Town of Bar Harbor, ME - 2026 Building Permit Guide

Permit Authority

Town of Bar Harbor on Mount Desert Island. Population approximately 5,089 (2020 census). MUBEC mandatory. Significant Acadia National Park adjacency and shoreland zoning. Tourism hub with substantial seasonal construction activity. Primary commercial center on Mount Desert Island and gateway to Acadia National Park.

Department

Planning and Code Enforcement Department, Town of Bar Harbor

Address

93 Cottage Street, Bar Harbor, ME 04609

Phone

207-288-3329

Website

https://www.barharbormaine.gov/267/Code-Enforcement

Online Permit Portal

Application Process

1. Determine whether a permit is required -- see the town website for guidance.
2. Gather required documents: detailed construction plans drawn to scale; elevation plans showing height of all new structures or additions; energy compliance documentation; septic plan (HHE-200) if a new or revised private septic system is involved.
3. Submit application via iWorq online portal or by visiting the Planning and Code Enforcement Department at 93 Cottage Street.
4. Code Enforcement Officer reviews application for compliance with MUBEC and local Land Use Ordinance (LUO).
5. Pay applicable fee per the Bar Harbor Schedule of Fees (May 2025 version).
6. Permit issued; post permit card prominently at job site.
7. Schedule required inspections at least 48 hours in advance.
8. Obtain certificate of occupancy upon satisfactory final inspection.

Typical processing time: At least 48 hours' notice appreciated for inspections.

Source: Planning and Code Enforcement Department, Town of Bar Harbor

General Requirements

Any activity or use requiring a permit must not commence until the property owner has received required permits from the Code Enforcement Officer. Permits required for new construction, additions, alterations, demolition, grading, and development in shoreland or floodplain zones.

Required Documents

• Detailed construction plans drawn to scale meeting MUBEC standards
• Elevation plans
• Energy compliance documentation
• HHE-200 septic plan (if applicable)
• Shoreland permit application (if within 250 feet of water body)

Permit validity

Contact department for information on permit validity and expiration.

Building code

MUBEC based on 2021 IBC/IRC/IECC (effective April 7, 2025). Town applies and enforces MUBEC as required by state law.

Owner-builder

Permit issued only to owner of record or authorized agent with written proof of authorization.

Contractor requirements

Maine-licensed electrician for electrical permits; Maine-licensed plumber for plumbing; no state general contractor license.

Fees

Payment note

Contact Code Enforcement Department for current rates and accepted payment methods.

Fees change. Verify current amounts at the official fee schedule (effective May 2025).

Work That Does NOT Require a Permit

• Ordinary maintenance and repair not involving structural changes
• Painting and finish work
• MUBEC Section 105.2 standard exemptions

Important: Shoreland Zone work has very limited exemptions -- contact department even for minor work near water.

Inspections

How to Schedule

• 207-288-3329 (phone)
• iWorq portal (online)

Scheduling deadline

At least 48-hour notice requested.

Typical inspection sequence: Typical inspection sequence: Foundation, framing, rough-in trades (electrical/plumbing/HVAC), insulation, final / certificate of occupancy. The Code Enforcement Officer serves as the building official and inspects all permitted construction.

Additional Resources

• Building code: MUBEC based on 2021 IBC/IRC/IECC (effective April 7, 2025). Town applies and enforces MUBEC as required by state law.
• Building Codes Information
• Issued Building Permits Log
• Licensing and Permits Overview
• Land Use Ordinance
• License lookup guide: Maine Contractor License Requirements
• Contract template: Maine Homeowner-Contractor Agreement
• Maine hub: Maine Contractor License & Permit Hub

Frequently Asked Questions

Town of Bar Harbor Building Permit FAQ

Do I need a building permit in Town of Bar Harbor, ME?

Any activity or use requiring a permit must not commence until the property owner has received required permits from the Code Enforcement Officer. Permits required for new construction, additions, alterations, demolition, grading, and development in shoreland or floodplain zones.

How do I apply for a building permit in Town of Bar Harbor, ME?

1. Determine whether a permit is required -- see the town website for guidance. 2. Gather required documents: detailed construction plans drawn to scale; elevation plans showing height of all new structures or additions; energy compliance documentation; septic plan (HHE-200) if a new or revised private septic system is involved. 3. Submit application via iWorq online portal or by visiting the Planning and Code Enforcement Department at 93 Cottage Street. 4. Code Enforcement Officer reviews application for compliance with MUBEC and local Land Use Ordinance (LUO). 5. Pay applicable fee per the Bar Harbor Schedule of Fees (May 2025 version). 6. Permit issued; post permit card prominently at job site. 7. Schedule required inspections at least 48 hours in advance. 8. Obtain certificate of occupancy upon satisfactory final inspection.

How long does it take to get a building permit in Town of Bar Harbor, ME?

Typical processing time is At least 48 hours' notice appreciated for inspections..

What work is exempt from building permits in Town of Bar Harbor, ME?

The following work is generally exempt: Ordinary maintenance and repair not involving structural changes; Painting and finish work; MUBEC Section 105.2 standard exemptions. Note: Shoreland Zone work has very limited exemptions -- contact department even for minor work near water.

How do I schedule a building inspection in Town of Bar Harbor, ME?

Inspections can be scheduled via: 207-288-3329, iWorq portal. At least 48-hour notice requested..

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