roperty Ownership & Tax Bills
By Maine law, property ownership is set as of April 1 each year. Even if you buy a property after April 1, the tax bill for that year will still be in the previous owner’s name.

• Example: If you buy a home on May 1, the bill will be in the seller’s name.

• If we receive sale info before sending the bill, we’ll will do our best mark it “In Care Of” the new owner.

• If you’re the seller and receive a tax bill, please forward it to the buyer.

• Buyers: Contact us at 207.989.7560 or email if you’d like the bill sent directly to you.

Name or Address Change

• Name changes require written authorization and legal proof (marriage license, divorce decree, etc.). Use theName-Change-Authorization-Form.

• Address changes can be emailed to assessing-dept@brewermaine.gov or submitted using the address change form pdf fillable.

What’s Taxable?

Personal Property
Includes furnishings, equipment, machinery, signs, computers, trailers, etc.

• Businesses must file the Annual Business Personal Propert Declaration Form by mid April each year. Not filing may limit your appeal rights.

• Depreciation is based on a standard schedule PP Depreiation Table.  PP Depreciation Table City of Brewer

• If you sell, move, or close a business after April 1, you’re still liable for that year’s taxes.

BETR/BETE Programs
There were changes in 2018 to eligibility. More info at Maine Revenue Services.

Real Estate
Covers land and buildings. Each property has a record card showing land/building values, acreage, sketches, and any exemptions.

• If construction is ongoing as of April 1, the property is assessed based on its progress.

• If a structure is demolished after April 1, the value remains until the next year.

Maps, E-911 & Street Names

• The Assessor is also the E-911 Addressing Officer.

• The E911 Addressing Signage requirements are located in Chapter 50 of the Ordinance.

Sign Companies     (just for reference)

Bangor Neon                                          947-2766

Caron Signs                                          848-7889

White Signs                                            827-5802

Miller Signs                                          368-5153

Maine Vinyl Signs                               1-877-381-5722

Axe Signs                                                 569-3334

207 Graphix                                           Facebook

• View tax maps  and the STREET NAMES AND MAPS.

• Need a new E-911 address? Complete the street number application pdf fillable.

• Want to name a new travel way? Submit theTravel way name application with three name options.

Appeals Process

If you believe your property assessment is incorrect, you have 185 days from the commitment date to file an abatement request.

• Use the Abatement Application 2020.

• Appeals must follow M.R.S.A. Title 36 §841-849.

• Burden of proof is on the taxpayer.

• More info: Property Tax Bulletin #10 

• Appeals to the Board of Assessment Review go through the City Clerk.