Frequently Asked Questions

• Competitive pay: $32.93 - $42.64 per hour
• 12-hour Panama Schedule (2-2-3) for patrol officers
• Overnight shift differential pay available
• Two weeks paid vacation to start
• 12 paid holidays per year

Officers receive comprehensive benefits including:

• MEPERS 3C Retirement Plan (25 years, 2/3's):
  • 25 Years of Service required
  • No Age Requirement
  • 2/3's Average Final Compensation
  • Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA)
• MMEHT PPO-1500 Health Plan
• Wellness Programs:
  • Paid On-Duty Exercise Time
  • $6,000 Annual Wellness Incentive
• Up to 960 Hours Paid Sick Time
• Uniforms and Duty Gear Provided
• Overtime & Compensatory Time Available

Basic Requirements:

• Must be 21 years old (or 20 with 60 college credit hours)
• Pass Maine Criminal Justice Academy Alert and Physical Fitness Test
• Complete 18-week MCJA Basic Law Enforcement Training Program

Hiring Process (3-4 months):

• Application with resume and cover letter
• Written Test
• Physical Fitness Test
• Oral Interview
• Background Investigation
• Conditional Job Offer
• Polygraph Examination
• Job Suitability Assessment
• Medical Examination

Yes, we accept lateral transfers:

• Open to Maine Blue Pins and out-of-state officers
• Salary commensurate with years of service
• Full credit for post-academy law enforcement experience
• No written entrance exam required for lateral officers

The MCJA Basic Law Enforcement Training Program (BLETP) includes:

• 18-week residential program
• Monday-Friday residence at the academy
• Weekend returns home permitted
• Two classes per year (August and January)
• Required for all Maine police officers

To retrieve property:

• Call ahead to (207) 288-3391 to confirm availability
• Bring valid government-issued photo identification
• Property available during business hours (8:00 AM - 4:00 PM, Mon-Fri)
• Proof of ownership may be required for certain items
• Sign required release forms upon retrieval

Note: Some items may require additional documentation or court orders.

Our property retention policies:

• Found property held for 30 days from turn-in date
• Evidence held until case is closed and all appeals exhausted
• Unclaimed items may be disposed of per state law
• Valuable items may be auctioned after retention period

For non-emergency incidents:

• Call: (207) 288-3391
• Visit: 37 Firefly Lane
• Use our online reporting system for minor incidents

Examples of non-emergency incidents:

• Minor theft or vandalism (not in progress)
• Noise complaints
• Suspicious activity (not immediate danger)
• Lost property

Always call 911 for emergencies requiring immediate response.

Bar Harbor residents can request a vacation house check:

• Complete the Vacation House Check form (at station or online)
• Submit at least 48 hours before departure
• Provide emergency contact information
• List authorized vehicles, lights, or persons
• Officers will periodically check your property

This free service is available to all Bar Harbor residents. Contact Community Services at (207) 288-3391.

If you receive a suspected scam:

• Do not provide personal information or financial details
• Do not click on suspicious links or open attachments
• Hang up on suspicious callers creating urgency or fear
• Report to Bar Harbor Police at (207) 288-3391
• File a report with FTC at reportfraud.ftc.gov
• Monitor your accounts for suspicious activity

Common scams include IRS impersonation, utility threats, grandparent scams, and lottery notifications.

• Administrative offices: Monday - Friday, 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM
• Emergency services (911): Available 24/7
• Non-emergency dispatch: Available 24/7

Contact numbers:

• Bar Harbor: (207) 288-3391
• Mount Desert: (207) 276-5111
• Emergency: 911

At the scene:

• Call 911 if there are injuries or the road is blocked
• Call non-emergency dispatch at (207) 288-3391 for minor accidents
• Exchange information with other drivers (insurance, registration, contact info)
• Do not leave the scene until an officer arrives or you have been advised

After the accident:

• Request a copy of the accident report from our Forms page
• Processing typically takes 5-7 business days
• For accident reports, visit our office or call during business hours

Yes! We offer emergency contact registration for both businesses and residences:

• Download the Business Emergency Contact or Residential Emergency Contact form from our Forms page
• Provide key holder names, phone numbers, and alarm company details
• Submit completed forms in person or by email

This helps dispatch reach the right people quickly during emergencies, alarm activations, or property checks.

The Good Morning Program is a free service for elderly or disabled residents living alone. Participants:

• Call the department each morning to check in
• Receive wellness checks if they don't call
• Get connected with emergency services if needed

To enroll, contact our Community Services Division at (207) 288-3391.

We maintain a comprehensive community resource directory covering:

• Crisis Support: NextStep Domestic Violence Project, NAMI Maine, 211 Maine
• Food Security: Open Table MDI, Loaves & Fishes, Bar Harbor Food Pantry, and more
• Health & Wellness: MDI Hospital, Community Health Center, Acadia Family Center
• Housing & Utilities: HEAP, Section 8, Community Energy Fund
• Youth & Education: Conners Emerson School, MDI High School, College of the Atlantic
• Legal Aid: Pine Tree Legal Assistance, Disability Rights Maine

Visit our Community Outreach page for the full directory with contact information and links.

Our Mental Health Unit offers:

• Crisis intervention and response
• Connection to mental health resources
• Follow-up support for individuals and families
• Training for officers in mental health response

For mental health emergencies, call 911. For non-emergency assistance, contact our Mental Health Unit at (207) 288-3391.

If there is immediate danger, call 911.

Crisis resources available 24/7:

• 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Call or text 988
• Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741
• BHMDPD Mental Health Unit:(207) 288-3391

Our officers are trained in crisis intervention and will respond with care. We can connect individuals with local treatment providers, counseling services, and ongoing support. Visit our Mental Health Unit page for more resources.

To report a lost or found pet:

• During business hours: Contact Animal Control at (207) 288-3391
• After hours: Call our dispatch center
• Check our Facebook page for recent found pet posts
• File a lost pet report with local animal shelters

All dogs over 6 months must be licensed annually. Requirements include:

• Current rabies vaccination
• License renewal by December 31st each year
• Proof of spay/neuter for reduced fee
• Licenses available at Town Hall or online

Pay Structure:

• $28.17/hour during 4 weeks academic training
• $29.81/hour plus minimum $2/hour shift differential after probation

Requirements:

• Strong listening and memory skills
• Excellent multitasking abilities
• Accurate typing skills
• Ability to work in a fast-paced team environment

Call 911 for:

• Life-threatening emergencies
• Crimes in progress
• Threats to personal safety
• Medical emergencies
• Fire or hazardous situations

Call non-emergency for:

• Theft or vandalism discovered after the fact
• Noise complaints
• Suspicious activity (not an immediate danger)
• General questions or information requests
• Lost or found property

Non-emergency numbers: Bar Harbor (207) 288-3391 | Mount Desert (207) 276-5111

Tip: Text-to-911 is available when calling isn't safe. Both lines are staffed 24/7.

To request a police report:

• Complete a Records Request Form
• Provide valid ID
• Include incident date and report number if known
• Pay any applicable fees

Processing time is typically 5-7 business days.

Our Administrative Services Division provides fingerprinting and background check letters for employment, housing, volunteering, and other purposes.

• Available during business hours (8:00 AM - 4:00 PM, Mon-Fri)
• Bring valid government-issued photo identification
• No appointment necessary for most requests
• Fees may apply depending on the type of check

Contact Administrative Services at (207) 288-3391 for details.

Maine allows permitless carry, but concealed carry permits are available upon request:

• Download the Resident Concealed Weapons Permit application from our Forms page
• Submit completed application to Administrative Services
• A background check is required as part of the process
• Processing may take longer than standard forms due to background check requirements

Contact (207) 288-3391 with questions about the application process.

To request public records under Maine's Freedom of Access Act:

• Submit a Records Request Form from our Forms page
• Include specific details about the records you are seeking
• Provide incident dates, case numbers, or parties involved if known
• Processing time is typically 5-7 business days

Some records may be restricted under Maine law (e.g., active investigations, juvenile records, sealed documents). Contact Records Management at (207) 288-3391 for guidance.

Summer Season (May 15 - October 30):

• Premium Zones: $4.00/hour
• Standard Zones: $2.00/hour
• Hours: Mon-Sat 8AM-9PM, Sun 12PM-9PM

Winter Season (November 15 - April 15):

• Free parking available in most areas
• Special restrictions during snow events
• Free winter overnight parking permits available

Application:

• Apply for a free winter overnight parking permit through the town's IPS system
• Valid during winter season (November 15 - April 15)
• Available for both residents and visitors

Requirements:

• Must have an actively monitored email account

Apply: Visit thepermitportal.com

• Residential Permits
• Student Permits
• Contractor Permits
• Commercial Fishing Permits
• Special Event Permits

Contractor & Special Event Daily Rates:

• Non-Premium Areas: $24.00/day
• Premium Areas: $54.00/day

• ParkMobile App
• Credit/Debit Cards
• Parking Tokens
• Apple Pay

Vehicles displaying valid handicap placards or plates:

• May park free in all paid and permit areas
• Must follow posted time limits and other restrictions
• Cannot park in areas marked "No Parking" or "Tow Away Zone"

Download & Setup:

• Download "ParkMobile" app for iOS or Android
• Create account with phone number and payment method
• Add your vehicle information (license plate and state)

Parking with ParkMobile:

• Open app and select Bar Harbor, ME
• Enter the zone number (displayed on nearby signage)
• Choose parking duration and start session
• Extend time remotely if needed

Important: Always ensure the correct vehicle is selected before starting your session.

Payment Options:

• Credit/debit cards (Visa, MasterCard, Discover, American Express)
• Parking tokens (available at local businesses)

Using the Kiosk:

• Select your parking duration
• Insert payment or parking tokens
• Take the printed receipt
• Keep receipt for the entire parking duration

About Parking Tokens:

• Metal tokens worth $1 each for parking payments
• Can be used at any parking kiosk in Bar Harbor
• Convenient alternative to credit cards

Where to Purchase:

• Town Office (during business hours)

To Pay Citation:

• Visit: barharbor.citationportal.com
• Enter citation number and license plate

Citation Details:

• Most parking violations: $52.00 fine
• Handicap violations: $250.00 fine
• Fire lane violations: $50.00 fine
• Payment due within 30 days of issue date

For questions, contact Parking Enforcement at (207) 288-1777

Overnight Parking:

• Parking is free from 9:00 PM until 8:00 AM
• No enforcement of meters or kiosks during these hours
• Regular parking restrictions still apply

Extended Parking Limits:

• No vehicle may be parked for more than 72 consecutive hours
• Vehicles exceeding this limit may be ticketed or towed
• This applies year-round

During winter months (November 15 - April 15):

• Overnight parking is allowed on streets with a winter permit
• Vehicles can be towed if email notification was sent
• Snow emergency notifications posted on town website and social media
• Municipal lots may have special winter regulations

For questions, contact the Parking Division at (207) 288-1777

Additional vehicles can be parked at the ferry terminal located at 121 Eden Street - a free parking lot. When you enter the ferry terminal, you'll find the parking lot on your right side. This area accommodates both regular vehicles and RVs.

RV parking is located at 349 Main Street next to the athletic field. The rate is $2 per hour with a payment kiosk available at the location. This designated RV parking area provides convenient access to downtown Bar Harbor.

Mount Desert has separate parking rules from Bar Harbor, varying by village (Northeast Harbor, Seal Harbor, Somesville, Hall Quarry):

• Permits: All permit applications are FREE through the IPS Group online portal
• Overnight parking: Available in Northeast Harbor for $10/night via ParkMobile (Zone 7290)
• Winter ban: No parking midnight - 6:00 AM from October 31 through May 14
• Village-specific rules: Each village has different zones and restrictions

Visit our Mount Desert Parking page for village-specific maps, permit applications, and detailed regulations.

Yes! There is no paid parking enforcement on July 4th. However, standard safety regulations still apply:

• No parking in fire lanes or emergency zones
• No parking in handicap spaces without proper permits
• No parking in yellow zones or areas with yellow curbs
• Observe all "No Parking" signs
• DO NOT park on Bar Island sand bar - vehicles risk submersion from tides

Bar Harbor's July 4th celebration is an all-day event:

• 7:00 AM: Pancake Breakfast at Athletic Field
• 8:00 AM - 3:00 PM: Craft Fair at YMCA
• 10:00 AM: Independence Day Parade starts
• 11:00 AM - 2:00 PM: Seafood Festival
• 7:30 PM: Town Band Concert at Village Green
• 9:15 PM: Fireworks over Frenchman Bay

The parade route follows this path:

• Start (10:00 AM): Main Street
• Continues on Cottage Street
• Turns onto Eden Street
• Proceeds to Mt. Desert Street
• Finish: Ledgelawn Avenue

Note: Road closures begin at 9:45 AM. Best viewing spots are along Main Street and the Village Green.

The best fireworks viewing locations include:

• Bar Island Sandbar - Most popular spot (arrive by 8:00 PM)
• Agamont Park - Family-friendly waterfront location
• Town Pier Area - Close to the action
• Grant Park - Excellent vantage point

Tip: Bring blankets, chairs, and arrive early for the best spots!

The Town of Bar Harbor maintains a strict prohibition due to:

• High population density
• Fire safety risks
• Local ordinance that overrides Maine state law

Warning: Bringing or setting off personal fireworks is illegal and will result in fines and/or arrest.

Special marine safety measures are in effect:

• 12:00 PM: The pier closes to all boat traffic
• Safety Zone: 200-yard radius around the end of the pier closed to all boats
• Inner Harbor Mooring Owners: Boat captains can be escorted to the skiff float for viewing
• Post-Fireworks: Harbormaster announces on Channel 16 when boats can resume normal traffic

Yes, the Island Explorer provides special July 4th service:

• Morning Service: Limited inbound trips at 7:00 AM, 7:45 AM, and 9:00 AM
• Post-Fireworks Service: Continuous service until all passengers are returned
• Note: Expect up to 60-minute wait between rounds after fireworks

Using the Island Explorer is highly recommended to avoid parking challenges!

The Bar Island sand bar is a popular attraction, but please be aware:

• Check tide times before crossing - you can get stranded!
• The crossing is only safe at low tide
• DO NOT park vehicles on the sand bar - they will be submerged
• Allow plenty of time to return before the tide comes in

For current tide information, visit the Harbor Master tide charts.

You can access Maine's Shellfish Closures & Monitoring information through:

• Visit the Maine DMR Interactive Map
• Click on map areas to access detailed information
• Updated regularly with current conditions

Note: Always check current closure status before harvesting as conditions can change rapidly.

The Maine DMR uses several classifications for shellfish areas:

• Approved: Open for harvesting under normal conditions
• Conditionally Approved: Open except during specified conditions
• Restricted: Harvesting allowed only with special permit
• Prohibited: No harvesting allowed

Classifications are based on water quality data and potential pollution sources.

There are several ways to stay informed:

• Check the DMR Interactive Map regularly
• Contact the Harbor Master's office at (207) 288-5571
• Sign up for DMR shellfish closure notifications
• Follow local shellfish warden announcements

To obtain a mooring permit:

• Complete mooring permit application
• Provide proof of boat registration/documentation
• Pay applicable fees
• Submit to Harbor Master's office for approval

Contact the Harbor Master at (207) 288-5571 for current availability and wait list information.

Recreational fishing in Bar Harbor waters requires:

• A valid Maine recreational saltwater fishing license (16+ years)
• Adherence to size and bag limits for various species
• Awareness of seasonal restrictions and protected areas
• Proper disposal of fishing line and other waste

Licenses can be purchased at Maine DMR or local tackle shops.

To report marine violations or incidents:

• Contact Harbor Master: (207) 288-5571
• After-hours emergencies: (207) 288-3391
• Environmental violations: Maine DEP at 1-800-452-1942
• Oil/fuel spills: National Response Center at 1-800-424-8802

Please note the location, time, vessel information, and nature of the incident.

Marine Fuels (Diesel and Non-Ethanol Gasoline) are sold by Bar Harbor Whale Watch:

• Contact: (207) 288-2386
• VHF Channel 1 if you're in the harbor
• Location: 1 West Street

It's recommended to call ahead to confirm availability.

We offer several services for seasonal residents:

• Seasonal property checks for unoccupied homes
• Security assessments for seasonal properties
• Registration of emergency contact information
• Alarm response coordination
• Assistance with local regulations and ordinances

To register, visit the police department or call (207) 288-3391.

Important local ordinances for visitors:

• Noise Ordinance: Quiet hours 10:00 PM to 7:00 AM
• Beach Regulations: No alcohol, fires, or camping on public beaches
• Pet Ordinances: Dogs must be leashed; waste must be picked up
• Parking: Pay attention to seasonal regulations and time limits
• Short-term Rentals: Only stay in legally registered properties
• Public Consumption: No open containers of alcohol in public

Stay informed about emergencies through:

• Social Media: Follow BHMDPD on Facebook
• Weather Alerts: Download the NOAA Weather app
• Local Radio: WDEA 1370 AM or WERU 89.9 FM

Ask your hotel or rental host about their emergency notification procedures.

Contact Christopher Johansen, Assistant Harbormaster:

• Primary: (207) 288-5571
• Alternative: (207) 288-3391
• Email: [email protected]

When reporting, please provide:

• Pole Number - Look for yellow tag with ID number
• Exact location or nearest address
• How long the light has been out (if known)