Maine Airbnb and Short-Term Rental Regulations (2026 Guide)

Maine's pristine coastline, Acadia National Park, and charming lighthouses make it one of New England's most popular vacation destinations. Whether you already own a vacation rental in Maine or are evaluating your first investment, understanding the regulatory landscape is essential. STR laws in Maine vary significantly by city and county — and getting compliance wrong can mean fines, forced delistings, or lost income.

This guide covers Maine's approach to short-term rental regulation at the state level, then breaks down the rules in key markets investors and hosts need to know. Regulations as of 2026 — always verify current rules directly with your local municipality before listing.

If you'd like help navigating STR compliance in Maine, Awning's property management team operates in Portland, Bar Harbor, and Old Orchard Beach and helps hosts stay compliant while maximizing revenue.

How Maine Defines a Short-Term Rental

For regulatory and tax purposes, a short-term rental in Maine is generally defined as a residential property rented for 28 consecutive days or fewer. Any rental longer than this threshold is typically treated as a long-term rental and subject to different rules.

Does Maine Require a Statewide STR License?

Maine does not require a statewide STR license, but all rental income must be reported and applicable taxes collected. Local municipalities have adopted their own registration frameworks.

Maine Short-Term Rental Taxes

Maine imposes a 9% lodging tax on short-term rentals of fewer than 28 consecutive days. Airbnb collects and remits this tax automatically for stays booked on its platform. Hosts who list on other platforms or rent directly must register with Maine Revenue Services and remit the lodging tax themselves.

Regardless of which booking platform you use, it is your responsibility as a host to ensure all applicable taxes are collected and remitted correctly. Failure to comply can result in penalties, back taxes, and potential loss of your ability to operate.

STR Regulations by City in Maine

Below are the key STR markets in Maine and their current regulatory requirements. City regulations change frequently — check with your local planning or licensing department for the most current rules before investing.

Portland

Portland requires STR operators to obtain a license through the city's Short-Term Rental Registration program. Owner-occupied STRs face different rules than non-owner-occupied rentals. The city caps non-owner-occupied STR licenses in some residential zones to protect housing availability.

Bar Harbor

Bar Harbor, the gateway to Acadia National Park, requires a lodging establishment license. The town has debated additional restrictions during peak summer months due to housing pressure from high STR density.

Kennebunkport

Kennebunkport requires rental registration and compliance with local zoning. STRs must meet health and safety inspections before operating, and the town enforces occupancy and noise standards strictly during summer season.

Key Questions to Ask Before Listing an STR in Maine

• Does your city or county require an STR permit or license?
• Are there caps on the number of STR permits in your neighborhood or zone?
• Is your property owner-occupied or non-owner-occupied — and does that distinction affect your eligibility?
• What occupancy, noise, and parking rules apply to your specific property?
• Which taxes are you responsible for collecting and remitting vs. what the platform handles?
• Does your HOA or condo association allow short-term rentals?

The Bottom Line

Maine's STR regulatory environment ranges from investor-friendly rural counties to tightly regulated resort towns and urban cores. Understanding the specific rules in your target market — not just at the state level — is what determines whether your rental operates smoothly or faces costly disruptions.

Staying on top of changing regulations is one of the most valuable things a professional property manager brings to your operation. Awning manages short-term rentals in Portland, Bar Harbor, and Old Orchard Beach and monitors local regulatory changes so you don't have to. Reach out to learn how we can help you operate compliantly and profitably in Maine.