On May 3, 2021, Mayor Harry Rilling announced that Norwalk City Hall would be open to the public with no appointments necessary beginning on Thursday, May 20. City Hall has been open to the public by appointment-only since September 2020, and upwards of 80 residents are conducting business inside City Hall on any given day. Starting May 20, visitors to City Hall will not need an appointment, but they must check in at the Security Desk. 

“The public health situation is improving. More people are being vaccinated, with more than 50% of Norwalk residents having received at least one dose. New positive COVID-19 cases are holding steady, and in many areas of the state, including Norwalk, case rates are going down. Things are heading in the right direction and it is time to get back to a greater sense of normalcy,” Mayor Rilling said. “The health and safety of our staff and the public has been and continues to be my top priority. I am incredibly proud that we have provided critical services throughout the pandemic and kept Norwalk running at a high level. I appreciate the public’s patience and the staff’s dedication during this public health crisis. These past 13 months have been a challenge for all of us, and while we are not out of the woods just yet, I am confident that we can reopen City Hall without appointments and keep everyone safe.” 

The opening without appointments on May 20 was strategically selected for two reasons. First, by that date, City staff who wished to be vaccinated would have had ample time to receive both doses and be fully vaccinated. Additionally, this date coincides with Governor Ned Lamont’s announcement that he was lifting most COVID-19 restrictions across the state on May 19.  

The Customer Service window inside the Main Entrance, and the Recreation and Parks window outside of City Hall, will be staffed every weekday. Those who wish to visit a department in-person should proceed to the Security Desk to be checked in and given a clearance badge. Residents are encouraged to continue using many of the City’s online services, as most routine business can be conducted remotely. 

Face coverings and physical distancing are required while inside of City Hall. Those who are not feeling well should not visit City Hall and consult with their medical provider. 

For a staff directory and listing of departments, visit norwalkct.org.