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When a permit is required
Permit triggers and exempt work for Bar Harbor
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.
- Exempt Ordinary maintenance and repair not involving structural changes
- Exempt Painting and finish work
- Exempt MUBEC Section 105.2 standard exemptions
Note: Shoreland Zone work has very limited exemptions -- contact department even for minor work near water.
- 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)
- Building code
- MUBEC based on 2021 IBC/IRC/IECC (effective April 7, 2025). Town applies and enforces MUBEC as required by state law.
- Permit validity
- Contact department for information on permit validity and expiration.
- 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.
Source: Planning and Code Enforcement Department, Town of Bar Harbor ↗
Application process
Typical processing: At least 48 hours' notice appreciated for inspections.
- 01 Determine whether a permit is required -- see the town website for guidance.
- 02 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.
- 03 Submit application via iWorq online portal or by visiting the Planning and Code Enforcement Department at 93 Cottage Street.
- 04 Code Enforcement Officer reviews application for compliance with MUBEC and local Land Use Ordinance (LUO).
- 05 Pay applicable fee per the Bar Harbor Schedule of Fees (May 2025 version).
- 06 Permit issued; post permit card prominently at job site.
- 07 Schedule required inspections at least 48 hours in advance.
- 08 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 ↗
Required inspections
Scheduling and sequence
- 207-288-3329 (phone)
- iWorq portal (online)
- Scheduling deadline
- At least 48-hour notice requested.
Typical 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.
Source: Planning and Code Enforcement Department, Town of Bar Harbor ↗
Frequently asked
Common questions about Bar Harbor permits
01 Do I need a building permit in Bar Harbor, ME? ▸
02 How do I apply for a building permit in Bar Harbor, ME? ▸
03 How long does it take to get a building permit in Bar Harbor, ME? ▸
04 What work is exempt from building permits in Bar Harbor, ME? ▸
05 How do I schedule a building inspection in Bar Harbor, ME? ▸
Educational reference. Permit rules and fees change — confirm current requirements directly with Planning and Code Enforcement Department, Town of Bar Harbor before applying. Jaspector is not legal advice.