So my NH non res permit expires soon and I went out to their website to print out a renewal form. What happened to their permit process? It used to be easy peasy and now there is occupation questions, references required, wtf. Anyone renew recently? I have a hard time believing that we need all that crap for renewal.

NH uses the same form for initial issues and renewals. Since I got my first NH (NR) permit in 2009, there have only be two substantive changes to their application process.
1. The fee increase to $100
2. The requirement to hold a home state permit. (At some point in the past, NH had traditionally required a home state permit. For a period of time they required a home state permit OR a permit from any state. They then went changes their administrative regulations to require a home state permit)

They have always required information about occupation and references. (They want a name and contact info. Unlike certain CT towns, they are not looking for a reference letter)

When you figure it out , let me know. Mines up for renewal next year

I honestly don't remember filling all that out last time.

I got mine (new) last year, I just filled it out as far as I know they never called

It took about tree weeks