12 M.R.S. § 10202 — ME Code / Title 12 / Part 13 / Chapter 903 / Section 10202
12 §10202. Department funds
Status: in_force

1. Appropriation. The amount of funds appropriated to the department in each fiscal year may not be less than the dollar amount collected, received or recovered by the department from license and permit fees, fines, penalties and all other money received by the department, except for any funds received from the Federal Government and money relating to the following: A. The department's account for the acquisition of waterfowl habitat set forth in section 10206, subsection 4 ; [PL 2003, c. 414, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 614, §9 (AFF).] B. Whitewater rafting; [PL 2003, c. 414, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 614, §9 (AFF).] C. The Maine Endangered and Nongame Wildlife Fund established in section 10253 ; [PL 2003, c. 414, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 614, §9 (AFF).] D. The watercraft fund of the Department of Marine Resources; [PL 2003, c. 414, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 614, §9 (AFF).] E. The Snowmobile Trail Fund of the Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry, Bureau of Parks and Lands; [PL 2003, c. 414, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 614, §9 (AFF); PL 2011, c. 657, Pt. W, §§5, 7 (REV); PL 2013, c. 405, Pt. A, §24 (REV).] F. The ATV Recreational Management Fund of the Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry; and [PL 2003, c. 414, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 614, §9 (AFF); PL 2011, c. 657, Pt. W, §5 (REV).] G. Boating access sites. [PL 2003, c. 414, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 614, §9 (AFF).] [PL 2003, c. 414, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 614, §9 (AFF); PL 2011, c. 657, Pt. W, §§5, 7 (REV); PL 2013, c. 405, Pt. A, §24 (REV).]

2. Additional funding. The appropriation of certain additional funds is governed by the following. A. Appropriations to the department for costs that are associated with search and rescue are not considered amounts appropriated to the department under the Constitution of Maine, Article IX, Section 22. The liability of the General Fund for search and rescue costs is limited to the amount appropriated. [PL 2003, c. 614, §9 (AFF); PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §41 (AMD); PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §422 (AFF).] B. General Fund appropriations to the Fiscal Stability Program under subsection 9 are not considered amounts appropriated to the department under the Constitution of Maine, Article IX, Section 22. [PL 2003, c. 614, §9 (AFF); PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §41 (AMD); PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §422 (AFF).] [PL 2003, c. 614, §9 (AFF); PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §41 (AMD); PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §422 (AFF).]

3. Revenues. Actual revenues received in excess of that estimated and allocated by the Legislature may not be expended without allocation by the Legislature, except that excess federal revenues received are subject to the expenditure provisions of Title 5, section 1669 . [PL 2003, c. 414, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 614, §9 (AFF).]

4. Unencumbered balances. Any unencumbered allocated balances, including existing balances, must be carried forward into the next fiscal year and may not be expended without allocation by the Legislature, except as provided in this section. Unencumbered balances in the boating access sites account are nonlapsing and must be carried forward to be used for the same purpose. [PL 2003, c. 414, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 614, §9 (AFF).]

5. Nonlapsing appropriations. General Fund appropriations to the department are nonlapsing and must be carried forward in a separate General Fund program to be used by the department for the purposes described in section 10801, subsection 5 . The department, in accordance with the Constitution of Maine, Article IX, Section 22, shall seek legislatively authorized transfers from this program to meet the various costs associated with the department's other programs. [PL 2003, c. 614, §9 (AFF); PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §42 (AMD); PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §422 (AFF).]

6. Savings fund; offset against future fee increases. A savings fund, referred to in this subsection as the "fund," is established in the department. Appropriations to the fund are considered funds appropriated to the department under the meaning of the Constitution of Maine, Article IX, Section 22. Money appropriated to the fund does not lapse but must be carried forward and may be used by the department only to offset license fee increases if the use of that money for that purpose is approved by the joint standing committee of the Legislature having jurisdiction over inland fisheries and wildlife matters. [PL 2003, c. 414, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 614, §9 (AFF).]

7. Cash reserve. The department shall maintain as practical a cash reserve for the purpose of ensuring an adequate cash flow. [PL 2003, c. 414, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 614, §9 (AFF).]

8. Snowmobile enforcement expenditures not to diminish. In every fiscal year, the department shall budget from appropriations to the enforcement operations program an amount for snowmobile enforcement activities that is not less than the average General Fund expenditures from that program for those purposes over the previous 2 fiscal years. Expenditures from the Snowmobile Enforcement Fund, established in section 10258 , may not be included in calculating average expenditures. [PL 2003, c. 414, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 614, §9 (AFF).]

9. Fiscal Stability Program. The Fiscal Stability Program is established to ensure that the general public and hunters and anglers share the cost of the fish and wildlife conservation programs of the department. To achieve this goal, beginning with the 2028-2029 biennial budget and for each biennial budget thereafter, the biennial budget submitted by the executive branch must include an additional General Fund appropriation of 18% in excess of the department's requested biennial budget. [PL 2025, c. 2, Pt. S, §1 (AMD).]

10. Review of budget. The joint standing committee of the Legislature having jurisdiction over inland fisheries and wildlife matters shall review that part of the current services budget bill and any supplemental budget bills pertaining to the department in accordance with Title 3, section 522‑A . [RR 2021, c. 2, Pt. A, §21 (COR).]

11. Review of license and permit fees, fines and penalties. The joint standing committee of the Legislature having jurisdiction over inland fisheries and wildlife matters shall review license and permit fees, fines, penalties and all other money received by the department and shall submit a written report to the joint standing committee of the Legislature having jurisdiction over appropriations and financial affairs on or before March 1st of each year. [PL 2003, c. 414, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 614, §9 (AFF).]

12. Monthly report. By the 15th day of each month, the department shall submit a report to the joint standing committee of the Legislature having jurisdiction over inland fisheries and wildlife matters. When the Legislature is in session, the department shall submit its report at a meeting of the committee. When the Legislature is not in session, the department shall mail the report to each member of the committee with a copy to the Executive Director of the Legislative Council. The report must identify for the immediately preceding month: A. Revenues of the department; [PL 2003, c. 414, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 614, §9 (AFF).] B. Expenditures of the department; and [PL 2003, c. 414, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 614, §9 (AFF).] C. The difference between the projected revenues and expenditures of the department and the actual revenues and expenditures. [PL 2003, c. 414, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 614, §9 (AFF).] [PL 2003, c. 414, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 614, §9 (AFF).]

13. Equipment. The department shall notify the joint standing committee of the Legislature having jurisdiction over inland fisheries and wildlife matters of any vehicle or heavy equipment purchase prior to that purchase, including the name of the item and expected cost. In addition, the department shall develop and implement a formal replacement schedule for the department's radio communication system. The joint standing committee of the Legislature having jurisdiction over inland fisheries and wildlife matters shall review the replacement schedule. [PL 2003, c. 614, §9 (AFF); PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §44 (AMD); PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §422 (AFF).]

14. Bond issue. The department shall submit to the joint standing committee of the Legislature having jurisdiction over inland fisheries and wildlife matters plans for a bond issue prior to submission of the bond issue to the full Legislature. [PL 2003, c. 414, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 614, §9 (AFF).]

15. Temporary assessment on licenses, permits and registrations. [PL 2005, c. 12, Pt. III, §1 (RP).]
12 M.R.S. § 901 — ME Code / Title 12 / Part 2 / Chapter 211 / Section 901
12 §901. Designation
Status: in_force

All the lands in Townships 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6, Range 9 W.E.L.S. and in Townships 3, 4, 5 and 6, Range 10 W.E.L.S., Piscataquis County, and Township 6, Range 8 W.E.L.S., Penobscot County, that have been donated and conveyed to the State in trust by Percival Proctor Baxter and all lands in the Townships 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6, Range 9 and in Townships 3, 4, 5 and 6, Range 10, and in Township 6, Range 8 and all lands in Piscataquis and Penobscot Counties that hereafter shall be donated and conveyed to the State by Percival Proctor Baxter in trust for state forest, public park and public recreational purposes are named and shall hereafter be named "Baxter State Park" in honor of the donor, and the same hereafter shall forever be so designated on the official maps and records of the State. They shall be under the joint supervision and control of, and shall be administered by the Director of the Bureau of Forestry, the Commissioner of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife and the Attorney General, and the commissioner, director and Attorney General shall have full power in the control and management of the same, under the title of Baxter State Park Authority, as authorized by Title 5, section 12004-G, subsection 11 . The authority shall receive moneys available from trust funds established by the donor of the park and shall include fees collected, income from park trust funds invested by the Treasurer of State and other miscellaneous income derived from the park for maintenance and operation of the park. [PL 1989, c. 503, Pt. B, §56 (AMD); PL 2011, c. 657, Pt. W, §7 (REV); PL 2013, c. 405, Pt. A, §23 (REV).]

The authority is further designated the agency of the State to receive such sums as are, from time to time, paid to the State by the trustee under clause THIRD of a certain inter vivos trust dated July 6, 1927, as from time to time amended, created by said Baxter for the purchase or other acquisition of additional land for said Baxter State Park, and for the purchase of other lands for recreational or reforestation purposes, and the authority is authorized to expend such sums so received for such purposes and shall hold and use such lands as specified in the trust. [PL 1985, c. 107, §2 (AMD).]
12 M.R.S. § 8005 — ME Code / Title 12 / Part 11 / Chapter 801 / Section 8005
12 §8005. Certain information confidential
Status: in_force

1. Contact information. Social security numbers, addresses, telephone numbers and electronic mail addresses of landowners owning less than 1,000 acres of forest land statewide and collected by the bureau for the purposes of contacting landowners under section 8611 , or received by the bureau in notifications filed under section 8883‑B , or in reports received under Title 36, section 581‑G are confidential and may be disclosed only in accordance with this section. [PL 2005, c. 358, §1 (NEW); PL 2011, c. 657, Pt. W, §7 (REV); PL 2013, c. 405, Pt. A, §23 (REV).]

2. Forest management plan and information. Social security numbers, forest management plans and supporting documentation of forest management activities on private forest land and held by the bureau for the purposes of administering landowner assistance programs authorized under this chapter and chapter 805 are confidential and may be disclosed only in accordance with this section. [PL 2005, c. 358, §1 (NEW); PL 2011, c. 657, Pt. W, §7 (REV); PL 2013, c. 405, Pt. A, §23 (REV).]

3. Disclosure. Except as provided in subsection 4 , the director may disclose confidential information in accordance with this subsection. Confidential information disclosed pursuant to this subsection remains the property of the bureau. Recipients of the confidential information may not disclose this information or use this information except as authorized by the director. A. The director may disclose information designated as confidential under this section to a governmental entity that, in the opinion of the director, requires this information. [PL 2005, c. 358, §1 (NEW).] B. The director shall provide names, addresses and electronic mail addresses upon request to a nonprofit corporation that provides educational services to forest landowners regarding sound forest management as long as the information disclosed is used to provide information about forest management. [PL 2005, c. 358, §1 (NEW).] [PL 2005, c. 358, §1 (NEW); PL 2011, c. 657, Pt. W, §7 (REV); PL 2013, c. 405, Pt. A, §23 (REV).]

4. Information designated as confidential by state or federal agency. The director may not disclose information furnished to the director that has been designated as confidential by a state or federal agency furnishing the information unless disclosure is authorized by the furnishing agency. [PL 2005, c. 358, §1 (NEW).]

5. Penalty. A person who receives confidential information pursuant to subsection 3, paragraph B and uses that information for a purpose other than that authorized by the director commits a civil violation punishable by a fine of not more than $1,000. [PL 2005, c. 358, §1 (NEW).]
12 M.R.S. § 1841 — ME Code / Title 12 / Part 2 / Chapter 220 / Section 1841
12 §1841. Timber trespass on nonreserved public lands
Status: in_force

1. Director to prosecute trespass cases. The director shall prosecute cases of trespass on nonreserved public lands under the care, custody, control or management of the bureau. [PL 1997, c. 678, §13 (NEW); PL 2011, c. 657, Pt. W, §7 (REV); PL 2013, c. 405, Pt. A, §24 (REV).]

2. Liability of trespassers. If any person unlawfully enters or trespasses upon nonreserved public land while that land is under the care, custody, control or management of the bureau by cutting, destroying, taking or carrying away any trees, timber, wood, grass or other materials under or upon those lands without the express written consent of the bureau, that person and all persons participating in those actions are trespassers, jointly and severally liable in damages for such trespass, and they may be sued for trespass in any county. The measure of damages is the highest price those materials would bring at the usual place of sale of the materials. If the trespass is willful, the court shall assess treble damages and the costs of maintaining the action. For the purposes of this section, a trespass is willful if the land upon which the materials were cut, destroyed or taken, or from which the materials were carried away, was posted with conspicuous notices of state ownership at or near the point where roads entered into the state-owned land; if the land is otherwise posted or identified in a manner reasonably likely to come to the attention of intruders; or if the intruder had actual knowledge of the fact of state ownership. [PL 1997, c. 678, §13 (NEW); PL 2011, c. 657, Pt. W, §7 (REV); PL 2013, c. 405, Pt. A, §24 (REV).]

3. Title to materials illegally taken to remain in State. Title to all materials taken in violation of this section must remain in the State, and the State may seize and sell all such materials. At such a sale, no person who was connected in any way with committing such a trespass or who aided those who committed it may become a purchaser directly or indirectly. [PL 1997, c. 678, §13 (NEW).]

4. Penalty. [PL 2001, c. 604, §9 (RP).]
12 M.R.S. § 11654 — ME Code / Title 12 / Part 13 / Chapter 915 / Section 11654
12 §11654. Unlawful possession of gift moose
Status: in_force

A person may not possess any part or parts of a moose given to that person unless that gift moose is plainly labeled with the name of the person who registered it and the year the moose was registered by that person. [PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §178 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §422 (AFF).]

A person who violates this section commits a Class E crime. [PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §178 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §422 (AFF).]

1. Prohibition. [PL 2003, c. 614, §9 (AFF); PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §178 (RP); PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §422 (AFF).]

2. Penalty. [PL 2003, c. 614, §9 (AFF); PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §178 (RP); PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §422 (AFF).]
12 M.R.S. § 6073-D — ME Code / Title 12 / Part 9 / Chapter 605 / Section 6073-D
12 §6073-D. Season and size exemption
Status: in_force

A person who is in possession of a marine organism raised by means of aquaculture and lawfully obtained under the laws of the State is exempt from any requirement regarding the time of taking or possessing, minimum or maximum length or other minimum or maximum size requirement, except that this section does not apply to the requirements for lobsters, sturgeon and striped bass. This exemption applies to aquaculture products that do not meet the legal size or season requirements for wild-caught marine organisms of the same species. [PL 2009, c. 229, §8 (NEW).]

The person possessing the marine organism must maintain sufficient documentation to prove the aquacultural origin of the marine organism, including, but not limited to, documents indicating the point of origin, quantity and dates of production or purchase of all cultured marine organisms exempted by this section, and the holder must present the documentation for inspection to department personnel upon request. A consumer in possession of such a marine organism may present a valid sales receipt to satisfy this requirement. It is prima facie evidence of possession of a marine organism in violation of the law if the person possessing the marine organism cannot present sufficient evidence to prove its aquacultural origin. [PL 2009, c. 229, §8 (NEW).]

This section does not exempt the possessor of the marine organism from any requirement to hold a lease or license pursuant to section 6072 , 6072‑A , 6072‑B , 6072‑C or 6085 to engage in the culture of marine organisms. [PL 2019, c. 310, §4 (AMD).]
12 M.R.S. § 13053 — ME Code / Title 12 / Part 13 / Chapter 935 / Section 13053
12 §13053. Commissioner's authority to regulate airmobiles
Status: in_force

1. Rules. The commissioner shall adopt rules restricting the operation of airmobiles in areas where their use may be harmful. These rules must be adopted in accordance with Title 5, chapter 375 after public hearings in the areas affected. Rules adopted pursuant to this subsection are routine technical rules as defined in Title 5, chapter 375, subchapter 2‑A . [PL 2003, c. 614, §9 (AFF); PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §358 (AMD); PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §422 (AFF).]

2. Minimum conditions. Rules adopted pursuant to subsection 1 must, at a minimum, establish conditions for the use of airmobiles in fish and wildlife preserves, conservation areas, coastal and inland wetlands and great ponds. [PL 2003, c. 414, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 614, §9 (AFF).]

3. Prohibitions. The commissioner shall prohibit airmobile use wherever it adversely affects fish and wildlife habitat, interferes with the operation of other watercraft, threatens public safety or adversely affects the natural environment. [PL 2003, c. 414, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 614, §9 (AFF).]
12 M.R.S. § 6 — ME Code / Title 12 / Part 1 / Chapter 1 / Section 6
12 §6. Powers of districts and supervisors
Status: in_force

A soil and water conservation district organized under this chapter shall constitute an agency of the State and a public body corporate and politic, exercising public powers, and such district, and the supervisors thereof, shall have the following powers, in addition to others granted in other sections of this chapter: [PL 1965, c. 190, §4 (AMD).]

1. Preventive and control measures; flood prevention. To carry out preventive and control measures and works of improvement for flood prevention, or the conservation, development, utilization and disposal of water within the district, including, but not limited to, engineering operations, methods of cultivation, the growing of vegetation, changes in use of land, on lands owned or controlled by this State or any of its agencies, with the cooperation of the agency administering and having jurisdiction thereof, and on any other lands within the district upon obtaining the consent of the occupier of such lands or the necessary rights or interests in such lands;

2. Agreements. To cooperate, or enter into agreements with, and within the limits of appropriations or other funds duly made available to it by law, to furnish financial or other aid to any agency, governmental or otherwise, or any occupier of lands within the district, in the carrying on of erosion control and prevention operations and works of improvement for flood prevention and the conservation, development, utilization and disposal of water within the district, subject to such conditions as the supervisors may deem necessary to advance the purposes of this chapter;

3. Options, purchase, sale, etc. of property. To obtain options upon and to acquire, by purchase, exchange, lease, gift, grant, bequest or devise, any property, real or personal, or rights or interests therein, after consultation with town, city and county officials; all such property shall be exempt from taxation by the State or any subdivisions or agencies thereof; to maintain, administer and improve any properties acquired, to receive income from such properties and to expend such income in carrying out the purposes and provisions of this chapter; and to sell, lease or otherwise dispose of any of its real and personal property or interests therein in furtherance of the purposes and provisions of this chapter;

4. Equipment and machinery made available. To make available, on such terms as it shall prescribe, to land occupiers within the district, agricultural and engineering machinery and equipment, and such other equipment or material, as will assist such land occupiers to carry on operations upon their lands for the conservation of soil resources and for the prevention and control of soil erosion, and for flood prevention or the conservation, development, utilization and disposal of water;

5. Construct and maintain structures. To construct, improve, operate and maintain such structures as may be necessary or convenient for the performance of any of the operations authorized in this chapter;

6. Plans. To develop comprehensive plans for the conservation of soil resources, for the control and prevention of soil erosion, and for flood prevention or the conservation, development, utilization and disposal of water within the district, which plans shall specify in such detail as may be possible the acts, procedures, performances and avoidances which are necessary or desirable for the effectuation of such plans, including the specification of engineering operations, methods of cultivation, the growing of vegetation, cropping programs, tillage practices and changes in use of land; and to publish such plans and information and bring them to the attention of occupiers of lands within the district;

7. Agent for federal and state agencies; accept gifts; contracts. To act as agent for the United States or any of its agencies, or for this State or any of its agencies, in connection with the acquisition, construction, operation or administration of any project for soil conservation, erosion control, erosion prevention, flood prevention or for the conservation, development, utilization and disposal of water within its boundaries; to accept donations, gifts and contributions in money, services, materials or otherwise from the United States or any of its agencies; or from this State or any of its agencies, and to use or expend such moneys, services, materials or other contributions in carrying on its operations; and to enter into contracts or negotiations with any and all federal agencies having responsibility for the distribution of surplus war or other materials suitable for utilization in soil conservation or water conservation projects for the use thereof; to enter into contracts and negotiate with any agency of the United States Government in any plan related to soil conservation, flood prevention, or the conservation, development, utilization and disposal of water;

8. Sue and be sued; seal; borrow money. To sue and be sued in the name of the district; to have a seal, which seal shall be judicially noticed; to have perpetual succession unless terminated; to make and execute contracts and other instruments necessary or convenient to the exercise of its powers; to borrow money and to execute promissory notes, bonds and other evidences of indebtedness in connection therewith; to make, and from time to time amend and repeal, rules and regulations not inconsistent with this chapter, to carry into effect its purposes and powers;

9. Supervisors may require contributions. As a condition to the extending of any benefits under this chapter to, or the performance of work upon, any lands not owned or controlled by this State or any of its agencies, the supervisors may require contributions in money, services, materials or otherwise to any operations conferring such benefits, and may require land occupiers to enter into such agreements as to the permanent use of such lands as will tend to prevent or control erosion thereon;

10. Cooperate with other districts. To cooperate with any other district organized under this chapter in the exercise of any or all powers conferred in this chapter.

Provisions with respect to the acquisition, operation or disposition of property by other public bodies shall not be applicable to a district organized hereunder unless the Legislature shall specifically so state.
12 M.R.S. § 6475 — ME Code / Title 12 / Part 9 / Chapter 619 / Section 6475
12 §6475. New participants
Status: in_force

1. New participants. A person who is not registered to obtain Monhegan Lobster Conservation Area trap tags may obtain trap tags if that person becomes registered for Monhegan Lobster Conservation Area trap tags pursuant to this section. A. If a Monhegan Island limited-entry program is established pursuant to section 6449 , the commissioner shall maintain a waiting list of persons who have requested a Monhegan Island limited-entry lobster and crab fishing license. [PL 2011, c. 486, §12 (AMD).] B. [PL 2011, c. 486, §12 (RP).] C. A person listed on the waiting list under paragraph A may register for Monhegan Lobster Conservation Area trap tags if: (2) That person has been listed longer than all other persons listed; and (3) The commissioner has established that the number of individuals registered to fish in the Monhegan Lobster Conservation Area for the upcoming season is less than the allowable number of registrants established pursuant to section 6474, subsection 6 . The commissioner shall by August 15th notify a person who becomes eligible for registration under this paragraph. If that person does not register with the commissioner within 30 days, that person becomes ineligible for registration and the commissioner shall immediately notify the next individual who has been listed for the longest period of time on the waiting list. That individual must register within 30 days. [PL 2011, c. 486, §12 (AMD).] [PL 2011, c. 486, §12 (AMD).]

2. Registration in later years. A person who registers for Monhegan Lobster Conservation Area trap tags under subsection 1 must follow the provisions of section 6474, subsection 4, paragraph A or B to register for trap tags for each subsequent open season. [PL 1997, c. 574, §4 (NEW).]

3. License requirements; apprenticeship. [PL 2011, c. 486, §12 (RP).]

4. Issuance of commercial lobster license. [PL 2011, c. 486, §12 (RP).]

5. Registrants exiting the Monhegan Lobster Conservation Area. [PL 2011, c. 486, §12 (RP).]
12 M.R.S. § 10501 — ME Code / Title 12 / Part 13 / Chapter 907 / Section 10501
12 §10501. Admissibility of department records and prima facie evidence
Status: in_force

1. Certificate; admissible evidence. A certificate, signed by the commissioner or the commissioner's designee, stating what the records of the department show on any given matter is admissible in evidence in all courts of this State to prove what the records of the department are on that matter. Upon the testimony of a law enforcement officer that the certificate and records were obtained by that officer from the department, the court shall admit that certificate and those records as evidence without any further foundation or testimony. [PL 2003, c. 414, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 614, §9 (AFF).]

2. Certificate prima facie evidence person not holder of license, permit, registration or certificate of number. A certificate, signed by the commissioner or the commissioner's designee, stating that the records of the department do not show that a particular person on a stated date held a license, permit, registration or certificate of number issued under this Part is admissible in evidence in all courts of this State and is prima facie evidence that the particular person named in the certificate did not hold a license, permit, registration or certificate of number as specified in the certificate on the date specified in the certificate. [PL 2003, c. 414, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 614, §9 (AFF).]

3. Certificate prima facie evidence of license, permit, registration or certificate of number revocation. A certificate, signed by the commissioner or the commissioner's designee, stating that the records of the department show that a particular person's license, permit, registration or certificate of number issued under this Part was revoked or suspended on a particular stated date is admissible in evidence in all courts of this State and is prima facie evidence that the particular person's license, permit, registration or certificate of number as specified in the certificate was revoked or suspended on the date stated. [PL 2003, c. 414, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 614, §9 (AFF).]

4. Use of snowmobile accident reports. Accident reports made by investigating officers are for the purpose of statistical analysis and accident prevention and are not admissible in evidence in any trial, civil or criminal, arising out of an accident, but any investigating agency may disclose, upon the request of any person, the date, time and location of the accident and the names and addresses of drivers, owners, injured persons, witnesses and the investigating officer. The investigating agency may upon written request furnish a photocopy of any report at the expense of the person making the request. [PL 2003, c. 414, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 614, §9 (AFF).]

5. Certificate of number for motorboat. If the operator of a motorboat requiring a certificate of number under section 13056, subsection 2 fails to produce a current certificate of number for the motorboat that person is operating within a reasonable time after demand of a law enforcement officer authorized to enforce the law, it is prima facie evidence that the motorboat is being operated without a current certificate of number. [PL 2003, c. 414, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 614, §9 (AFF).]

6. Failure to produce license. A person's failure to produce a license within a reasonable time when requested by any authorized person is prima facie evidence that the person does not possess that license. [PL 2003, c. 414, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 614, §9 (AFF).]

7. Possession of hunting equipment without license. The possession of any hunting equipment in the fields, forests or on the waters or ice within the territorial limits of the State by any person who does not possess the required hunting license duly issued to that person, covering the period of time within which the hunting equipment is found in that person's possession, is prima facie evidence of hunting in violation of law, unless the person furnishes satisfactory evidence of the issuance of a hunting license. [PL 2003, c. 414, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 614, §9 (AFF).]

8. Possession of fishing tackle without license. The possession of any fishing tackle in the fields, forests or on the waters or ice within the territorial limits of the State by any person who does not possess the required fishing license duly issued to that person, covering the period of time within which the fishing tackle is found in that person's possession, is prima facie evidence of fishing in violation of law, unless the person furnishes satisfactory evidence of the issuance of a fishing license. [PL 2003, c. 414, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 614, §9 (AFF).]

9. Possession of hunting equipment on Sunday. Possession of hunting equipment in the fields or forests or on the waters or ice in the State on Sunday is prima facie evidence of a violation of section 11205 , unless: A. The hunting equipment is carried, securely wrapped, in a complete cover; [PL 2003, c. 414, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 614, §9 (AFF).] B. The hunting equipment is fastened in a case; or [PL 2003, c. 414, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 614, §9 (AFF).] C. The hunting equipment is carried in at least 2 separate pieces in such a manner that it cannot be fired, unless the separate pieces are joined together. For the purpose of this subsection, a clip, magazine or cylinder of a firearm may not be considered a piece of the hunting equipment. Archery equipment must be kept in a case or cover if broadheads or field points are kept attached to the arrows or bolts. [PL 2023, c. 239, §8 (AMD).] [PL 2023, c. 239, §8 (AMD).]

10. Possession of firearm on public paved way. [PL 2003, c. 511, §2 (RP); PL 2003, c. 511, §3 (AFF); PL 2003, c. 614, §§9, 10 (AFF).]

11. Failure to give notice of snowmobile accident. Failure of a person who is required to give notice of a snowmobile accident under sections 13069‑C and 13106‑B to give that notice to the available law enforcement officer nearest to the place where the accident occurred is prima facie evidence that the accident was not reported. [PL 2005, c. 436, §1 (AMD).]
12 M.R.S. § 12705 — ME Code / Title 12 / Part 13 / Chapter 925 / Section 12705
12 §12705. Rule violations; educational or scientific collection permits
Status: in_force

The following penalties apply to violations of rules regulating educational or scientific collection permits. [PL 2015, c. 374, §13 (AMD).]

1. Civil violation. Notwithstanding sections 10650 and 12152 , a person who violates a rule regulating educational or scientific collection permits commits a civil violation for which a fine of not less than $100 nor more than $500 may be adjudged. [PL 2017, c. 205, §28 (AMD).]

2. Criminal violation. A person who violates a rule regulating educational or scientific collection permits after having been adjudicated as having committed 3 or more civil violations under this Part within the previous 5-year period commits a Class E crime. [PL 2015, c. 374, §13 (AMD).]
12 M.R.S. § 10353 — ME Code / Title 12 / Part 13 / Chapter 905 / Section 10353
12 §10353. Duties and powers
Status: in_force

1. Duties. In addition to other duties set out in this Part, a game warden shall: A. Enforce: (1) This Part; (2) All rules adopted by the commissioner; and (3) The federal Migratory Bird Treaty Act, 16 United States Code, Chapter 7, subchapter II, section 703 as amended, and all rules and regulations promulgated in pursuance of that Act; and [PL 2003, c. 414, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 614, §9 (AFF).] B. Act as a state fire warden. (1) A warden shall, when possible, while in and about the woods, caution all participants in outdoor recreation of the danger from fires in the woods and, if possible, extinguish a fire left burning by anyone. (2) A warden shall, when possible, give notice to all interested parties of a fire raging and beyond the warden's control in order that the fire may be controlled and extinguished. [PL 2023, c. 405, Pt. A, §30 (AMD).] [PL 2023, c. 405, Pt. A, §30 (AMD).]

2. Powers. In addition to other powers granted in this Part, a game warden or other official described in section 10401 may: A. Arrest, summons and prosecute a violator of the following: (1) This Part; (2) Rules adopted by the commissioner; and (3) The federal Migratory Bird Treaty Act, 16 United States Code, Chapter 7, subchapter II, section 703 and all rules and regulations promulgated in pursuance of that Act. A game warden or other official described in section 10401 shall, without unnecessary delay, take any person so arrested before the District Court nearest the place of violation; [PL 2011, c. 248, §1 (AMD).] B. Serve criminal processes on offenders of the law and serve all processes pertaining to the enforcement of this Part; [PL 2003, c. 414, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 614, §9 (AFF).] C. Accept personal recognizances in accordance with the following procedures: (1) A game warden or other official described in section 10401 making an arrest for any violation of this Part and Title 38, chapter 3, subchapter 1, article 5‑A , at a point more than 50 miles distant from the nearest District Court having jurisdiction, may accept the personal recognizance of the prisoner in an amount not to exceed $1,000 for the prisoner's appearance before the nearest District Court on a specified date and a deposit in money to the amount of that recognizance; and (2) The warden or other official described in section 10401 shall report all those recognizances and forward all those deposits to the court to which the recognizance is returnable. Recognizances and deposits must be handled by the court in accordance with sections 10202 and 10203 ; [PL 2011, c. 248, §1 (AMD).] D. If the warden or other official described in section 10401 is in uniform and has reasonable and articulable suspicion to believe that a violation of law has taken place or is taking place, stop a motor vehicle or watercraft for the purpose of: (1) Arresting the operator for a criminal violation; (2) Issuing the appropriate written process for a criminal or civil violation or a traffic infraction; or (3) Questioning the operator or occupants; [PL 2011, c. 248, §1 (AMD).] E. In order to protect fish and wildlife: (1) If the warden or other official described in section 10401 is in uniform, stop a person for the purpose of determining compliance with license, permit, equipment or other requirements or restrictions if the person, at the time of the stop, is: (a) Engaged in hunting, fishing or trapping; and (b) Not in or on a motor vehicle; and (2) Pursuant to policy established by the commissioner, establish checkpoints to stop any type of vehicle and conduct checks to gather statistics concerning hunting, fishing and trapping and to determine compliance with fish and wildlife laws; [PL 2011, c. 248, §1 (AMD).] F. Stop any watercraft to inspect the craft, its equipment and its documents or certificates; board a watercraft when necessary to enforce chapter 935 or any other provision of this Part regarding watercraft; and order any watercraft ashore to correct a violation or to protect the safety of its occupants, if in the opinion of the warden or other official described in section 10401 their safety is in jeopardy; [PL 2011, c. 248, §1 (AMD).] G. Stop and examine any all-terrain vehicle to ascertain whether it is being operated in compliance with chapter 939 or any other provision of this Part regulating ATVs, demand and inspect the operator's certificate of registration and, when appropriate, demand and inspect evidence that the operator has satisfactorily completed a training course as required by section 13152 ; [PL 2011, c. 248, §1 (AMD).] H. Stop and examine any snowmobile to ascertain whether it is being operated in compliance with chapter 937 or any other provision of this Part regulating snowmobiles; demand and inspect the operator's certificate of registration; and examine the identification numbers of the snowmobile and any marks on it; and [PL 2003, c. 414, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 614, §9 (AFF).] I. Do anything otherwise prohibited by this Part if necessary to carry out the duties and powers of the warden or other official described in section 10401 . This paragraph does not authorize a warden or other official described in section 10401 enforcing this Part to stop any person, motor vehicle or watercraft except as specifically provided in this section. [PL 2011, c. 248, §1 (AMD).] [PL 2011, c. 248, §1 (AMD).]

3. Same duties and powers as sheriffs. In addition to specified duties and powers, a warden has the same duties and powers throughout the several counties of the State as sheriffs have in their respective counties, except that a warden's primary responsibility is enforcement of laws protecting fish and wildlife. A. A warden has the same rights as sheriffs to require aid in executing the duties of their offices. [PL 2003, c. 414, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 614, §9 (AFF).] B. A warden is entitled to the same fees as sheriffs and their deputies for like services, except before the District Court. All the fees must be paid to the commissioner. [PL 2003, c. 414, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 614, §9 (AFF).] [PL 2003, c. 414, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 614, §9 (AFF).]

4. Agents of commissioner. A warden may act as an agent of the commissioner. [PL 2003, c. 414, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 614, §9 (AFF).]

5. Assistance to federal agencies. The Bureau of Warden Service may provide assistance to federal agencies. The director of the Bureau of Warden Service may charge the various federal agencies for these services. Revenues received from these agencies must be allocated for the purpose of funding the cost of providing the services. [PL 2003, c. 414, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 614, §9 (AFF).]

6. Assistance to other entities and persons. The Bureau of Warden Service may, with approval of the commissioner, provide assistance to other entities, including county and state agencies, municipalities and private organizations, and persons. The director of the Bureau of Warden Service may charge the entities or individuals for these services. The Bureau of Warden Service shall report to the joint standing committee of the Legislature having jurisdiction over inland fisheries and wildlife matters no later than January 15th of each year concerning the assistance provided to other entities and persons during the previous calendar year. The report must contain information about the types of services provided, the number of services and the fees charged by the director of the Bureau of Warden Service. [PL 2007, c. 20, §1 (NEW).]
12 M.R.S. § 10265 — ME Code / Title 12 / Part 13 / Chapter 903 / Section 10265
12 §10265. Landowner Relations Fund
Status: in_force

The Landowner Relations Fund, referred to in this section as "the fund," is established within the department as a nonlapsing fund to be used by the commissioner to fund or assist in funding the landowner relations program established pursuant to section 10108, subsection 4‑A and the Keep Maine Clean program established in section 10108, subsection 4‑B . All funds from fees collected under section 10108, subsection 4‑A, paragraph C and money accepted by the commissioner pursuant to section 10108, subsection 4‑B must be deposited in the fund. Funds from fees collected under section 11163, subsection 3 , after the deduction of any administrative costs incurred in collecting the fees, must be deposited in the fund. The fund receives any other funds appropriated or allocated to the fund. The commissioner may accept and deposit into the fund monetary gifts, donations or other contributions from public or private sources for the purposes specified in this section. The fund must be held separate and apart from all other money, funds and accounts. [PL 2021, c. 580, §1 (AMD).]
12 M.R.S. § 9331 — ME Code / Title 12 / Part 11 / Chapter 807 / Section 9331
12 §9331. Slash defined
Status: in_force

For the purposes of this Part "slash" is defined as branches, bark, tops, chunks, cull logs, uprooted stumps and broken or uprooted trees and shrubs left on the ground as a result of logging, right-of-way construction or maintenance and land clearance. [PL 1979, c. 545, §3 (NEW).]
12 M.R.S. § 12307 — ME Code / Title 12 / Part 13 / Chapter 919 / Section 12307
12 §12307. Exception for fall turkey hunting
Status: in_force

Notwithstanding any other provision of this chapter, a person who kills a wild turkey during any fall open season on hunting wild turkey in 2022 established by rule by the commissioner under section 11701 is not required to register or attach a tag to that turkey. [PL 2021, c. 704, §7 (AMD).]
12 M.R.S. § 8886 — ME Code / Title 12 / Part 11 / Chapter 805 / Section 8886
12 §8886. Reports
Status: in_force

The director shall produce the following reports. [PL 1989, c. 555, §12 (NEW); PL 1989, c. 600, Pt. B, §11 (AFF).]

1. Harvesting practices. Utilizing a sample of forest landowner reports and any other appropriate survey methods, the director shall tabulate an annual survey of the methods of harvesting and the harvest practices employed. The information on harvesting must include, but is not limited to, the silvicultural prescriptions employed, the estimated acreage of various harvest methods, including clear-cutting, the extent of whole-tree harvesting of both solid and chipped wood, the number of clear-cuts over 75 acres in size, the total acres planted and the total acres precommercially thinned. [PL 2011, c. 532, §11 (AMD).]

2. Annual price reports. The bureau shall publish, annually, a report on prices as specified below. These reports must be reported by zones as determined by the director and must include a statewide average of all zones. A. The reports must include stumpage prices paid for forest tree species of the State as reported pursuant to section 8885 . Prices for other forest products may be collected using acceptable survey techniques. [PL 1997, c. 720, §18 (AMD).] B. [PL 2005, c. 133, §5 (RP).] [PL 2005, c. 133, §5 (AMD); PL 2011, c. 657, Pt. W, §7 (REV); PL 2013, c. 405, Pt. A, §23 (REV).]
12 M.R.S. § 12151 — ME Code / Title 12 / Part 13 / Chapter 915 / Section 12151
12 §12151. Keeping wildlife in captivity
Status: in_force

1. Prohibition. A person may not keep wildlife in captivity except as provided under section 10105, subsection 10 , sections 12102 , 12152 and 12157 and Title 7, section 1809 or except if the wild animal was purchased from a dealer or pet shop licensed under Title 7, section 3933 . [PL 2017, c. 205, §13 (AMD).]

2. Penalties. Except as provided in section 12152, subsection 7 , the following penalties apply to violations of this section. A. A person who violates subsection 1 commits a civil violation for which a fine of not less than $500 may be adjudged. [PL 2015, c. 374, §3 (AMD).] B. A person who violates subsection 1 after having been adjudicated as having committed 3 or more civil violations under this Part within the previous 5-year period commits a Class E crime. [PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §200 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §422 (AFF).] C. The department may seize fish or wildlife in accordance with sections 10502 and 10503 from a person who violates subsection 1 . [PL 2015, c. 374, §4 (NEW).] [PL 2017, c. 285, §1 (AMD).]
12 M.R.S. § 9001 — ME Code / Title 12 / Part 11 / Chapter 807 / Section 9001
12 §9001. Proclamation by Governor
Status: in_force

1. Determination by director. The director shall inform the Governor when the director determines that: A. A high degree of forest fire danger exists in any part of the State; and [PL 1979, c. 545, §3 (NEW).] B. Human activity is likely to pose a forest fire menace. [PL 1995, c. 586, §1 (AMD).] [PL 1995, c. 586, §1 (AMD).]

2. Proclamation. The Governor may, by proclamation, suspend the open season for hunting or fishing or prohibit out-of-door smoking or building or using out-of-door fires or prohibit any other human activity likely to be a menace to the forests for such time and in such areas of the State as considered necessary. The type and manner of hunting and fishing or other human activity that is prohibited must be designated in the proclamation. [PL 1995, c. 586, §1 (AMD).]

3. Out-of-door fires at campgrounds. [PL 1995, c. 586, §2 (RP).]
12 M.R.S. § 12609-A — ME Code / Title 12 / Part 13 / Chapter 923 / Section 12609-A
12 §12609-A. Purchase or sale of certain fish
Status: in_force

1. Prohibition. Except as otherwise provided in this section, a person may not directly or indirectly purchase or sell the following species of fish: A. Black bass; [PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §271 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §422 (AFF).] B. Landlocked salmon; [PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §271 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §422 (AFF).] C. Pickerel; [PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §271 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §422 (AFF).] D. Togue; [PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §271 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §422 (AFF).] E. Trout; or [PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §271 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §422 (AFF).] F. White perch. [PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §271 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §422 (AFF).] [PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §271 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §422 (AFF).]

2. Fish produced by commercial producers or imported. A person may purchase or sell fish that have been lawfully produced by commercial producers within the State or that have been lawfully imported from without the State. [PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §271 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §422 (AFF).]

3. Skins of fish preserved through taxidermy. A person may purchase or sell the skins of fish that have been preserved for display through the art of taxidermy. [PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §271 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §422 (AFF).]

4. Penalty. A person who violates this section commits a Class E crime. The court shall also impose a fine of $20 for each fish unlawfully possessed, none of which may be suspended. [PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §271 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §422 (AFF).]
12 M.R.S. § 12901 — ME Code / Title 12 / Part 13 / Chapter 929 / Section 12901
12 §12901. Definitions
Status: in_force

As used in this chapter, unless the context otherwise indicates, the following terms have the following meanings. [PL 2003, c. 414, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 614, §9 (AFF).]

1. Affiliated group. [PL 2013, c. 245, §1 (RP).]

2. Affiliated outfitter. [PL 2013, c. 245, §2 (RP).]

3. Allocation. "Allocation" means the privilege of taking a specified number of passengers per day on whitewater trips on a particular river, as specified annually. [PL 2003, c. 414, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 614, §9 (AFF).]

4. Commercial. "Commercial" means for financial compensation or other remuneration. [PL 2003, c. 414, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 614, §9 (AFF).]

5. Commercial whitewater outfitter; outfitter. "Commercial whitewater outfitter" or "outfitter" means a person who collects dues or fees or receives any form of compensation for arranging or providing whitewater rafting trips or for operating a whitewater rafting organization. A commercial whitewater outfitter license does not authorize the holder to guide whitewater rafting trips unless that person also holds a valid whitewater guide's license. [PL 2003, c. 614, §9 (AFF); PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §321 (AMD); PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §422 (AFF).]

6. Demonstrated use. "Demonstrated use" means for a given outfitter for a given river the average number of passengers carried on the 10 Saturdays or Sundays with greatest use during the year. [PL 2003, c. 414, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 614, §9 (AFF).]

7. Financial interest. "Financial interest" means any voting or nonvoting security, partnership interest whether limited or general, trust interest, joint venture interest or any other beneficial interest in any form of business association. [PL 2003, c. 414, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 614, §9 (AFF).]

8. Person. "Person" means an individual, corporation, business trust, estate, trust, partnership or association, 2 or more persons having a joint or common interest, or any other legal or commercial entity. [PL 2003, c. 414, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 614, §9 (AFF).]

9. Rapidly flowing river. "Rapidly flowing river" means a river or stretch of a river with rapids classified as class IV or higher by the department according to the International River Classification System or a river or stretch of a river designated by the department by rule on the basis of public safety, including, but not limited to, the Kennebec River between Harris Station and West Forks and the West Branch Penobscot River between McKay Station and Pockwockamus Falls. [PL 2003, c. 414, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 614, §9 (AFF).]

10. Whitewater craft. "Whitewater craft" means any raft, dory, bateau or similar watercraft that is used to transport passengers along rapidly flowing rivers but does not include canoes or kayaks. [PL 2003, c. 414, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 614, §9 (AFF).]

11. Whitewater guide. "Whitewater guide" means a person who receives any remuneration from a commercial whitewater outfitter for accompanying, assisting or instructing clients of that commercial whitewater outfitter on the river on whitewater trips and who holds a current whitewater guide's license. [PL 2003, c. 614, §9 (AFF); PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §322 (AMD); PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §422 (AFF).]

12. Whitewater trip. "Whitewater trip" means a commercial effort to transport passengers by means of a whitewater craft on rapidly flowing rivers, except commercial efforts by guides licensed under section 12853 to transport clients by means of a whitewater craft on rapidly flowing rivers while principally engaged in fishing. [PL 2003, c. 414, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 614, §9 (AFF).]
12 M.R.S. § 6-A — ME Code / Title 12 / Part 1 / Chapter 1 / Section 6-A
12 §6-A. Farmland registration
Status: in_force

In addition to the powers assigned in section 6 , a soil and water conservation district shall review applications for the registration of farmland pursuant to Title 7, chapter 2‑B . The district shall, by majority vote of the supervisors, certify whether the land described in the application: [PL 1989, c. 478, §2 (NEW).]

1. Acreage. Consists of 5 or more contiguous acres; [PL 1989, c. 478, §2 (NEW).]

2. Farm products. Includes only land used in the production of farm products, as defined in Title 7, section 52, subsection 3‑A , in one of the 2, or 3 of the 5, calendar years preceding the date of application for registration under Title 7, chapter 2‑B ; [RR 2011, c. 2, §7 (COR).]

3. Relationship to boundary established. Is within 50 feet of any property boundary and that the application includes a depiction of the distance between any area producing farm products under consideration and any property boundary within 50 feet that is sufficient to determine the impact of Title 7, section 56, subsection 1‑A on abutting land; and [RR 2011, c. 2, §7 (COR).]

4. Renewal. For farmland registered within the time frame provided under section 53‑B, subsection 1, continues to meet the eligibility requirements of Title 7, section 53‑A that were in effect at the time the land was registered. [PL 2011, c. 608, §18 (NEW).]

A district shall complete its review under this section within 60 days of receiving an application. [PL 2011, c. 608, §18 (AMD).]
12 M.R.S. § 12661 — ME Code / Title 12 / Part 13 / Chapter 923 / Section 12661
12 §12661. Ice fishing shacks
Status: in_force

1. Prohibitions and requirements. A person who owns any shack or temporary structure used for ice fishing: A. Must remove or cause to be removed the shack or structure on the ice of any inland waters: (1) In any area of the State in which there is a closed ice fishing season, by ice out or 3 days after the close of the ice fishing season established by the commissioner by rule pursuant to section 12454 , whichever is earlier; and (2) In any area of the State in which there is no close of the ice fishing season pursuant to section 12454 , by ice out or March 31st, whichever is earlier; or [PL 2019, c. 325, §8 (AMD).] B. [PL 2009, c. 214, §12 (RP).] C. Shall have painted on the outside of the shack or structure in 2-inch letters the owner's name and address when the shack or structure is on the ice of any inland waters. [PL 2003, c. 614, §9 (AFF); PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §283 (AMD); PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §422 (AFF).] [PL 2019, c. 325, §8 (AMD).]

2. Penalty. [PL 2011, c. 253, §31 (RP).]

3. Removal of abandoned ice-fishing shacks. A person may not leave a structure on another person's land without permission from the landowner. Notwithstanding the provisions of Title 33, chapter 45 and Title 17, section 2263‑A , a landowner on whose property an abandoned ice-fishing shack as defined in Title 17, section 2263 is left in violation of this section may remove or destroy the shack. The landowner may recover any costs of removing or destroying the shack from the owner of the shack in a civil action. [PL 2019, c. 325, §9 (AMD); PL 2019, c. 498, §8 (AMD).]

4. Penalty. The following penalties apply to violations of this section. A. A person who violates this section commits a civil violation for which a fine of not less than $100 nor more than $500 may be adjudged. [PL 2011, c. 253, §33 (NEW).] B. A person who violates this section after having been adjudicated as having committed 3 or more civil violations under this Part within the previous 5-year period commits a Class E crime. [PL 2011, c. 253, §33 (NEW).] [PL 2011, c. 253, §33 (NEW).]
12 M.R.S. § 6101 — ME Code / Title 12 / Part 9 / Chapter 605 / Section 6101
12 §6101. Voluntary fish products inspection program
Status: in_force

1. Purpose. The purpose of this section shall be to increase the availability of fishery product inspection services to Maine processors and packers in order to improve the marketing of fishery products. [PL 1989, c. 57, §2 (AMD).]

2. Program. The department is the state agency that is responsible for cooperating with the Federal Government in developing and administering a voluntary fishery product inspection program. Notwithstanding section 6103 , the commissioner may enter into agreements with the United States Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration and seafood producers for the issuance of certificates of compliance necessary to meet international regulations and obtain reimbursement from the United States Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration for the costs incurred by the department for the inspection and certification program. [PL 2011, c. 567, §1 (AMD).]

3. Regulations. The commissioner may adopt or amend regulations not inconsistent with the National Shellfish Sanitation Program and National Marine Fisheries Services regulations for the voluntary inspection of fishery products. [PL 1989, c. 57, §2 (AMD).]

4. Sardines. The program shall exclude sardines and other fish inspected by the Maine Sardine Council. [PL 1977, c. 661, §5 (NEW).]

5. Labeling. All products inspected under this section shall be accurately labeled to provide the public with information about the contents and quality of the fishery product. The commissioner may adopt regulations to insure proper and complete labeling. [PL 1977, c. 661, §5 (NEW).]

6. Misleading labeling prohibited. It shall be unlawful to sell any article inspected under this section under any name or other marking or labeling which is false or misleading, or in any container of a misleading form or size. Established trade names approved by the commissioner are permitted. It shall be unlawful to sell any article not inspected under this section under any name or other marking or labeling which is false and misleading when the mark or label is intended to represent the contents as having been inspected and graded. [PL 1977, c. 661, §5 (NEW).]

7. Preventing misleading labeling. If the commissioner has reason to believe that a violation of subsection 6 is occurring, the commissioner may order the withholding of an inspection or grading label or mark. [RR 2021, c. 2, Pt. B, §30 (COR).]

8. Procedure. The commissioner shall give notice of a withholding order and may give an opportunity for a hearing on the order. The order is effective on service or receipt of the notice. The notice must contain a statement of the violation, the order and any opportunity for a hearing and must be personally served on or mailed to the violator. Any hearing must be requested in writing within 10 days, unless a longer period is mutually agreed to in writing. Notice of the hearing must be given immediately to the violator. If a hearing is held, it must be conducted in the Augusta area. At the hearing, the violator is entitled to present any evidence concerning the violation and surrounding circumstances. All decisions of the commissioner must be in writing. All decisions of the commissioner under this section may be reviewed in the manner provided under Title 5, chapter 375, subchapter 7 . [RR 2021, c. 2, Pt. B, §31 (COR).]
12 M.R.S. § 1890-A — ME Code / Title 12 / Part 2 / Chapter 220 / Section 1890-A
12 §1890-A. Allagash Wilderness Waterway Advisory Council; established (REALLOCATED FROM TITLE 12, SECTION 1891)
Status: in_force

(REALLOCATED FROM TITLE 12, SECTION 1891)

There is established the Allagash Wilderness Waterway Advisory Council, referred to in this section as "the council," pursuant to Title 5, section 12004‑I, subsection 3‑D . [PL 2007, c. 695, Pt. A, §12 (RAL).]

1. Duties. The council shall: A. Meet at least twice annually; [PL 2007, c. 695, Pt. A, §12 (RAL).] B. Work with the manager of the waterway in developing and maintaining a strategic plan for the waterway and advancing the mission and goals of the waterway; and [PL 2007, c. 695, Pt. A, §12 (RAL).] C. Report annually to the Director of the Bureau of Parks and Lands regarding the state of the waterway and at other times as it is determined necessary by the council. [PL 2007, c. 695, Pt. A, §12 (RAL); PL 2011, c. 657, Pt. W, §7 (REV); PL 2013, c. 405, Pt. A, §24 (REV).] [PL 2007, c. 695, Pt. A, §12 (RAL); PL 2011, c. 657, Pt. W, §7 (REV); PL 2013, c. 405, Pt. A, §24 (REV).]

2. Members. The council consists of 7 members including: A. One representative of the United States Department of the Interior, National Park Service; [PL 2007, c. 695, Pt. A, §12 (RAL).] B. One public member; [PL 2007, c. 695, Pt. A, §12 (RAL).] C. One member with knowledge and experience in sustainable forest management who is a private landowner, or an employee of the landowner, whose holdings abut the waterway; [PL 2007, c. 695, Pt. A, §12 (RAL).] D. One member with knowledge and experience in wilderness recreation; [PL 2007, c. 695, Pt. A, §12 (RAL).] E. One member with knowledge and experience in natural resources planning and management; [PL 2007, c. 695, Pt. A, §12 (RAL).] F. One member with knowledge and experience in fisheries or wildlife conservation; and [PL 2007, c. 695, Pt. A, §12 (RAL).] G. One member with knowledge and experience in cultural and historic preservation. [PL 2007, c. 695, Pt. A, §12 (RAL).] The members shall annually elect a chair from among the members. The chair is responsible for scheduling, preparing the agenda of and presiding at meetings. [PL 2007, c. 695, Pt. A, §12 (RAL).]

3. Appointment. The Governor shall appoint the 6 members described in subsection 2, paragraphs B to G . The Governor shall invite the Northeast Regional Director of the National Park Service within the United States Department of the Interior to designate the member described in subsection 2, paragraph A . [PL 2007, c. 695, Pt. A, §12 (RAL).]

4. Terms. Council members serve terms of 5 years and may serve no more than 2 terms. [PL 2007, c. 695, Pt. A, §12 (RAL).]
12 M.R.S. § 4613 — ME Code / Title 12 / Part 4 / Chapter 419 / Section 4613
12 §4613. Regulations; withdrawal -- Article XIII
Status: in_force

The State of Maine enters into an amendment of the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Compact with any one or more of the states of New Hampshire, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, Connecticut, New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Delaware, Maryland, Virginia, South Carolina, Georgia and Florida and such other states as may become party to that compact for the purpose of permitting the states that ratify this amendment to establish joint regulations of specific fisheries common to those states through the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission and their representatives on that body. Notice of intention to withdraw from this amendment shall be executed and transmitted by the Governor and shall be in accordance with Article XII , which shall be effective as to this State with those states which similarly ratify this amendment. The states consenting to this amendment agree that any 2 or more of them may designate the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission as a joint regulatory agency with such powers as they may jointly confer from time to time for the regulation of the fishing operations of the citizens and vessels of such designating state with respect to specific fisheries in which such states have a common interest. The representatives of such states on the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission shall constitute a separate section of such commission for the exercise of the additional powers so granted provided that the states so acting shall appropriate additional funds for this purpose. The creation of such section as a joint regulatory agency shall not deprive the states participating therein of any of their privileges or powers or responsibilities in the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission under the general compact.
12 M.R.S. § 10901 — ME Code / Title 12 / Part 13 / Chapter 913 / Section 10901
12 §10901. Compliance; noncompliance
Status: in_force

1. Definitions. As used in this subchapter, unless the context otherwise indicates, the following terms have the following meanings. A. "Compliance with a support order" means that the support obligor has obtained or maintained health insurance coverage if required by a support order and is: (1) No more than 60 days in arrears in making any of the following payments: (a) Payments in full for current support; (b) Periodic payments on a support arrearage pursuant to a written agreement with the Department of Health and Human Services; and (c) Periodic payments as set forth in a support order; and (2) No more than 30 days in arrears in making payments as described in subparagraph (1) if the obligor has been in arrears for more than 30 days in making payments as described in subparagraph (1) at least 2 times within the past 24 months. [PL 2003, c. 614, §9 (AFF); PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §96 (RPR); PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §422 (AFF); PL 2003, c. 689, Pt. B, §6 (REV).] B. "Support order" means a judgment, decree or order, whether temporary, final or subject to modification, issued by a court or an administrative agency of competent jurisdiction for the support and maintenance of a child, including a child who has attained the age of majority under the law of the issuing state, or a child and the parent with whom the child is living, that provides for monetary support, health care, arrearages or reimbursement and may include related costs and fees, interest and penalties, income withholding, attorney's fees and other relief. [PL 2003, c. 614, §9 (AFF); PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §96 (RPR); PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §422 (AFF).] [PL 2003, c. 614, §9 (AFF); PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §96 (RPR); PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §422 (AFF); PL 2003, c. 689, Pt. B, §6 (REV).]

2. Compliance. In addition to other qualifications for licensure or registration and conditions for continuing eligibility to hold a license as prescribed by the various acts of the department, applicants for licensure or registration, licensees renewing their licenses and existing licensees must also comply with the requirements of Title 19‑A, section 2201 . [PL 2003, c. 614, §9 (AFF); PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §96 (RPR); PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §422 (AFF).]

3. Noncompliance with support order. An applicant for the issuance or renewal of a license or an existing licensee who is not in compliance with a support order is subject to the requirements of Title 19‑A, section 2201 . [PL 2003, c. 614, §9 (AFF); PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §96 (RPR); PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §422 (AFF).]

4. Suspension of license. If a license, permit or registration is suspended pursuant to Title 19‑A, section 2201 , the suspension remains in effect until the person is in compliance with the support order. On condition of payment of a $50 reinstatement fee to the department, the suspension is rescinded and the license reinstated. The reinstatement fee must be deposited into the Landowner Relations Fund established in section 10265 . [PL 2021, c. 411, §1 (AMD).]
12 M.R.S. § 6305 — ME Code / Title 12 / Part 9 / Chapter 615 / Section 6305
12 §6305. Possession of license, photo identification and transaction card
Status: in_force

1. Exhibit on demand. When any person is engaged in an activity that is licensed under marine resources' laws, that person shall have that license in that person's actual possession. At the request of a marine patrol officer or other authorized person, the person shall exhibit that person's license. [PL 2023, c. 563, §2 (AMD).]

1-A. Photo identification. When a person is engaged in an activity for which a license is required under section 6302‑A, subsection 3, paragraph E , E‑1 , F or G or section 6505‑A , that person shall have a government-issued identification card with that person's photograph and date of birth in that person's actual possession. At the request of a marine patrol officer or other authorized person, the person shall present the government-issued identification card with that person's photograph and date of birth. [PL 2023, c. 563, §3 (AMD).]

1-B. Elver transaction card. When a person is engaged in an activity for which a license is required under section 6302‑A, subsection 3, paragraph E , E‑1 , F or G or section 6505‑A , that person shall have the elver transaction card issued by the department under section 6505‑A to that person in that person's actual possession. At the request of a marine patrol officer or other authorized person, the person shall present the elver transaction card. [PL 2023, c. 563, §4 (AMD).]

2. Prima facie evidence. A failure to exhibit a license and an elver transaction card if an elver transaction card is required within a reasonable time, when requested, is prima facie evidence that the person is not licensed. [PL 2013, c. 468, §9 (AMD).]

3. Crew members. If crew members are included in the license for any operation, any bona fide crew member may carry out that operation if the license is in that crew member's possession. [PL 2013, c. 468, §9 (AMD).]
12 M.R.S. § 1882 — ME Code / Title 12 / Part 2 / Chapter 220 / Section 1882
12 §1882. Access points and control stations
Status: in_force

Except as provided in this section, the bureau may determine the location of access points, control stations and watercourse crossings within the waterway. [PL 2005, c. 598, §1 (RPR); PL 2011, c. 657, Pt. W, §7 (REV); PL 2013, c. 405, Pt. A, §24 (REV).]

1. Spring, summer and fall motor vehicle access to watercourse. Spring, summer and fall access by motor vehicle to the edge of the watercourse must be maintained at: A. Chamberlain Thoroughfare Bridge; [PL 2005, c. 598, §1 (NEW).] B. Churchill Dam; [PL 2005, c. 598, §1 (NEW).] C. Umsaskis Lake Thoroughfare; [PL 2005, c. 598, §1 (NEW).] D. Henderson Brook Bridge; [PL 2005, c. 598, §1 (NEW).] E. Michaud Farm; and [PL 2005, c. 598, §1 (NEW).] F. Twin Brooks. [PL 2005, c. 598, §1 (NEW).] [PL 2005, c. 598, §1 (NEW).]

2. Spring, summer and fall access by motor vehicle to existing short trails. Spring, summer and fall access by motor vehicle to short trails existing on the effective date of this subsection and leading to the watercourse must be maintained at: A. John's Bridge, limited to: (1) Unloading and access during the months of May and September; (2) Day use only with a permit from the bureau; (3) Parking outside the restricted zone; and (4) No vehicle access to the water's edge; [PL 2005, c. 598, §1 (NEW); PL 2011, c. 657, Pt. W, §7 (REV); PL 2013, c. 405, Pt. A, §24 (REV).] B. Bissonette Bridge road, over the road existing on the effective date of this paragraph to the trail existing on the effective date of this paragraph to the water's edge; [PL 2005, c. 598, §1 (NEW).] C. Finley Bogan, from the Inn Road to the top of the high bank; [PL 2005, c. 598, §1 (NEW).] D. Ramsey Ledge Campsite, limited to the motor vehicle parking area behind vegetative screening. Self-contained motor vehicle camping is allowed and canoe access is allowed; and [PL 2005, c. 598, §1 (NEW).] E. Indian Stream, by the trail existing on the effective date of this paragraph. [PL 2005, c. 598, §1 (NEW).] [PL 2005, c. 598, §1 (NEW); PL 2011, c. 657, Pt. W, §7 (REV); PL 2013, c. 405, Pt. A, §24 (REV).]

3. Snowmobile access to watercourse. The bureau shall maintain 19 snowmobile access points to the watercourse. Snowmobiles are prohibited on Allagash Lake and Allagash Stream. [PL 2005, c. 598, §1 (NEW); PL 2011, c. 657, Pt. W, §7 (REV); PL 2013, c. 405, Pt. A, §24 (REV).]

4. Permanent watercourse crossings. Notwithstanding section 1876, subsection 1 , only the following six bridges within the waterway are permanent watercourse crossings: A. Henderson Brook Bridge; [PL 2005, c. 598, §1 (NEW).] B. Reality Bridge, also known as Umsaskis Bridge; [PL 2005, c. 598, §1 (NEW).] C. Churchill Dam Bridge; [PL 2005, c. 598, §1 (NEW).] D. John's Bridge; [PL 2005, c. 598, §1 (NEW).] E. Chamberlain Thoroughfare Bridge; and [PL 2005, c. 598, §1 (NEW).] F. Allagash Stream Bridge. [PL 2005, c. 598, §1 (NEW).] Watercourse crossings may not be constructed at the locations of the former Schedule Brook Bridge or the former Bissonette Bridge. Any right or interest granted to any person by the State to construct or maintain a bridge at those sites is extinguished. [PL 2005, c. 598, §1 (NEW).]
12 M.R.S. § 10104 — ME Code / Title 12 / Part 13 / Chapter 903 / Section 10104
12 §10104. Rule-making power
Status: in_force

In addition to other powers granted in this Part, the commissioner has the following powers. [PL 2003, c. 414, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 614, §9 (AFF).]

1. Rules. The commissioner may, with the advice and consent of the advisory council and in conformity with Title 5, Part 18 , and except as otherwise provided, adopt, amend and repeal reasonable rules, including emergency rules, necessary for the proper administration, implementation, enforcement and interpretation of any provision of law that the commissioner is charged with the duty of administering. These rules duly adopted have the full force and effect of law and are effective upon filing with the Secretary of State, unless a later date is required by statute or specified in the rule. [PL 2003, c. 414, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 614, §9 (AFF).]

2. Filing of rules. The commissioner may file certified copies of all rules adopted by the commissioner and any and all amendments to the rules with the clerks of the District Court and Superior Court. These certified copies are considered official publications of the State for all purposes, including, but not limited to, the Maine Rules of Civil Procedure, Rule 44(a)(1) and the Maine Rules of Evidence, Rule 902 (5), and judicial notice must be taken accordingly. A facsimile of the signature of the commissioner imprinted by or at the commissioner's discretion upon any such certificate of true copy has the same validity as the commissioner's written signature. [PL 2003, c. 414, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 614, §9 (AFF).]
12 M.R.S. § 1806 — ME Code / Title 12 / Part 2 / Chapter 220 / Section 1806
12 §1806. Enforcement
Status: in_force

The bureau may coordinate and exercise law enforcement power over the land and water within the bureau's jurisdiction. The provisions in this section apply to law enforcement within the jurisdiction of the bureau. [PL 2001, c. 604, §6 (NEW); PL 2011, c. 657, Pt. W, §7 (REV); PL 2013, c. 405, Pt. A, §24 (REV).]

1. Powers of law enforcement officers. A law enforcement officer may issue a written summons to any person the officer has probable cause to believe has committed or is committing a bureau rule violation, a civil violation or a crime. Any law enforcement officer may detain or arrest, with or without a warrant, any person the officer has probable cause to believe has committed or is committing a crime. [PL 2001, c. 604, §6 (NEW); PL 2011, c. 657, Pt. W, §7 (REV); PL 2013, c. 405, Pt. A, §24 (REV).]

2. Powers of bureau staff or agents. The director may authorize an employee or agent of the bureau to issue a written summons to any person who the employee or agent has probable cause to believe has committed or is committing a civil violation or a crime. The director may authorize an employee or agent of the bureau to detain or arrest any person who the employee or agent has probable cause to believe has committed or is committing a crime. The director shall notify the joint standing committee of the Legislature having jurisdiction over parks and public lands matters in writing prior to adopting a policy that authorizes employees or agents of the bureau to make arrests. [PL 2001, c. 604, §6 (NEW); PL 2011, c. 657, Pt. W, §7 (REV); PL 2013, c. 405, Pt. A, §24 (REV).]

3. Civil violations. Except for violations of section 1880 or rules adopted to implement section 1880 , a person who violates a rule adopted by the bureau under this chapter commits a civil violation for which a forfeiture of not more than $500 may be adjudged. [PL 2001, c. 604, §6 (NEW); PL 2011, c. 657, Pt. W, §7 (REV); PL 2013, c. 405, Pt. A, §24 (REV).]

4. Criminal offenses. In addition to offenses designated as crimes elsewhere in statute, a person commits a Class E crime if while within the jurisdiction of the bureau the person in fact: A. Removes, molests, injures or damages anything natural, material, prehistoric or historic, except as authorized by the bureau or allowed by laws and rules relating to hunting, fishing and trapping; [PL 2001, c. 604, §6 (NEW); PL 2011, c. 657, Pt. W, §7 (REV); PL 2013, c. 405, Pt. A, §24 (REV).] B. Removes, mutilates, defaces, or destroys a notice or rule posted by the bureau or a lawfully erected monument or marker; [PL 2001, c. 604, §6 (NEW); PL 2011, c. 657, Pt. W, §7 (REV); PL 2013, c. 405, Pt. A, §24 (REV).] C. Mutilates, defaces, destroys, moves off station or sinks any buoy, beacon or marking device placed by the State either floating on the waters of the State or permanently fixed to land or a structure adjacent to the waters of the State; [PL 2001, c. 604, §6 (NEW).] D. Moors or in any manner fastens a vessel, boat, scow or raft to any buoy or beacon placed by the State in any waters of this State or to any permanent structure placed by the State in any waters of this State except for a dock, wharf or other structure placed for that purpose; [PL 2001, c. 604, §6 (NEW).] E. Possesses a loaded weapon in violation of park rules or in areas closed to hunting by rule, law or ordinance; [PL 2001, c. 604, §6 (NEW).] F. Discharges any firearm, archery equipment, weapon powered by carbon dioxide cartridges or other weapon within 300 feet of any picnic area, designated camping area, parking area, building, shelter or boat launching site or in violation of park rules or in areas closed to hunting by rule, law or ordinance; [PL 2023, c. 239, §2 (AMD).] G. Commits unauthorized access by motorized vehicle, boat or aircraft in violation of bureau rules; [PL 2001, c. 604, §6 (NEW); PL 2011, c. 657, Pt. W, §7 (REV); PL 2013, c. 405, Pt. A, §24 (REV).] H. Violates the requirements for a youth camp trip leader permit issued under section 12860 ; [PL 2021, c. 162, §1 (AMD).] I. Enters land or waters to which access has been restricted under section 1804 ; or [PL 2021, c. 162, §2 (AMD).] J. Violates the requirements for an educational trip leader permit issued under section 12863 . [PL 2021, c. 162, §3 (NEW).] [PL 2023, c. 239, §2 (AMD).]
12 M.R.S. § 1891-D — ME Code / Title 12 / Part 2 / Chapter 220 / Section 1891-D
12 §1891-D. Administration
Status: in_force

The director shall employ a director of the Corps and may employ other personnel as are required to accomplish the purposes of this subchapter. [PL 2007, c. 240, Pt. NN, §2 (NEW).]

The director of the Corps shall work with other agencies and organizations to design the Corps to provide maximum volunteer and work opportunities, job skills training, education, improvements to publicly owned property and assistance with projects conducted by public agencies and nonprofit organizations. [PL 2007, c. 240, Pt. NN, §2 (NEW).]

The director of the Corps shall work with state and local job training agencies, including other service delivery areas and the job service, which may conduct recruitment and referral of individuals interested in participating in the Corps. Agency collaboration with the Corps is on a voluntary basis. [PL 2007, c. 240, Pt. NN, §2 (NEW).]

There is established a dedicated account for the use of the Corps. This account must be used to receive funds contributed by private and public agencies, organizations or individuals and to expend those funds to promote the purposes of this subchapter. Notwithstanding any other provision of law, state agencies may transfer money appropriated from the General Fund into this account for purposes of contributing to projects, services or volunteer stipends that benefit the contributing agency. The Corps may enter into an agreement with a private nonprofit organization designated by the director for the purpose of assisting with the management and operation of the Corps. The designated organization may accept federal and state funds and private contributions, directly or through the Corps, for the purpose of developing and operating programs of the Corps. [PL 2007, c. 240, Pt. NN, §2 (NEW).]
12 M.R.S. § 158 — ME Code / Title 12 / Part 1 / Chapter 1 / Section 158
12 §158. Petition for additional territory
Status: in_force

Petitions for including additional territory within an existing district may be filed with the Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry, and the proceedings provided for in the case of petitions to organize a district shall be observed in the case of petitions for such inclusion. Where the total number of land occupiers in the area proposed for inclusion shall be less than 25, the petition may be filed when signed by a majority of the occupiers of such area, and in such case no hearing or referendum need be held. In referenda upon petitions for such inclusion, all occupiers of land lying within the proposed additional area shall be eligible to vote. [PL 1969, c. 477, §1 (AMD); PL 1995, c. 532, §17 (AMD); PL 2011, c. 657, Pt. W, §5 (REV).]
12 M.R.S. § 13054 — ME Code / Title 12 / Part 13 / Chapter 935 / Section 13054
12 §13054. Rule violations; watercraft
Status: in_force

The following penalties apply to violations of rules regarding watercraft. [PL 2003, c. 614, §9 (AFF); PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §359 (RPR); PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §422 (AFF).]

1. Civil. Notwithstanding section 10650 , a person who violates a rule regarding watercraft commits a civil violation for which a fine of not less than $100 nor more than $500 may be adjudged. [PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §359 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §422 (AFF).]

2. Criminal. A person who violates a rule regarding watercraft after having been adjudicated as having committed 3 or more civil violations under this Part within the previous 5-year period commits a Class E crime. [PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §359 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §422 (AFF).]
12 M.R.S. § 6749-S — ME Code / Title 12 / Part 9 / Chapter 623 / Section 6749-S
12 §6749-S. Log books for sea urchin buyers and processors
Status: in_force

1. Log book; rules. The commissioner shall adopt rules requiring any person holding a wholesale seafood license with a sea urchin buyer's permit or a wholesale seafood license with a sea urchin processor's permit to maintain a log book. The rules must indicate the type of data that must be recorded in the log book, the manner for producing the log books and the method for analyzing data from the log books. The commissioner shall charge a fee for the log book that is sufficient to recover all costs associated with the production of the log book and analysis of the data, except that any personnel and operating costs associated with the log book must be paid from allocations from the Sea Urchin Research Fund. Fees received by the department from the sale of log books are dedicated revenue and must be used by the department for the purposes of this section. The log book and data analysis may be produced and conducted by the department or may be produced and conducted by a public or private entity under contract with the department. Disclosure of any data collected under this section is subject to the confidentiality provisions of section 6173 . [PL 1999, c. 244, §3 (NEW).]

2. Reporting. The commissioner may deny an application for the renewal of a wholesale seafood license with a sea urchin buyer's permit or a wholesale seafood license with a sea urchin processor's permit if the license holder fails to maintain a log book or report the data required by rule pursuant to subsection 1 . [PL 1999, c. 244, §3 (NEW).]

Rules adopted by the commissioner to implement this section are routine technical rules as defined in Title 5, chapter 375, subchapter II‑A . [PL 1999, c. 244, §3 (RPR).]
12 M.R.S. § 6681 — ME Code / Title 12 / Part 9 / Chapter 623 / Section 6681
12 §6681. Soft-shell clam management
Status: in_force

1. Purpose. The Legislature finds that the conservation and wise use of the State's shellfish resource may be enhanced by a 2-inch minimum size limit on possession of soft-shell clam shell stock in combination with other management programs. The Legislature further finds that management programs should be designed to meet local circumstances as appropriate, but also finds that a minimum size limit to be beneficial must be a uniform standard statewide. The Legislature intends by this Article to enhance the value of the State's shellfish resource by the institution of uniform standards which can be implemented and enforced statewide. [PL 1983, c. 838, §6 (NEW).]

2. Definition. For the purposes of this subchapter, "possess" means dig, take, harvest, ship, transport, hold, buy and sell retail and wholesale soft-shelled clam shell stock. [PL 1983, c. 838, §6 (NEW).]

3. Minimum size. A person may not possess soft-shelled clam shell stock whose shells are less than 2 inches in the largest diameter: A. If the soft-shelled clams comprise more than 10% but less than 20% of a bulk pile as determined under subsection 4 ; [PL 2003, c. 452, Pt. F, §18 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 452, Pt. X, §2 (AFF).] B. If the soft-shelled clams comprise 20% or more of a bulk pile as determined under subsection 4 ; or [PL 2003, c. 452, Pt. F, §18 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 452, Pt. X, §2 (AFF).] C. If the soft-shelled clams comprise 20% or more of a bulk pile as determined under subsection 4 and the person has one or more prior convictions for violating paragraph B . Title 17‑A, section 9‑A governs the use of prior convictions when determining a sentence. [PL 2003, c. 452, Pt. F, §18 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 452, Pt. X, §2 (AFF).] [PL 2003, c. 452, Pt. F, §18 (AMD); PL 2003, c. 452, Pt. X, §2 (AFF).]

4. Tolerance. Any person may possess soft-shelled clams that are less than 2 inches if they comprise less than 10% of any bulk pile. The tolerance is determined by numerical count of not less than one peck nor more than 4 pecks taken at random from various parts of the bulk pile or by a count of the entire pile if it contains less than one peck. [PL 2003, c. 452, Pt. F, §18 (AMD); PL 2003, c. 452, Pt. X, §2 (AFF).]

5. Enforcement. State, county and municipal wardens and enforcement officers shall enforce this subchapter. [PL 1983, c. 838, §6 (NEW).]

6. Penalty. [PL 1993, c. 281, §5 (RP).]

6-A. Penalty. A person who violates this article commits a Class D crime. The following minimum penalties apply: A. For possession of a bulk pile of shellfish of which 20% or more of the shellfish are smaller than the minimum size established in subsection 3 : (1) For the first offense, a fine of not less than $300; and (2) For subsequent offenses within 10 years from the date of conviction for the first violation, a fine of not less than $500. The court may not suspend a fine imposed under this paragraph; and [PL 1997, c. 628, §2 (AMD).] B. For possession of a bulk pile of shellfish of which more than 10% but less than 20% of the shellfish are smaller than the minimum size established in subsection 3 , a fine not less than $100 and not more than $1,000. [PL 1993, c. 281, §6 (NEW).] [PL 1997, c. 628, §2 (AMD).]

7. Sunset. This section shall be reviewed by the joint standing committee of the Legislature having jurisdiction over marine resources in the Second Regular Session of the 113th Legislature. That committee shall report its findings no later than April 1, 1988. [PL 1987, c. 580, §1 (AMD).]
12 M.R.S. § 6749-Y — ME Code / Title 12 / Part 9 / Chapter 623 / Section 6749-Y
12 §6749-Y. Penalty
Status: in_force

Notwithstanding section 6204 and unless otherwise specified, a person who violates or fails to comply with this subchapter commits a Class D crime that is punishable by a fine of not less than $500. The fine may not be suspended. [PL 2003, c. 248, §9 (AMD).]
12 M.R.S. § 10657-A — ME Code / Title 12 / Part 13 / Chapter 909 / Section 10657-A
12 §10657-A. Civil trespass with hunting dog
Status: in_force

1. Definitions. For the purposes of this section, unless the context otherwise indicates, the following terms have the following meanings. A. "Dog handler" means a person involved in releasing a dog to pursue a wild animal, including but not limited to the owner of the dog and any person involved in transporting, loading, unloading, catching, restraining, releasing or tracking the dog. [PL 2021, c. 580, §2 (NEW).] B. ''Turn a hunting dog loose" means to release or to be involved as a dog handler in the release of a dog to pursue a wild animal for the purposes of hunting the wild animal or in order to train the dog in hunting wild animals and includes but is not limited to the release of the dog to join other dogs already in pursuit of the wild animal. [PL 2021, c. 580, §2 (NEW).] [PL 2021, c. 580, §2 (NEW).]

2. Prohibition. While engaging in any activity regulated under this Part, a person may not turn a hunting dog loose in pursuit of a bear, coyote, bobcat, fox or raccoon: A. Onto the property of another if: (1) The landowner or the landowner's agent has personally communicated to a dog handler of the dog that the landowner does not want a hunting dog released onto that property; or (2) The property is posted in accordance with Title 17‑A, section 402, subsection 4 or in a manner reasonably likely to come to the attention of a person, unless a dog handler of the dog has express permission from the landowner or the landowner's agent to turn a hunting dog loose onto that property; or [PL 2021, c. 580, §2 (NEW).] B. In a manner that results in the hunting dog entering the property of another, if a hunting dog has been previously found on that property and any dog handler of the hunting dog has been notified in writing by a law enforcement officer within the previous 365 days that the landowner does not permit hunting dogs on that property. [PL 2021, c. 580, §2 (NEW).] [PL 2021, c. 580, §2 (NEW).]

3. Civil penalties. The following penalties apply to violations of this section. A. A person who violates this section commits a civil violation for which a fine of not less than $250 and not more than $500 may be adjudged. [PL 2021, c. 580, §2 (NEW).] B. A person who violates this section after having been adjudicated of violating this section in the prior 365 days commits a civil violation for which a fine of not less than $500 and not more than $1,000 may be adjudged. [PL 2021, c. 580, §2 (NEW).] [PL 2021, c. 580, §2 (NEW).]
12 M.R.S. § 598 — ME Code / Title 12 / Part 2 / Chapter 202-D / Section 598
12 §598. Definitions
Status: reserved

As used in this chapter, unless the context otherwise indicates, the following terms have the following meanings. [PL 1993, c. 639, §1 (NEW).]

1. Lands or land. "Lands" or "land" means real estate held by the State. [PL 1993, c. 639, §1 (NEW).]

2. Proceeds. "Proceeds" means money arising or obtained from the sale of designated lands, excluding the costs of the sale. [PL 1993, c. 639, §1 (NEW).]

3. Real estate held by the State. "Real estate held by the State" means real estate wholly owned by the State by fee simple title. "Real estate held by the State" does not mean land partially owned by the State or land owned by someone other than the State in which the State holds an easement, right-of-way or covenant. [PL 1993, c. 639, §1 (NEW).]

4. Reduced. "Reduced" means a reduction in the acreage of an individual parcel or lot of designated land under section 598‑A . "Reduced" does not mean a reduction in the value of the property. "Reduced" does not mean the conveyance of an access right by easement in accordance with section 1814‑A . [PL 2011, c. 278, §3 (AMD).]

5. Substantially altered. "Substantially altered," in the use of designated lands, means changed so as to significantly alter physical characteristics in a way that frustrates the essential purposes for which that land is held by the State. The essential purposes of state parks, historic sites, public access sites, facilities for boats and the Allagash Wilderness Waterway are the protection, management and improvement of these properties for public recreation, conservation, scenic values, nature appreciation, historic preservation and interpretation, public access and related purposes. The essential purposes of public reserved and nonreserved lands are the protection, management and improvement of these properties for the multiple use objectives established in section 1847 . The essential purposes of lands acquired through the Land for Maine's Future Board that are not held by the Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife or by the Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry are the protection, management and improvement of those lands for recreation, conservation, farming, open space, plant and animal habitat, scenic values, public access and related purposes. The essential purposes of state-owned wildlife management areas and game farms are the protection, management and improvement of those properties for fish and wildlife habitat and propagation, hunting, trapping, fishing, recreation, propagation and harvesting of forest and other natural products and related purposes. "Substantially altered" does not mean the conveyance of an access right by easement in accordance with section 1814‑A . [PL 2011, c. 278, §4 (AMD); PL 2011, c. 657, Pt. W, §5 (REV).]
12 M.R.S. § 6192 — ME Code / Title 12 / Part 9 / Chapter 607 / Section 6192
12 §6192. Emergency rulemaking
Status: repealed

1. Procedures. In an emergency adoption of a rule or amendment to a rule, the commissioner may modify the procedures required under the Maine Administrative Procedure Act and section 6191 in the following manner. A. In an emergency adoption of a rule or amendment to a rule relating to the public health and safety, including rules authorized under section 6171‑A , prior public notice and hearing is not required. [PL 2011, c. 527, §5 (AMD).] B. In an emergency adoption of a rule or amendment to a rule authorized by section 6171 or 6171‑A, the rule is effective immediately, as provided in subsection 4 . A public hearing must be held in the affected area after the rule takes effect if requested of the commissioner in writing by 5 persons. The hearing must be held within 30 days of the commissioner receiving the written request. Notice of that hearing must be published once, not less than 5 days prior to the hearing, in a newspaper of general circulation in the affected area. In an emergency adoption of a rule or amendment to a rule relating to gear conflicts, as authorized by section 6171‑A , the commissioner shall decide within 5 business days after the hearing whether to continue or repeal an emergency closure. The commissioner's findings of fact must include the justification for the repeal or continuance of the closure, an analysis of the objections expressed at the public hearing and the date for the end of the closure. Emergency rules under this paragraph may be repealed by the Marine Resources Advisory Council. [PL 2009, c. 528, §4 (AMD).] C. [PL 2009, c. 528, §4 (RP).] D. Within 48 hours after the adoption of an emergency rule or an emergency amendment to a rule authorized under section 6171‑A, subsection 1, paragraph B or C , the commissioner shall hold a public meeting in the area affected by the emergency rule. A public meeting convened pursuant to this paragraph is not a public hearing for purposes of the Maine Administrative Procedure Act. [PL 2009, c. 528, §4 (NEW).] [PL 2011, c. 527, §5 (AMD).]

2. Advisory council. The advice and consent of the advisory council is not required prior to an emergency adoption of a rule or amendment to a rule. [PL 2003, c. 248, §5 (AMD).]

3. Effective period. Any emergency rule is effective only for 90 days, or any lesser period of time specified in the rule. After the expiration of the emergency period, the rule may be adopted only as provided by section 6191 . [PL 2011, c. 527, §6 (AMD).]

4. Effective date. Except as provided in this subsection, emergency rules become effective immediately upon publication in a newspaper of general circulation in the area of the State affected, as long as those rules are submitted to the Attorney General and filed with the Secretary of State as required under the Maine Administrative Procedure Act within the next business day following publication. [PL 2011, c. 527, §7 (AMD).]

5. Repeal. Emergency rules may be repealed in the same manner as they are adopted. [PL 2003, c. 248, §5 (AMD).]
12 M.R.S. § 6431-A — ME Code / Title 12 / Part 9 / Chapter 619 / Section 6431-A
12 §6431-A. Trap limit
Status: in_force

1. Limit. Before March 1, 2000, the holder of a Class I, Class II or Class III license issued under section 6421 may not submerge more than 1,000 traps. After February 29, 2000, the holder of a Class I, Class II or Class III license or a nonresident lobster and crab landing permit issued under section 6421 may not submerge more than 800 traps. If a lower trap limit is adopted by rule for a zone pursuant to section 6446 , a license holder who fishes in that zone may not submerge a number of traps that exceeds the lower limit. The number of traps fished from a vessel may not exceed the applicable trap limit established in this subsection, regardless of the number of license holders fishing from that vessel. [PL 2007, c. 201, §12 (AMD).]

2. Trap limit exception. [PL 1999, c. 187, §1 (RP).]

3. Effective date. [PL 1999, c. 187, §1 (RP).]

4. Violation. A person who violates this section commits a civil violation for which a forfeiture of not less than $100 nor more than $500 may be adjudged. [PL 2001, c. 421, Pt. B, §22 (NEW); PL 2001, c. 421, Pt. C, §1 (AFF).]
12 M.R.S. § 10052 — ME Code / Title 12 / Part 13 / Chapter 903 / Section 10052
12 §10052. Division of Licensing and Registration
Status: in_force

The Division of Licensing and Registration is established within the Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife. The division is equal in organizational level and status with other major organizational units within the department or its successors. The division is administered by a director who is immediately responsible to the deputy commissioner. The director possesses full authority and responsibility for administering all the powers and duties of the division, subject to the direction of the commissioner and except as otherwise provided by statute. The responsibilities of the division include, but are not limited to: [PL 2011, c. 253, §1 (AMD).]

1. Financial accounting. [PL 2009, c. 340, §2 (RP).]

2. Personnel activities. [PL 2009, c. 340, §2 (RP).]

3. Licensing and registration. The administration and issuance of department licenses, stamps and permits and the registration of snowmobiles, watercraft and all-terrain vehicles. [PL 2011, c. 253, §1 (AMD).]

4. Engineering. [PL 2011, c. 253, §1 (RP).]

5. Land acquisition. [PL 2009, c. 340, §2 (RP).]

6. Equipment inventory. [PL 2009, c. 340, §2 (RP).]
12 M.R.S. § 6971 — ME Code / Title 12 / Part 9 / Chapter 631 / Section 6971
12 §6971. Commissioner's authority over marine endangered and threatened species
Status: in_force

In accordance with section 12801 , the commissioner has authority as provided in this chapter to carry out the purpose of that section with regard to marine species. [PL 2003, c. 573, §1 (NEW).]
12 M.R.S. § 4807-D — ME Code / Title 12 / Part 6 / Chapter 423-A / Section 4807-D
12 §4807-D. Exemptions
Status: in_force

This chapter as to the use of a lot for single family residential purposes shall not apply to any lot which prior to January 1, 1970, was specifically described as an identifiable and separate lot either in the instrument conveying such lot to the then owner or in a valid and enforceable agreement for purchase and sale or was shown on a plan recorded in accordance with law, prior to January 1, 1970; provided that contiguous lots in the same ownership on or after October 3, 1973 shall be considered as one lot for the purposes hereof. [PL 1973, c. 651 (NEW).]

This chapter shall not apply to any structure in existence and in place on or before October 3, 1973, which then or theretofore disposed of wastes by means of subsurface waste disposal; except that no person shall reduce the size of the lot upon which such structure is located to a size or frontage less than that allowed by section 4807-A unless permitted pursuant to section 4807-B . [PL 1973, c. 651 (AMD).]
12 M.R.S. § 12351 — ME Code / Title 12 / Part 13 / Chapter 919 / Section 12351
12 §12351. Transportation
Status: in_force

1. Prohibition. A person may not transport a harvested wild animal or wild bird unless that animal is lawfully possessed by that person. [PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §237 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §422 (AFF).]

1-A. Transportation prior to registration. Prior to registration, a person may not transport a harvested bear, deer, moose or wild turkey unless that animal is open to view. For purposes of this section, "open to view" means the animal is not concealed and can be readily observed in whole or in part from outside of the vehicle or trailer being used to transport the animal. [PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §237 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §422 (AFF).]

2. Penalties. The following penalties apply to violations of this section. A. A person who violates subsection 1 or 1‑A commits a civil violation for which a fine of not less than $100 nor more than $500 may be adjudged. [PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §237 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §422 (AFF).] B. A person who violates subsection 1 or 1‑A after having been adjudicated as having committed 3 or more civil violations under this Part within the previous 5-year period commits a Class E crime. [PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §237 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §422 (AFF).] [PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §237 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §422 (AFF).]
12 M.R.S. § 6625 — ME Code / Title 12 / Part 9 / Chapter 623 / Section 6625
12 §6625. Identification and tagging of shellfish
Status: in_force

1. Tagging required. The holder of a license issued under section 6601 , 6731 , 6732 , 6745 , 6746 or 6810‑B shall identify shellstock the license holder has taken by means of a harvester's tag. The tag must be consistent with the format required by the department under rules adopted to meet this requirement. Each container of shellstock must be tagged in accordance with department rules. The tag must accompany the harvested product while the product is in wholesale or retail commerce within the State. [PL 2019, c. 334, §1 (AMD).]

2. Exception. [PL 2005, c. 434, §5 (RP).]

3. Rules. The commissioner may adopt or amend rules that establish requirements for shellfish harvesters' tags. [PL 1993, c. 497, §3 (NEW).]
12 M.R.S. § 12902 — ME Code / Title 12 / Part 13 / Chapter 929 / Section 12902
12 §12902. Legislative findings
Status: in_force

The Legislature finds that the recreational use of watercraft on rapidly flowing rivers in this State has become an increasingly popular sport. Many members of the public rely on commercial whitewater outfitters to provide safe and enjoyable trips on these rivers. This sport may pose significant risks to the users of these rivers if outfitters are not skilled and knowledgeable in the navigation of those rivers and are not properly regulated. [PL 2003, c. 414, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 614, §9 (AFF).]

The Legislature further finds that increased use of the State's rapidly flowing rivers has increased the environmental, physical and social burdens on that resource. [PL 2003, c. 414, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 614, §9 (AFF).]

The Legislature further finds that it is in the public interest for the State, as trustee of the public waters, to regulate commercial whitewater rafting, pursuant to: the State's authority to protect the health, safety and welfare of its citizens; the State's authority to protect its natural resources or rapidly flowing rivers; and the State's authority over the care, supervision and protection of navigation. [PL 2003, c. 414, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 614, §9 (AFF).]

The Legislature further finds that, in exercising this authority, it is in the public interest for the State to adopt measures to ensure the competence of commercial whitewater outfitters; to adopt recreational use limits; and to allocate the privilege of commercial use where necessary to meet the objectives and goals of this chapter. [PL 2003, c. 414, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 614, §9 (AFF).]

The Legislature further finds that it is in the public interest to allow stable, well-qualified outfitters who are providing excellent service and meeting the conditions of their allocations to continue to do so, subject to periodic review. [PL 2003, c. 414, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 614, §9 (AFF).]
12 M.R.S. § 10903-A — ME Code / Title 12 / Part 13 / Chapter 913 / Section 10903-A
12 §10903-A. Outdoor ethics course
Status: in_force

An outdoor ethics course must be scheduled by the Bureau of Warden Service and must be given whenever there are 10 or more persons needing or wanting to take the course. The fee for an outdoor ethics course is $100, payable 10 working days prior to the start of the course. All fees collected under this section are allocated to the landowner relations program established in section 10108, subsection 4‑A . [PL 2013, c. 538, §13 (NEW).]
12 M.R.S. § 11110 — ME Code / Title 12 / Part 13 / Chapter 915 / Section 11110
12 §11110. Transfer of hunting areas or zones
Status: in_force

1. Transfer permitted. A person who has been assigned a designated hunting area, zone or season by the department for purposes of hunting moose may exchange that designated zone, area or season with another person assigned a different hunting zone, area or season for purposes of hunting moose. The department may assist in the exchange to ensure that the permit holders meet the requirements of section 10756 , but the State bears no responsibility for enforcing the terms of the exchange between the permit holders. The commissioner may adopt rules to implement this section. Rules adopted pursuant to this section are routine technical rules as defined in Title 5, chapter 375, subchapter 2‑A . [PL 2021, c. 599, §10 (AMD).]

2. Transfer of moose permit for consideration prohibited. [PL 2017, c. 379, §1 (RP).]

3. Facilitating for consideration transfer of a moose permit prohibited. A person may not facilitate for consideration the exchange of moose permits between holders of moose permits who are exchanging those permits pursuant to subsection 1 . For purposes of this subsection, "facilitate for consideration" means to directly receive compensation or something of value solely as part of an exchange of moose permits. A person who violates this subsection commits a Class E crime. [PL 2017, c. 379, §1 (NEW).]
12 M.R.S. § 6082 — ME Code / Title 12 / Part 9 / Chapter 605 / Section 6082
12 §6082. Confidentiality provisions for aquaculture information from other jurisdictions
Status: in_force

Information obtained from other state, federal or foreign government agencies about aquaculture operations in other states, foreign countries or the exclusive economic zone that is designated as confidential by the jurisdiction from which it is obtained and that must remain confidential as a condition of receipt must be kept confidential by the department. Such information is not a public record as defined in Title 1, section 402, subsection 3 . This section does not apply to aquaculture operations conducted in Maine. [PL 2007, c. 212, §4 (NEW).]
12 M.R.S. § 6502 — ME Code / Title 12 / Part 9 / Chapter 621 / Section 6502
12 §6502. Nonresident special tuna permit
Status: in_force

A nonresident individual may fish for, take, possess, ship, transport or sell tuna that the individual has taken, without a commercial fishing license, if the individual has a current special tuna permit. [PL 2001, c. 421, Pt. B, §26 (AMD); PL 2001, c. 421, Pt. C, §1 (AFF).]

1. Eligibility. A special tuna permit may be issued to a nonresident individual who is a registered participant in a tuna tournament that is sponsored and operated by a nonprofit association or corporation that has existed for at least one year prior to the tournament. An individual may not be issued more than one permit in any one calendar year. [PL 2001, c. 421, Pt. B, §26 (AMD); PL 2001, c. 421, Pt. C, §1 (AFF).]

2. Authorized activity. A special tuna permittee may fish for, take for sale and sell only one tuna in any one calendar year. The permit is valid for the length of the tournament plus one day or for 7 days from the date of issue, whichever is shorter. [PL 2001, c. 421, Pt. B, §26 (AMD); PL 2001, c. 421, Pt. C, §1 (AFF).]

3. Fee. The permit fee is $84, which may be credited against the license fee for a commercial fishing license, if it is issued to the permittee within 30 days of the issuing of the permit. [PL 1991, c. 528, Pt. RRR (AFF); PL 1991, c. 528, Pt. T, §3 (AMD); PL 1991, c. 591, Pt. T, §3 (AMD).]

4. Violation. A person who violates this section commits a civil violation for which a forfeiture of not less than $100 nor more than $500 may be adjudged. [PL 2001, c. 421, Pt. B, §26 (NEW); PL 2001, c. 421, Pt. C, §1 (AFF).]
12 M.R.S. § 12751 — ME Code / Title 12 / Part 13 / Chapter 925 / Section 12751
12 §12751. Commissioner's authority relating to culture and research
Status: in_force

1. Setting apart waters. The commissioner may by rule, pursuant to section 10104, subsection 1 , set apart, for a term not to exceed 10 years, any inland water for use by the State in conducting work on fish culture and scientific research relative to fish. In the waters so set apart, the commissioner and persons acting under the commissioner's authority in their respective fish culture and scientific work may take fish at any time or in any manner and erect and maintain any fixtures necessary for these purposes. In no instance may the commissioner permit the taking of fish by explosive, poisonous or stupefying substances, except for the use of registered fish toxicants for reclamation purposes. [PL 2003, c. 614, §9 (AFF); PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §296 (AMD); PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §422 (AFF).]

2. Taking of certain fish. [PL 2003, c. 614, §9 (AFF); PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §296 (RP); PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §422 (AFF).]
12 M.R.S. § 4603 — ME Code / Title 12 / Part 4 / Chapter 419 / Section 4603
12 §4603. Commission -- Article III
Status: in_force

Each state joining herein shall appoint 3 representatives to a commission constituted and designated as the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission, as authorized by Title 5, section 12004‑K, subsection 6 . One shall be the executive officer of the administrative agency of the state charged with the conservation of the fisheries resources to which this compact pertains or, if there be more than one officer or agency, the official of that state named by the governor thereof. The 2nd shall be a member of the legislature of the state designated by the commission or committee on interstate cooperation of that state, or if there be none, or if the commission on interstate cooperation cannot constitutionally designate the member, that legislator shall be designated by the governor thereof; provided, if it is constitutionally impossible to appoint a legislator as a commissioner from that state, the 2nd member shall be appointed by the governor of that state in that governor's discretion. The 3rd shall be a citizen who shall have a knowledge of and interest in the marine fisheries problem to be appointed by the governor. This commission shall be a body corporate with the powers and duties set forth herein. [PL 1989, c. 503, Pt. B, §57 (AMD).]
12 M.R.S. § 9004 — ME Code / Title 12 / Part 11 / Chapter 807 / Section 9004
12 §9004. Penalty
Status: in_force

1. Violation of proclamation. Notwithstanding section 9701 , any person who in fact violates the provisions of a proclamation issued under section 9001 commits a Class E crime. [PL 1995, c. 586, §5 (NEW).]

2. Violation at licensed camping facility. Notwithstanding subsection 1 and section 9701 , a person who is an occupant or customer of a licensed camping facility commits a Class E crime if that person: A. Is notified of a proclamation in accordance with section 9001‑B, subsection 6 and violates a proclamation issued under section 9001 . [PL 1995, c. 586, §5 (NEW).] [PL 1995, c. 586, §5 (NEW).]

3. Violation at exempt licensed camping facility. Notwithstanding subsection 1 and section 9701 , a person who is an occupant or customer of a licensed camping facility provided an exemption under section 9001‑B, subsection 3 commits a Class E crime if that person: A. Is notified of an exemption and standard of use in accordance with section 9001‑B, subsection 6 and burns an out-of-door fire or utilizes a charcoal or gas grill in violation of a rule adopted under section 9001‑B, subsection 4 . [PL 1995, c. 586, §5 (NEW).] [PL 1995, c. 586, §5 (NEW).]

4. Violation by owner or operator of licensed camping facility. Notwithstanding section 9701 , an owner or operator of a licensed camping facility commits a Class E crime if the owner or operator: A. Fails to notify a person in accordance with section 9001‑B, subsection 6 ; [PL 1995, c. 586, §5 (NEW).] B. Allows a person to violate a proclamation issued under section 9001 ; or [PL 1995, c. 586, §5 (NEW).] C. Operates a facility that is exempt pursuant to section 9001‑B that does not comply with rules adopted under section 9001‑B, subsection 4 . [PL 2013, c. 588, Pt. A, §10 (AMD).] [PL 2013, c. 588, Pt. A, §10 (AMD).]
12 M.R.S. § 6505-D — ME Code / Title 12 / Part 9 / Chapter 621 / Section 6505-D
12 §6505-D. Eel and Elver Management Fund
Status: in_force

1. Fund established. The Eel and Elver Management Fund, referred to in this section as the "fund," is established as a dedicated, nonlapsing fund. [PL 1995, c. 536, Pt. A, §8 (NEW).]

2. Permissible uses. The commissioner may use the fund to research and manage the State's eel and elver resources, to enforce the laws related to eels and elvers and to cover the costs associated with determining eligibility for elver fishing licenses. [PL 2011, c. 266, Pt. A, §17 (AMD).]

3. Plan required. [PL 2011, c. 266, Pt. A, §18 (RP).]
12 M.R.S. § 6451 — ME Code / Title 12 / Part 9 / Chapter 619 / Section 6451
12 §6451. Lobster Fund
Status: in_force

1. Allocation of license fees. [PL 2017, c. 284, Pt. EEEEE, §5 (RP).]

1-A. Lobster Fund established. The Lobster Fund is established within the department. The Lobster Fund receives surcharge fees collected pursuant to section 6421, subsection 7‑C . Funds deposited in the Lobster Fund must be used for the purposes of lobster biology research, propagation of lobsters by liberating seed lobsters and female lobsters in the State's coastal waters and establishing and supporting lobster hatcheries. [PL 2017, c. 284, Pt. EEEEE, §6 (NEW).]

2. Purchases; liberation. The commissioner may authorize the expenditure of the money in the Lobster Fund for the purpose of purchasing seed lobsters from Maine lobster pound owners and female lobsters from wholesale seafood license holders. The commissioner shall establish the purchase price for seed and female lobsters after consultation with the industry. The commissioner shall give priority to purchasing seed lobsters. [PL 1979, c. 127, §85 (AMD).]

3. Liberation and v-notching. The commissioner may provide purchased seed lobsters to lobster hatcheries. The remaining seed and all other female lobsters shall be liberated in the coastal waters after v-notching them in the right flipper. The right flipper shall be determined as established under section 6436, subsection 1 . [PL 1985, c. 237, §2 (RPR).]

4. Program. The commissioner may authorize the expenditure of money in the Lobster Fund for research and development programs which address the restoration, development or conservation of lobster resources. [PL 1985, c. 237, §2 (RPR).]

5. Nonlapsing fund. The Lobster Fund shall not lapse. [PL 1977, c. 661, §5 (NEW).]

6. Lobster hatcheries. The commissioner, with the advice of the Lobster Advisory Council, may authorize expenditure of money from the Lobster Fund, any available funds and, as appropriated by the Legislature, the General Fund to make grants in support of the establishment and operation of lobster hatcheries. The grants shall be for a one-year period and shall be renewable indefinitely upon successful reapplication. There shall be no more than 5 lobster hatcheries supported under this section. The commissioner shall develop rules, including biological and economic criteria for evaluating proposals. The commissioner shall require the grantee to keep a log of activities regarding the hatchery and shall require a written report at the termination of each grant. [PL 1987, c. 406 (RPR).]

7. Lobster Advisory Council. The commissioner shall consult with the Lobster Advisory Council on the expenditure of funds under this section. [PL 1985, c. 237, §3 (NEW).]

8. Apprentice program. The commissioner may authorize the expenditure of money in the Lobster Fund to cover the initial costs of developing and delivering the educational component of the apprentice program under section 6422, subsection 3 . Any expenditures must be reimbursed to the Lobster Fund from the fees charged under section 6422, subsection 3 . [PL 1995, c. 468, §9 (NEW).]
12 M.R.S. § 6304-A — ME Code / Title 12 / Part 9 / Chapter 615 / Section 6304-A
12 §6304-A. Coastal Fisheries, Research Management and Opportunity Fund
Status: in_force

The Coastal Fisheries, Research Management and Opportunity Fund, referred to in this section as "the fund," is established within the department. For each license or permit issued under this Part, 30% of the fee charged must be deposited into the fund. The fund must be used to fund scientific research, management or enforcement activities related to marine resources. Unexpended balances in the fund at the end of a fiscal year do not lapse but must be carried forward to the next fiscal year. Any interest earned by the fund must be credited to the fund. [PL 2017, c. 284, Pt. EEEEE, §1 (NEW).]
12 M.R.S. § 1828 — ME Code / Title 12 / Part 2 / Chapter 220 / Section 1828
12 §1828. Make surveys
Status: in_force

The bureau and its authorized agents and employees may enter upon any lands and waters in the State for the purpose of making surveys and examinations the bureau considers necessary or convenient in the discharge of its duties under this subchapter, and such entry is not considered trespass. [PL 1997, c. 678, §13 (NEW); PL 2011, c. 657, Pt. W, §7 (REV); PL 2013, c. 405, Pt. A, §24 (REV).]
12 M.R.S. § 1836 — ME Code / Title 12 / Part 2 / Chapter 220 / Section 1836
12 §1836. Acquisition of nonreserved public lands
Status: in_force

1. Authority to acquire lands. The bureau with the consent of the Governor and the commissioner may acquire lands or interests in lands on behalf of the State to be managed as nonreserved public lands. When acquiring land or interest in land, the bureau shall examine options for obtaining public vehicular access rights to the land. If an acquisition is made that does not include guaranteed public vehicular access, the bureau shall describe the acquisition in its annual report submitted pursuant to section 1839 and the justification for that acquisition. The bureau shall deliver to the State Archives within a reasonable period of time after their creation or acquisition the originals of all deeds, planbooks and surveyors' field and chainage notes, and any other materials the preservation of which it considers necessary, relating to the ownership, location and management of nonreserved public lands described in this subchapter. [PL 2001, c. 466, §5 (AMD); PL 2011, c. 657, Pt. W, §7 (REV); PL 2013, c. 405, Pt. A, §24 (REV).]

2. Authority to accept land from other agencies. The bureau may accept the care, custody, control and responsibility for the management of public lands or interests in land from other state agencies with the written consent of the transferor agency, the Governor and the commissioner. Nothing in this subsection may be construed to negate or affect obligations of the State undertaken in any existing lease, easement or other binding agreement or obligations of the State undertaken by the acceptance of any deed or other grant of an interest in real property. [PL 1997, c. 678, §13 (NEW); PL 2011, c. 657, Pt. W, §7 (REV); PL 2013, c. 405, Pt. A, §24 (REV).]
12 M.R.S. § 6406 — ME Code / Title 12 / Part 9 / Chapter 617 / Section 6406
12 §6406. Engaging in activities while under suspension
Status: in_force

1. Prohibited acts. It is unlawful for any person whose license or right to obtain a license is under suspension to: A. Engage in any licensed activity; [PL 1989, c. 455, §1 (RPR).] B. Give another person permission to raise, lift, transfer or possess lobster traps or cars marked with the suspended person's lobster and crab fishing license number or lobster traps with buoys that carry the color design on file with the suspended license; [PL 1991, c. 302, §1 (AMD).] C. Assist a holder of a Class II lobster and crab fishing license as a crew member; [PL 2025, c. 370, §1 (AMD).] D. [PL 1989, c. 455, §1 (RP).] E. For any violation occurring on or after the effective date of this paragraph, assist any license holder as a crew member in any activity authorized by the suspended license; or [PL 2025, c. 370, §1 (AMD).] F. Hold a direct and substantial financial interest in any business that buys, possesses, transports or sells elvers if that person has had that person's license or right to obtain a license issued under section 6864 suspended or revoked. [PL 2025, c. 370, §1 (NEW).] [PL 2025, c. 370, §1 (AMD).]

2. Penalty. Violation of this section is a Class D crime, except that the court shall impose a fine of not less than $500 nor more than $2,000. [PL 2009, c. 394, §5 (AMD).]
12 M.R.S. § 6807 — ME Code / Title 12 / Part 9 / Chapter 623 / Section 6807
12 §6807. Seaweed harvesting rules (REALLOCATED FROM TITLE 12, SECTION 6805)
Status: in_force

(REALLOCATED FROM TITLE 12, SECTION 6805)

The commissioner may adopt rules regulating the harvest of seaweed on a species-specific basis, including, but not limited to, the total number of licenses that may be issued, the designation of a harvesting season or seasons, the quantity of the resource that may be harvested in a season, areas that may be open or closed to harvest, the designation of sectors, limitations on harvest by sector, establishment of a process for allocation to sectors and gear and techniques that may be used in harvesting. Rules establishing a process for the allocation to sectors under this section are major substantive rules pursuant to Title 5, chapter 375, subchapter 2-A . All other rules adopted under this section are routine technical rules pursuant to Title 5, chapter 375, subchapter 2-A . [PL 2013, c. 558, §1 (AMD).]
12 M.R.S. § 8306 — ME Code / Title 12 / Part 11 / Chapter 803 / Section 8306
12 §8306. Authority to quarantine and destroy pest host material
Status: in_force

1. Quarantines. Notwithstanding any other provision of law, the director may establish by rule a quarantine to restrict or prohibit the transportation within, into or from the State or any portion of the State of any forest or shade tree or part of any forest or shade tree, including, but not limited to, logs, bark, branches, seeds or scion material, or alternate host materials capable of supporting a disease or insect infestation when the following conditions are met: A. The director finds that there exists within the State or in any other state, country or province a plant disease caused by a plant pathogen not native to the State or an infestation of insects not native to the State that, in the opinion of the director, is likely to kill or seriously injure forest or shade trees in large numbers; and [PL 2001, c. 547, §1 (NEW).] B. A quarantine to protect against the plant disease or insect infestation has not been established by the Commissioner of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry or the Secretary of Agriculture of the United States or is not in effect. [PL 2001, c. 547, §1 (NEW); PL 2011, c. 657, Pt. W, §6 (REV).] [PL 2013, c. 196, §1 (AMD).]

2. Rulemaking. The director shall adopt rules to establish: A. Quarantines as needed and authorized under subsection 1 ; and [PL 2001, c. 547, §1 (NEW).] B. A process for the seizure, inspection, destruction or other mitigation of any forest or shade tree or any material that: (1) Exists within the State and harbors a plant pathogen or insect that is the subject of a quarantine; (2) Is in proximity to a tree or material that exists within the State and harbors a plant pathogen or insect that is the subject of a quarantine; or (3) Is transported into the State in violation of a quarantine established by the director, the Commissioner of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry or the Secretary of Agriculture of the United States. [PL 2013, c. 196, §2 (RPR).] Rules adopted pursuant to this subsection are routine technical rules as defined in Title 5, chapter 375, subchapter II‑A . [PL 2013, c. 196, §2 (AMD).]

3. Salvage of condemned material. Prior to ordering the destruction of forest or shade trees or parts of forest or shade trees, the director shall consult with the landowner and the person owning stumpage rights to determine if there are methods of destruction that allow recovery of the value or a portion of the value of the condemned material and effectively safeguard the forest resource. [PL 2001, c. 547, §1 (NEW).]
12 M.R.S. § 5306 — ME Code / Title 12 / Part 8 / Chapter 433 / Section 5306
12 §5306. Advisory committee
Status: in_force

Except as otherwise provided in section 5304 , the University of Maine Cooperative Extension Service shall convene an advisory committee for the purpose of advising and making recommendations regarding the program and seeking new opportunities to ensure that the State is a nationwide leader in outdoor education, including high school education career training programs. In inviting members onto the advisory committee, the University of Maine Cooperative Extension Service shall take into consideration geographic and demographic diversity in membership and ensure that membership of the committee includes a youth advocate and representatives of all applicable state agencies, the outdoor education program provider community, the natural resources community and upper elementary and middle school education. [PL 2025, c. 84, §1 (NEW).]
12 M.R.S. § 8302 — ME Code / Title 12 / Part 11 / Chapter 803 / Section 8302
12 §8302. Locally requested control work
Status: in_force

Whenever any municipality shall appropriate or raise a sum of money and shall pay the same into the State Treasury for the purpose of controlling, within its borders, a forest insect or disease declared a public nuisance pursuant to section 8303 , the director shall cause the amount to be expended in the municipality, together with such sum as may be determined by the director from the state appropriation made therefor. If the director finds it to be unnecessary or impracticable to expend the entire amount or any part thereof during the year following the payment to the Treasurer of State, the unexpended proportion shall be reimbursed to the municipality. [PL 1979, c. 545, §3 (NEW).]
12 M.R.S. § 6436 — ME Code / Title 12 / Part 9 / Chapter 619 / Section 6436
12 §6436. Egg-bearing lobsters; v-notched lobsters
Status: in_force

1. Egg-bearing and v-notched lobsters. A person may not take, transport, sell or possess: A. Any lobster that is bearing eggs; or [PL 2003, c. 452, Pt. F, §9 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 452, Pt. X, §2 (AFF).] B. Any female lobster marked with a v-notch in the right flipper next to the middle flipper or any female lobster that is mutilated in a manner that could hide or obliterate that mark. The right flipper is determined when the underside of the lobster is down and its tail is toward the person making the determination. [PL 2003, c. 452, Pt. F, §9 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 452, Pt. X, §2 (AFF).] [PL 2003, c. 452, Pt. F, §9 (RPR); PL 2003, c. 452, Pt. X, §2 (AFF).]

2. Exceptions. No violation of this section shall occur if: A. The lobster is immediately liberated alive into the coastal waters when taken or discovered in a pound; or [PL 1977, c. 661, §5 (NEW).] B. The lobster is possessed and sold to the department by a lobster pound owner who has a permit to do so as provided in this section. [PL 1977, c. 661, §5 (NEW).] [PL 1977, c. 661, §5 (NEW).]

3. Permitted possession; regulations. The commissioner may issue a permit for the holding and delivery of egg-bearing lobsters to the department by a lobster pound owner who holds a current wholesale seafood license. The commissioner may adopt regulations governing the issuing of permits and the conditions and limitations under which these lobsters may be held and delivered. [PL 1977, c. 661, §5 (NEW).]

4. Prima facie evidence. A. Discovery of an egg-bearing lobster by a marine patrol officer in a pound not included in a permit under section 3 shall be prima facie evidence of a violation. [PL 1979, c. 541, Pt. B, §73 (AMD).] B. Any lobster whose right flipper is v-notched or mutilated in a manner which could hide or obliterate such a mark shall be prima facie evidence that the lobster is a v-notched female lobster. [PL 1977, c. 661, §5 (NEW).] [PL 1979, c. 541, Pt. B, §73 (AMD).]

5. Penalty for possession of egg-bearing lobsters. Possession of lobsters in violation of subsection 1, paragraph A is a Class D crime, except that in addition to any punishment that may be imposed under Title 17‑A, Part 6 , the court shall impose a fine of $1,000 for each violation and, in addition, a fine of $200 for each lobster involved, up to and including the first 5, and a fine of $400 for each lobster in excess of 5, or, if the number of lobsters cannot be determined, a fine of not less than $2,500 or more than $10,000. [PL 2019, c. 113, Pt. C, §12 (AMD).]

6. Penalty for possession of v-notched lobsters. Possession of lobsters in violation of subsection 1, paragraph B is a Class D crime, except that in addition to any punishment that may be imposed under Title 17‑A, Part 6 , the court shall impose a fine of $500 for each violation and, in addition, a fine of $100 for each lobster involved, up to and including the first 5, and a fine of $400 for each lobster in excess of 5, or, if the number of lobsters cannot be determined, a fine of not less than $1,000 or more than $5,000. [PL 2019, c. 113, Pt. C, §13 (AMD).]
12 M.R.S. § 4651 — ME Code / Title 12 / Part 4 / Chapter 419 / Section 4651
12 §4651. Ratification
Status: in_force

The Governor of this State is authorized and directed to execute a compact on behalf of the State of Maine with any one or more of the states of New Hampshire, Massachusetts, Connecticut, Rhode Island, New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Delaware, Maryland, Virginia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia and Florida and with such other states as may enter into the compact, legally joining therein in the form substantially as in this chapter. [PL 1965, c. 425, §8 (AMD).]
12 M.R.S. § 8006 — ME Code / Title 12 / Part 11 / Chapter 801 / Section 8006
12 §8006. Intrastate transportation of forest products by nonresidents
Status: in_force

1. Definitions. As used in this section, unless the context otherwise indicates, the following terms have the following meanings. A. "Forest land" has the same meaning as in Title 36, section 573, subsection 3 . [PL 2021, c. 280, §6 (NEW).] B. "Forest products" has the same meaning as in section 8881, subsection 3 . [PL 2021, c. 280, §6 (NEW).] C. "Landowner" means a person that owns 50,000 acres or more of forest land in this State. [PL 2021, c. 280, §6 (NEW).] D. "Motor carrier" means a contract carrier, a common carrier or a private carrier of property by motor vehicle. [PL 2021, c. 280, §6 (NEW).] E. "Resident of the United States" does not include a person eligible to be in the United States under the United States H-2A visa program. [PL 2021, c. 280, §6 (NEW).] [PL 2021, c. 280, §6 (NEW).]

2. Prohibition; landowner. A landowner may not hire, or contract with a person to hire, a motor carrier to transport forest products that are harvested from the landowner's land from a location in the State to another location in the State unless the motor carrier is operated by a resident of the United States. A landowner who violates this subsection commits a civil violation and is subject to a penalty of $1,000 for the first violation, $10,000 for the 2nd violation and $25,000 for the 3rd and any subsequent violation. [PL 2021, c. 280, §6 (NEW).]

3. Prohibition; motor carrier. A motor carrier may not transport forest products that are harvested from a landowner's land from a location in the State to another location in the State unless the motor carrier is operated by a resident of the United States. A motor carrier who violates this subsection commits a civil violation and is subject to a penalty of $1,000 for the first violation, $2,500 for the 2nd violation and $10,000 for the 3rd and any subsequent violation. [PL 2021, c. 280, §6 (NEW).]

4. Disposition of fines. Notwithstanding any law to the contrary, fines collected pursuant to this section may be retained by the bureau and used to assist with the enforcement of this section. [PL 2021, c. 280, §6 (NEW).]

5. Enforcement; notification. Violations of this section are enforced in the same manner as provided in section 8307. The director shall notify the State Tax Assessor and municipal property tax assessors of any violation by a landowner under this section. [PL 2021, c. 280, §6 (NEW).]
12 M.R.S. § 11151 — ME Code / Title 12 / Part 13 / Chapter 915 / Section 11151
12 §11151. Bear hunting permit
Status: in_force

1. Permit required. Except as otherwise authorized pursuant to this Part, a person may not hunt for bear without a valid permit during the open season on hunting bear established pursuant to section 11251 . A person may hunt for bear without a valid permit during the open firearm season on deer under section 11401 . This section does not apply to trapping for bear. Each day a person violates this subsection that person commits a Class E crime for which a minimum fine of $50 and an amount equal to twice the applicable license fee must be imposed. [PL 2021, c. 100, §2 (AMD); PL 2021, c. 100, §13 (AFF).]

2. Eligibility; hunting or archery license required. A person who possesses a valid hunting or archery hunting license may obtain a permit to hunt for bear from the commissioner or an authorized agent. [PL 2015, c. 281, Pt. E, §7 (AMD).]

3. Issuance; permit fee. The commissioner, through the commissioner's authorized agent, shall issue a bear hunting permit or permits to an eligible person. When the bag limit on bear is more than one, a bear hunting permit is required for each bear. The annual fee for each permit issued is $10 for residents and $74 for nonresidents. [PL 2021, c. 100, §3 (AMD); PL 2021, c. 100, §13 (AFF).]
12 M.R.S. § 8867-G — ME Code / Title 12 / Part 11 / Chapter 805 / Section 8867-G
12 §8867-G. Forest certification programs
Status: in_force

1. Requirements for state land. The Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry may obtain or maintain certification from a forest certification program for state land only if the program, in order to obtain certification under the program: A. Contains performance-based indicators described in subsection 2 that protect forest workers, including logging and trucking contractors, that can be assessed and verified by a recognized certifying entity; and [PL 2023, c. 380, §1 (NEW).] B. Does not require payment to a trade association that is registered with the Commission on Governmental Ethics and Election Practices. [PL 2023, c. 380, §1 (NEW).] [PL 2023, c. 380, §1 (NEW).]

2. Performance-based indicators. Performance-based indicators required by subsection 1 include the following labor practices: A. No use of child labor; [PL 2023, c. 380, §1 (NEW).] B. No use of forced labor; [PL 2023, c. 380, §1 (NEW).] C. No discrimination; [PL 2023, c. 380, §1 (NEW).] D. Freedom of association and collective bargaining; [PL 2023, c. 380, §1 (NEW).] E. Promotion of gender equality; [PL 2023, c. 380, §1 (NEW).] F. Implementation of legal occupational health and safety practices; [PL 2023, c. 380, §1 (NEW).] G. Payment of fair wages that meet or exceed the minimum wage; [PL 2023, c. 380, §1 (NEW).] H. Adequate and effective training; and [PL 2023, c. 380, §1 (NEW).] I. Grievance resolution and compensation for damages. [PL 2023, c. 380, §1 (NEW).] [PL 2023, c. 380, §1 (NEW).]
12 M.R.S. § 12912 — ME Code / Title 12 / Part 13 / Chapter 929 / Section 12912
12 §12912. Rapidly flowing rivers
Status: in_force

1. User fee. This subsection applies to the payment of user fees by outfitters carrying passengers on rapidly flowing rivers. A. Each outfitter shall: (1) Pay a user fee of $2 per passenger, excluding guides, carried by the outfitter on any whitewater trip; and (2) Pay this fee by the 30th day of the month following the month in which the passengers were carried. [PL 2009, c. 213, Pt. OO, §12 (AMD).] B. The following penalties apply to violations of paragraph A . (1) A person who violates paragraph A commits a civil violation for which a fine of not less than $100 nor more than $500 may be adjudged. (2) A person who violates paragraph A after having been adjudicated as having committed 3 or more civil violations under this Part within the previous 5-year period commits a Class E crime. [PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §336 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §422 (AFF).] [PL 2009, c. 213, Pt. OO, §12 (AMD).]

2. Reporting. This subsection applies to the submission of monthly reports by outfitters carrying passengers on rapidly flowing rivers. A. Each outfitter shall: (1) Report monthly to the department the number of passengers carried each day on each rapidly flowing river; (2) Ensure this report is accurate; and (3) Submit the report by the 30th day of the month following the month in which the passengers were carried. [PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §336 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §422 (AFF).] B. The following penalties apply to violations of paragraph A . (1) A person who violates paragraph A commits a civil violation for which a fine of not less than $100 nor more than $500 may be adjudged. (2) A person who violates paragraph A after having been adjudicated as having committed 3 or more civil violations under this Part within the previous 5-year period commits a Class E crime. [PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §336 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §422 (AFF).] [PL 2003, c. 614, §9 (AFF); PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §336 (RPR); PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §422 (AFF).]

3. Passenger limitation. This subsection applies to the carrying of passengers under this section. A. Except as provided in this subsection, an outfitter may not carry: (1) On any unallocated rapidly flowing river more than 120 passengers per day; or (2) On any allocated rapidly flowing river more than 120 passengers per day except on allocated days when a licensed outfitter may carry only up to the number of allocations the outfitter has been allocated. On allocated days, that limit may be exceeded only as provided in section 12913, subsection 2, paragraph A , subparagraph (4). On unallocated days, an outfitter may occasionally carry up to 4 additional passengers to accommodate problems in booking. Abuse of the privilege to carry 4 additional passengers results in its loss for a period to be determined by the commissioner. [RR 2021, c. 2, Pt. A, §24 (COR).] B. The following penalties apply to violations of paragraph A . (1) A person who violates paragraph A commits a civil violation for which a fine of not less than $100 nor more than $500 may be adjudged. (2) A person who violates paragraph A after having been adjudicated as having committed 3 or more civil violations under this Part within the previous 5-year period commits a Class E crime. [PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §336 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §422 (AFF).] [RR 2021, c. 2, Pt. A, §24 (COR).]
12 M.R.S. § 1890 — ME Code / Title 12 / Part 2 / Chapter 220 / Section 1890
12 §1890. Appeals
Status: in_force

Any applicant for a timber harvesting permit who is aggrieved by a decision of the bureau relating to timber harvesting operations may appeal in accordance with Title 5, chapter 375, subchapter VII . [PL 1997, c. 678, §13 (NEW); PL 2011, c. 657, Pt. W, §7 (REV); PL 2013, c. 405, Pt. A, §24 (REV).]
12 M.R.S. § 6803-B — ME Code / Title 12 / Part 9 / Chapter 623 / Section 6803-B
12 §6803-B. Seaweed buyer's surcharge
Status: in_force

A person licensed under section 6803‑A shall pay an annual surcharge, which must be deposited in the Seaweed Management Fund established under section 6806 . The commissioner shall establish the surcharge by rule, but the surcharge may not exceed $5 per wet ton. The commissioner may refuse to renew a license under this Part or exclude a person from participating in harvest plans under section 6803‑C, subsection 4 for failing to pay the surcharge under this section. [PL 2009, c. 283, §2 (NEW).]
12 M.R.S. § 6408 — ME Code / Title 12 / Part 9 / Chapter 617 / Section 6408
12 §6408. Suspension of lobster and crab fishing license
Status: in_force

A person whose Class I, Class II or Class III lobster and crab fishing license has been suspended for more than one year must appear in person before the commissioner prior to being issued a Class I, Class II or Class III lobster and crab fishing license pursuant to section 6421, subsection 5, paragraph D . [PL 1999, c. 643, §2 (NEW).] Revisor's Note: §6408. Suspension of license for failure to appear, answer or pay (REALLOCATED TO TITLE 12, SECTION 6409)
12 M.R.S. § 11401 — ME Code / Title 12 / Part 13 / Chapter 915 / Section 11401
12 §11401. Open and closed seasons for deer
Status: in_force

1. Open and closed seasons. This subsection applies to open and closed seasons for deer. A. Except as otherwise provided in this subsection and sections 10952 , 11152 , 11153 , 11403 and 11404 or by rule adopted by the commissioner pursuant to subsection 2 , there is an open season for deer in each calendar year in all counties of the State between September 15th and December 20th annually. In a year that the regular season extends beyond November 30th, the regular season must start no later than the 4th Monday preceding Thanksgiving. [PL 2025, c. 333, §11 (AMD).] B. The commissioner may shorten the open season on deer in any part of the State, as long as: (1) The demarcation of the areas with the shortened season follows recognizable physical boundaries, such as rivers and railroad rights-of-way; and (3) The Saturday preceding the first day of open season on deer is an open day for residents of the State and for nonresidents who meet the qualifications under paragraph E . [PL 2017, c. 164, §13 (AMD).] C. [PL 2013, c. 408, §15 (RP).] D. [PL 2013, c. 408, §15 (RP).] E. Notwithstanding paragraph B , subparagraph (3), a nonresident who owns 25 or more acres of land in the State and leaves that property open to hunting, holds a valid hunting license and is not otherwise prohibited by law may hunt deer on the Saturday preceding the first day of open season on deer. [PL 2017, c. 356, §1 (AMD).] [PL 2025, c. 333, §11 (AMD).]

2. Rule. The commissioner by rule may: A. Open any of the areas closed to deer hunting listed in rule, as long as the legislative body of each affected town approves the opening. For purposes of this subsection, "affected town" means a town, township or municipality that contains within its borders any area proposed to be opened pursuant to this paragraph; [PL 2025, c. 333, §12 (NEW).] B. Create special hunting seasons or expanded archery seasons for the taking of deer in any part of the State to maintain deer populations in balance with available habitat, subject to the provisions of this paragraph. (1) The demarcation of each area must follow recognizable physical boundaries, such as rivers, roads and railroad rights-of-way. (2) The commissioner may establish limits on the number of deer taken or possessed by persons during a special season or expanded archery season. Limits established by the commissioner under this subparagraph are exceptions to the limits imposed under section 11501 . (3) The commissioner may specify types of weapons and hunting methods to be used during a special season or expanded archery season. (4) The commissioner may specify fees for permits issued during a special season, as long as they do not exceed the fees established in section 11153 ; and [PL 2025, c. 333, §12 (NEW).] C. Establish a 2-day youth deer hunting period, to be held on the Friday and Saturday preceding the Saturday designated as an open day for residents of the State pursuant to section 11401 . [PL 2025, c. 333, §12 (NEW).] Rules adopted pursuant to this subsection are routine technical rules as defined in Title 5, chapter 375, subchapter 2‑A . [PL 2025, c. 333, §12 (NEW).]
12 M.R.S. § 6523 — ME Code / Title 12 / Part 9 / Chapter 621 / Section 6523
12 §6523. Marking ice fishing shacks
Status: in_force

A person may not place any shack or temporary structure used for ice fishing on the frozen territorial waters or use the shack or structure, unless the owner's name and address are painted or otherwise clearly marked on the outside with 2-inch letters. A person who violates this section commits a civil violation for which a forfeiture of not less than $100 and not more than $500 may be adjudged. [PL 2001, c. 272, §8 (AMD).]
12 M.R.S. § 6024 — ME Code / Title 12 / Part 9 / Chapter 603 / Section 6024
12 §6024. Advisory council
Status: in_force

1. Appointment; composition; term; compensation. [PL 1989, c. 8, §1 (AMD); PL 1989, c. 503, Pt. B, §§59, 60 (RP).]

1-A. Appointment; composition; term; compensation. The Marine Resources Advisory Council, established by Title 5, section 12004‑G, subsection 27 , consists of 17 members. The chair of the Lobster Advisory Council, the chair of the Sea Urchin Zone Council, the chair of the Shellfish Advisory Council and the chair of the Aquaculture Advisory Council are ex officio members of the council. Each other member is appointed by the Governor and is subject to review by the joint standing committee of the Legislature having jurisdiction over marine resources matters and to confirmation by the Legislature. Five members must be persons who are licensed under this Part to engage in commercial harvesting activities. Those 5 members are selected by the Governor from names recommended to the Governor by groups representing commercial harvesting interests. Each member must represent a different commercial harvesting activity, except that none of those 5 members may represent lobster harvesters. The remaining 8 members must include one member who is listed on the saltwater recreational fishing registry established in section 6312 and does not hold a state marine harvesting license, one public member, one member who is a member of a federally recognized Indian nation, tribe or band in the State, 4 persons who hold a nonharvesting-related license under this Part and one person representing recreational saltwater anglers. The Governor shall select the member who is a member of a federally recognized Indian nation, tribe or band in the State based on the joint recommendation of the tribal governments of the Mi'kmaq Nation, the Houlton Band of Maliseet Indians, the Passamaquoddy Tribe at Motahkomikuk, the Passamaquoddy Tribe at Sipayik and the Penobscot Nation. If the tribal governments do not make a unanimous joint recommendation, the Governor shall appoint a member of a federally recognized Indian nation, tribe or band in the State and rotate the appointment among members of each federally recognized Indian nation, tribe or band in the State. The composition of the council must reflect a geographic distribution along the coast. All appointed members are appointed for a term of 3 years, except a vacancy must be filled in the same manner as an original member for the unexpired portion of the term. An appointed member may not serve for more than 2 consecutive terms. Appointed members serve until their successors are appointed. The chair of the Lobster Advisory Council, the chair of the Sea Urchin Zone Council, the chair of the Shellfish Advisory Council and the chair of the Aquaculture Advisory Council shall serve until a new chair of the Lobster Advisory Council, a new chair of the Sea Urchin Zone Council, a new chair of the Shellfish Advisory Council or a new chair of the Aquaculture Advisory Council, respectively, is chosen. Members are compensated as provided in Title 5, chapter 379 . [PL 2023, c. 556, §1 (AMD).]

2. Powers and duties; meetings; officers. The council shall give the commissioner information and advice concerning the administration of the department and carry out other duties specifically delegated by marine resources' laws. The council shall hold regular quarterly meetings with the commissioner, or the commissioner's designee, and may hold special meetings at any time. The council shall elect one of its members as chair, one as vice-chair and one as secretary, all for a term of one year, at the first regular meeting in each year. The officers have the following duties. A. The chair shall call and preside at all meetings of the council. [PL 1995, c. 382, §3 (AMD).] B. The vice-chair shall call and preside at all meetings of the council in the chair's absence. [PL 1995, c. 382, §3 (AMD).] C. The secretary shall cause records to be taken and to be preserved of all meetings of the council. [PL 1977, c. 661, §5 (NEW).] [PL 1995, c. 382, §3 (AMD).]

3. Quorum. A quorum shall be a majority of the current members of the council. [PL 1977, c. 661, §5 (NEW).]

4. Council actions. An affirmative vote of a majority of the members present at a meeting or polled shall be required for any action. No action may be considered unless a quorum is present or, if there is no meeting, a quorum responds to a written poll. [PL 1977, c. 661, §5 (NEW).]

5. Research oversight. The commissioner shall annually report to the council on the research of the department. The report shall include the present research plan and its implementation, any necessary revision of the plan and its necessary extension over the planning period. The council may appoint marine scientists, who are not employees of the department, to advise it in considering the research plan. After completing its review, the council shall report the plan, and any recommendations or comments, to the joint standing committee of the Legislature having jurisdiction over marine resources. [PL 1985, c. 481, Pt. A, §36 (AMD).]
12 M.R.S. § 9601-A — ME Code / Title 12 / Part 11 / Chapter 807 / Section 9601-A
12 §9601-A. Prohibition on sale of equipment without spark arresters
Status: in_force

No person may sell or offer to sell any internal combustion all-terrain vehicle, chain saw or skidder in this State that has not been provided with a spark arresting device approved by the director. This prohibition does not apply to casual sales as defined in Title 36, section 1752 . [PL 1989, c. 174, §8 (AMD).]
12 M.R.S. § 403-A — ME Code / Title 12 / Part 2 / Chapter 200 / Section 403-A
12 §403-A. Definitions
Status: in_force

As used in this chapter, unless the context otherwise indicates, the following terms have the following meanings. [PL 1987, c. 717, §2 (NEW).]

1. Existing dam. "Existing dam" means any human-made barrier across a river segment identified in this chapter that impounds water and has not deteriorated or been breached or modified to the point where it no longer impounds water at 50% or more of its design level at normal flows. [RR 2021, c. 2, Pt. B, §2 (COR).]
12 M.R.S. § 9302 — ME Code / Title 12 / Part 11 / Chapter 807 / Section 9302
12 §9302. Closing
Status: in_force

A municipal or private dump within the State not carrying out this subchapter shall be posted as "Closed to Dumping" by the town forest fire warden, or the director. Thereafter no person shall deposit refuse of any kind within, along the road leading to, or on land adjacent to such closed dump. [PL 1979, c. 545, §3 (NEW).]
12 M.R.S. § 5015 — ME Code / Title 12 / Part 8 / Chapter 428 / Section 5015
12 §5015. Maine Rivers Protection Fund
Status: in_force

There is established within the Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry a Maine Rivers Protection Fund, which shall be funded by donations, bequests, grants, gifts and proceeds from the sale of Maine rivers protection promotion items. The fund shall not lapse. [PL 1985, c. 105, §1 (NEW); PL 2011, c. 657, Pt. W, §5 (REV).]

Pursuant to the authority established in section 5012 , the commissioner may administer a state grant-in-aid program and may promulgate rules therefor under Title 5, chapter 375, subchapter 2 . The purpose of the program is to assist local governments, river conservation or management groups and landowners in activities that may include the acquisition, establishment and maintenance of access sites, parking areas, picnic areas, campsites and sanitary facilities; encouraging and securing shoreland gifts and conservation easements; financial support for river runners, litter control, signs and educational materials; the restoration and enhancement of anadromous fisheries; improving the natural productivity of inland fisheries; and supervision of recreational use and other similar or associated activities involving the protection of and public access to the State's rivers. [RR 2019, c. 2, Pt. A, §17 (COR).]

All funds of the Maine Rivers Protection Fund shall be subject to allocation by the Legislature. [PL 1985, c. 105, §1 (NEW).]

Rules adopted under this section shall become effective immediately, but shall be submitted to the Legislature no later than the next regular session for approval or modification. If the Legislature fails to act, those rules shall continue in full force and effect. [PL 1985, c. 105, §1 (NEW).]
12 M.R.S. § 10254 — ME Code / Title 12 / Part 13 / Chapter 903 / Section 10254
12 §10254. Maine Wildlife Park Fund
Status: in_force

1. Fund established. The Maine Wildlife Park Fund, referred to in this section as the "fund," is established. The fund receives all funds collected by the department from the operation of the Maine Wildlife Park, including gate fees, the proceeds of any sales at the Maine Wildlife Park and any donations, grants or other funds presented to the department for the benefit of the Maine Wildlife Park, except that any funds that are solicited by and earned by volunteers for the benefit of the Maine Wildlife Park may not be used, directly or indirectly, to supplant appropriations from the General Fund or allocations from other revenue sources. All money deposited in the fund and the earnings on the money remain in the fund to be used for the management and maintenance of the Maine Wildlife Park. Unexpended balances in the fund at the end of the fiscal year are nonlapsing and must be carried forward to the next fiscal year to be used for the same purposes. [PL 2005, c. 504, §1 (AMD).]

2. Report. [PL 2007, c. 651, §6 (RP).]
12 M.R.S. § 13069-B — ME Code / Title 12 / Part 13 / Chapter 935 / Section 13069-B
12 §13069-B. Watercraft accidents involving property damage
Status: in_force

The following provisions govern accidents involving watercraft that result in property damage only. [PL 2005, c. 436, §4 (NEW).]

1. Provide information. The operator of a watercraft involved in a collision or accident that results in property damage shall provide the owner or operator of that property: A. The operator's name and address; and [PL 2005, c. 436, §4 (NEW).] B. The registration number of the operator's watercraft. [PL 2005, c. 436, §4 (NEW).] [PL 2015, c. 301, §44 (AMD).]

2. Render assistance. The operator of a watercraft involved in an accident shall render reasonable assistance to all persons involved in the accident as far as the operator can without serious damage to the operator's watercraft or serious risk to crew or passengers. [PL 2005, c. 436, §4 (NEW).]

3. Violation. A person who violates this section commits a Class E crime. [PL 2005, c. 436, §4 (NEW).]
12 M.R.S. § 11155 — ME Code / Title 12 / Part 13 / Chapter 915 / Section 11155
12 §11155. Wild turkey hunting permits
Status: in_force

1. Permit required. Except as otherwise authorized pursuant to this Part, a person may not hunt or possess wild turkey unless that person has a valid permit issued under this section. A person who violates this subsection commits a Class E crime for which the court shall impose a fine of not less than $500, none of which may be suspended. The court also shall impose a fine of $500 for each wild turkey unlawfully possessed, none of which may be suspended. [PL 2003, c. 552, §2 (AMD); PL 2003, c. 552, §15 (AFF); PL 2003, c. 614, §9 (AFF); PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. C, §§2, 6 (AFF).]

1-A. Eligibility; hunting or archery license required. A person who possesses a valid hunting or archery hunting license to hunt may obtain a permit to hunt for wild turkey from the commissioner or an authorized agent. [PL 2015, c. 127, §6 (AFF); PL 2015, c. 281, Pt. E, §10 (AMD).]

1-B. Issuance; permit fee. [PL 2013, c. 387, §1 (AMD); MRSA T. 12 §11155, sub-§1-B (RP).]

1-C. Issuance; permit fee. Beginning January 1, 2014, the commissioner, through the commissioner's authorized agent, shall issue in wildlife management districts that are open by rule for wild turkey hunting a wild turkey hunting permit that allows an eligible person to take wild turkeys in accordance with section 11701 . The fee for a wild turkey hunting permit is $20 for residents and nonresidents. [PL 2017, c. 85, §2 (AMD).]

2. Issuance of wild turkey hunting permits. [PL 2005, c. 12, Pt. III, §12 (RP).]

3. Eligibility. [PL 2005, c. 12, Pt. III, §12 (RP).]

4. Application procedure and fee. [PL 2005, c. 12, Pt. III, §13 (RP).]

5. Wild turkey hunting permit fee. [PL 2005, c. 12, Pt. III, §14 (RP).]

6. Transfer of turkey permits. [PL 2005, c. 12, Pt. III, §14 (RP).]

7. Landowner; wild turkey permit. [PL 2005, c. 12, Pt. III, §14 (RP).]

8. Big game license required. [PL 2005, c. 12, Pt. III, §14 (RP).]
12 M.R.S. § 6039 — ME Code / Title 12 / Part 9 / Chapter 603 / Section 6039
12 §6039. Halibut Fund
Status: in_force

The Halibut Fund, referred to in this section as "the fund," is established within the department. [PL 2007, c. 615, §6 (NEW).]

1. Sources. The fund is capitalized by fees assessed under section 6506, subsections 4 and 5 and received through the sale of commercial halibut fishing licenses and tags. In addition to those revenues, the commissioner may accept and deposit into the fund money from any other source, public or private. All money in the fund must be used for the purposes set forth in this section. [PL 2021, c. 627, §1 (AMD).]

2. Purposes. The commissioner shall use the fund for halibut research and for the implementation of management measures needed for the halibut fishery. [PL 2007, c. 615, §6 (NEW).]

3. Interest and balances credited to fund. Any interest earned on the money in the fund must be credited to the fund. Unexpended balances in the fund at the end of the fiscal year do not lapse but must be carried forward to the next fiscal year and credited to the fund. [PL 2007, c. 615, §6 (NEW).]
12 M.R.S. § 13006 — ME Code / Title 12 / Part 13 / Chapter 933 / Section 13006
12 §13006. Impoundment of snowmobiles and ATVs
Status: in_force

When a law enforcement officer issues a summons for a violation under chapter 937 or 939 , the officer may impound the ATV or snowmobile operated by the person who receives the summons if, in the judgment of the officer, based on actual previous offenses by the operator or other considerations, the operator will continue to operate the ATV or snowmobile in violation of chapter 937 or 939 and that operation may be a hazard to the safety of persons or property. [PL 2003, c. 414, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 614, §9 (AFF).]

The operator or owner of a snowmobile or ATV impounded under this section may reclaim the snowmobile or ATV at any time subsequent to 24 hours after the issuance of the summons upon payment of the costs of impoundment to the enforcement agency impounding the snowmobile or ATV. [PL 2003, c. 414, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 614, §9 (AFF).]
12 M.R.S. § 6141 — ME Code / Title 12 / Part 9 / Chapter 606 / Section 6141
12 §6141. Lobster research program
Status: in_force

The commissioner shall establish a program of lobster research within the Bureau of Resource Management. The purpose of this program is to develop reliable scientific information for use in management decisions. [PL 1995, c. 665, Pt. M, §1 (AMD).]

1. Research. The lobster research program shall include investigation of lobster population dynamics, reproductive behavior and migration patterns. Specific attention shall be given to evaluating the impacts of the State's v-notch program on the reproductive potential of lobster stocks. [PL 1985, c. 677, §1 (NEW).]

2. Policy investigations. The commissioner shall develop in the lobster research program the capacity to systematically analyze the effects of conservation and management options. The analysis includes both the biological and economic components of the fishery. Options for policy analysis include, without limitation, changes in the lobster measures, seasons, limitations on effort and limitations on entry to the fishery. Analysis of these options shall be conducted cooperatively with the industry and the Lobster Advisory Council. [PL 1985, c. 677, §1 (NEW).]

3. Data collection. The commissioner shall continue the lobster fisheries data collection project undertaken by the department since 1967. Continuity of data collection shall be ensured. [PL 1985, c. 677, §1 (NEW).]

4. Cooperation. The commissioner shall cooperatively develop and coordinate the lobster research program with the University of Maine and the lobster industry. [PL 1985, c. 677, §1 (NEW).]

5. Report. [PL 2011, c. 598, §14 (RP).]

6. Funds. All federal and state funds obtained and used by the department for lobster research shall be utilized to achieve the objectives of this subchapter. [PL 1985, c. 677, §1 (NEW).]
12 M.R.S. § 1879 — ME Code / Title 12 / Part 2 / Chapter 220 / Section 1879
12 §1879. Initial plan for acquisition
Status: in_force

As soon as possible after availability of funds after December 29, 1966 the bureau shall proceed to acquire title in fee simple to land within the restricted zone. The bureau shall acquire within the restricted zone any other rights the bureau determines necessary or convenient to accomplish the purposes of this subchapter. Nothing contained in this section and no action under this section may limit any of the powers or authority of the bureau under this subchapter. [PL 1997, c. 678, §13 (NEW); PL 2011, c. 657, Pt. W, §7 (REV); PL 2013, c. 405, Pt. A, §24 (REV).]
12 M.R.S. § 6791 — ME Code / Title 12 / Part 9 / Chapter 623 / Section 6791
12 §6791. Marine Worm Fund
Status: in_force

1. Surcharge fees to be paid into fund. In addition to the applicable license fees for marine worm digger’s licenses, marine worm dealer’s licenses and supplemental marine worm dealer’s licenses, the commissioner shall assess the following surcharge fees, which must be deposited into the Marine Worm Fund: A. Forty-three dollars for a marine worm digger's license; [PL 2017, c. 284, Pt. EEEEE, §20 (AMD).] B. Fifty-five dollars for a marine worm dealer's license; and [PL 2017, c. 284, Pt. EEEEE, §20 (AMD).] C. Twenty-two dollars for a supplemental marine worm dealer's license. [PL 2017, c. 284, Pt. EEEEE, §20 (AMD).] The fund must be maintained by the commissioner. [PL 2017, c. 284, Pt. EEEEE, §20 (AMD).]

2. Purposes of fund. The commissioner may expend the money in the fund for research related to marine worms or the marine worm industry or for the restoration, development and conservation of the marine worm industry, including the development and maintenance of permanent or temporary facilities for those purposes. [PL 1977, c. 661, §5 (NEW).]

3. Nonlapsing. The Marine Worm Fund shall not lapse. [PL 1977, c. 661, §5 (NEW).]
12 M.R.S. § 12403 — ME Code / Title 12 / Part 13 / Chapter 921 / Section 12403
12 §12403. Damage to motor vehicles by wild animals or wild birds
Status: in_force

1. Claims. The State is not liable for any claims for damages to a motor vehicle by a wild animal or wild bird. [PL 2003, c. 614, §9 (AFF); PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §240 (AMD); PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §422 (AFF).]

2. Accidental collisions involving deer, moose, bear or wild turkey. This subsection applies to accidental collisions involving deer, moose, bear or wild turkey. A. The operator or owner having knowledge of a motor vehicle that has been involved in an accidental collision with a deer, moose, bear or wild turkey shall, by the quickest means, report the accident to a law enforcement officer. [PL 2003, c. 414, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 614, §9 (AFF).] B. The officer shall investigate an accident reported under paragraph A and, if the officer finds that the motor vehicle has sustained apparent damage as the result of the collision, shall give a certificate that entitles the person to the ownership of the carcass. The person may then take possession and immediately remove the entire carcass from the scene of the collision. [PL 2003, c. 414, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 614, §9 (AFF).] C. A person entitled to ownership of a deer, moose or bear carcass under paragraph B may not take possession of or remove any portion of the carcass without taking possession of or removing the entire carcass from the scene of the collision. [PL 2003, c. 414, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 614, §9 (AFF).] [PL 2003, c. 414, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 614, §9 (AFF).]

3. Penalties. The following penalties apply to violations of this section. A. A person who fails to report an accident in accordance with subsection 2, paragraph A or who removes a portion of a carcass in violation of subsection 2, paragraph C commits a civil violation for which a fine of not less than $100 nor more than $500 may be adjudged. [PL 2003, c. 614, §9 (AFF); PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §241 (AMD); PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §422 (AFF).] A-1. A person who fails to report an accident in accordance with subsection 2, paragraph A or removes a portion of a carcass in violation of subsection 2, paragraph C after having been adjudicated as having committed 3 or more civil violations under this Part within the previous 5-year period commits a Class E crime. [PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §241 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §422 (AFF).] B. [PL 2003, c. 552, §13 (RP); PL 2003, c. 552, §15 (AFF); PL 2003, c. 614, §9 (AFF); PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. C, §§2, 6 (AFF).] [PL 2003, c. 614, §9 (AFF); PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §241 (AMD); PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §422 (AFF).]
12 M.R.S. § 6042 — ME Code / Title 12 / Part 9 / Chapter 603 / Section 6042
12 §6042. Maine Working Waterfront Access Protection Program
Status: in_force

1. Program established; administration. The Maine Working Waterfront Access Protection Program, referred to in this section as "the program," is established to provide protection to strategically significant working waterfront property whose continued availability to commercial fisheries businesses is essential to the long-term future of the economic sector. The department shall administer the program either directly or by contract with a suitable organization. [PL 2011, c. 266, Pt. B, §6 (NEW).]

2. Review panel. The department shall organize a review panel to advise the commissioner in the operation of the program, including, but not limited to, evaluating applications and recommending to the department applicants for participation in the program. [PL 2011, c. 266, Pt. B, §6 (NEW).]

3. Selection criteria. The selection criteria with which to evaluate applications for protection of working waterfront property must include, but are not limited to: A. The economic significance of the property to the commercial fisheries industry in the immediate vicinity and in the State as a whole; [PL 2011, c. 266, Pt. B, §6 (NEW).] B. The availability of alternative working waterfront property in the same vicinity; [PL 2011, c. 266, Pt. B, §6 (NEW).] C. The degree of community support for the proposed protection; [PL 2011, c. 266, Pt. B, §6 (NEW).] D. The probability of conversion of the working waterfront property to uses incompatible with commercial fisheries businesses; and [PL 2011, c. 266, Pt. B, §6 (NEW).] E. The utility of the working waterfront property for commercial fisheries business uses in terms of its natural characteristics and developed infrastructure. [PL 2011, c. 266, Pt. B, §6 (NEW).] [PL 2011, c. 266, Pt. B, §6 (NEW).]

4. Grant agreements. The commissioner shall enter into grant agreements with state agencies and designated cooperating entities for the purpose of receiving grants from the Maine Working Waterfront Access Protection Fund under Title 5, section 6203‑B . [PL 2011, c. 266, Pt. B, §6 (NEW).]

5. Right of first refusal. The commissioner shall retain a permanent right of first refusal on any working waterfront property acquired in fee or protected by working waterfront covenant or other less-than-fee interests under Title 5, section 6203‑B . Exercise of the right of first refusal must be at a price determined by an independent professional appraiser based on the value of the working waterfront property to a commercial fisheries business at the time of the exercise of the right. The commissioner may assign this right to a commercial fisheries business or to a local government if, in the commissioner's judgment, such an assignment is consistent with the purposes of this section. [PL 2011, c. 266, Pt. B, §6 (NEW).]

6. Termination. If the commissioner determines that the public purposes of a grant made under subsection 4 are no longer served, the commissioner may, consistent with the provisions of Title 33, chapter 6‑A , terminate a grant agreement made under subsection 4 conditional on repayment of the original grant amount or an amount equal to that proportion of the then-current value of the protected property that represents the ratio of the original grant amount to the original fee interest value at the time of the grant. Any funds recovered under this subsection must be deposited into the Maine Working Waterfront Access Protection Fund under Title 5, section 6203‑B and may be expended only for the purposes of this section. [PL 2011, c. 266, Pt. B, §6 (NEW).]
12 M.R.S. § 11952 — ME Code / Title 12 / Part 13 / Chapter 915 / Section 11952
12 §11952. Unlawful harvest of wild rabbits or hares
Status: in_force

1. Prohibition. A person may not: A. Set or use any snare, trap or other device in the hunting of wild hares or rabbits, except that trappers may take wild hares or rabbits by box traps solely for the purpose of selling them to the commissioner as authorized by this Title; or [PL 2003, c. 414, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 614, §9 (AFF).] B. Hunt wild hares or rabbits in any manner except by the ordinary method of shooting with guns, archery equipment or by falconry. [PL 2023, c. 239, §33 (AMD).] [PL 2023, c. 239, §33 (AMD).]

2. Penalty. A person who violates subsection 1 commits a Class E crime. [PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §188 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §422 (AFF).]
12 M.R.S. § 12456 — ME Code / Title 12 / Part 13 / Chapter 923 / Section 12456
12 §12456. Open seasons; exceptions
Status: in_force

1. Open seasons. [PL 2009, c. 214, §4 (RP).]

1-A. Open seasons. The commissioner shall establish open seasons for fishing, except as provided in this section and section 6140‑A, subsection 4 . A. The open-water fishing season on boundary waters between Maine and New Brunswick is from April 1st to September 30th, inclusive. [PL 2015, c. 301, §33 (AMD).] [PL 2015, c. 301, §33 (AMD).]

2. Exceptions. Notwithstanding the open seasons established under subsection 1‑A : A. A person who holds a valid Maine fishing license may take smelts for recreational purposes only from the inland waters or portions of inland waters that are naturally free of ice with a dip net in the usual and ordinary way from noon to 2:00 a.m. in accordance with bag limits established by rule. Bag limits established by rule under this paragraph are for a 24-hour period, beginning at noon on a given day and ending at 11:59 a.m. the following day. The commissioner may prohibit the taking of smelts under this section or shorten the noon to 2:00 a.m. smelt fishing timeframe by rule for enforcement or conservation purposes. (2) A person may not take smelts with a dip net unless that dip net meets the requirements under section 10001, subsection 12‑A . Each day a person violates subparagraph (2) that person commits a Class E crime; and [PL 2013, c. 588, Pt. A, §17 (RPR).] B. [PL 2009, c. 214, §6 (RP).] C. [PL 2009, c. 214, §6 (RP).] D. [PL 2009, c. 214, §6 (RP).] E. In accordance with section 10104 , the commissioner may change the established opening date of an open-water recreational fishing season and may change the established closing date of a recreational ice-fishing season if, in the commissioner's opinion, the change is warranted due to weather conditions. [PL 2019, c. 9, §1 (AMD).] [PL 2019, c. 9, §1 (AMD).]

3. Rules. Rules adopted pursuant to this section are routine technical rules as defined in Title 5, chapter 375, subchapter 2‑A and may be adopted by emergency rulemaking pursuant to Title 5, section 8054 . [PL 2019, c. 9, §2 (AMD).]
12 M.R.S. § 6471 — ME Code / Title 12 / Part 9 / Chapter 619 / Section 6471
12 §6471. Monhegan Lobster Conservation Area
Status: in_force

1. Monhegan Lobster Conservation Area. The following territorial waters of the State in the vicinity of Monhegan Island are known as the Monhegan Lobster Conservation Area: Beginning at a point located at latitude 43`45.09' north and longitude 069`22.16' west that is 2 nautical miles southwesterly of the nearest shore of Monhegan Island; in a southwesterly direction to latitude 43`44.28' north and longitude 069`23.37' west at a point on the 3-nautical-mile line; then following the 3-nautical-mile line around the southern end of Monhegan Island to latitude 43`44.94' north and longitude 069`14.26' west; then in a somewhat northerly direction to latitude 43`45.8' north and longitude 069`15.3' west, to a point that is 2 nautical miles from the nearest shore of Monhegan Island; then following a line that is 2 nautical miles from the nearest shore of Monhegan Island and that continues around the northern end of Monhegan Island to the point of beginning. [PL 2001, c. 272, §6 (AMD).]
12 M.R.S. § 6803 — ME Code / Title 12 / Part 9 / Chapter 623 / Section 6803
12 §6803. Seaweed permit
Status: in_force

1. Permit required. Except as provided in subsections 1‑A and 2 , an individual may not harvest, possess, ship, transport or sell seaweed without a current: A. Resident seaweed permit; or [PL 2003, c. 452, Pt. F, §23 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 452, Pt. X, §2 (AFF).] B. Nonresident seaweed permit. [PL 2003, c. 452, Pt. F, §23 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 452, Pt. X, §2 (AFF).] [PL 2013, c. 282, §7 (AMD).]

1-A. Supplemental permit. An employee or immediate relation of a seaweed permit holder may harvest, possess or transport seaweed for commercial purposes with a current: A. Resident supplemental seaweed permit; or [PL 2003, c. 452, Pt. F, §24 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 452, Pt. X, §2 (AFF).] B. Nonresident supplemental seaweed permit. [PL 2003, c. 452, Pt. F, §24 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 452, Pt. X, §2 (AFF).] [PL 2003, c. 452, Pt. F, §24 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 452, Pt. X, §2 (AFF).]

2. Exceptions. The following are not required to have a permit: A. [PL 2013, c. 282, §8 (RP).] B. [PL 2013, c. 282, §8 (RP).] C. An individual who harvests, possesses, ships or transports no more than 50 pounds of seaweed a day for noncommercial purposes; [PL 2013, c. 282, §9 (AMD).] D. Charitable or municipal organizations that harvest, possess, ship or transport seaweed for noncommercial use by that organization; or [PL 1989, c. 523, §2 (NEW).] E. Anyone harvesting, possessing, shipping or transporting seaweed that has detached naturally and is dead. [PL 2023, c. 563, §6 (AMD).] [PL 2023, c. 563, §6 (AMD).]

3. Permit fees. The fees for seaweed permits are as follows: A. For a resident seaweed permit, $8; [PL 2017, c. 284, Pt. EEEEE, §21 (RPR).] B. For a nonresident seaweed permit, $30; [PL 2017, c. 284, Pt. EEEEE, §21 (RPR).] C. For a resident supplemental seaweed permit, $4; and [PL 2017, c. 284, Pt. EEEEE, §21 (RPR).] D. For a nonresident supplemental seaweed permit, $8. [PL 2017, c. 284, Pt. EEEEE, §21 (RPR).] [PL 2017, c. 284, Pt. EEEEE, §21 (RPR).]

4. Surcharge fees. In addition to the permit fees established in subsection 3 , the commissioner shall assess a surcharge on each permit issued under this section as follows, which must be deposited in the Seaweed Management Fund established in section 6806 : A. Fifty dollars for a resident seaweed permit; [PL 2009, c. 213, Pt. G, §30 (NEW).] B. Two hundred dollars for a nonresident seaweed permit; [PL 2009, c. 213, Pt. G, §30 (NEW).] C. Twenty-five dollars for a resident supplemental seaweed permit; and [PL 2009, c. 213, Pt. G, §30 (NEW).] D. Fifty dollars for a nonresident supplemental seaweed permit. [PL 2009, c. 213, Pt. G, §30 (NEW).] [PL 2017, c. 284, Pt. EEEEE, §22 (AMD).]

5. Violation. An individual who violates this section commits a civil violation for which a fine of not less than $100 nor more than $500 may be adjudged. [PL 2013, c. 282, §10 (AMD).]
12 M.R.S. § 6002 — ME Code / Title 12 / Part 9 / Chapter 601 / Section 6002
12 §6002. Rules of construction
Status: in_force

The following rules of construction apply to this Part, unless a different construction is plainly required by the context. [PL 1977, c. 661, §5 (NEW).]

1. Reference to marine organisms. Reference to the taking or possession of any marine organism includes the taking and possession of any part of it. [PL 1977, c. 661, §5 (NEW).]

2. Application to marine organisms. Marine resources' laws apply only to marine organisms, as distinguished from fresh water organisms, except where jurisdiction over migratory or other organisms is specifically given. [PL 1977, c. 661, §5 (NEW).]

3. General application. Marine resources' laws shall apply to all registered vessels and to all persons where their activities occur within the State, within the coastal waters of the State or where the product of those activities are brought into the State or its coastal waters. They shall also apply to all residents of the State wherever those activities are conducted, but not within the jurisdiction of another state. These laws do not apply to marine organisms passing through the State under the authority of the laws of the United States. This subsection does not limit section 6859 . [PL 1977, c. 661, §5 (NEW).]
12 M.R.S. § 4601 — ME Code / Title 12 / Part 4 / Chapter 419 / Section 4601
12 §4601. Purpose -- Article I
Status: in_force

The purpose of this compact is to promote the better utilization of the fisheries, marine, shell and anadromous, of the Atlantic seaboard by the development of a joint program for the promotion and protection of such fisheries, and by the prevention of the physical waste of the fisheries from any cause. It is not the purpose of this compact to authorize the states joining herein to limit the production of fish or fish products for the purpose of establishing or fixing the price thereof, or creating and perpetuating monopoly.
12 M.R.S. § 10325 — ME Code / Title 12 / Part 13 / Chapter 903 / Section 10325
12 §10325. Distribution criteria for grants
Status: in_force

The review and awarding of grant proposals by the grant committee under this subchapter are governed by this section. The criteria for consideration established in this section are not listed in order of priority. A grant applicant shall indicate in the application the category under which the grant committee should evaluate the proposal. [PL 2003, c. 695, Pt. B, §4 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 695, Pt. C, §1 (AFF).]

1. General ATV enforcement. For grants for general ATV enforcement, the grant committee: A. Shall consider the following information relevant to the grant proposal: (1) Documentation of ATV complaints; (2) ATV accident data; and (3) Documented general ATV enforcement problems; and [PL 2003, c. 695, Pt. B, §4 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 695, Pt. C, §1 (AFF).] B. May not award a grant unless matching funds are available in an amount that is no less than 25% of the grant amount. [PL 2003, c. 695, Pt. B, §4 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 695, Pt. C, §1 (AFF).] [PL 2003, c. 695, Pt. B, §4 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 695, Pt. C, §1 (AFF).]

2. Multijurisdictional high-problem area. For grants for multijurisdictional high-problem areas, the grant committee: A. Shall consider the following information relevant to the grant proposal: (1) Documentation of extensive use of an area by ATV operators, as indicated by a large number of registered ATVs or a large number of transient ATV operators in an area; (2) Documentation of unauthorized trails or extensive damage to private and public property; (3) Documentation of ATV use in prohibited areas as defined in state law; and (4) Documentation of multiple law enforcement agency involvement; and [PL 2003, c. 695, Pt. B, §4 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 695, Pt. C, §1 (AFF).] B. May award a grant whether or not matching funds are available. [PL 2003, c. 695, Pt. B, §4 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 695, Pt. C, §1 (AFF).] [PL 2003, c. 695, Pt. B, §4 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 695, Pt. C, §1 (AFF).]

3. Equipment and training. For grants for equipment and training for law enforcement officers, the grant committee: A. Shall consider the following information relevant to the grant proposal: (1) Documentation of ATV use on trails and private property; (2) Documentation of law enforcement staff needing equipment and training; and (3) Documentation of inability to obtain equipment from other sources, specific scheduled training events and any training sponsorship; and [PL 2003, c. 695, Pt. B, §4 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 695, Pt. C, §1 (AFF).] B. May not award a grant unless matching funds are available in an amount that is no less than 50% of the grant amount. [PL 2003, c. 695, Pt. B, §4 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 695, Pt. C, §1 (AFF).] [PL 2003, c. 695, Pt. B, §4 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 695, Pt. C, §1 (AFF).]
12 M.R.S. § 12756 — ME Code / Title 12 / Part 13 / Chapter 925 / Section 12756
12 §12756. Tampering with fishway
Status: in_force

1. Prohibition. A person without authority from the commissioner may not: A. Tamper with a fishway; [PL 2003, c. 414, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 614, §9 (AFF).] B. Close a fishway to fish migration; [PL 2003, c. 414, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 614, §9 (AFF).] C. Introduce foreign objects into a fishway; or [PL 2003, c. 414, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 614, §9 (AFF).] D. Otherwise damage or destroy a fishway. [PL 2003, c. 614, §9 (AFF); PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §300 (AMD); PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §422 (AFF).] [PL 2003, c. 614, §9 (AFF); PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §300 (AMD); PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §422 (AFF).]

2. Penalty. The following penalties apply to violations of this section. A. A person who violates this section commits a civil violation for which a fine of not less than $100 nor more than $500 may be adjudged. [PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §301 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §422 (AFF).] B. A person who violates this section after having been adjudicated as having committed 3 or more civil violations under this Part within the previous 5-year period commits a Class E crime. [PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §301 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §422 (AFF).] [PL 2003, c. 614, §9 (AFF); PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §301 (RPR); PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §422 (AFF).]
12 M.R.S. § 8611 — ME Code / Title 12 / Part 11 / Chapter 805 / Section 8611
12 §8611. Bureau of Forestry advisory programs
Status: in_force

The bureau shall undertake the following programs to provide information and educational services for forest management in this State. [PL 1989, c. 555, §8 (NEW); PL 2011, c. 657, Pt. W, §7 (REV); PL 2013, c. 405, Pt. A, §23 (REV).]

1. Forest management information. The bureau shall provide a forest management information clearinghouse service with a statewide toll-free number. The information and referral service must include, but is not limited to: A. Reporting, notification and management requirements pursuant to this chapter; [PL 1989, c. 555, §8 (NEW).] B. Timber and forest management options; [PL 1989, c. 555, §8 (NEW).] C. Soil conservation practices; [PL 1989, c. 555, §8 (NEW).] D. Insect and disease management practices; [PL 1989, c. 555, §8 (NEW).] E. Recreation management options; and [PL 1989, c. 555, §8 (NEW).] F. Wildlife management options. [PL 1989, c. 555, §8 (NEW).] Addresses, telephone numbers and electronic mail addresses collected by the bureau for the purpose of contacting forest landowners owning less than 1,000 acres statewide to provide them with forest management information are confidential and may be disclosed only in accordance with section 8005 . The bureau shall provide copies of forest management information sent to landowners to the joint standing committee of the Legislature having jurisdiction over agriculture, conservation and forestry matters. [PL 2005, c. 358, §2 (AMD); PL 2011, c. 657, Pt. W, §7 (REV); PL 2013, c. 405, Pt. A, §23 (REV).]

2. Natural resource educator. The director shall employ a natural resource educator to develop and coordinate natural resource education, workshops and training opportunities for school-age children, forest landowners, forest products harvesters and forest managers. A. [PL 2005, c. 133, §1 (RP).] B. [PL 2005, c. 133, §1 (RP).] [PL 2005, c. 133, §1 (AMD).]
12 M.R.S. § 206 — ME Code / Title 12 / Part 1 / Chapter 1 / Section 206
12 §206. Establishment of fund
Status: in_force

There is established a fund to encourage local soil and water conservation projects. The fund shall consist of all moneys appropriated to it and any moneys received as donations or from other sources. Moneys in this fund shall be disbursed periodically by the Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry on a competitive basis to one or more of the soil and water conservation districts for the funding of innovative soil and water conservation projects. Any balance in this fund, except moneys appropriated by the State, shall not lapse, but shall be carried forward from year to year to be expended for the purposes set forth in this subchapter. The Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry shall establish by rule criteria for project submission, evaluation and selection. These criteria shall, among other factors, address priority of need, boldness of approach, program feasibility and reproducibility and verification of results. The Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry may impose such conditions on the use of funds awarded as in its judgment are best suited to accomplish the purposes of this subchapter and insure that moneys awarded by the Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry are properly spent by the districts. Any final decision of the Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry to fund a project or to not fund a project shall constitute "final agency action" for purposes of Title 5, chapter 375, subchapter IV . The Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry shall submit an annual report on the status of the Challenge Grant Program to the joint standing committees of the Legislature having jurisdiction over agriculture and audit and program review, as well as the Finance Authority of Maine for public hearing and critique. [PL 1985, c. 481, Pt. A, §20 (AMD); PL 1995, c. 532, §17 (AMD); PL 2011, c. 657, Pt. W, §5 (REV).]
12 M.R.S. § 8321 — ME Code / Title 12 / Part 11 / Chapter 803 / Section 8321
12 §8321. Browntail moth control
Status: in_force

1. Program. The bureau shall administer a program to assist a government entity or nonprofit organization, upon application by that government entity or nonprofit organization to the bureau, with the control of browntail moths. This program must include the provision of resources, which may include resources for the mechanical, cultural or chemical control of the browntail moths; education campaigns; and other activities to mitigate browntail moth populations. [PL 2021, c. 727, §1 (NEW).]

2. Rules. The bureau shall adopt routine technical rules, as described in Title 5, chapter 375, subchapter 2‑A , to implement the provisions of this section. [PL 2021, c. 727, §1 (NEW).]
12 M.R.S. § 571 — ME Code / Title 12 / Part 2 / Chapter 202-A / Section 571
12 §571. Legislative findings and purpose
Status: in_force

The Legislature finds and declares that the intertidal lands of the State are impressed with a public trust and that the State is responsible for protection of the public's interest in this land. [PL 1985, c. 782 (NEW).]

The Legislature further finds and declares that this public trust is part of the common law of Maine and generally derived from the practices, conditions and needs in Maine, from English Common Law and from the Massachusetts Colonial Ordinance of 1641-47. The public trust is an evolving doctrine reflective of the customs, traditions, heritage and habits of the Maine people. In Maine, the doctrine has diverged from the laws of England and Massachusetts. The public trust encompasses those uses of intertidal land essential to the health and welfare of the Maine people, which uses include, but are not limited to, fishing, fowling, navigation, use as a footway between points along the shore and use for recreational purposes. These recreational uses are among the most important to the Maine people today who use intertidal land for relaxation from the pressures of modern society and for enjoyment of nature's beauty. [PL 1985, c. 782 (NEW).]

The Legislature further finds and declares that the protection of the public uses referred to in this chapter is of great public interest and grave concern to the State. [PL 1985, c. 782 (NEW).]
12 M.R.S. § 12607 — ME Code / Title 12 / Part 13 / Chapter 923 / Section 12607
12 §12607. Unlawfully introducing department-raised fish or fish spawn
Status: in_force

1. Prohibition. A person may not introduce fish or fish spawn raised by the department into a private pond, unless the department permits the introduction for fishing events held in conjunction with educational or special programs sanctioned by the department. [PL 2003, c. 414, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 614, §9 (AFF).]

2. Penalty. A person who violates this section commits a Class E crime. The court shall also impose a fine of $20 for each fish unlawfully possessed, none of which may be suspended. [PL 2003, c. 414, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 614, §9 (AFF).]
12 M.R.S. § 6702 — ME Code / Title 12 / Part 9 / Chapter 623 / Section 6702
12 §6702. Scallop dragging license
Status: in_force

1. License required. A person may not use a boat for dragging for scallops in the State's territorial waters unless that person holds a scallop dragging license issued by the commissioner and that boat is identified on the license. [PL 2011, c. 598, §31 (AMD).]

2. Licensed activity. A person licensed under this section may use the boat identified on the license to drag for scallops in the State's territorial waters and possess, ship, sell or transport shucked scallops taken under the license. The license also authorizes the captain and crew members aboard the boat identified on the license when engaged in dragging for scallops to undertake these activities, except that the captain and crew members may not fish for or take scallops if the license holder is not aboard that boat except as provided in subsection 2‑A . [PL 2011, c. 598, §31 (AMD).]

2-A. Exemptions. [PL 2017, c. 222, §1 (AMD); MRSA T. 12 §6702, sub-§2-A (RP).]

3. Eligibility. A scallop dragging license may be issued only to an individual who is a resident. [PL 2007, c. 607, Pt. A, §2 (AMD).]

4. Personal use exception. In any one day, a person licensed pursuant to section 6703 may take or possess not more than 1 1/2 bushels of shell scallops or one gallon of shucked scallops for personal use without a scallop dragging license under this section. [PL 2013, c. 492, §7 (AMD).]

5. Fee. The fee for a scallop dragging license is $143. [PL 2009, c. 213, Pt. G, §18 (AMD).]

6. Violation. A person who violates this section commits a civil violation for which the following penalties apply: A. For the first offense, a mandatory fine of $500 is imposed and all scallops on board may be seized; [PL 2009, c. 415, Pt. A, §7 (RPR).] B. For the 2nd offense, a mandatory fine of $750 is imposed and all scallops on board may be seized; and [PL 2009, c. 415, Pt. A, §7 (RPR).] C. For the 3rd and subsequent offenses, a mandatory fine of $750 is imposed and all scallops on board may be seized. This penalty is imposed in addition to the penalty imposed under section 6728‑B . [PL 2009, c. 415, Pt. A, §7 (RPR).] [PL 2009, c. 415, Pt. A, §7 (RPR).]

7. Apprentice license. The department may adopt rules to establish an apprentice program for entry into the scallop fishery that includes an apprentice license for a resident who is 18 years of age or older to engage in dragging for scallops under the supervision of a person licensed under this section. The fee for an apprentice scallop dragging license is $250. The commissioner shall deposit license fees collected in this subsection into the Scallop Research Fund under section 6729‑A . Rules adopted pursuant to this subsection are routine technical rules as defined in Title 5, chapter 375, subchapter 2‑A . [PL 2019, c. 107, §1 (NEW).]
12 M.R.S. § 5303 — ME Code / Title 12 / Part 8 / Chapter 433 / Section 5303
12 §5303. Outdoor education program provider requirements
Status: in_force

This section governs the requirements for outdoor education program providers. [PL 2025, c. 84, §1 (NEW).]

1. Program curricula. The program must: A. Use the outdoors and local ecosystems as the primary context to support hands-on learning, including lessons, meals and on-site living; [PL 2025, c. 84, §1 (NEW).] B. Engage students in safe and age-appropriate activities; [PL 2025, c. 84, §1 (NEW).] C. Focus on the State's outdoor heritage, science, engineering, technology, mathematics, health, environment and natural resources and sustainability by including a strong academic component that supports overall academic achievement and career trajectories and connects science with other subjects to support students' understanding of: (1) Conserving and developing marine and estuarine resources; (2) Conducting scientific research; (3) Promoting the State's coastal fishing industries; (4) Protecting and managing fish, game and other wildlife and their habitats, including restoring endangered species; (5) Promoting agriculture, conservation, forestry, land management and the well-being of domestic animals; (6) Safely enjoying the outdoors; and (7) Promoting public health; [PL 2025, c. 84, §1 (NEW).] D. Develop students' social and emotional skills, including teamwork, citizenship, self-awareness and community responsibility; [PL 2025, c. 84, §1 (NEW).] E. Support students' health and wellness by developing an appreciation for education and recreation in the outdoors; [PL 2025, c. 84, §1 (NEW).] F. Encourage hands-on engagement, observation, discovery, intellectual curiosity and problem-solving; and [PL 2025, c. 84, §1 (NEW).] G. Support students and teachers to combat the learning loss associated with the COVID-19 pandemic. [PL 2025, c. 84, §1 (NEW).] [PL 2025, c. 84, §1 (NEW).]

2. Program structure. An outdoor education program provider shall: A. Comply with the requirements of chapter 927 regarding licensed guides, youth camp trip leaders or educational trip leaders, as appropriate. [PL 2025, c. 84, §1 (NEW).] B. Provide outdoor programs for a 2-night, 3-day experience or day programs when overnight programs are impractical due to health or cultural considerations; [PL 2025, c. 84, §1 (NEW).] C. Pursue a sustainable funding model; [PL 2025, c. 84, §1 (NEW).] D. Collaborate with schools and teachers to provide access to the program; [PL 2025, c. 84, §1 (NEW).] E. Pledge to provide equitable access to the program to all students; [PL 2025, c. 84, §1 (NEW).] F. Train educators in educational strategies and field work; [PL 2025, c. 84, §1 (NEW).] G. Develop and participate in an evaluation program in accordance with section 5305 ; and [PL 2025, c. 84, §1 (NEW).] H. Promote high levels of accessibility for students with disabilities. [PL 2025, c. 84, §1 (NEW).] [PL 2025, c. 84, §1 (NEW).]