Maine Select Board Explores Options for Future of STRs

8/6/2026

The Tremont, Maine, Select Board is considering adopting regulations for short-term rentals. State legislation that goes into effect July 1, 2027, will increase allowable residential density on local lots. LD 2173 states that the “legislation amends portions of LD 1829, a law which requires municipalities to amend land use ordinances to increase housing density and reduce minimum lot sizes in certain areas.” The amended bill will allow single-acre lots that were previously limited to one dwelling to have three or four dwelling units. Tremont officials have expressed concern that out-of-state investors and/or property management companies will potentially take advantage of this new ruling to invest in multi-unit STRs and rely on off-island companies to manage them. Before adopting STR regulations, the board is seeking input from residents, property owners, business owners, and visitors.

Mount Desert Islander (08/05/26) Kip Wing

Why it Matters: Mount Desert Island and the entire mid-coast region of Maine are a significant second-home and vacation destination. Being aware of and engaging with localities that are seeking to restrict STRs is vital to ensuring the spread of such policies is contained.