ADU Rules in Saco, Maine

Saco is a York County city of about 20,000 on the western bank of the Saco River in southern Maine, approximately 18 miles south of Portland. Paired with Biddeford (across the Saco River) as the "Twin Cities of York County," Saco has a more residential character while Biddeford has more industrial mill heritage. Saco has Atlantic coastal areas including Saco Bay and Old Orchard Beach (a separate town). Saco and Biddeford are entirely separate cities. Maine has no statewide ADU preemption law — Saco's local zoning governs.

Saco vs. Biddeford

• Saco: West bank of the Saco River — use Saco's permit process
• Biddeford: East bank — separate city, separate zoning ordinance
• Permits from Biddeford are not valid in Saco

Saco Zoning Ordinance

The City of Saco Zoning Ordinance governs all land use within Saco 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 Saco's Planning Department.

Size Limits

Accessory dwelling units are subject to:

• Maximum floor area per zone
• Lot coverage restrictions

Setbacks

Per Saco residential zone (typical):

• Rear: Minimum setback
• Side: Minimum setback

Maine Shoreland Zoning

Properties within 250 feet of the Saco River, Saco Bay (Atlantic Ocean shoreline), or other water bodies are subject to Maine's Shoreland Zoning Act (Title 38). Saco has both river and coastal shoreline — verify shoreland zoning for any waterfront property.

Coastal Areas

Saco has Atlantic coastal areas along Saco Bay. Properties near the ocean are subject to Maine's shoreland and wetland protection laws.

Saco River Flood Zones

Parts of Saco near the Saco River may be in FEMA flood zones. Verify flood map status.

Permit Process

1. Verify jurisdiction: Confirm your property is in Saco (not Biddeford or Old Orchard Beach)
2. Verify zoning: Saco Planning Department
3. Check shoreland zoning: If near the Saco River or Atlantic coast
4. Check flood zone status: If near waterways or coast
5. Submit plans: Saco Building Department
6. Building permit and inspections
7. CO: Required before occupancy

Contact

City of Saco Planning Department 300 Main Street, Saco, ME 04072 Phone: (207) 282-4191 Website: sacomaine.org

Disclaimer: Maine has no statewide ADU law. Saco and Biddeford are separate cities. Maine Shoreland Zoning applies near the Saco River and Atlantic coast. Verify current ADU allowances with the City of Saco before starting any project.