Downtown Parking
Where to park downtown, the overflow lots, and the winter ban and snowstorm-lot rules that catch people out.
Where to park in downtown Damariscotta, the overflow lots for busy days, and the two winter rules that catch people out — the overnight ban and the snowstorm lot.
Is downtown parking free?
Yes — there are no parking meters or pay stations downtown. Some spaces are marked short-term for visitors and others are all-day; check the signs and the painted markings.
Where are the main lots, and where's the overflow on busy days?
The main lot is the Municipal Parking Lot at 1 Parking Lot Lane, on the waterfront downtown — the same lot that hosts the Pumpkin Regatta, and the one that floods on the highest tides.
When it's full, nearby lots take the overflow: the First National Bank lot behind Water and Cross Streets (about 60 spaces), the Bangor Savings Bank lot at 100 Main Street (15 public spaces, plus 8 along Elm Street), and the Second Congregational Church lot in Newcastle (30 spaces, open to the public daily except before 1 p.m. on Tuesdays and Sundays).
What is the winter overnight parking ban?
From November 15 to April 15, you can't park on any street, road, or municipal lot between 9 p.m. and 7 a.m. — even on nights with no snow in the forecast. It keeps the streets clear for plowing.
This is the Town of Damariscotta Traffic and Parking Ordinance, Article 1.17.
Where do I park overnight during a snowstorm?
During plowing and snow removal, the town opens the area of the municipal lot behind Stars Jewelry — the open area, not the spaces right against the building — as short-term snowstorm parking. Look for the posted signs marking the exact area.
Move your car by 7 a.m. sharp the day after the storm, or it can be towed at your expense. You can register your vehicle and contact details with the Damariscotta Police Department (207-563-1909 or 207-563-5168) to get a heads-up before any towing.