Planning, Permitting & Code
The Planning, Permitting and Code Department administers land use, building, housing, plumbing and electrical codes and oversees the development and implementation of improvement plans for various areas of the city. On the permitting and compliance front, we aim to help developers complete their projects on time and in compliance with State codes and local ordinances.
The City of Auburn has a long history of planning, including our first Comprehensive Plan in 1919. Maintaining and improving the quality of life in Auburn through planning, zoning infrastructure, accommodating all modes of transportation, recreational opportunities, protection of residential neighborhoods, code compliance and creating economic opportunities are all high priorities.
Building, Plumbing & Code Services
Kris Beaudoin | Code Supervisor
Building Inspectors are responsible for enforcing building codes. The staff reviews development plans and inspects work in progress. The staff works with both “weekend handy-persons” and professionals in an effort to make projects proceed as smoothly as possible. Many of our efforts are intended to ensure that the public is protected in the workplace, commercial establishments and in their homes. The building code for the City of Auburn is the Maine Uniform Building & Energy Code (MUBEC).
PLEASE NOTE: As of April 7th, 2025, Auburn will be following the 2021 Versions of the above referenced codes. Permit applications submitted on or After April 7th, 2025, must be held to the 2021 building code standards. Permit applications already submitted and in review as of April 7th, 2025, may reference the 2015 code standards unless otherwise specified by Code Enforcement.
- Plumbing Inspectors enforce all state regulations for all internal and external plumbing permits, which includes septic system design issued in the city. The division works closely with the Lake Auburn Watershed Commission regarding septic and sewer designs in the Lake Auburn Watershed. Currently, the City of Auburn is using is the Maine State Internal Plumbing Code, 2021 Edition. Please refer to the State of Maine Wastewater and Plumbing contract program.
- Our staff enforces City Ordinances related to the proper use and development of property. To report a complaint please click here.
- The Electrical Department is responsible for maintaining the City’s extensive network of traffic signals, streetlights, and fire alarm systems. It also administers the Electrical Code and performs associated inspections. The City of Auburn has adopted the NFPA 70, (National Electrical Code) 2023 edition (In effect as of July 1, 2024).
- Electrical Permits and Inspections: The owner of a single-family owner-occupied dwelling may perform all electrical work (without licensure) within their dwelling. All appropriate permits and inspections shall be obtained. Only an appropriately licensed electrician may perform installations in multi-family dwellings, commercial, and industrial properties. It is a “class E crime” to perform electrical installations in the aforementioned areas without appropriate licensure. Scheduling for electrical inspections and general electrical information may be obtained by contacting the Planning & Permitting Office: Tammy Thatcher, Elizabeth Bullen
Planning, Zoning & Land Use Services
David Hediger | Director of Planning
- The Land Use Division is charged with protecting and improving the community’s environment and promoting economic development through land use policies and ordinances. The City has a Planning Board, comprised of nine citizens, who are responsible for hearing zoning requests, reviewing site plans, and recommending land use policies to the City Council. The Zoning Board of Appeals, another citizen board, reviews staff and Planning Board decisions.
Hours: Monday thru Friday, 8:30am to 4:00pm
STAFF
| Tammy Thatcher | Planning & Permitting Assistant | 207.333.6601 | ext. 1133 | |
| Elizabeth Bullen | Planning & Permitting Assistant | 207.333.6601 | ext. 1158 | |
| David Hediger | Director of Planning | 207.333.6601 | ext. 1154 | |
| Vacant | Planning Coordinator | 207.333.6601 | ext. 1155 | |
| Lauren Caffe | Long Range Planner | 207.333.6601 | ext. 1334 | |
| Kris Beaudoin | Code Supervisor | 207.333.6601 | ext. 1150 | |
| Daniel Fournier | Code Compliance Officer/LPI | 207.333.6601 | ext. 1139 | |
| Benjamin Westman | Code Compliance Officer/Housing/LPI | 207.333.6601 | ext. 1160 | |
| Vanessa White | Code Compliance Officer | 207.333.6601 | ext. 1119 | |
| Charlie DeAngelis | City Electrician | 207.333.6601 | ext. 1152 |