heritage Commission

Show All Answers

1. What is the Heritage Commission?

The Mission of the Bow Heritage Commission is to: research, identify, receive, preserve, protect, display and education our citizens about the Town of Bow’s Cultural and Historical Resources; and to advise and assist the Board of Selectmen, Planning Board, other agencies, organizations, and boards on matters affecting these resources.

▼

Parks and Recreation

Show All Answers

1. What are your office hours?

Monday - Friday 8:00 am to 4:00 pm. These hours are subject to change, due to programming and staffing.
After hour payments/registrations may be placed in our secure drop box next to the front door.

2. What happens if I am waitlisted for a program?

If openings become available for a waitlisted program, we will accept waitlisted individuals. Payment is not due when waitlisted; however, once accepted, payment is due.

3. What happens if a program is cancelled?

If Bow Recreation cancels a program, participants will receive a complete refund.

4. What types of payments do you accept?

We accept checks, made out to The Town of Bow, cash and credit card payments.  Credit cards are the only option for online registration at https://bownh.myrec.com

5. What happens if I decide not to participate in a program after I have registered?

Refunds are issued only if a registered participant cancels at least one week prior to the start of the program, *unless otherwise noted; less a $10.00 admin fee OR with a physician's note stating that the participant cannot continue participating due to a medical condition.
*Some programs will be noted that there are no refunds.

6. What happens if there is inclement weather?

Programs may be cancelled due to inclement weather. A decision regarding a cancellation will be made up to one hour before the start of the program. We will send out an email if a program is cancelled. Please be sure that your email is updated in your Household Account at https://bownh.myrec.com

7. Why do you need my email address?

Want to make sure you are the first to know about:
New Programs, Special Events and Cancellations? Please make sure we have your current email address as this is how we get our news out.
Not getting our emails after you have registered for a program? Check your spam mail to see if it is going there. Let us know if you are having a problem.
Like our Face Book Page: Bow Parks & Recreation to keep up to date with news as well.

8. Why do you ask about my medical conditions?

In case of an emergency and 911 is called, if possible, we will send the EMTs with a copy of your registration form. Any medical information that would be helpful for them to know, should be included on your registration form. Please be sure to update your Household Account at https://bownh.myrec.com.  Also, any medical information that may be helpful for the staff to know should be listed.

9. May I register for a program if I do not live in Bow?

Yes, most of our programs are open to residents and non-residents. We do charge a slightly higher fee for non-residents. Please take note of dates for registration for residents/non-residents.

▼

Police Department

Show All Answers

1. How do I obtain a copy of an incident report?

To obtain a copy of an incident report you must write a letter requesting a copy. There is a set fee if the report is picked up at the Bow Police Department located at 7 Knox Road. There is an additional fee if the report is mailed.

For further information contact the Records Division, Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m., at 603-223-3950, ext. 350.

2. How do I obtain a concealed-carry pistol permit?

Concealed Pistol permits are issued through the Police Department in the Town where you reside. The cost of the permit is $10 and is valid for five years from the date of issue.

In order for Bow residents to obtain a pistol permit, an applicant must provide his/her driver's license with Bow as the primary address, be at least 18 years of age, and have a criminal record check free of felony convictions. The Police Department will obtain a criminal record check on the individual, and note any felony or violent crimes that may prevent the issuance of the permit. Domestic violence related crimes or restraining orders may prevent the issuance of a permit.

To obtain a copy of the application for a pistol permit and reference letter form, visit our Forms & Documents page.

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

Copies of accident reports can be obtained at the NH Department of Motor Vehicles. The Department of Motor Vehicles can be reached by e-mail at NH.DMVHelp@dos.nh.gov or by telephone at (603) 227-4040. You can also find additional information on their website: https://www.nh.gov/safety/divisions/dmv/financial-responsibility/accidents-crashes.htm#crash-report

Schedule of Fees.

4. How do I handle an annoying call?

There are potential legal ramifications for harassing telephone calls under New Hampshire state law. To assist individuals receiving such calls, we have created an Handling Annoying Calls Guide.

5. How do I arrange for the police to check my home while I am on vacation?

We have created a guide to assist residents in taking part in our Vacant House Check program.

For more information, visit the Vacant House Checks page.

6. What are the fees imposed by the Bow Police Department for services?

There are a number of fees charged for a variety of services performed by the Bow Police Department. To review the current schedule of fees, please visit our Fee Schedule page.

7. How do I contact the police department

 If you have an emergency dial 9-1-1 or 228-0511 for the on-duty officer (Merrimack County Dispatch). Please refer to our staff directory to speak with a specific officer. For records, please call 603-223-3950 x350. 

▼

Property Assessments & Valuation

Show All Answers

1. How is property appraised in Bow?

In New Hampshire, all municipalities are required to adjust property values at least every five years to keep in line with market values. The tax year runs from April 1st to March 31st, and the assessed value for that time period reflects your property's status as of the April 1st that begins the tax year. The Town of Bow has begun a program to update all property values annually and keep assessments current with market value. We will be conducting Cycled Inspections, whereby we will measure and inspect one-fifth of the town every year on a rotating basis, as well as analyze all the pertinent sales. This meets the state requirement, is less expensive and avoids large changes in property values as can happen when a revaluation is done just once every five years. Prior to the inspection, property owners will receive a notification from the Assessing Department indicating a representative will be in their neighborhood. A data collector will visit each property in the area and ask an adult for permission to inspect the interior of the home and any other buildings. This data will be used for neighborhood market analysis which may be used to adjust values. In addition, properties that have had a building permit or have had changes that affect value are adjusted annually to reflect those changes, so that all assessments are reasonably proportional within the municipality. If no one or only a minor is home, all accessible buildings will have the exteriors measured and recorded, and a notice will be sent asking the property owner to contact us for an appointment. They will not enter a house in which an adult is not present. Always ask for identification if you do not see any on the person at your door. You are not required to allow the data collector inside your home; however it is important for the accuracy of your subsequent assessment and for the overall success of the assessment review. Also, you should be aware that any appeal that you file will be denied if you do not allow an interior inspection, per RSA 74:17, II. We hope that you will accommodate us in this important project; it should only take about 10 -15 minutes of your time, and we thank you in advance for your cooperation. If you have any questions or concerns, please call the Assessing Department at 223-3975.

2. How can I check the ownership or assessed value of a property?

Property information is available in the Assessing Office and online at Vision Government Solutions website. We do not mail or fax property record cards unless prepaid. Please note: For the official and most current information, contact the Assessing Office. For questions about property tax, such as the amount of tax owed or status of payment, please contact the Tax Collector's Office at 603-223-3983.

Vision Government Solutions website

3. What is fair market value?

Basically, finding the market value of a property involves determining the price most people would pay for it, in its present condition. To find the fair market value of any piece of property, the assessor must first know what the properties similar to it are selling for, what it would cost to replace it, how much is needed to operate and keep it in repair, what rent it may earn, and then look at many other factors affecting its value, such as the current rate of interest charged for borrowing the money to buy or build on similar properties in the area. Sales and trends must be continually analyzed and then applied to neighborhoods. More specifically, fair market value is defined as "the most probable price in terms of money in a competitive and open market, assuming that the buyer and seller are acting prudently and knowledgeably, allowing sufficient time for the sale, and assuming that the transaction is not affected by undue pressures."

4. How do values change from year to year?

Many factors affect the real estate market. If a community builds a superb high school, families are more attracted to that community, resulting in higher values as people compete for available housing. If a community endeavors to attract business and industry, the subsequent commercial/industrial increase results in a shift of some of the tax burden away from the homeowners. The assessor has not created the value. People create value by their transactions in the marketplace. The assessor has the legal responsibility to study these transactions, and appraise properties accordingly. In addition, if you were, for example, to enlarge your home or add a pool, obviously the assessed value would be increased. Conversely, if your property is neglected and suffers from deferred maintenance, then the assessed value would be decreased. The assessor has the responsibility to review all building permits and other changes that have occurred in the past year which may affect property values. Please notify us if you remove a shed or a pool or otherwise decrease your value, so we may make an adjustment.

5. How do I calculate the equalized assessment of my property?

To determine the equalized assessment, divide your assessed value by the equalization ratio. For example: say your property is assessed at $360,000 and using a hypothetical equalization ratio of 90%, $360,000 ÷ 0.90 = $400,000. This would be the equalized assessment or approximate market value of your property as of April 1 of the year with that particular ratio. The tax year runs from April 1st to March 31st. Also bear in mind that the equalization ratio is an average figure which is derived from sales that may include many types of properties: commercial, residential, industrial, vacant land, etc.

6. What is the Equalization Ratio?

The equalization ratio indicates the relationship between assessed value and market value. This ratio is determined for each municipality every year by the NH Department of Revenue Administration, through a study of the qualified sales that occurred within the municipality during the previous year. The equalization ratios are usually made public the following Spring. The history of ER for Bow can be viewed here: History of Bow Equalization Ratio

▼

Property Tax Relief

Show All Answers

1. Why do we have a property tax?

Properties are appraised so that citizens share the cost of having schools, fire and police protection, waste disposal and other public services. It is important to keep values accurate and current so that everyone pays their fair share of these costs, in proportion to the value of their individual properties. The property tax is part of a balanced revenue system. It is a more stable source of money than sales and income taxes, because it tends not to fluctuate as much when communities have recessions. When the municipality spends your tax dollars on better schools, parks, sewers, and so forth, then you receive the benefit of increased property value.

2. What kind of tax relief does Bow offer?

Bow offers exemptions and tax credits for qualified veterans, elderly, blind, and disabled resident homeowners, as well as for solar and wood heating energy systems as defined by NH statutes. See below for details. These applications are available in our office, or on the State of NH website for Taxpayer Assistance. The due date for these applications is April 15. Please feel free to ask us about your eligibility for tax relief. As always, your financial information is kept confidential and returned to you. For a list of these exemptions please visit the Tax Relief Options page.

3. Are there other types of tax relief available?

The State of New Hampshire offers a program called the "Low & Moderate Income Homeowners Property Tax Relief program" which was designed to lessen the economic burden of the State Education Property Tax on certain at-risk taxpayers. You must apply to the State of NH during the statutory filing period - after May 1, but no later than June 30. For details and applications, visit the State of NH website for Low and Moderate Income Homeowners Property Tax relief. Applications are also available at the Bow Assessing Department. Homeowners Property Tax Relief

▼

Town Clerk

Show All Answers

1. Can I renew my husbands registration for him?

Yes, with the current registration and / or renewal notice.

2. What paper work do I need to transfer my plate to my new car?

If you bought a car from a NH dealer come in with a blue sheet and the Original registration for the plate.