This chapter, adopted in accordance with the Maine Revised Statutes, is designed to encourage the most appropriate use of the land throughout the Town; to promote the Town's Comprehensive Plan; to foster a pattern of development that respects both villages and the rural landscape while discouraging "sprawl"; to protect existing neighborhoods and encourage formation of new neighborhoods; to provide for vital business areas; to promote traffic safety; to provide safety from fire; to provide adequate light and air; to prevent overcrowding of real estate; to promote a wholesome home environment; to conserve natural resources; and to provide for adequate public services.

Further, within shoreland areas, this chapter is designed to carry out the purposes of the State Shoreland Zoning Program, including to further the maintenance of safe and healthful conditions; to prevent and control water pollution; to protect fish spawning grounds, aquatic life, bird and other wildlife habitat; to protect buildings and lands from flooding and accelerated erosion; to protect archaeological and historic resources; to protect commercial fishing and maritime industries; to protect freshwater and coastal wetlands; to control building sites, placement of structures and land uses; to conserve shore cover, and visual as well as actual points of access to inland and coastal waters; to conserve natural beauty and open space; and to anticipate and respond to the impacts of development in shoreland areas.