Does the State require a comprehensive plan?

Municipalities in Maine are not required to adopt a Comprehensive Plan. However, a municipal comprehensive plan provides a legal basis for writing and enacting land use ordinances. Without a legal basis, land use ordinances can be challenged in court. 

Once accepted by the State, Comprehensive Plans are valid for 12 years. Once your plan hits the 10-year mark, consider launching a comprehensive plan update process as most comprehensive planning processes will take 1-2 years from start to finish.