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The following was submitted by the town of Winchester:
Annual census forms were mailed to all residents Friday, Jan. 16, 2026.
All households are required to respond to the mailing within 10 days of receipt.
State law requires that every community conduct a census during the month of January, and the Town of Winchester takes this opportunity to include an educational insert regarding how to purchase a residential transfer station permit for 2026. Every household that would like to take their refuse to the transfer station facility on McKay Avenue will need to purchase the annual permit online or at the Town Clerk’s Office during normal business hours.
In accordance with State Law, the census is conducted annually in every city and town in Massachusetts. The information gathered is used to maintain a current voting list and to provide population and other information to various town departments.
Compliance with this state requirement provides proof of residence, protects voting rights, veteran’s bonus, housing for the elderly and related benefits as well as provides information for the selection of jurors.
Should you be concerned about address confidentiality you may contact the Secretary of the Commonwealth at https://www.sec.state.ma.us/acp/acpabtidx.htm to learn if you qualify for this program.
Note: The census form doesn’t register you to vote. If you are interested to register to vote you may now go to http://www.registertovotema.com to register. This opportunity is fast and convenient.
The Town Clerk’s Office will send you a registration confirmation letter in the mail to confirm that your online application was accurately received and processed.
The Town Clerk’s Office will conduct the Annual Town Election on Saturday, March 21, 2026. All elections for the town will be held at Winchester High School Gymnasium, 2nd floor for all eight precincts.
Early Voting and Vote by Mail will be available for this local election. You must submit an application for Vote By Mail.
The census mailing will include a permit application for the Town’s transfer station. Transfer station fees for the regular permits are $330 for the first vehicle in a household subsequent vehicles are $30 in the same household.
Residents residing in a multi-family (2 family units or more) residences must purchase separate permits for each household unit. Residents with income eligibility may apply for a low-income permit online or at the Health Department at Town Hall lower level.
You may purchase these permits online or return envelopes will be provided and forms must be mailed back to the Town Clerk’s Office 71 Mt. Vernon St., Winchester, MA 01890.
The mailing will include QR Code for you to easily purchase online. Grey Drop Boxes are available 24 hrs. for those residents who do not wish to use the USPS.
Your current 2025 permit expired on Dec. 31, 2025. Please act now to renew your 2026 transfer station permit.
For more information residents may contact the Office of the Town Clerk at 721-7130 press #1 or email townclerk@winchester.us Please do your part and file today.
Thank You,
MaryEllen Marshall CMC Winchester Town Clerk.
