Development process

The city of Saco has adopted zoning, subdivision and site plan review controls which govern most construction. Many industrially zoned sites in the Maine Turnpike and Route 1 area provide for industrial development. Commercial sites are prevalent in the Route 1 corridor and the downtown district. Large projects are reviewed by the Planning Board. Small projects can be reviewed quickly by staff, to whom the City Council has delegated some review authority.

The Department of Environmental Protection has delegated to the city review authority for most Site Location of Development Act projects. Building permits required for all new construction:
A. BOCA Building Codes for commercial construction and Fire prevention ('93)
B. State of Maine Plumbing Code
C. National Electric Code
D. NFPA Life Safety 101 Code

Development contacts:
Development Director, 282-3487, Peter Morelli
Business Assistance, Saco Industrial Park, Historic Preservation Certificates, Rezoning Requests

City Planner, 282-3487, Robert Hamblen
Conditional Use, Subdivision, Site Plan Review, Site Location of Development

Code Enforcement Officer, 284-6983, Richard Lambert
Zoning information, Building & Plumbing Permits, Shoreland Zoning

Public Works Director, 284-6641, Larry Nadeau
Work in Right of Way, Street Opening Permit, Sewer hook-up

City Clerk, 284-4831, Lucette Pellerin
Liquor, Entertainment, and Victualer licenses, Disposal permits