An Act To Protect Coastal Property By Allowing Property Owners To Protect Their Existing Dwellings

LD 488 allows Maine property owners to seek permits for fortifying existing homes located in coastal sand dune systems or wetlands, directly affecting owners of pre-January 1, 2025 dwellings in high-risk flood zones (V-zones, special flood hazard areas, or high-risk storm surge areas). The bill permits up to 500 cubic yards of fill (covering ≤2,500 sq ft, no more than 50 feet beyond the foundation), requiring all filled areas to be covered with riprap/rocks and native vegetation. It amends Maine’s Natural Resources Protection Act to establish these specific conditions for department-approved fortification, while requiring rules for implementation. The policy change provides a limited pathway for coastal homeowners to strengthen existing structures without full regulatory prohibitions.