Updated November 2026
Thinking about buying a vacation rental or operating an Airbnb in Saco, Maine? Before you do, there are two important restrictions you should know about: where your property is located and how long guests can stay.
The Two Biggest Rules:
1. Six-Day Minimum Stay. Under Saco's seasonal rental ordinance, covered residential properties cannot be rented for fewer than six days.
2. Geographic Restrictions. The ordinance limits eligible seasonal rentals to a defined coastal area along Seaside Avenue and Camp Ellis Avenue.
These restrictions can make a big difference when evaluating a property for Airbnb or VRBO use. Here's what homeowners and investors need to know.
Saco Short-Term Rental Rules at a Glance
Requirement | Saco's Published Rules |
|---|---|
Minimum Stay | 6 days |
Maximum Seasonal Rental Period | 4 months |
Eligible Locations | Defined coastal area |
Rental License | Required for covered properties |
Annual Renewal | $10 under the published ordinance |
Safety Inspections | Required initially and every 5 years |
License Transferable? | No |
Source: Saco Code, Chapter 173: Seasonal Property Rental .
1. Saco's Six-Day Minimum Rental Requirement
Unlike some neighboring communities that allow weekend rentals, Saco's existing seasonal rental ordinance requires a minimum stay of six days for covered properties.
That means a two- or three-night Airbnb booking isn't permitted under Chapter 173. A six-day rental or a weeklong vacation meets the minimum duration requirement.
For investors, this is an important distinction. Requiring longer stays can affect booking frequency, occupancy rates, and projected rental income.
2. Where Are Short-Term Rentals Allowed in Saco?
Saco's existing seasonal rental ordinance establishes a specific geographic area for eligible properties.
Under Chapter 173, the designated area includes:
- Properties east of Seaside Avenue and Camp Ellis Avenue.
- Properties within 400 feet west of the centerline of those roads.
This generally includes portions of Saco's coastal neighborhoods, including Camp Ellis, Ferry Beach, and Kinney Shores.
Map of Saco's Seasonal Rental Area
To help visualize the restrictions, we've created the interactive map below showing the approximate area where seasonal rentals are permitted under Chapter 173. You can zoom in and explore individual streets and neighborhoods.
View Larger Interactive Map →
Important for Buyers: Don't assume a property qualifies for seasonal rental use simply because it's near the beach or has previously been advertised on Airbnb. Confirm eligibility with Saco's Code Enforcement Office before purchasing.
3. Licensing and Other Requirements
If your property qualifies under Chapter 173, you'll need a seasonal rental license from the City of Saco.
Other requirements include:
- Licenses expire December 31 and must be renewed annually.
- The published ordinance lists a $10 annual renewal fee. Initial licensing and inspection fees may differ.
- Fire and life-safety inspections are required initially and at five-year intervals.
- Maximum overnight occupancy is established by the Code Enforcement Officer.
- Licenses cannot be transferred to a new owner.
You can review the complete requirements in Saco's Seasonal Property Rental Ordinance .
Are Saco's Airbnb Rules Changing?
Possibly. In June 2026, Saco officials discussed expanding short-term rental regulations beyond the existing coastal area, potentially introducing broader registration and inspection requirements.
Those discussions do not necessarily mean new rules have been adopted. Before purchasing or operating a rental property, check with the City for the latest ordinance updates.
Read more: Saco Considers Short-Term Rental Regulations .
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I operate an Airbnb anywhere in Saco?
Not necessarily. Chapter 173 identifies a specific coastal area for seasonal rentals. Properties outside that area require further review of applicable City regulations.
Can I rent my Saco property for a weekend?
Not under the existing Chapter 173 seasonal rental rules. Covered properties have a six-day minimum rental period.
Do I need a license for an Airbnb in Saco?
Yes, seasonal rentals covered by Chapter 173 require a City license. Confirm the applicable requirements with Code Enforcement.
Can I purchase an existing vacation rental?
Yes, but seasonal rental licenses do not transfer to new owners. Buyers should verify their ability to obtain a new license before relying on projected rental income.
Final Thoughts
Saco's coastal neighborhoods can be appealing for vacation rental investors, but the City's six-day minimum stay and geographic restrictions make it especially important to do your homework before buying.
If you're considering purchasing a property for short-term rental use, confirm its eligibility with the City and make sure your financial projections account for the applicable restrictions.
At Tomazin Goff Realty, we help buyers and sellers navigate the Southern Maine real estate market. Whether you're considering a vacation property, investment opportunity, or your next home, we're happy to help.
Disclaimer: This article is for general informational purposes and is based on Saco's published Chapter 173 ordinance and information available in November 2026. The embedded map is an approximate illustration, not an official determination of property eligibility. Regulations may change. Always confirm current requirements with the City of Saco. This article is not legal advice.
