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ADU Town Regulations

Old Orchard Beach, ME

Aug 27, 2024

Last Updated

About


Old Orchard Beach is a lively coastal town in York County, Maine known for its seven miles of sandy beaches and iconic beachfront amusement park, the Pier. The population or the town was 8,960 at the 2020 census. A popular summer destination, Old Orchard Beach offers a mix of family-friendly activities, from swimming and sunbathing to enjoying arcades, restaurants, and live entertainment along the boardwalk. The town's energetic energy, combined with its natural beauty and rich history, makes it a favorite spot for vacationers and locals alike. Whether you're strolling along the shore or enjoying the seasonal events, Old Orchard Beach provides a quintessential New England beach experience.

ADU Rules

  • Accessory dwelling units are allowed as conditional uses in all residential districts and shall comply with the following conditions:

    • An ADU can be located on the same lot where a single-family dwelling unit is the principal structure and only existing dwelling unit in any area in which housing is allowed, provided the ADU requirements and performance standards outlined in this section are met, and shall be constructed only:

      • Within the existing single-family dwelling unit

      • Attached to the single-family dwelling unit

      • As a new structure on the lot for the primary purpose of creating an ADU.

    • Only one (1) accessory apartment shall be permitted per lot. It shall be made part of the main residence.

    • The accessory dwelling unit shall have at least 500 square feet of floor area but shall not exceed 50% (percent) of the floor area of the main dwelling unit.

    • Floor area measurements shall not include unfinished attic, basement or cellar spaces nor public hallways or other common areas.

    • The accessory dwelling unit shall be accessed via the living area of the primary structure, and all other entrances to the accessory dwelling unit shall appear subordinate to the main entrance. Any proposed additions to the main structure or accessory structures shall be designed to be subordinate in scale and mass to that of the main structure and compatible with the architectural style and quality of the main structure.

    • The dwelling shall be served by a single electrical service.

    • The ADU and the single-family dwelling unit shall not be used for short-term rentals.

    • Accessory apartments shall not be permitted for any nonconforming structure or use, where nonconformity is due to the use of the premises, as opposed to nonconforming dimensional requirements.

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