You've mapped out the perfect new deck or sunroom. You have the materials picked out and the budget ready. But before you pick up a shovel, there's one critical step you cannot skip: navigating the local zoning laws and acquiring the proper building permits.
In Maine, particularly in populated areas like York and Cumberland counties, building without a permit can lead to steep fines, forced removal of the structure, and massive headaches when you try to sell the home later.
What is Zoning?
Zoning ordinances dictate how land in a specific area can be used. They regulate things like the height of buildings, the percentage of a lot that can be covered by structures, and how close a structure can be to the property lines (known as setbacks).
The Critical Concept of Setbacks
Setbacks are the most common hurdle for homeowners looking to build decks or additions. A setback is the minimum distance a structure must be located from the property lines, the street, or environmental features like wetlands and water bodies.
For example, if your town has a 15-foot side-yard setback, your new deck cannot extend into that 15-foot buffer zone. If it does, you will be denied a permit, or you will have to file for a "variance," which is an arduous legal process requesting an exception to the rules.
Shoreland Zoning
Maine is famous for its coastline, lakes, and rivers. Because of this, the state enforces strict Shoreland Zoning laws. If your property is within 250 feet of a body of water or wetlands, you are subject to rigorous environmental regulations. Expanding the footprint of a home in a Shoreland Zone often requires special approvals from both the town and the Maine Department of Environmental Protection (DEP).
When Do You Need a Permit?
While every municipality has slightly different rules, you generally always need a permit for:
- Any addition that expands the footprint of the home.
- Decks that are attached to the house.
- Decks that are more than 30 inches off the ground.
- Major structural alterations (removing load-bearing walls).
Conversely, you usually do not need a permit for minor cosmetic work like painting, replacing kitchen cabinets, or installing new flooring.
How to Apply
The process usually involves submitting a detailed site plan to your local Code Enforcement Office. This plan must show the property lines, the existing structures, the proposed new structure, and the exact distances to the property lines.
Let Us Handle the Red Tape
Permitting can be stressful. When you hire TYLERROSSUSA Corporation for your project, we handle all the site plans, permit applications, and municipal inspections for you.
Start Your ProjectAbout the Author: Tyler Ross is the founder of TYLERROSSUSA Corporation, providing quality home improvement services in Saco, Maine.