ADU Rules in Bath, Maine

Bath is the Sagadahoc County seat with a population of about 8,500 on the Kennebec River in midcoast Maine. Known as the "City of Ships," Bath is home to Bath Iron Works (BIW) — one of the US Navy's primary shipbuilders and Maine's largest private employer. Bath has a compact historic downtown with Victorian and Federal-era architecture. Maine has no statewide ADU preemption law — Bath's local zoning governs.

Bath Zoning Ordinance

The City of Bath Zoning Ordinance governs all land use within Bath city limits.

Permitted ADU Types

Depending on the zoning district:

• Accessory apartments: Within or attached to primary structure
• Detached accessory dwelling units: Subject to zoning standards

Verify current ADU provisions with Bath's Planning Department.

Size Limits

Accessory dwelling units are subject to:

• Maximum floor area per zone
• Lot coverage restrictions

Setbacks

Per Bath residential zone (typical):

• Rear: Minimum setback
• Side: Minimum setback

Maine Shoreland Zoning

Properties within 250 feet of the Kennebec River, New Meadows River, or other water bodies are subject to Maine's Shoreland Zoning Act (Title 38). Bath's location on the lower Kennebec means many properties may be near protected shorelines — verify shoreland zoning status.

Coastal and Tidal Areas

Bath is a tidal river city. Properties near tidal zones may have additional restrictions under Maine's wetland and shoreland protection laws.

Historic Districts

Bath's downtown has historic districts with 19th-century maritime architecture. Properties in historic districts require review for exterior modifications.

Kennebec River Flood Zones

Parts of Bath near the Kennebec River may be in FEMA flood zones. Verify flood map status for riverfront properties.

Permit Process

1. Verify zoning: Bath Planning Department
2. Check shoreland zoning: If near the Kennebec or tidal areas
3. Check flood zone status: If near the river
4. Historic review: If in a historic district
5. Submit plans: Bath Building Department
6. Building permit and inspections
7. CO: Required before occupancy

Contact

City of Bath Planning Department 55 Front Street, Bath, ME 04530 Phone: (207) 443-8340 Website: cityofbath.com

Disclaimer: Maine has no statewide ADU law. Bath's local zoning governs. Verify current ADU allowances with the City of Bath before starting any project.