Old Orchard Beach, Maine

When deciding whether to become an Airbnb Host, it is important for you to understand the laws in your region or city. As a platform and online marketplace we do not provide legal advice, but we want to provide resources that may help you better understand applicable laws and regulations. This list is not exhaustive, but it may give you a good start in understanding your local laws. If you have questions, visit the short-term rental homepage or other government agencies directly, or consult a local lawyer or tax professional.

Short-term rental regulations

Hosts in The Town of Old Orchard Beach are required to obtain a business license to host short-term stays (fewer than 30 nights). See full ordinance here. Rental properties must be inspected to ensure there are no life safety issues, and that the property is up to present code standards.

Registration

All rentals (including short-term) must be registered with the Town of Old Orchard Beach on a bi-annual basis, prior to rental. Previously registered rentals must re-register on or before April 30th bi-annually (there are even and odd year renewals cycles depending on a properties location within the Town). Registration is under the management of the Business Licensing and Code Enforcement Departments of the Town.

• Business License Application (short-term rental)

General information

• An inspection will be scheduled with the property owner upon submission of the completed form and payment of the registration fee.
• If a property does not pass initial inspection, a re-inspection must be rescheduled within 45 days.
• Once a property has passed inspection, it must go to the Old Orchard Beach Town Council to be officially voted on. Town Councils are held on the first and third Tuesday of each month.
• After the Town Council officially grants a license for a property, it is then allowed to be rented.
• Registration does not relieve the property owner from the obligation to obtain any additional permits necessary.
• Failure to comply with the requirements above may constitute a violation under the Old Orchard Beach Ordinance.

Additional information

Inspection

All rental properties must pass an inspection prior to the issuance of the business license. Properties must be scheduled for re-inspection every four (4) years.

• Short-Term Rental Inspection Checklist
• Egress Window Requirements
• Fuel Gas Detection Requirements

Please reach out to the Old Orchard Beach Code Enforcement Office with additional questions.

Adding registration details to your listing(s)

You can add registration details, like a License Number, to your listing. This is located at the top right corner of your business license card provided by the town. To add this number to your listing, go to Listings, select the listing you want, and under Listing editor, go to Regulations and add the number.

Other contracts and rules

It's also important to understand and abide by other contracts or rules that bind you, such as leases, condo board or co-op rules, HOA rules, or rules established by tenant organizations. Please read your lease agreement and check with your landlord if applicable.

Our commitment to your community

We are committed to working with local officials to clarify how local rules impact the community. We will continue to advocate for changes that will enable people to rent out their homes.