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Kennebunkport

Maine · United States
Restricted
Last updated: 2026-07-15  ·  Last verified: 2026-07-15  ·  Region: US

At a Glance — Kennebunkport Airbnb & STR Rules

RuleDetails
Regulatory StatusRestricted — rules apply
Permit / License RequiredYes
Tax Rate9% Maine state lodging tax
Night / Day CapTown-wide license cap enforced (formula based on total dwelling units); waitlist in place
Primary Residence RequiredNo
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Kennebunkport Airbnb & Vacation Rental Regulation Overview

Kennebunkport Short-Term Rental Regulations Overview

Short-term rentals in Kennebunkport, Maine are allowed but subject to significant restrictions under local regulations as of 2026. Hosts operating on Airbnb, VRBO, or other vacation rental platforms must obtain proper licensing: Yes.

Tax Requirements for Airbnb Hosts in Kennebunkport

Short-term rental operators in Kennebunkport should be aware of these tax obligations: 9% Maine state lodging tax.

Hosting Rules and Restrictions in Kennebunkport

Key operational rules for vacation rental hosts in Kennebunkport include: Primary residence requirement: No. Rental day cap: Town-wide license cap enforced (formula based on total dwelling units); waitlist in place.

Full Regulatory Details

Regulatory Status
Restricted
License / Registration
Yes
Primary Residence Rule
No
Night / Day Cap
Town-wide license cap enforced (formula based on total dwelling units); waitlist in place
Tax Rate
9% Maine state lodging tax
Compliance Notes
Town-wide cap on STR licenses. Accessory apartments permitted after November 3, 2009 and ADUs in affordable housing post-July 1, 2024 are prohibited from STR use. RVs/tents prohibited. Waitlist system — obtaining a new license may take years. Goose Rocks Beach is exempt from cap. Note: neighboring Town of Kennebunk has separate rules ($250 fee + $150 renewal, no cap, effective January 1, 2025).
Effective Date
2021-01-01
Key Notes
Fee tiered by bedroom count — contact Planning Dept at 207-967-4243 for current rates. Ordinance enacted 2021. Cap-based waitlist may mean years before new license available.
📋 Apply / Register with the Official Authority

Apply for your STR permit or registration directly through the official government portal.

Official Source ↗

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Airbnb legal in Kennebunkport?

Airbnb and short-term rentals are legal in Kennebunkport but subject to restrictions. Hosts must comply with local permit requirements and zoning rules. Town-wide cap on STR licenses. Accessory apartments permitted after November 3, 2009 and ADUs in affordable housing post-July 1, 2024 are prohibited from STR use. RVs/tents prohibited. Waitlist system

Do you need a permit for Airbnb in Kennebunkport?

Yes. Kennebunkport requires the following for short-term rental operation: Yes.

What taxes apply to short-term rentals in Kennebunkport?

Short-term rental hosts in Kennebunkport are subject to the following tax obligations: 9% Maine state lodging tax.

What are the key STR compliance requirements in Kennebunkport?

Fee tiered by bedroom count — contact Planning Dept at 207-967-4243 for current rates. Ordinance enacted 2021. Cap-based waitlist may mean years before new license available.

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