Some counties welcome barndominiums, but metro and suburban areas may restrict them.
MUBEC is mandatory for municipalities with populations over 4,000. Smaller municipalities may opt in. Many small rural towns have not adopted MUBEC.
Primary Code
Maine Uniform Building and Energy Code (MUBEC)
Code Version
2015 IBC / 2015 IRC with ME amendments
Adoption Level
Statewide + Local Amendments
Statewide Enforcement
No
Smaller towns without MUBEC may have simplified permit processes or no code enforcement.
Residential
Required
Commercial
Required
Agricultural
Not Required
Size threshold: structures under 200 sq ft may be exempt.
Farm buildings may be exempt from certain building code requirements in municipalities that have not adopted MUBEC.
Small structures under 200 sq ft typically exempt.
Heavy snow loads are the primary concern, especially in the north and mountains. Coastal areas have higher wind requirements.
Wind Load
100–130 mph
moderate zone
Snow Load
40–100+ psf
Seismic
A–B
Category
Flood
FEMA Regulated
Energy Code
IECC
Version
2015 IECC (as part of MUBEC)
Required in MUBEC municipalities.
License Type
No state license required
Maine does not require a state contractor license. Local municipalities may have registration requirements.
Front
25–40 ft
Side
10–20 ft
Rear
15–25 ft
Varies by municipality. Shoreland zoning adds setback requirements near water bodies.
Frost depth 48-60+ inches. Basements common. Cold climate foundation design critical.
Popular in rural areas. Snow load engineering critical.
Agricultural exemptions available in non-MUBEC towns.
Growing interest. Acceptance varies by municipality. Insulation and energy requirements challenging.
Heavy snow load design required.
Full MUBEC compliance in adopting municipalities.
HOAs uncommon in rural Maine. Some coastal and lakefront communities have deed restrictions.
Coastal flood zones and riverine flooding. Shoreland zoning regulations add additional requirements near water.
Verify the information above directly from these official sources. Regulations change — always confirm with your local building department before starting construction.
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or professional advice. Building codes, permit requirements, and zoning regulations change frequently. Always verify current requirements with your local building department, planning office, or a licensed professional before starting construction. Homestead Steel Structures & Design is not a legal authority on building codes or zoning regulations. Last updated February 2026.
