Building Permit Info

FAQ

Permit Application Requirements:

All applications for permits should be submitted to the Code Enforcement Officer on the forms provided and with fees paid. (Bar Harbor Code: § 125-79)

Applications should include (as applicable):

  • A plan, to scale or with dimensions and/or distances and that includes:
  • The actual shape and dimensions of the lot for which a permit is sought.
  • The location and size of all buildings, structures, water bodies, and other significant features currently existing on the lot.
  • The location and building plans of new buildings, structures or portions thereof to be constructed.
  • The existing and intended use of each building or structure.
  • The location (where applicable) of soils test pits, subsurface sewage disposal system, parking lots and driveways, signs, buffer strips and private wells.
  • Such other information as may be reasonably required by the Code Enforcement Officer 

Any activity or use requiring a permit under this article shall not be commenced unless and until the property owner has received any required permits for the Code Enforcement Officer. 

A permit will not be issued except to the owner of record or their authorized agent; written proof of authorization may be required. 

A building permit will not be approved for a particular property if the property owner is in violation of this chapter or of any other previously approved subdivision or site plan on said property.

Electrical Permits: (get application here)

Electrical permits are required as outlined below (Bar Harbor Code § 70-3):

  • Permits are required of any electrical equipment that is installed in, altered, or added to any building, structure or premises
  • Permits are not required for minor repair work such as, but not limited to, the following:
  • The replacement of fuses;
  • The installation of additional outlets;
  • The replacement of existing switches, sockets, outlets and lamps;
  • Repairs to entrance service equipment; and
  • Repairs or installation of radio and low-voltage equipment.
  • Emergency work may be undertaken without first obtaining a permit. A permit must then be obtained as soon as is reasonably possible.
  • No major deviation may be made from the installation described in the permit without the prior written approval of the Electrical Inspector.

Plumbing Permits: (get application here)

Plumbing requirements are outlined below (Bar Harbor Code § 109-9):

  • All plumbing requires a permit except to repair a leak(s)
  • Plans for any pipes, tanks, faucets, valves, or other fixtures through which waste or sewage is used and carried must be approved by the Plumbing Inspector.
  • All plumbing installed must be tested in the presence of the Plumbing Inspector

Septic Permits: (permit provided by site evaluator)

Septic requirements are outlined below (Bar Harbor Code § 165-19):

  • All buildings are required to have an approved and inspected subsurface wastewater disposal (septic) system installed when the public sewer system is not available.
  • A registered site evaluator must complete a HHE-200 form to be submitted to Code Enforcement for approval.
  • A subsurface wastewater disposal (septic) system must be inspected prior to it being made operable .
  • The system must be available for inspection at any time during construction by the Plumbing Inspector. An inspection is required before any underground portions are covered.