Can i separate peony bushes

Yes you can! Best time to do this is in the fall.

http://www.diynetwork.com/how-to/outdoors/gardening/dividing-peonies

Yes you can. Fall is usually the best time but keep in mind that some peony's are very sensitive and it could take up to 3 years for them to bloom again. I have had some bloom the first year and some take 3 years.

Absolutely! After they flower, split them up at the roots. You'll find they are quite easy to separate and transplant.

http://www.hgtv.com/design/outdoor-design/landscaping-and-hardscaping/how-to-grow-and-divide-peonies

thank you each and all, greatly appreciate it

My husband is the gardener in the family and he says that it is fine to do it in the fall. He did say that if the root clump is 8" only cut it in 2, 16" cut it in 4, etc.