Harbor Master Division
Ensuring safe and efficient harbor operations in Bar Harbor
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About Our Division
The Harbor Master Division is responsible for ensuring the safe and efficient operation of Bar Harbor. We oversee mooring assignments, enforce harbor regulations, and provide assistance to boaters. Our goal is to maintain a welcoming and enjoyable environment for all who use the harbor.
Key Responsibilities
- Mooring Management
- Harbor Enforcement
- Boater Safety
- Water Quality
Contact Information
- Address3 Town Pier, Bar Harbor, ME 04609
- Phone207-288-5571
- HoursMon-Fri: 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Maine Shellfish Information
Visit DMR MapStay informed about current shellfish growing areas, closures, and water quality classifications through Maine's Department of Marine Resources.
Current Harbor Conditions
Real-time data from NOAA Station 8413320
Tide Forecast
Today's Tide Curve
Water level throughout the day •
7-Day Tide Schedule
Click a day to view| Date | High Tide | Low Tide | High Tide | Low Tide |
|---|---|---|---|---|
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Note: Real-time conditions are provided by NOAA Station 8413320. Data updates approximately every 10 minutes. Always check current marine forecasts and verify conditions before departing.
Mooring & Docking Services
The Harbor Master Division provides comprehensive mooring and docking services for vessels visiting Bar Harbor. Our modern facilities and professional staff ensure a safe and convenient experience for all boaters.
Make a Reservation on Dockwa2025 Rates
A convenience fee is automatically added to these rates and will be reflected during booking.
Services & Amenities
Harbor Regulations & Guidelines
Important rules for safe harbor usage
Annual Registration
All moorings must be registered annually with the Harbor Master. Unregistered moorings are subject to removal.
Placement Permission
No mooring shall be placed without explicit written permission from the Harbor Master.
Equipment Standards
All mooring gear must meet town specifications and be inspected every 3 years by a qualified inspector.
Prohibited Mooring
Mooring in channels or fairways is strictly prohibited and subject to immediate fines.
Safe Operation
Vessels must be operated in a safe and prudent manner at all times, respecting other harbor users.
Headway Speed
"Headway Speed" only within the inner harbor (inside the breakwater). No wake zone strictly enforced.
Town Pier
Maximum 2 hours. 10 minutes for passenger drop-off/pick-up only.
Floats
Maximum 20 minutes at public floats without Harbor Master permission.
Launching Ramp
Maximum 30 minutes without Harbor Master permission.
Residential Use
Watercraft used primarily as residences require specific permission from the Harbor Master and the owner of the shore rights.
Marine Life Cleaning Prohibited
Cleaning or disposal of any marine life (fish, lobsters, scallops, shrimp, clams, bait, or parts thereof) is prohibited at any float, pier, mooring, or anchorage within the inner harbor.
Trawling Restrictions
Operating watercraft when towing a drag or trawl is prohibited within 300 feet of any dock, pier, or wharf, or within 100 feet of any mooring, or within the defined harbor boundaries.
Channel Interference
Interfering with vessel passage in channels, including excessive prop wash alongside floats, is prohibited.
Sailing Restrictions
Operating watercraft under sail with an operable auxiliary engine is prohibited within the inner harbor.
Municipal Pier
Maximum 1-hour tie-up without Harbor Master permission. Loading/unloading permitted 4:00 AM - 11:00 AM only (30 min limit in loading zone).
Fisherman's Float
Northern end: 15 minutes max. Other areas: 1 hour max without permission. No property left on float except during active loading.
Public Floats
Eastern end: 15 minutes max. Other areas require Harbor Master permission. No swimming or fishing when vessels are docked.
Finger Floats
Western side: 1 hour max without permission. Eastern side: Tenders under 14 feet only (less than 15 HP).
Note: No repairs permitted on pier or floats except emergency work authorized by Harbor Master (4:00 AM - 11:00 AM). No business solicitation allowed.
Registration Deadline
All moorings must be registered annually by May 1. Unregistered moorings by June 1 will be removed and privilege revoked.
Removal Fees
$100 service fee plus expenses for Harbor Master removal of unregistered, unsafe, or non-compliant moorings.
Violations
Violations may result in fines of $20-$200 and/or 10-60 days imprisonment. First offenses typically receive a warning.
Appeals Process
Written appeals must be filed with the Town Clerk within 30 days of Harbor Master decision. Appeals heard by Harbor Committee.
Privilege Revocation: Mooring/berthing privileges may be revoked for failure to pay fees within 30 days, safety violations, repeated nuisance conduct, or violations of laws. Reinstatement requires Town Council approval.
Questions about Regulations?
Contact the Harbor Master office for clarification on any regulations or to report violations.
Commercial Shellfish Licensing
License Year Requirements
2025-2026 License Year
July 1, 2025 – June 30, 2026
Seven hours of conservation work were required by June 30, 2025 for individuals over 16.
If you did not complete those hours, you can work on hours this year and be eligible starting July 1, 2026, but you cannot be eligible for a commercial license this year.
Unlimited number available for residents who meet conservation requirements.
3 licenses available for 2025-26. Lottery held if more than 3 eligible applicants.
2026-2027 License Year
July 1, 2026 – June 30, 2027
12 hours required for individuals over 16 as of June 30, 2026.
Conservation work must be completed between July 1, 2025 to June 30, 2026 and approved by the Marine Resources Committee.
Unlimited number available for residents who meet conservation requirements.
Similar number expected for 2026-27 (committee decides in early 2026). Lottery if over limit.
Licensed Species
Important Requirements
State License Required
Any individual that commercially clams in Bar Harbor must have BOTH a town commercial shellfish license AND a state commercial shellfish license.
Residency Definition
Residency status is defined by town ordinance. Contact the Harbor Master office for specific residency requirements.
Forwarding Hours
Any individuals that do not receive licenses through lottery can forward their conservation hours to the next year.
Feel free to contact the Harbor Master at 207-288-5571 with any questions about commercial shellfish licensing.