Town Government
Boards & Commissions
What Boards & Commissions Are
Beyond the Board of Selectmen and the School Committee, much of Dover’s governing happens on boards and commissions. They approve new development, hear zoning appeals, protect the wetlands and open space along the Charles River, weigh in on historic places, and guide services for residents. They are the rooms where an ordinary resident can have the most direct hand in a decision.
Dover fills many of these seats by town-wide election: the Planning Board, the Board of Health, the Board of Assessors, the Library Trustees, the Park and Recreation Commission, and the Cemetery Commission were all on the May 2026 ballot. The Board of Selectmen appoints the rest. Either way the meetings are public, and seats open up regularly.
Key Boards & Commissions
- Planning Board reviews subdivisions, site plans, and major development. Elected.
- Zoning Board of Appeals hears variances and special permits.
- Conservation Commission protects Dover’s wetlands, the Charles River, and open space.
- Warrant Committee reviews the budget and advises Town Meeting on spending.
- Board of Health oversees inspections, wells and septic, and public health rules. Elected.
- Historical Commission works to protect Dover’s historic places and records.
For the full roster, current members, vacancies, and schedules, see doverma.gov.
How to Serve
- Find an opening on the town’s boards and committees page.
- Submit a letter of interest or application to the Board of Selectmen office.
- Interview if asked, and await appointment by the Board of Selectmen.
- Serve: attend the public meetings and help make decisions for your town.
Serving on a board is one of the most direct ways to shape Dover.