Yes. In recognition of the importance of the shorelands of Maine’s lakes, rivers, wetlands and the ocean to the state’s environment and economy, a Shoreland Zoning Act was first enacted in 1971. Since then, these controls have been revised and expanded.
This act established minimum zoning standards for all towns and municipalities to adopt, and gave the state an oversight role. Local governments have to meet these requirements, but they could be more stringent than the state’s guidelines, so with any specific property/project, it is important to contact the local government.
Towns have the role of issuing permits, appointing a Code Enforcement Officer to enforce the ordinances, and collect fees and record all transactions.
