Bridgton, Maine

Bridgton has no enacted short-term rental permit or registration ordinance. STRs are permitted and operate under general residential use. The Bridgton Land Use Code (effective November 2, 2021, amended June 11, 2024) does not define or separately regulate short-term rentals, so unhosted STRs operate without a distinct local permit. No permit fee, renewal period, annual night cap, owner-occupancy requirement or primary-residence requirement applies. Enforcement severity is rated minimal.

The code does define a Bed and Breakfast / Small Inn use: an owner-occupied residence renting up to 8 rooms for stays under 30 days, which requires site plan approval in all districts. This does not apply to whole-house unhosted rentals.

The active compliance requirement comes from Maine state law. STR income is subject to the 9% Maine sales and lodging tax, including cleaning fees. Operators must register with Maine Revenue Services and obtain a Retailer’s Certificate. Stays of 28 or more consecutive days are exempt when the renter uses the property as a primary residence, and a sole proprietor with a single unit renting fewer than 15 days a year may also qualify for an exemption. Cumberland County does not impose a separate lodging tax.

Regulation may change. In October 2025 the Planning Board and Select Board held a joint workshop on a possible registration ordinance covering self-inspection, emergency contact requirements and a registration fee. Cited concerns were septic, parking, noise and neighborhood disruption. No ordinance has been adopted. Investors should monitor town meetings and confirm current rules with the town before buying.