WHAT IS GIS? 

The definition of a GIS according to the Environmental Systems Research Institute “ESRI” states that a Geographic Information System (GIS) is an organized collection of computer hardware, software, geographic data, and personnel designed to efficiently capture, store, update, analyze, and display all forms of geographically referenced information. 

One of the most powerful features of geographical analysis is the ability to quickly and visually compare different layers of information.  Just as a Town stores information by department in different databases, GIS stores information in thematic layers such as streets, hydrology, buildings, etc.  Each layer is managed separately in a GIS. The layers can be laid on top of each other creating a stack of information about the same geographic area.  Although the Town of Dover has had the ability to run GIS analysis since 2002, our GIS department was formally created in January 2005. The applications of GIS used in the Town of Dover currently consist of documenting Planning and Zoning application information and providing detailed maps for all Board applications.    Zoning maps are available for a fee based on the size and number of layers requested.