Bar Harbor, ME Quiet Hours & Noise Laws [2026]
When are quiet hours in Bar Harbor, ME?
| Regulation | Details for Bar Harbor, ME |
|---|---|
| Quiet Hours | 9PM-7AM |
| Weekends | Typically same as weekdays |
| Enforcement | Police Non-Emergency: (207) 288-3391 |
9:00 PM to 7:00 AM
Strict noise limits typically apply during these times.
Bar Harbor, ME Noise Rules
What is the noise ordinance in Bar Harbor, ME?
Bar Harbor, ME's noise ordinance, Chapter 139 of the Town Code, prohibits loud, unnecessary, or unusual noise that disturbs the comfort or repose of others. Quiet hours are specifically designated from 9:00 PM to 7:00 AM daily. Special permits may allow construction during these hours under certain conditions.
Decibel Limit Comparison
| Zone Type | Day | Night |
|---|---|---|
| Residential | N/A | N/A |
Note: The Town of Bar Harbor's ordinance does not specify general decibel limits for residential or commercial areas in the provided information. State-level DEP regulations for specific developments exist (e.g., 55 dBA daytime, 45 dBA nighttime at protected locations), but are not the town's general limits.
Specific Restrictions
- Construction:
Construction and demolition activities are generally restricted during quiet hours (9:00 PM to 7:00 AM). Permits may be issued for work during these hours if public health and safety are not impaired, or in cases of urgent necessity, such as work below the high tide mark.
- Amplified Sound:
Making, continuing, or causing any loud, unnecessary, or unusual noise, including amplified sound, which annoys or disturbs others is prohibited. Establishments with special amusement permits for live music face penalties for verified noise violations.
- Animals:
The keeping of any animal or bird that causes frequent or long-continued noise without provocation, disturbing the comfort or repose of any person in the vicinity, is prohibited.
- Vehicles:
Operation of any noise-creating blower, compressor, power fan, engine, motor boat, motor vehicle, or other machine is prohibited unless equipped with a muffler device sufficient to reduce noise so it does not unreasonably annoy or disturb a reasonable person's sensibilities. Yelling, shouting, hooting, whistling or singing on public streets between 9:00 PM and 7:00 AM is also prohibited.
Frequently Asked Questions about Bar Harbor, ME Noise Rules
What are the designated quiet hours in Bar Harbor, ME?
9:00 PM to 7:00 AM. Generally, during these hours, noise should be kept to a minimum to avoid disturbing neighbors.
How loud can I play music in Bar Harbor, ME?
Residential areas typically have a limit of established limits during the day and stricter limits at night. Excessive vibration or bass that is plainly audible at the property line may also be a violation.
Who do I contact to report a noise violation in Bar Harbor, ME?
For non-emergency noise complaints, contact the Bar Harbor, ME police non-emergency line at (207) 288-3391. For ongoing issues like construction or animal noise, you can also contact Code Enforcement at (207) 288-3329.