At our annual meeting in 2008, the question came up regarding 'clearing vegetation in buffer areas', i.e., tree cutting. It can be a little complicated and changes to the regulations are nearing final approval. Here is the complete documentation.

What are the restrictions on clearing of vegetation in the shoreland zone?

Generally, in the first 75 feet from the normal high-water line or the upland edge of a wetland, no "clear-cut openings" (openings in the forest canopy greater than 250 square feet) are permitted, although 40% percent of the volume of trees four inches or more in diameter, measured at 4 1/2 feet above ground level can be removed in any ten year period.

The cutting must be done such that a well-distributed stand of trees and other vegetation remains. This area is commonly referred to as the buffer strip. Adjacent to great ponds and rivers flowing to great ponds, the buffer strip extends for a distance of 100 feet from the normal high-water line.

Beyond the buffer strip, vegetative cutting limitations are less restrictive. In this area cleared openings are permitted provided that such clearings do not exceed 25% of the lot area, or ten thousand square feet, whichever is greater. In total, however, no more than 40% of the volume of trees can be removed in any 10-year period from the shoreland zone.

Here is the most recent Maine Homeowner's Page for Land and Water Quality!

Conservation Practices for Homeowners.  Series of 20 fact sheets from DEP and the Portland Water District  profiling common conservation practices that homeowners can use to protect water quality. The fact sheets include detailed instructions, diagrams and color photos about installation and maintenance. Bureau of Land and Water Quality

Photo by Christina Devynck