CEO OFFICE
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What information must I provide in order to obtain a building permit?
A building permit application, which can be obtained from the Code Enforcement Office, must be completed. In addition to basic personal information such as name and address, the application card serves to break down project construction into individual components which may be involved. For example (if applicable)…size of floor joists and/or rafters proposed to be used….what type of siding is planned…intended stud spacing…type and thickness of wall sheathing…etc.
Typically, this application must be accompanied by construction drawings, which serve to illustrate the scope of work to be undertaken. The degree of detail necessary varies with the nature of the project; therefore, once again we highly recommend contacting us in advance when considering a construction project that we may offer you a more specific idea of what may be required in terms of construction plans/drawings.
2. When is a building permit actually required?
A building permit is necessary whenever the scope of work involves construction, alteration, enlargement or demolition of a structure. As a general rule, whenever the proposed work affects: structural features ( wither adding or removing), alterations to the layout of rooms or spaces, change of building use, or alteration to building elements which are regulated by the Code, a permit is required. Renovations that are primarily cosmetic in nature such as painting, flooring, paneling/trim work, etc., do not require a permit. Items that can be considered a repair, such as replacing loose siding, guardrails, balusters, etc., do not require a permit. In all cases we highly recommend that individuals call us when planning to undertake a project that we may provide a determination as to whether a building permit
is necessary.
3. How much does a building permit cost?
Building permit fees vary depending on the nature of the construction. The fee is based on the total square footage of the newly created structure or scope of the renovation. We highly recommend that individuals call us when planning to undertake a project for assistance in determining applicable fees.
4. Is my lot a conforming lot?
When asked this question, the Code Enforcement Office will research the property to determine if the lot meets the minimum lot frontage, depth and size requirements. They will also research whether the buildings existing on the lot meet the zoning district’s particular setback, lot coverage and bulk requirements. If the lot is non-conforming, the staff will research whether any variances have been granted for the property and whether the lot is legally conforming or non-conforming. In general, non-conforming properties/structures will be considered “legally non-conforming” if they were constructed/created in accordance with the standards in place at that time. A legally non-conforming structure will be allowed to remain indefinitely. Should the structure be destroyed/removed, then any new structure will
need to meet the current standards for that particular zoning district.
5. When do I need an electrical permit?
Electrical permits are required for the installation of wires and fixtures for new construction, additions to existing structures and repairs to structures that alter the existing wiring.
6. How do I obtain an electrical permit?
Permits may be obtained at the town within the Code Enforcement Office from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m, Monday – Friday. Call 207-998-4604 between 9:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. weekdays.
7. Do I need a license to perform electrical installations?
The owner of a single-family owner-occupied dwelling may perform all electrical work (without licensure) within their dwelling. All appropriate permits and inspections shall be obtained.
Only an appropriately licensed electrician may perform installations in multi-family dwellings, commercial, and industrial properties. It is a “class E crime” to perform electrical installations in the aforementioned areas without appropriate licensure.
8. What edition of the National Electrical Code is used by the Town of Poland?
The Town of Poland has adopted the NFPA 70, (National Electrical Code).
9. How is my property zoned?
It depends on where the property is located. The Town of Poland has 8 different zoning classifications ranging from Farm & Forest to Rural Residential. Each zoning district has a set of standards that regulates the type of uses allowed within a particular zone and each zone also has a set of standards (setbacks, lot coverage, height, etc.) that dictate how the lot may be developed.
10. Can I subdivide my property?
It depends on how the property is zoned. Each zoning classification has minimum lot frontage, depth and size requirements. A lot may be subdivided if all of the created lots meet the standards for that particular zone.
11. What types of businesses can I operate on my property?
Every property in the Town of Poland falls into a zoning district. Each zoning district has a list of uses that are appropriate to that particular zoning classification. The Comprehensive Land Use Code outlines “permitted uses” that are allowed by right and uses that may be acceptable but require Planning Board review and a public hearing.
12. Is my property within a floodplain?
It depends where the property is located. The Code Enforcement Office maintains flood maps that illustrate where flooding occurs within the “100 year flood zone”.
13. When is a building permit actually required?
A building permit is necessary whenever the scope of work involves construction, alteration, enlargement or demolition of a structure. As a general rule, whenever the proposed work affects: structural features ( whether adding or removing), alterations to the layout of rooms or spaces, change of building use, or alteration to building elements which are regulated by the Code, a permit is required. Renovations that are primarily cosmetic in nature such as painting, flooring, paneling/trim work, etc., do not require a permit. Items that can be considered a repair, such as replacing loose siding, guardrails, balusters, etc., do not require a permit. In all cases we highly recommend that individuals call us when planning to undertake a project that we may provide a determination as to whether a building permit
is necessary.
14. I own (or operate) a food establishment in the Town of Poland, and understand there are new guidelines (Food Code) adopted by the State. Where can I get a copy of these new rules and regulation?
The Food Code is available from the State. For a complete copy of the 2001 State of Maine, Food Code, contact the Eating and Lodging Program at (207) 287-5671 or download a copy from: http://www.maine.gov/dhhs/eng/el
| 
