Codes and Planning

The Codes & Planning Department helps preserve Warren’s welcoming character while guiding responsible development. All activities comply fully with Maine state law and Warren’s own Land Use Ordinance and Shoreland Zoning Ordinance, ensuring projects balance growth with community values.

Code Enforcement Officer

What they do:

Review and issue building, plumbing, and septic permits
Enforce building and zoning laws—including shoreland and land-use violations
Serve as a resource for landowners and contractors—whether questions are about regulations or property use

Have a question about what’s allowed in town? Reach out to our CEO, Steven Day:

Schedule a meeting
(207) 273‑2421
ceo@warrenmaine.org

Town Planner

Guided by our Comprehensive Plan, the Town Planner supports orderly and sustainable growth, overseeing:

Land-use and subdivision reviews
Creation of ordinances, updates to the Comprehensive Plan, and grant proposals
Coordination of capital improvement and economic development initiatives
Technical assistance to bodies like the Planning Board and Municipal Advisory Committee

For zoning, development, or policy questions—contact:

Dan DeBord, Town Planner at planner@warrenmaine.org or (207) 273‑2421

Key Permits & Ordinances

Warren maintains a robust set of ordinances to guide development and community standards:

Land Use & Zoning Ordinances (June 2021)
Shoreland Zoning Ordinance (June 2024)
Subdivision, Site Plan Review, Manufactured Housing, Floodplain, Sign, Solar, and Parking ordinances
Model Housing Code, Hazardous Waste Ordinance, Cannabis Ordinance, Metallic Mining Ordinance, and more

What needs a permit?

Building permits: required for structures over 100 sq ft (decks, additions, demolition, mobile homes, solar installations)
Plumbing permits: required except for minor repairs or pipe cleaning
Septic permits: require pre-approved Site Evaluator designs (HHE‑200 forms)

Permits are available in-person, by mail, or via email submissions. Once approved, they must be picked up and paid for within two weeks, or a new application is required

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Warren follow building codes? Yes. We follow the Model Housing Code (1970) and encourage MUBEC compliance, though enforcement is optional. Reach out if you’re unsure!
How often must rental properties be inspected? All rentals (short- or long-term) require inspection every five years for safety, heating, and structural integrity
How can I report zoning or code violations? Contact the CEO directly or submit a confidential complaint—anonymous reporting is supported.

Town Ordinances

Building Permit Application

Excavation Permit

HHE-211: Internal Plumbing Permit

Junkyard Permit

Land Use Application

Shoreland Zoning Map

Street Number Request and Change of Ownership Application

Subdivision Application

Variance Application

Common Questions

What projects require a building permit?
Buildings over 100sqft, decks, porches, additions and alterations, mobile home placements, movement of structures, demolition of structures and solar installations require permits. We do not require permits for roofs or fences.

What do I need for a rental?
All rentals, whether they are short term or long term, are required to be inspected once every 5 years to ensure that safe and adequate housing is available. The inspections focus mostly on safety issues, like smoke and carbon monoxide detectors and ensuring that there are safe means for ingress/egress in the event of an emergency. Additionally, our inspections ensure that our rentals can maintain adequate heating during the winter months and that all appliances are in good working order.

How do I report suspected violations?
If you have concerns about potential ordinance violations, please contact the Code Enforcement Office or stop by to report your concern. All report sources are confidential.