The Mount Desert Select Board recently considered mounting calls for a formal noise ordinance following a summer characterized by numerous complaints, predominantly concerning construction noise. Though no immediate action was taken at a recent meeting, the discussion highlighted a growing need for clearer regulations in the town.
Marnie Phillips, a summer resident of Seal Harbor, explicitly requested the creation of a noise ordinance to address ongoing disruptions from multiple construction projects. Phillips highlighted the challenges of navigating situations where some property owners communicate their plans and provide contact information, while others demonstrate little regard for their neighbors. As of September 20, 2026, Phillips noted a lack of specific rules in Mount Desert governing dynamiting, with communication largely left to residents themselves.
Phillips described experiencing her house shaking and doors slamming due to dynamiting over the past four to five years. While some instances included prior notification and inspections of her premises, other blasting events occurred without warning. With a minimum of six ongoing construction projects in Seal Harbor this summer, Phillips expressed concern that the lack of guidance on noise levels and timeframes made the situation intolerable. She advocated for an ordinance that would establish timeframes for regular work, shorter limits for high-decibel activities such as jackhammering, and mandatory notification for all dynamiting, citing potential structural damage to homes without clear accountability.
Town Manager Alex Kimball confirmed that Phillips’ request was one of several similar appeals received over the summer, all related to construction noise. “This summer was definitely the summer of noise complaints,” Kimball told the Select Board, noting that the issues were particularly prevalent in Seal Harbor, but also present in Northeast Harbor, involving blasting and demands for time limits on disruptive sounds.
Kimball acknowledged the complexity of implementing a noise ordinance, warning of potential “unintended consequences.” He expressed concern that such regulations could quickly devolve into disputes between neighbors over decibel levels. However, he also recognized the persistent nature of the problem.
Vice Chair Wendy Littlefield inquired about existing rules and regulations concerning blasting. Public Works Director Brian Henkel responded that while requirements exist for notifying adjacent landowners regarding blasting radius, noise impact, and potential structural damage to nearby properties, he was not entirely certain of the specific details. Kimball added that even with notification, the experience of a house shaking from a blast remains upsetting.
Kimball suggested that if the board were to address one aspect of the situation, construction noise occurring before 7 a.m. might be the most feasible starting point. He expressed hesitation about implementing nighttime caps, noting that “that’s where things tend to get ugly sometimes.” For comparison, Bar Harbor’s general noise ordinance prohibits many types of noise, including construction, between 9 p.m. and 7 a.m., in addition to regulations on amplified music under special amusement permits.
Member David MacDonald expressed his sympathy for Phillips' situation, suggesting that the town has reached a “tipping point” where informal communication systems are no longer adequate.
Unlike Bar Harbor or Tremont, where noise complaints often center on live music from restaurants, Mount Desert's noise issues primarily revolve around construction. The ongoing dialogue underscores a tension between necessary development and residents' desire for peace and quiet in a place known for its natural beauty.