Mount Desert

The Town of Mount Desert requires all short-term rentals (stays under 28 days) to register annually with the Code Enforcement Officer. The ordinance focus is on safety compliance and noise mitigation rather than residency requirements, allowing both primary and secondary homes to be rented.

To host an Airbnb in Mount Desert, you must register your property with the town and pay a $50 annual fee. You don't have to live in the home full-time, but you must ensure it meets specific safety standards like having working smoke detectors and proper emergency exits. You are also required to post a notice inside the rental with your contact information and basic house rules for guests. All rentals under 28 days are also subject to the Maine state lodging tax of 9%, which platforms usually collect for you.