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§ 02
When a permit is required
Permit triggers and exempt work for Southwest Harbor
For all construction, alteration, enlargement, demolition. Shoreland zone work requires separate shoreland permit. Land Use Ordinance governs all land use activity.
Ordinary maintenance and repair not affecting structure
- Exempt Ordinary maintenance and repair not affecting structure
Note: Confirm with CEO for LUO-specific exemptions.
Required documents
- Completed application
- Site plan
- Construction drawings
- Shoreland documentation if applicable
- Building code
- Below 4,000 population; MUBEC enforcement is voluntary. Town enforces its Land Use Ordinance. Contact CEO for current code standards applied.
- Contractor requirements
- Maine-licensed electrician and plumber.
§ 03
Application process
Application → plan check → issuance → inspection → final
- 01 Contact CEO John Larson at 207-244-5404 or visit the CEO/Assessing Office during office hours (Mon-Thu 7:30-5:30) to discuss your project.
- 02 The CEO administers the Land Use Ordinance (LUO) and related ordinances. Determine what permits are required (building, shoreland, plumbing, flood plain, etc.).
- 03 Obtain application forms from the CEO/Assessing Office or the town website.
- 04 Submit completed application with required documents. The CEO office can assist with application preparation.
- 05 CEO reviews for compliance with the LUO and applicable codes.
- 06 Pay fee and receive permit.
- 07 Post permit at job site; schedule inspections.
Source: Code Enforcement / CEO and Assessing Office, Town of Southwest Harbor ↗
§ 04
Required inspections
Scheduling and sequence
How to schedule
- 207-244-5404 (phone)
- Inspection hours
- Monday -- Thursday 7:30 a.m. -- 5:30 p.m.
§ 05
Frequently asked
Common questions about Southwest Harbor permits
01 Do I need a building permit in Southwest Harbor, ME? ▸
For all construction, alteration, enlargement, demolition. Shoreland zone work requires separate shoreland permit. Land Use Ordinance governs all land use activity.
02 How do I apply for a building permit in Southwest Harbor, ME? ▸
To apply for a building permit in Southwest Harbor, ME, follow these steps: 1. Contact CEO John Larson at 207-244-5404 or visit the CEO/Assessing Office during office hours (Mon-Thu 7:30-5:30) to discuss your project. 2. The CEO administers the Land Use Ordinance (LUO) and related ordinances. Determine what permits are required (building, shoreland, plumbing, flood plain, etc.). 3. Obtain application forms from the CEO/Assessing Office or the town website. 4. Submit completed application with required documents. The CEO office can assist with application preparation. 5. CEO reviews for compliance with the LUO and applicable codes. 6. Pay fee and receive permit. 7. Post permit at job site; schedule inspections.
03 What work is exempt from building permits in Southwest Harbor, ME? ▸
Not all construction work requires a permit in Southwest Harbor, ME. The following work is generally exempt: Ordinary maintenance and repair not affecting structure. Note: Confirm with CEO for LUO-specific exemptions. When in doubt, confirm with the local building department before starting work.
04 How do I schedule a building inspection in Southwest Harbor, ME? ▸
Once your permit is issued and work reaches an inspection milestone, you can schedule a building inspection in Southwest Harbor, ME via: 207-244-5404.
last verified April 2026
source Code Enforcement / CEO and Assessing Office, Town of Southwest Harbor ↗
entry id permits/maine/hancock/southwest-harbor
Educational reference. Permit rules and fees change — confirm current requirements directly with Code Enforcement / CEO and Assessing Office, Town of Southwest Harbor before applying. Jaspector is not legal advice.