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Short-Term Rental Regulations
in Portland, ME

Last verified: March 2026 · Report an update

Zoning & Conditions

Short-term rentals are categorized into several classifications including Mainland Owner-Occupied (no numerical limit), Mainland Non-Owner Occupied (capped at 1.5% of prior-year long-term rentals; 2026 cap is 293), and Peaks Island (capped at 40). Building-level limits apply based on the total number of units, and certain classifications like Tenant-Occupied are closed to new licenses as of September 1, 2025.

How to Obtain a Permit

(1) Submit an annual STR application to the Licensing & Registration Office by December 31; (2) Provide required documents such as a notarized primary residence affidavit, ID, and proof of homestead exemption (for owner-occupied) or condo association attestation; (3) Display the issued license in the unit and include the license number in all online advertisements.

Official Resources

Official Portland STR regulation source

Frequently Asked Questions

Are short-term rentals allowed in Portland, ME?
Short-term rentals are categorized into several classifications including Mainland Owner-Occupied (no numerical limit), Mainland Non-Owner Occupied (capped at 1.5% of prior-year long-term rentals; 2026 cap is 293), and Peaks Island (capped at 40). Building-level limits apply based on the total number of units, and certain classifications like Tenant-Occupied are closed to new licenses as of September 1, 2025.
Is a permit required to operate a short-term rental in Portland?
Yes, a permit is required to operate a short-term rental in Portland. (1) Submit an annual STR application to the Licensing & Registration Office by December 31; (2) Provide required documents such as a notarized primary residence affidavit, ID, and proof of homestead exemption (for owner-occupied) or condo association attestation; (3) Display the issued license in the unit and include the license number in all online advertisements.
How do I get a short-term rental permit in Portland?
(1) Submit an annual STR application to the Licensing & Registration Office by December 31; (2) Provide required documents such as a notarized primary residence affidavit, ID, and proof of homestead exemption (for owner-occupied) or condo association attestation; (3) Display the issued license in the unit and include the license number in all online advertisements.
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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