Short-Term Rentals

Definitions:

  • Short-Term Rental: Includes vacation rental, vacation rental-1 (VR-1) and vacation rental-2 (VR-2)
  • Vacation Rental-1 (VR-1): A dwelling unit, or portion thereof, that is the primary residence of the property owner or on the owner’s primary residence property and is rented to a person or a group for less than 30 days and a minimum of two nights. The rental of a portion of the dwelling, such as a bedroom, must be located in the principal structure housing the dwelling unit.
  • Vacation Rental-2 (VR-2): An entire dwelling unit that is not the primary residence of the property owner and is rented to a person or a group for less than 30 days and a minimum of 4 nights.

Registration:

All Short-Term (formerly vacation) rentals must be registered with the Town of Bar Harbor on an annual basis, prior to rental. Previously registered rentals must re-register on or before May 31 annually. Registration is under the management of the Code Enforcement Officer.

  1. Short-Term Rental Application
  2. Short-Term Rental Emergency Information Form

Inspection:

All Short-term rental properties must pass an inspection prior to the issuance of the registration card. Properties must schedule for re-inspection every three (3) years.

  1. Short-Term Rental Inspection Checklist
  2. Egress Window Requirements
  3. Egress Window Video
  4. Fire Extinguisher Requirements
  5. Smoke Alarm Facts
  6. Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarms
  7. Fuel Gas Detection Requirements

General:

  1. An inspection will be scheduled with the property owner upon submission of the completed form and payment of the registration fee.  
  2. A registration card will be issued after completion of the inspection and when all requirements are met. 
  3. The card will certify that the applicant has met all requirements and passed the required inspection.
  4. The registration card must be posted on the premises of the rental unit for convenient inspection by a rental occupant.
  5. Registration does not relieve the property owner from the obligation to obtain any additional permits necessary.
  6. Failure to comply with the requirements above will constitute a violation under the Bar Harbor Land Use Ordinance.
  7. An appeal from the action of Code Enforcement may be sought through the powers and responsibilities in the Land Use Ordinance, Chapter 125, § 125-103.

 Additional Forms & Information:

  1. Top 10 Reasons for Failing a Short-Term rental inspection
  2. Chapter 174: Short-Term Rental Regulations
  3. Short-Term Rentals - Land Use Ordinance