Code Enforcement Officer

The Code Enforcement Officer (CEO) for the Town of Warren plays a vital role in protecting public health, safety, and the integrity of our natural and built environments. In addition to enforcing land use and zoning regulations, the CEO also serves as the Local Plumbing Inspector (LPI), ensuring that all plumbing and septic systems are properly designed, permitted, and installed in accordance with Maine State Law and local ordinances.

What the Code Enforcement Officer Does

The CEO ensures that all residential, commercial, and municipal development within Warren complies with applicable regulations, including:

  • Reviewing and issuing permits for:

    • Building and renovation projects (new construction, additions, mobile homes, sheds, solar panels, decks, demolitions, etc.)

    • Shoreland Zoning and Land Use

    • Subdivision and site plan applications

  • Inspecting projects for code compliance during and after construction

  • Responding to and investigating complaints regarding zoning or ordinance violations

  • Working closely with the Planning Board and Town Planner to guide responsible growth

  • Enforcing regulations tied to:

    • Junkyards

    • Dangerous buildings

    • Illegal land use changes

    • Shoreland and floodplain protections

What the Local Plumbing Inspector Oversees

As the Local Plumbing Inspector (LPI), the CEO also:

  • Reviews and issues permits for:

    • Internal plumbing systems in new and existing structures

    • Subsurface wastewater disposal systems (septic systems)

  • Verifies that all plumbing work complies with the State of Maine Internal Plumbing Code

  • Reviews HHE-200 septic design forms submitted by licensed site evaluators

  • Conducts on-site inspections of plumbing and septic installations to ensure proper layout, construction, and environmental compliance

  • Works with property owners, contractors, and engineers to ensure public health and water resource protection

Did you know? Any work involving the installation or extension of plumbing systems—including toilets, sinks, and septic systems—requires a permit from the LPI. Even replacing a failing septic tank or adding a bathroom addition must be permitted and inspected.

When Do You Need a Permit?

You likely need a permit if you are:

  • Building any structure over 100 sq. ft.

  • Adding a deck, shed, or mobile home

  • Installing or altering plumbing or septic systems

  • Working on a property within shoreland zoning areas

  • Subdividing land or changing property use

If you’re unsure whether your project requires a permit, please contact the CEO/LPI before beginning work.

Applications & Submissions

Permits can be submitted in person at the Town Office, by mail, or email. Once approved, permits must be picked up and paid for within two weeks, or a new application may be required.

You can find permit applications, zoning maps, and ordinance documents under the Permits, Licenses & Forms section of the town website.