Our Town
Chartered in 1761, Dorset is a vibrant and historic community nestled in the hills of southern Vermont. Well known for its mountains, valleys, and New England charm, Dorset is a great place to live.
The Town of Dorset offers a wide variety of municipal services for those who call Dorset home, whether just for a season or for the entire year.
Dorset is a small, rural town with 2,100 full-time, year-round residents. There are roughly 40 miles of public roads within the town that are serviced by year-round road maintenance. Dorset has limited public water services in the village area. Other municipal services include planning, zoning, and land use regulation and solid waste disposal.
Our Town Office is located at 112 Mad Tom Road in East Dorset. A full list of municipal services and opportunities to become involved can be found on the Town of Dorset’s website.
Recreation
The Town of Dorset offers discounts for residents who take part in the following programs:
- The Junior Instructor Ski Program (through The Dorset School)
- Riley Rink programs
- Manchester Parks & Recreation programs
- Long Trail School summer programs
- Swim lessons at Lawrence School for Young Children
In addition, Dorset residents receive free entry to Emerald Lake State Park.
Public Safety
The Town of Dorset is provided public safety services through the following organizations:
- Law Enforcement: Bennington County Sheriff’s Department
- Fire Protection: East Dorset & Dorset Fire Departments
- Emergency Medical Services: Manchester Rescue Squad
Town Government
The Town of Dorset is governed by a Selectboard, Town Manager, and Town meeting form of government. Each year on the first Tuesday in March, voting residents approve the municipal and school district budgets.
