In Maine's shoreland zone, no more than 20 percent of a lot may be covered by structures and other non-vegetated surfaces. This statewide cap applies to every municipality through DEP shoreland guidelines.
Under DEP Chapter 1000 and 38 M.R.S. §§ 435-449-A, lots within the shoreland zone are limited to 20 percent total non-vegetated surface coverage, including buildings, decks, driveways, patios, and other impervious or compacted surfaces. The limit is intended to protect water quality by minimizing stormwater runoff and preserving native vegetation buffers. A 75-foot vegetated buffer along the shoreline is also required. Municipalities must adopt this 20-percent cap; if a town's ordinance is less protective, DEP can override and apply the state default. Outside the shoreland zone, lot coverage is determined by local zoning and is not preempted.
Civil penalties from $100 to $25,000 per day under 38 M.R.S. § 349, removal of excess coverage, and required revegetation supervised by DEP.
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See how Portland's lot coverage limits rules stack up against other locations.
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