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Starting a Business in Bar Harbor

Starting a business in Bar Harbor is the start of an exciting journey and means joining a vibrant business community. This guide helps to outline the key steps to turn your business concept into a reality.

Step-by-Step Business Setup

  1. Define Your Business Concept & Model
    • Determine whether your venture operates year-round or seasonally (typically May through October). Draft a robust business plan detailing your target demographics, price structure, and revenue projections for peak and off-peak months.
  2. Select & Register Your Legal Entity
    • Register your legal entity (LLC, Corporation, or Partnership) through the Maine Secretary of State. Register your trade name (DBA) if operating under a name other than your legal entity name.
  3. Obtain Federal & State Tax IDs
    • Apply for an Employer Identification Number (EIN) through the IRS website. Next, set up an account with Maine Revenue Services to collect Maine Sales & Use Tax (currently 5.5%, 8% for prepared meals, or 9% for lodging) and state income tax withholdings.
  4. Check Local Zoning & Secure Town Permits
    • Confirm your location's zoning compliance with the Bar Harbor Code Enforcement Office. File appropriate applications.
    • Tip: Download the Town of Bar Harbor's New Business Checklist below.
  5. Secure Required Inspections
    • Schedule required inspections with the Bar Harbor Fire Department and local Health Inspectors prior to opening. Establish accounts for local municipal services including town water and sewer connection if applicable.
  6. Connect with Local Resources & Join the Chamber
    • Engage with local economic development organizations, financial institutions experience in seasonal cash flows, and join the Bar Harbor Chamber of Commerce for marketing exposure, networking, and business advocacy
New Business Checklist

Town of Bar Harbor Departments

Listed below are the various Town of Bar Harbor departments that may be involved in the licensing and permitting process when you are looking to open a new business or expand on an existing operation. Have a question? Contact any of the departments, utilizing the information below, they are here to help!

Local Support & Business Resources

  • Bar Harbor Planning & Code Enforcement: Licensing requirements, permitting process, and general assistance.
  • Bar Harbor Chamber of Commerce: Networking, business listings, visitor guide placement, and local business advocacy.
  • Business Answers Program: Provided by the Department of Economic & Community Development, Maine’s online Business Answers service provides free information about doing business in Maine.
  • MaineBusinessWorks: A program of Maine Small Business Development Centers and the Department of Economic & Community Development, provides access to a broad array of business development assistance available throughout the State of Maine including business education, financing programs, and small business information and/or assistance.
  • Maine Small Business Development Center (SBDC): Free, confidential business advising and financial planning assistance.
  • Eastern Maine Development Corporation (EMDC): Access to business financing, grants, and workforce development resources.
  • Union River Center for Innovation: The Union River Center for Innovation is proud to offer entrepreneurs and startups the opportunity to grow their companies by providing the resources necessary to get a business up and running.
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