ADU Rules in Brewer, Maine

Brewer is a Penobscot County city of about 9,500 on the eastern bank of the Penobscot River, directly across from Bangor. Although Brewer is part of the Bangor metropolitan area and closely linked to Bangor economically, it is an entirely separate city with its own government and zoning code. Maine has no statewide ADU preemption law — Brewer's local zoning governs.

Brewer vs. Bangor

• Brewer: East bank of the Penobscot River — use Brewer's permit process
• Bangor: West bank — separate city, separate Land Development Code
• Permits from Bangor are not valid in Brewer

Brewer Zoning Ordinance

The City of Brewer Zoning Ordinance governs all land use within Brewer 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 Brewer's Code Enforcement Office.

Size Limits

Accessory dwelling units are subject to:

• Maximum floor area per zone
• Lot coverage restrictions

Setbacks

Per Brewer residential zone (typical):

• Rear: Minimum setback
• Side: Minimum setback

Maine Shoreland Zoning

Properties within 250 feet of the Penobscot River or other water bodies are subject to Maine's Shoreland Zoning Act (Title 38). The Penobscot River runs along Brewer's western edge — verify shoreland zoning for riverfront properties.

Penobscot River Flood Zones

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

Permit Process

1. Verify jurisdiction: Confirm your property is in Brewer (not Bangor)
2. Verify zoning: Brewer Code Enforcement Office
3. Check shoreland zoning: If near the Penobscot River
4. Check flood zone status: If near the river
5. Submit plans: Brewer Code Enforcement
6. Building permit and inspections
7. CO: Required before occupancy

Contact

City of Brewer Code Enforcement Office 80 Exchange Street, Brewer, ME 04412 Phone: (207) 989-7500 Website: brewermaine.gov

Disclaimer: Maine has no statewide ADU law. Brewer and Bangor are separate cities. Verify current ADU allowances with the City of Brewer before starting any project.