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Short-Term Rental Regulations
in Bar Harbor, ME

Last verified: March 2026 · Report an update

Zoning & Conditions

STRs are categorized as VR-1 (primary residence, 2-night minimum) or VR-2 (non-primary residence, 4-night minimum). VR-2 registrations are capped at 9% of total dwelling units town-wide, and both types are restricted to specific zoning districts (34 for VR-1, 18 for VR-2).

How to Obtain a Permit

1. Submit a completed registration application to the Code Enforcement Office with the non-refundable fee ($275 for VR-1). 2. Pass an initial life-safety inspection conducted by the CEO. 3. Receive and post the registration card on the premises; registrations must be renewed annually by May 31.

Regulatory Updates — Bar Harbor

Proposed and recent legislation

PassedJune 2023

Bar Harbor STR Licensing Ordinance

Town requires annual STR license ($150 per bedroom per year) with mandatory fire and safety inspection. License number must be posted in all listings. Unlicensed operators face fines up to $500/day.

ProposedSeptember 2025

Bar Harbor Non-Owner-Occupied STR Cap Proposal

Town Council considering a cap of approximately 200 total non-owner-occupied STR licenses with a waitlist system for new applicants; public hearings ongoing.

PassedAugust 2025

Maine DECD Short-Term Rental Study and Registry Bill

State study recommended a statewide STR registry; legislation is expected to be introduced in the 2026 Maine legislative session with broad support.

Official Resources

Official Bar Harbor STR regulation source

Local Resources & Advocacy

Mount Desert Island Vacation Rental AssociationLocal

Local organization representing STR operators on Mount Desert Island; monitors Bar Harbor Town Council proceedings and advocates for proportionate regulation.

Maine Tourism AssociationStatewide

Statewide tourism trade group that tracks STR legislation and supports Maine's vacation rental sector as a major contributor to the state economy.

Vacation Rental Management AssociationNational

National trade association offering education, advocacy, and resources for professional vacation rental managers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are short-term rentals allowed in Bar Harbor, ME?
STRs are categorized as VR-1 (primary residence, 2-night minimum) or VR-2 (non-primary residence, 4-night minimum). VR-2 registrations are capped at 9% of total dwelling units town-wide, and both types are restricted to specific zoning districts (34 for VR-1, 18 for VR-2).
Is a permit required to operate a short-term rental in Bar Harbor?
Yes, a permit is required to operate a short-term rental in Bar Harbor. 1. Submit a completed registration application to the Code Enforcement Office with the non-refundable fee ($275 for VR-1). 2. Pass an initial life-safety inspection conducted by the CEO. 3. Receive and post the registration card on the premises; registrations must be renewed annually by May 31.
How do I get a short-term rental permit in Bar Harbor?
1. Submit a completed registration application to the Code Enforcement Office with the non-refundable fee ($275 for VR-1). 2. Pass an initial life-safety inspection conducted by the CEO. 3. Receive and post the registration card on the premises; registrations must be renewed annually by May 31.
What does Bar Harbor require for STR operation?
An annual Town of Bar Harbor STR license ($150 per bedroom), mandatory fire and safety inspection, and compliance with Maine state lodging tax (9% on rentals). License number must appear in all platform listings and on-site.
Is there a cap on STRs in Bar Harbor?
Not yet, but a proposal to cap non-owner-occupied STRs at approximately 200 total licenses is under active Town Council consideration. Operators planning to acquire new investment properties should monitor council proceedings in 2026.
What Maine state requirements apply?
Maine requires registration for lodging rentals and collection of the Maine state lodging tax (9%). A 2026 bill is expected to establish a statewide STR registry that would apply to Bar Harbor operators in addition to local licensing.
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Disclaimer

This information is for general reference only and may not reflect the most current regulations. STR regulations change frequently. Always verify requirements with official local government sources before operating a short-term rental.

Last verified: March 2026 · Suggest a correction