Town of Calais, ME - 2026 Building Permit Guide

Permit Authority

City of Calais, Washington County seat. Largest city in the county. Population approximately 3,000--3,400 -- below the 4,000 MUBEC mandatory threshold but has a functioning code enforcement department with active enforcement.

Department

Code Enforcement Department, City of Calais

Address

City Administration Building, 26 Monroe Street, Calais, ME 04619

Phone

207-454-2521 ext. 1006

Email

assessor@calaismaine.org

Website

https://calaismaine.org/departments/code-enforcement/

Online Permit Portal

Application Process

1. Determine if a permit is required (any new construction, addition, change, expansion, or replacement of an existing structure or use requires a permit under Calais Land Use Codes, Chapter 5, Section 2).
2. Download the fillable PDF application from https://calaismaine.org/permits-and-applications/ or obtain it in person at the Code Enforcement Office.
3. Complete the application and assemble required documents (site plan, construction drawings as needed).
4. Submit application with fee to the Code Enforcement Office.
5. The CEO reviews the application; simple residential permits can be processed same day or within one to two business days.
6. Up to 30 days allowed for complex reviews per city ordinance.
7. Permit issued; post card at job site.
8. Schedule required inspections during construction.
9. Obtain Occupancy Permit upon final inspection for new buildings.

Typical processing time: Same day to two business days for straightforward residential permits; up to 30 days for complex projects.

Source: Code Enforcement Department, City of Calais

General Requirements

Any new construction or activity that would expand, change, or replace an existing structure or use. Includes sheds, decks, additions, renovations affecting structure, and any change of use.

Permit validity

Not specified publicly; contact CEO for current terms.

Building code

MUBEC (2021 IBC/IRC/IECC, effective April 7, 2025). City also enforces local Land Use Code.

Owner-builder

Maine allows homeowners to perform work on their own primary residence for most trades; confirm scope with CEO.

Contractor requirements

State of Maine electrician license required for electrical permits; licensed Maine plumber required for plumbing permits. No general contractor license required by state.

Fees

Minimum permit fee

$50.00

Plan check fee

Not separately itemized; included in review process.

Permit fee formula

$50.00 minimum plus $30.00 per 1,000 square feet of gross floor area (or fraction thereof).

Reinspection fee

Not publicly detailed; contact department.

Payment note

Contact CEO office for accepted payment methods.

Fees change. Verify current amounts at the official fee schedule.

Work That Does NOT Require a Permit

• Ordinary maintenance and repair not involving structural change
• Painting, decorating, and finish work
• Replacement of existing fixtures in kind (non-structural)

Inspections

How to Schedule

• 207-454-2521 (phone)

Scheduling deadline

Call 207-454-2521 ext. 1006 or contact CEO office

Inspection hours

Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Typical inspection sequence: Foundation/footing, framing, rough-in electrical/plumbing/mechanical, insulation, final inspection / Occupancy Permit

Additional Resources

• Building code: MUBEC (2021 IBC/IRC/IECC, effective April 7, 2025). City also enforces local Land Use Code.
• Ordinances
• 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 Calais Building Permit FAQ

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

Any new construction or activity that would expand, change, or replace an existing structure or use. Includes sheds, decks, additions, renovations affecting structure, and any change of use.

How much does a building permit cost in Town of Calais, ME?

The minimum permit fee is $50.00. Fees are calculated as: $50.00 minimum plus $30.00 per 1,000 square feet of gross floor area (or fraction thereof).. Plan check fee: Not separately itemized; included in review process..

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

1. Determine if a permit is required (any new construction, addition, change, expansion, or replacement of an existing structure or use requires a permit under Calais Land Use Codes, Chapter 5, Section 2). 2. Download the fillable PDF application from https://calaismaine.org/permits-and-applications/ or obtain it in person at the Code Enforcement Office. 3. Complete the application and assemble required documents (site plan, construction drawings as needed). 4. Submit application with fee to the Code Enforcement Office. 5. The CEO reviews the application; simple residential permits can be processed same day or within one to two business days. 6. Up to 30 days allowed for complex reviews per city ordinance. 7. Permit issued; post card at job site. 8. Schedule required inspections during construction. 9. Obtain Occupancy Permit upon final inspection for new buildings.

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

Typical processing time is Same day to two business days for straightforward residential permits; up to 30 days for complex projects..

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

The following work is generally exempt: Ordinary maintenance and repair not involving structural change; Painting, decorating, and finish work; Replacement of existing fixtures in kind (non-structural).

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

Inspections can be scheduled via: 207-454-2521. Call 207-454-2521 ext. 1006 or contact CEO office.

Other cities in Washington County