On this page 5
§ 02
When a permit is required
Permit triggers and exempt work for Mount Desert
For all new construction, additions, alterations, demolition. Shoreland zoning permit required for work in shoreland zones (significant coverage given island location).
Ordinary maintenance and repair
- Exempt Ordinary maintenance and repair
Note: Confirm with CEO; shoreland and LUO have limited exemptions.
Required documents
- Completed application
- Construction plans to scale
- Elevation plans for height
- Shoreland/floodplain documentation as applicable
- HHE-200 septic plan if new septic
- Building code
- Below 4,000 population; MUBEC enforcement voluntary. The town's LUO was updated in May 2024 to incorporate building standards. Contact CEO for current code baseline applied.
- Contractor requirements
- Maine-licensed electrician and plumber.
§ 03
Application process
Application → plan check → issuance → inspection → final
- 01 Contact the Code Enforcement/Planning Department at 207-276-5731 to discuss your project.
- 02 All permits and accompanying submissions must be directed to the Code Enforcement Department at 21 Sea Street.
- 03 All applications must be signed by the property owner, or individual demonstrating right, title or interest in the property, or the owner's authorized legal agent, representative, tenant, or contractor.
- 04 Download and complete the applicable application forms from the town website.
- 05 Submit application with required documents (site plan, construction drawings; shoreland zoning permit application if applicable).
- 06 CEO reviews for compliance with the Land Use Ordinance (LUO, updated May 2024) and shoreland requirements.
- 07 Pay applicable fee and receive permit.
- 08 Post permit at job site; schedule required inspections.
Source: Code Enforcement / Planning Department, Town of Mount Desert ↗
§ 04
Required inspections
Scheduling and sequence
How to schedule
- 207-276-5731 (phone)
§ 05
Frequently asked
Common questions about Mount Desert permits
01 Do I need a building permit in Mount Desert, ME? ▸
For all new construction, additions, alterations, demolition. Shoreland zoning permit required for work in shoreland zones (significant coverage given island location).
02 How do I apply for a building permit in Mount Desert, ME? ▸
To apply for a building permit in Mount Desert, ME, follow these steps: 1. Contact the Code Enforcement/Planning Department at 207-276-5731 to discuss your project. 2. All permits and accompanying submissions must be directed to the Code Enforcement Department at 21 Sea Street. 3. All applications must be signed by the property owner, or individual demonstrating right, title or interest in the property, or the owner's authorized legal agent, representative, tenant, or contractor. 4. Download and complete the applicable application forms from the town website. 5. Submit application with required documents (site plan, construction drawings; shoreland zoning permit application if applicable). 6. CEO reviews for compliance with the Land Use Ordinance (LUO, updated May 2024) and shoreland requirements. 7. Pay applicable fee and receive permit. 8. Post permit at job site; schedule required inspections.
03 What work is exempt from building permits in Mount Desert, ME? ▸
Not all construction work requires a permit in Mount Desert, ME. The following work is generally exempt: Ordinary maintenance and repair. Note: Confirm with CEO; shoreland and LUO have limited exemptions. When in doubt, confirm with the local building department before starting work.
04 How do I schedule a building inspection in Mount Desert, ME? ▸
Once your permit is issued and work reaches an inspection milestone, you can schedule a building inspection in Mount Desert, ME via: 207-276-5731.
last verified April 2026
source Code Enforcement / Planning Department, Town of Mount Desert ↗
entry id permits/maine/hancock/mount-desert
Educational reference. Permit rules and fees change — confirm current requirements directly with Code Enforcement / Planning Department, Town of Mount Desert before applying. Jaspector is not legal advice.