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Scarborough short-term rental rules
New in 2026Top 10 by populationGreater PortlandLast checked November 13, 2026
Brand-new ordinance; every operator must register by December 31, 2026.
Not yet confirmed with the town office
- Ordinance
- Chapter 1020, Short Term Rental Registration Ordinance, approved May 20, 2026, with a new Coastal Beach Overlay Zone and zoning amendments
- Deadline
- Register by December 31, 2026, then annually
- Inspection
- Safety inspection required with new registrations
- Fee
- Check the town's current fee schedule
- Types
- The ordinance defines two types of short-term rentals, and zoning limits where each type is allowed
- Existing rentals
- Transitional provisions may let current operators skip the special exception process
Get an email when Scarborough's rules change
Plus deadline reminders for your property.
Before you list
- Register or license with the town
- Pass any required inspection (smoke and CO alarms, egress, fire extinguisher)
- Put the registration number in every listing
- Register with Maine Revenue Services for direct bookings
- Show the total price, including fees, in ads
Proposed changes
Nothing proposed right now · Last checked November 13, 2026
Sources
- OfficialTown of Scarborough announcement
This page summarizes public information and is not legal advice. Confirm with the town before relying on it.