28-A M.R.S. § 1454 — ME Code / Title 28-A / Part 3 / Chapter 57 / Section 1454
28-A §1454. Cancellation
Status: in_force

1. Good cause. Notwithstanding the terms, provisions or conditions of any agreement, no certificate of approval holder may amend, cancel, terminate or refuse to continue or renew any agreement, or cause a wholesale licensee to resign from an agreement, unless good cause can be established or proven for amendment, termination, cancellation, nonrenewal, noncontinuation or causing a resignation. "Good cause" does not include the sale or purchase of a certificate of approval holder. "Good cause" includes, but is not limited to, the following: A. Revocation of the wholesale licensee's license to do business in the State; [PL 1987, c. 45, Pt. A, §4 (NEW).] B. Bankruptcy or insolvency of the wholesale licensee; [PL 1987, c. 45, Pt. A, §4 (NEW).] C. Assignment for the benefit of creditors or similar disposition of the assets of the wholesale licensee; and [PL 1987, c. 45, Pt. A, §4 (NEW).] D. Failure by the wholesale licensee to substantially comply, without reasonable excuse or justification, with any reasonable and material requirement imposed upon the wholesale licensee by the certificate of approval holder. [PL 2021, c. 658, §257 (AMD).] [PL 2021, c. 658, §257 (AMD).]
28-A M.R.S. § 707-B — ME Code / Title 28-A / Part 3 / Chapter 29 / Section 707-B
28-A §707-B. Advertising and sponsorship agreements at licensed venues
Status: in_force

1. Definitions. For the purposes of this section, unless the context otherwise indicates, the following terms have the following meanings. A. "Brand" means a product name of malt liquor, wine or spirit authorized for sale in the State by a certificate of approval holder or wholesaler. [PL 2025, c. 230, Pt. C, §4 (NEW).] B. "Venue" means the licensed premises of an auditorium, civic auditorium, outdoor stadium or performing arts center. [PL 2025, c. 230, Pt. C, §4 (NEW).] [PL 2025, c. 230, Pt. C, §4 (NEW).]

2. Advertising permitted. Notwithstanding any provision of this Title to the contrary, a wholesale licensee or certificate of approval holder, including on behalf of a brand the wholesale licensee or certificate of approval holder supplies or manufactures, may engage in advertising or sponsorship activities with a licensee described in subsection 3 , subject to the conditions and limitations set forth in this section. [PL 2025, c. 230, Pt. C, §4 (NEW).]

3. Eligible licensees. This section applies only to a venue licensee under section 1070 . [PL 2025, c. 230, Pt. C, §4 (NEW).]

4. Permitted activities. A wholesale licensee or certificate of approval holder, including on behalf of a brand the wholesale licensee or certificate of approval holder supplies or manufactures, may enter into a written agreement with an eligible licensee in accordance with subsection 5 for: A. The purchase of advertising space or time on or within the licensed premises, including, but not limited to, physical signage, digital media and naming rights to portions of the venue; [PL 2025, c. 230, Pt. C, §4 (NEW).] B. The sponsorship of events, event series or designated areas within the venue, including lounges, beverage stations and hospitality zones; and [PL 2025, c. 230, Pt. C, §4 (NEW).] C. The co-branding or cross-promotion of events in conjunction with the licensee, as long as the co-branding or cross-promotion does not result in direct or indirect control over the operations of the licensee. [PL 2025, c. 230, Pt. C, §4 (NEW).] [PL 2025, c. 230, Pt. C, §4 (NEW).]

5. Conditions of authorization. A written agreement under subsection 4 is permitted only if: A. The agreement is in writing and retained by the licensee and made available to the bureau upon request; [PL 2025, c. 230, Pt. C, §4 (NEW).] B. The written agreement is not conditioned upon the purchase, placement, promotion or exclusion of a particular brand or product by the licensee; [PL 2025, c. 230, Pt. C, §4 (NEW).] C. The wholesale licensee or certificate of approval holder, including on behalf of a brand the wholesale licensee or certificate of approval holder supplies or manufactures, does not exert, or attempt to exert, control over the retail operations, purchasing decisions or beverage menu of the licensee; [PL 2025, c. 230, Pt. C, §4 (NEW).] D. The written agreement complies with federal law; and [PL 2025, c. 230, Pt. C, §4 (NEW).] E. The written agreement does not result in the exclusion, in whole or in part, of another person's product. [PL 2025, c. 230, Pt. C, §4 (NEW).] [PL 2025, c. 230, Pt. C, §4 (NEW).]

6. Reporting. A licensee that enters into an agreement authorized by this section shall: A. Submit to the bureau, upon request, a list of all agreements entered into pursuant to this section; [PL 2025, c. 230, Pt. C, §4 (NEW).] B. Retain a copy of the written agreement for a period of not less than 3 years and make the agreement available to the bureau; [PL 2025, c. 230, Pt. C, §4 (NEW).] C. Annually post a notice indicating that advertising and sponsorship opportunities are generally available to a wholesale licensee or certificate of approval holder and the brands the wholesale licensee or certificate of approval holder supplies or manufactures; and [PL 2025, c. 230, Pt. C, §4 (NEW).] D. Provide to the bureau, upon license renewal, a list of the licensee's sponsors. [PL 2025, c. 230, Pt. C, §4 (NEW).] [PL 2025, c. 230, Pt. C, §4 (NEW).]
28-B M.R.S. § 1503 — ME Code / Title 28-B / Chapter 3 / Section 1503
28-B §1503. Home extraction of cannabis concentrate by use of inherently hazardous substance prohibited
Status: in_force

Except as authorized under section 502, subsection 7 or pursuant to the Maine Medical Use of Cannabis Act, a person may not manufacture cannabis concentrate using an inherently hazardous substance. The owner of a property or a parcel or tract of land may not intentionally or knowingly allow another person to manufacture cannabis concentrate using an inherently hazardous substance within or on that property or land. [PL 2017, c. 409, Pt. A, §6 (NEW); PL 2021, c. 669, §5 (REV).]
28-B M.R.S. § 1101 — ME Code / Title 28-B / Chapter 1 / Section 1101
28-B §1101. Adult Use Cannabis Public Health and Safety and Municipal Opt-in Fund
Status: in_force

The Adult Use Cannabis Public Health and Safety and Municipal Opt-in Fund, referred to in this section as "the fund," is established as a dedicated, nonlapsing fund within the office for the purposes specified in this section. [PL 2023, c. 679, Pt. B, §138 (AMD).]

1. Sources of fund. The State Controller shall credit to the fund: A. Money received from the excise tax imposed on the sale of adult use cannabis pursuant to Title 36, chapter 723 in the amount required under Title 36, section 4925 ; [PL 2019, c. 231, Pt. B, §6 (AMD); PL 2021, c. 669, §5 (REV).] B. Money received from the sales tax imposed on the sale of adult use cannabis and adult use cannabis products by a cannabis store licensee to a consumer pursuant to Title 36, section 1811 in the amount required under Title 36, section 1818 ; [PL 2017, c. 409, Pt. A, §6 (NEW); PL 2021, c. 669, §5 (REV).] C. All money from any other source, whether public or private, designated for deposit into or credited to the fund; and [PL 2017, c. 409, Pt. A, §6 (NEW).] D. Interest earned or other investment income on balances in the fund. [PL 2017, c. 409, Pt. A, §6 (NEW).] [PL 2019, c. 231, Pt. B, §6 (AMD); PL 2021, c. 669, §5 (REV).]

2. Uses of fund. Money credited to the fund pursuant to subsection 1 may be used by the office as provided in this subsection. A. Money credited to the fund may be expended by the office to fund public health and safety awareness and education programs, initiatives, campaigns and activities relating to the sale and use of adult use cannabis and adult use cannabis products conducted in accordance with section 108 by the office, another state agency or department or any other public or private entity. The office may give priority consideration to funding public health and safety awareness and education programs, initiatives and campaigns designed specifically for minors. [PL 2023, c. 679, Pt. B, §139 (AMD).] B. Money credited to the fund may be expended by the office to fund enhanced law enforcement training programs relating to the sale and use of adult use cannabis and adult use cannabis products for local, county and state law enforcement officers conducted in accordance with section 109 by the office, the Maine Criminal Justice Academy, another state agency or department or any other public or private entity. [PL 2023, c. 679, Pt. B, §139 (AMD).] C. Money credited to the fund may be expended by the office to provide reimbursement to a municipality for qualifying expenses incurred as a result of the municipality's opting to permit the operation of some or all adult use cannabis establishments within the municipality. For the purposes of this paragraph, "qualifying expenses" means legal fees and costs associated with the drafting and adoption of a warrant article or the adoption or amendment of an ordinance, including the conduct of a town meeting or election, by a municipality that opted to permit the operation of some or all cannabis establishments within the municipality. Each municipality may receive funds, not to exceed $20,000, only once for the reimbursement of qualifying expenses in accordance with this paragraph. Nothing in this paragraph may be construed to require the office to reimburse qualifying expenses incurred by a municipality if the office determines there are insufficient funds available to provide reimbursement. Under no circumstances may a municipality submit an initial application for the reimbursement of qualifying expenses more than 3 years after the municipality adopts a warrant article or adopts or amends an ordinance to allow for the operation of some or all adult use cannabis establishments within the municipality. The office may adopt rules to implement and administer the reimbursement of qualifying expenses to municipalities. Rules adopted pursuant to this paragraph are routine technical rules as defined in Title 5, chapter 375, subchapter 2‑A . The office may not reimburse qualifying expenses under this paragraph accrued after July 1, 2027. [PL 2023, c. 679, Pt. B, §139 (AMD).] C-1. Money credited to the fund must be expended to provide a transfer of $2,000,000 by July 31st annually to the Recovery Community Centers Fund established pursuant to Title 5, section 20012 for operational support for recovery community centers and to provide funding for capacity building for recently established or new recovery community centers. [PL 2023, c. 658, §2 (NEW).] Revisor's Note: (Paragraph C-1 as enacted by PL 2023, c. 683, Pt. A, §3 is REALLOCATED TO TITLE 28-B, SECTION 1101, SUBSECTION 2, PARAGRAPH C-2) C-2. (REALLOCATED FROM T. 28-B, §1101, sub-§2, ¶C-1) Money credited to the fund may be expended by the department or transferred by the department to other state agencies to fund the social equity program established in Title 5, chapter 395. [PL 2023, c. 683, Pt. A, §3 (NEW); RR 2023, c. 2, Pt. A, §44 (RAL).] D. Any funds remaining in the fund after expenditures made in accordance with paragraphs A to C-2 must be used to fund: (1) The cost of the tax deductions for business expenses related to carrying on a business as a cannabis establishment or a testing facility provided pursuant to Title 36, section 5122, subsection 2, paragraph PP and Title 36, section 5200‑A, subsection 2, paragraph BB . By June 1st annually, the State Tax Assessor shall determine the cost of those deductions during the prior calendar year and report that amount to the State Controller, who shall transfer that amount from the remaining funds in the fund to the General Fund; and (2) The cost of the position in the Bureau of Revenue Services within the department to administer the tax deductions provided pursuant to Title 36, section 5122, subsection 2, paragraph PP and Title 36, section 5200‑A, subsection 2, paragraph BB . By June 1st annually, the commissioner shall determine the cost of the position in the bureau to administer those deductions during the prior calendar year and report that amount to the State Controller, who shall transfer that amount from the remaining funds in the fund to the General Fund. [RR 2023, c. 2, Pt. A, §45 (COR).] [RR 2023, c. 2, Pt. A, §§44, 45 (COR).]

3. Application of fund to office expenses prohibited. Money in the fund may not be applied to any expenses incurred by the office in implementing, administering or enforcing this chapter. [PL 2023, c. 679, Pt. B, §140 (AMD).]
28-A M.R.S. § 1456 — ME Code / Title 28-A / Part 3 / Chapter 57 / Section 1456
28-A §1456. Assignment, transfer or sale of business
Status: in_force

No certificate of approval holder may unreasonably withhold consent to any assignment, transfer or sale of the wholesale licensee's business whenever the wholesale licensee to be substituted meets the material and reasonable qualifications and standards required of its wholesale licensees. [PL 1987, c. 45, Pt. A, §4 (NEW).]
28-A M.R.S. § 7 — ME Code / Title 28-A / Part 1 / Chapter 1 / Section 7
28-A §7. Action not maintainable upon promise to pay for liquor
Status: in_force

1. No action maintainable for promises to pay for liquor. Except as provided in paragraph A , no action may be maintained upon any claim or demand, promissory note or other security contracted or given for liquor sold in violation of any of the provisions of this Title, or for any liquor purchased out of the State with intent to sell all or any part in violation of this Title. A. This section does not apply to negotiable paper in the hands of a holder for a valuable consideration and without notice of the illegality of the contract. [PL 1987, c. 45, Pt. A, §4 (NEW).] [PL 1987, c. 45, Pt. A, §4 (NEW).]
28-A M.R.S. § 1358 — ME Code / Title 28-A / Part 3 / Chapter 51 / Section 1358
28-A §1358. Home distillery establishments
Status: in_force

1. Definitions. For purposes of this section, the following terms have the following meanings. A. "Home distillery" means a distillery located in a dwelling or on property connected with a dwelling, including, but not limited to, a shed, yard or enclosure. For purposes of this paragraph, "dwelling" means a residential structure, including, but not limited to, a house, individual condominium unit, mobile home or trailer, if it is used as a residence. [PL 2025, c. 313, §1 (NEW).] B. "Mash capacity" means the volume of a mash tun, which is the vessel used to mix crushed grains and water to begin the brewing process. [PL 2025, c. 313, §1 (NEW).] C. "Proof gallon" means one liquid gallon of spirits that is 50% alcohol at 60 degrees Fahrenheit. [PL 2025, c. 313, §1 (NEW).] [PL 2025, c. 313, §1 (NEW).]

2. Personal use allowed. Notwithstanding chapter 83 , the owner of a home distillery may produce distilled spirits solely for personal use, including, but not limited to, personal consumption or serving the product to the owner's family members and guests to be consumed on the premises where the home distillery is located. [PL 2025, c. 313, §1 (NEW).]

3. Prohibitions. The owner of a home distillery may not: A. Have on the premises of the home distillery stills or distilling apparatuses that have a mash capacity of more than 15.5 gallons; [PL 2025, c. 313, §1 (NEW).] B. Produce more than 24 proof gallons of distilled spirits per person 21 years of age or older residing on the premises where the home distillery is located in a calendar year; [PL 2025, c. 313, §1 (NEW).] C. Produce more than 48 proof gallons in a calendar year; or [PL 2025, c. 313, §1 (NEW).] D. Sell or offer for sale any spirits produced in the home distillery. [PL 2025, c. 313, §1 (NEW).] [PL 2025, c. 313, §1 (NEW).]

4. Violation. Violation of this section is a Class E crime. [PL 2025, c. 313, §1 (NEW).]

Revisor's Note: §1358. Unlicensed manufacture (As enacted by PL 2025, c. 315, §2 is REALLOCATED TO TITLE 28-A, SECTION 1359)
28-A M.R.S. § 1006 — ME Code / Title 28-A / Part 3 / Chapter 41 / Section 1006
28-A §1006. Class V licenses
Status: in_force

1. Types of liquor which may be sold. A Class V licensee may sell spirits, wine and malt liquor to be consumed on the premises where sold. [PL 1987, c. 45, Pt. A, §4 (NEW).]

2. Fees. The fees for a Class V license are as follows: A. Full-time (one year)...............$495. [PL 1993, c. 410, Pt. ZZ, §11 (AMD).] B. [PL 1993, c. 410, Pt. ZZ, §11 (RP).] C. [PL 1987, c. 342, §66 (RP).] D. [PL 1993, c. 410, Pt. ZZ, §11 (RP).] [PL 1993, c. 410, Pt. ZZ, §11 (AMD).]

3. Eligible premises. The following premises are eligible to obtain a Class V license: A. Clubs without catering privileges; and [PL 1993, c. 730, §38 (AMD).] B. Bed and breakfasts. [PL 1993, c. 730, §39 (NEW).] [PL 1993, c. 730, §§38,39 (AMD).]
28-A M.R.S. § 2517 — ME Code / Title 28-A / Part 8 / Chapter 100 / Section 2517
28-A §2517. Insurance records
Status: in_force

1. Superintendent shall keep records. The Superintendent of Insurance shall collect and maintain records on the following statistics concerning liquor liability insurance in this State: A. The number and names of companies writing liquor liability insurance, either as a separate line or in a large policy; [PL 1987, c. 45, Pt. A, §4 (NEW).] B. The number and dollar amount of premiums collected for liquor liability insurance policies; and [PL 1987, c. 45, Pt. A, §4 (NEW).] C. The number and dollar amount of claims incurred under liquor liability insurance. [PL 1987, c. 45, Pt. A, §4 (NEW).] [PL 1987, c. 45, Pt. A, §4 (NEW).]

2. Superintendent shall make records available. The Superintendent of Insurance shall make available to the Legislature the information collected and maintained under subsection 1 . [PL 1987, c. 45, Pt. A, §4 (NEW).]
28-B M.R.S. § 512 — ME Code / Title 28-B / Chapter 1 / Section 512
28-B §512. Inspection of licensed premises; testing and sampling for product quality control
Status: in_force

1. Inspections. A licensee shall submit to an inspection of its licensed premises, including, but not limited to, any places of storage and any locked areas, upon demand and without notice during the licensee's business hours by the office, a criminal justice agency or an official authorized by the municipality in which the licensed premises are located. For the purposes of this subsection, "municipality" has the same meaning as in section 212 . [PL 2023, c. 679, Pt. B, §110 (AMD).]

2. Testing and sampling for product quality control. A licensee shall submit to the sampling and testing of adult use cannabis or adult use cannabis products within its possession, upon demand and without notice during all business hours by the office for the purposes of product quality control. The office may not collect more than a random, representative sample necessary to test the batch of cannabis or cannabis products cultivated, manufactured or sold to consumers by a licensee. The office may not sample more than 3 samples of adult use cannabis or adult use cannabis products per 60-day period unless the cannabis or cannabis products sampled continue to fail tests or such samples are taken as part of an investigation by the office in response to a complaint. The office shall adopt rules governing the sampling and testing of adult use cannabis and adult use cannabis products under this subsection, consistent with the requirements of subchapter 6 . Rules adopted pursuant to this subsection are routine technical rules as defined in Title 5, chapter 375, subchapter 2‑A . [PL 2023, c. 679, Pt. B, §110 (AMD).]
28-B M.R.S. § 404 — ME Code / Title 28-B / Chapter 1 / Section 404
28-B §404. Authority of Maine Land Use Planning Commission
Status: in_force

This chapter or rules adopted pursuant to this chapter may not be construed to limit the authority of the Maine Land Use Planning Commission to regulate land use planning and development activities within the unorganized and deorganized areas of the State pursuant to Title 12, chapter 206‑A . [PL 2017, c. 409, Pt. A, §6 (NEW).]
28-B M.R.S. § 302 — ME Code / Title 28-B / Chapter 1 / Section 302
28-B §302. Additional information required for application for cultivation facility license
Status: in_force

In addition to the information required to be submitted to the office pursuant to subchapter 2 and the rules relating to licensure of a cultivation facility adopted pursuant to this chapter, an applicant for a cultivation facility license shall submit to the office the following information. [PL 2023, c. 679, Pt. B, §49 (AMD).]

1. Operating plan. The applicant shall submit an operating plan demonstrating the proposed size and layout of the cultivation facility; plans for wastewater and waste disposal for the cultivation facility; plans for providing electricity, water and other utilities necessary for the normal operation of the cultivation facility; plans for securing the proposed facility and otherwise meeting applicable security requirements under this chapter and the rules adopted pursuant to this chapter; and plans for compliance with applicable building code and federal and state environmental requirements. [PL 2017, c. 409, Pt. A, §6 (NEW).]

2. Cultivation plan. The applicant shall submit a cultivation plan demonstrating the proposed size and layout of the cultivation areas at the cultivation facility and designating: A. The total amount of plant canopy or, in the case of a plant-count-based tier 1 cultivation facility license, the number of mature cannabis plants proposed under the license; [PL 2017, c. 409, Pt. A, §6 (NEW); PL 2021, c. 669, §5 (REV).] B. The total percentage or square footage of plant canopy designated under paragraph A , or, in the case of a plant-count-based tier 1 cultivation facility license, the areas within the cultivation facility within which the applicant proposes to cultivate mother plants, seedlings and immature cannabis plants. If the applicant does not intend to cultivate mother plants, seedlings or immature cannabis plants at any time within any portion of the plant canopy designated under paragraph A , the applicant shall state that intent on the cultivation plan and shall include in the plan information regarding the approximate square footage of the cultivation areas outside of the plant canopy but within the proposed licensed premises of the cultivation facility in which the applicant intends to cultivate mother plants, seedlings and immature cannabis plants; and [PL 2017, c. 409, Pt. A, §6 (NEW); PL 2021, c. 669, §5 (REV).] C. The total percentage or square footage of plant canopy designated under paragraph A , or, in the case of a plant-count-based tier 1 cultivation facility license, the areas within the cultivation facility within which the applicant proposes to cultivate mature cannabis plants. An applicant for a nursery cultivation facility license shall meet the requirements of this paragraph by designating on the cultivation plan the areas within the cultivation facility within which the applicant proposes to cultivate mature cannabis plants, demonstrating the physical separation of such areas from the areas in which immature cannabis plants and seedlings are to be cultivated in accordance with section 501, subsection 3, paragraph B . [PL 2019, c. 501, §13 (AMD); PL 2021, c. 669, §5 (REV).] [PL 2019, c. 501, §13 (AMD); PL 2021, c. 669, §5 (REV).]
28-A M.R.S. § 1381 — ME Code / Title 28-A / Part 3 / Chapter 51 / Section 1381
28-A §1381. Certificate of approval; spirits
Status: in_force

1. Definition. For purposes of this section, "out-of-state spirits supplier" means an out-of-state spirits manufacturer or a person that engages in the out-of-state purchase of spirits for resale to the bureau. [PL 2019, c. 615, §4 (NEW); PL 2019, c. 615, §7 (AFF).]

2. Certificate of approval required. An out-of-state spirits supplier may not transport spirits into the State or cause spirits to be transported into the State unless the out-of-state spirits supplier has obtained a certificate of approval from the bureau in accordance with this section. [PL 2019, c. 615, §4 (NEW); PL 2019, c. 615, §7 (AFF).]

3. Fee for certificate of approval. The fee for a certificate of approval under this section is $1,000 per year, except that the fee for an out-of-state spirits supplier that transports or causes to be transported a total of 450 liters of spirits or less per year is $100. Payment of the fee must accompany the application for the certificate of approval. [PL 2019, c. 615, §4 (NEW); PL 2019, c. 615, §7 (AFF).]

4. Conditions on certificate of approval. A certificate of approval under this section is subject to the laws of the State, including, but not limited to, all applicable requirements of Title 38, section 1615 , and the rules of the bureau. [RR 2021, c. 2, Pt. A, §101 (COR).]

5. Shipment restrictions. Except as provided in sections 2073‑A and 2073‑E , a person that has been issued a certificate of approval under this section may transport spirits into the State or cause spirits to be transported into the State only if the spirits are delivered to a warehouse designated by the commission under section 81 . [PL 2021, c. 658, §233 (AMD).]

6. Phased-in fee. [PL 2019, c. 615, §4 (NEW); PL 2019, c. 615, §7 (AFF); MRSA T. 28-A §1381, sub-§6 (RP).]
28-A M.R.S. § 654 — ME Code / Title 28-A / Part 3 / Chapter 27 / Section 654
28-A §654. Additional considerations for licensure
Status: in_force

1. Character; location; operation of business. In issuing or renewing licenses, the bureau, the municipal officers or the county commissioners, as the case may be, shall give consideration to: A. The character of any applicant; [PL 1987, c. 45, Pt. A, §4 (NEW).] B. The location of the place of business; [PL 1987, c. 45, Pt. A, §4 (NEW).] C. The manner in which the business has been operated; and [PL 1997, c. 373, §63 (AMD).] D. Whether the operation has endangered the safety of persons in or on areas surrounding the place of business. [PL 1987, c. 45, Pt. A, §4 (NEW).] [PL 1997, c. 373, §63 (AMD).]

2. Qualifications of corporations. The bureau, the municipal officers or the county commissioners, as the case may be, may refuse to issue licenses to corporations when any of its officers, directors or stockholders do not possess the qualifications required of unincorporated persons under this section. [PL 1997, c. 373, §63 (AMD).]

3. Areas primarily for minors. Without limitation of its other powers, the bureau may not approve as a proper place for the exercise of the license privilege amusement areas primarily for minors, beaches or any other area designed primarily for use by minors. [PL 1997, c. 373, §63 (AMD).]
28-B M.R.S. § 304 — ME Code / Title 28-B / Chapter 1 / Section 304
28-B §304. Increase in maximum licensed plant canopy upon renewal of tier 4 license
Status: in_force

In accordance with the requirements of this section, not more than once every 2 years, a licensee seeking renewal of a tier 4 cultivation facility license may apply to increase by 7,000 square feet the maximum area of plant canopy authorized under its current tier 4 cultivation facility license. [PL 2017, c. 409, Pt. A, §6 (NEW).]

1. Approval criteria. The office may approve the requested increase if the licensee otherwise meets all applicable requirements for continued licensure under this chapter and the rules adopted pursuant to this chapter and the licensee has demonstrated to the office's satisfaction that the licensee has over the past 2-year period of licensure sold at least 85% of the adult use cannabis cultivated by the licensee at its cultivation facility. [PL 2023, c. 679, Pt. B, §51 (AMD).]

2. Consideration of renewal of current licensed amount of plant canopy if approval criteria not met. If the office determines that the licensee has failed to satisfy the requirements of this section for the requested increase, the office shall consider renewing the license at the current tier and currently authorized maximum area of plant canopy. [PL 2023, c. 679, Pt. B, §52 (AMD).]
28-A M.R.S. § 2054 — ME Code / Title 28-A / Part 6 / Chapter 81 / Section 2054
28-A §2054. Execution of suspension stayed during appeal
Status: in_force

If any person adjudicated to be in violation of section 2052 appeals from the judgment of the trial court, the execution of any suspension imposed on that person's license, right to obtain a license, and right to operate a motor vehicle in the State is stayed pending appeal and begins when and if the judgment is upheld or the appeal is withdrawn. [PL 1997, c. 373, §150 (AMD).]
28-A M.R.S. § 2074-A — ME Code / Title 28-A / Part 6 / Chapter 83 / Section 2074-A
28-A §2074-A. Illegal storage, purchase or sale of spirits by an on-premises licensee; penalty
Status: in_force

A person licensed for the sale of spirits for on-premises consumption that violates section 606, subsection 1‑A or violates state rules or federal regulations governing the storage, purchase and sale of spirits, including but not limited to the prohibition against reusing or refilling spirits bottles and the disposition of empty spirits bottles, is subject to suspension or revocation of the license under chapter 33 as follows. [PL 2021, c. 658, §273 (AMD).]

1. Suspension of privilege to sell spirits. A person who commits a violation described by this section is subject to a 90-day suspension for a first offense, a 180-day suspension for a 2nd offense and a one-year suspension for a 3rd or subsequent offense. [PL 2011, c. 693, §4 (NEW).]

2. Revocation. The bureau may recommend revocation of a license to sell spirits for consumption on the premises if a licensee commits more than 3 violations as described by this section. [PL 2011, c. 693, §4 (NEW).]
28-A M.R.S. § 801 — ME Code / Title 28-A / Part 3 / Chapter 33 / Section 801
28-A §801. Jurisdiction of District Court
Status: in_force

1. Jurisdiction. The District Court, as designated in Title 5, chapter 375 , shall conduct hearings on all matters concerning violations by licensees and their agents or employees of any federal or state law or regulation relating to liquor or violations of any rule adopted by the bureau. Notwithstanding Title 5, chapter 375, subchapter 6 , the District Court has exclusive jurisdiction over all violations of this Title by licensees and their agents or employees when no criminal penalty is provided. [PL 2021, c. 658, §115 (AMD).]

2. Powers. The District Court may suspend or revoke licenses and certificates of approval of licensees and levy fines or civil forfeitures against licensees and their agents or employees. [PL 2021, c. 658, §115 (AMD).]
28-B M.R.S. § 201 — ME Code / Title 28-B / Chapter 1 / Section 201
28-B §201. License process; license types
Status: in_force

The office, upon receipt of an application in the prescribed form that meets all applicable requirements for licensure under this chapter and the rules adopted pursuant to this chapter, shall issue to the applicant a conditional license to operate one or more of the following types of cannabis establishments or shall deny the application in accordance with section 206 : [PL 2023, c. 679, Pt. B, §21 (AMD).]

1. Cultivation facility. Consistent with the requirements and restrictions of section 205, subsection 2, paragraph A and subchapter 3 , a cultivation facility license; [PL 2017, c. 409, Pt. A, §6 (NEW).]

2. Testing facility. Consistent with the requirements and restrictions of section 205, subsection 2, paragraph B and section 503, subsection 2 , a testing facility license; [PL 2017, c. 409, Pt. A, §6 (NEW).]

3. Products manufacturing facility. A products manufacturing facility license; [PL 2019, c. 676, §5 (AMD).]

4. Cannabis store. A cannabis store license; or [PL 2025, c. 390, Pt. A, §50 (AMD).]

5. Sample collector. Consistent with the requirements and restrictions of section 205, subsection 2, paragraph B and section 503‑A , a sample collector license. [PL 2019, c. 676, §5 (NEW).]

Except as provided in section 205 , the office may not impose any limitation on the number of each type of license that it issues to a qualified individual applicant or on the total number of each type of license that it issues to qualified applicants pursuant to this chapter. [PL 2023, c. 679, Pt. B, §21 (AMD).]
28-B M.R.S. § 604 — ME Code / Title 28-B / Chapter 1 / Section 604
28-B §604. Sample collection for testing
Status: in_force

Except as provided in section 604‑A , if a test to be performed by a testing facility is a mandatory test under section 602 , an employee or designee of the testing facility or a sample collector must collect the sample required for the test. If a test to be performed by a testing facility is not a mandatory test, the owner of the cannabis or cannabis product, or a designee of the owner, may collect the sample required for the test. [PL 2019, c. 676, §14 (AMD); PL 2021, c. 669, §5 (REV).]
28-A M.R.S. § 81 — ME Code / Title 28-A / Part 1 / Chapter 3-A / Section 81
28-A §81. State Liquor and Lottery Commission
Status: in_force

1. Oversight of Bureau of Alcoholic Beverages and Lottery Operations. The commission shall monitor the operation of the bureau in its administration of the laws relating to the sale of spirits. [PL 2013, c. 269, Pt. C, §1 (AMD); PL 2013, c. 269, Pt. C, §13 (AFF); PL 2013, c. 368, Pt. V, §61 (REV).]

2. Advice. The commission shall advise the director of the bureau regarding the administration of the functions of the bureau. The commission may advise the Governor and the Legislature regarding issues relating to the operation of the bureau and the administration of the laws relating to the sale of spirits. [PL 2013, c. 269, Pt. C, §2 (AMD); PL 2013, c. 269, Pt. C, §13 (AFF); PL 2013, c. 368, Pt. V, §61 (REV).]

3. Listing of items. The commission shall determine which spirits items may be listed for sale in the State. Products listed must be made available by the spirits supplier at a warehouse designated by the commission. [PL 2021, c. 658, §51 (AMD).]

4. Notice to delist or stop purchases. Before any spirits item listed by the commission is discontinued or delisted or before the commission issues any order to stop purchases of any listed spirits item, the commission shall give the vendor of the item reasonable written notice of its intention to delist or stop purchase of the item. [PL 2021, c. 658, §52 (AMD).]

5. Retail price; reconsideration. The commission shall, in accordance with section 1651 and after considering any recommendation submitted by the bureau, establish the retail price of spirits sold in the State. The director of the bureau shall notify the affected spirits supplier of the commission's decision establishing the retail price and of the affected spirits supplier's opportunity to request reconsideration of the retail price determination at an adjudicatory hearing conducted by the commission in accordance with Title 5, chapter 375, subchapter 4 . The decision of the commission issued after an adjudicatory hearing requested under this subsection is final agency action for the purposes of judicial review under Title 5, chapter 375, subchapter 7 . The commission shall adopt rules establishing the procedures for the conduct of adjudicatory hearings under this subsection, including but not limited to the deadline for an affected spirits supplier to request a hearing. Rules adopted under this subsection are routine technical rules as defined in Title 5, chapter 375, subchapter 2‑A . For purposes of this subsection, "affected spirits supplier" means a spirits supplier that supplies a spirits product that is the subject of a retail price determination of the State. [PL 2021, c. 622, §1 (NEW).]
28-B M.R.S. § 507 — ME Code / Title 28-B / Chapter 1 / Section 507
28-B §507. Entry into cannabis establishment by minors
Status: in_force

A minor may not enter the licensed premises of a cannabis store unless accompanied by the minor's parent, legal guardian or custodian, as defined in Title 22, section 4002, subsection 5. An individual identification card holder who is the parent, legal guardian or custodian of a minor may bring that minor into the licensed premises of a cultivation facility, products manufacturing facility or cannabis testing facility in an emergency. [PL 2023, c. 679, Pt. B, §105 (NEW).]
28-A M.R.S. § 1206 — ME Code / Title 28-A / Part 3 / Chapter 45 / Section 1206
28-A §1206. Consumption prohibited on off-premises retail licensee's premises
Status: in_force

Except as provided in sections 460 , 1205 , 1207 , 1208 , 1402‑A and 1504 , an off-premises retail licensee may not permit a person to consume liquor on the off-premises retail licensee's premises. [PL 2021, c. 658, §219 (AMD).]
28-B M.R.S. § 506 — ME Code / Title 28-B / Chapter 1 / Section 506
28-B §506. Employment of minors
Status: in_force

A licensee may not employ minors. [PL 2023, c. 679, Pt. B, §104 (AMD).]
28-B M.R.S. § 111 — ME Code / Title 28-B / Chapter 1 / Section 111
28-B §111. Cultivation, care or sale of cannabis by state or local agency prohibited
Status: in_force

A state, county or local agency or department, including, but not limited to, the office and a criminal justice agency, may not: [PL 2023, c. 679, Pt. B, §18 (AMD).]

1. Cultivation or care of cannabis or cannabis products prohibited. Cultivate or otherwise care for or be required to cultivate or otherwise care for any cannabis or cannabis products belonging to, forfeited by or seized from any licensee or person pursuant to this chapter or chapter 3 or pursuant to any other applicable criminal or civil laws or rules; or [PL 2017, c. 409, Pt. A, §6 (NEW); PL 2021, c. 669, §5 (REV).]

2. Sale of cannabis or cannabis products prohibited. Sell or be required to sell cannabis or cannabis products belonging to, forfeited by or seized from any licensee or person pursuant to this chapter or chapter 3 or pursuant to any other applicable criminal or civil laws or rules or that are otherwise in the possession of the agency or department. [PL 2017, c. 409, Pt. A, §6 (NEW); PL 2021, c. 669, §5 (REV).]
28-A M.R.S. § 1553 — ME Code / Title 28-A / Part 3 / Chapter 61 / Section 1553
28-A §1553. Postsecondary educational institution sampling license
Status: in_force

The bureau may issue a postsecondary educational institution sampling license to an accredited postsecondary educational institution in the State, referred to in this section as an educational institution, as described by this section. [PL 2019, c. 282, §1 (NEW).]

1. Eligible licensees. The bureau may issue a license under this section to an educational institution, or its agent, that submits an application to the bureau in a manner prescribed by the bureau. The bureau may issue a license under this section only to an educational institution, or its agent, that offers a course or courses involving the hospitality industry, culinary arts or food sciences. [PL 2019, c. 282, §1 (NEW).]

2. Purchase of liquor limited to certain purposes. A licensee under this section may purchase liquor for educational courses conducted by the licensee involving the hospitality industry, culinary arts or food sciences. Nothing in this subsection prohibits an educational institution licensed under this section from charging a materials fee to students to recoup the cost of liquor used for the purposes described in this section. [PL 2019, c. 282, §1 (NEW).]

3. Consumption of liquor on premises; transport of liquor to premises. A licensee under this section is governed by the provisions of this subsection regarding the consumption of liquor on the educational institution's premises and the transport of liquor to the educational institution's premises. A. A licensee may permit sampling of the liquor used in conjunction with the educational institution's course or courses involving the hospitality industry, culinary arts or food sciences by a person at least 21 years of age who is: (1) A member of the faculty or staff of the educational institution who teaches or assists in the hospitality industry, culinary arts or food sciences course or courses; or (2) A student enrolled in the hospitality industry, culinary arts or food sciences course or courses. [PL 2019, c. 282, §1 (NEW).] B. The sampling of liquor authorized under paragraph A must be conducted in accordance with the licensed educational institution's alcohol safety procedures or guidelines, and such liquor may not be served to a person who is a minor or who is visibly intoxicated. [PL 2021, c. 658, §263 (AMD).] C. Liquor purchased and transported to the educational institution's premises used in conjunction with the hospitality industry, culinary arts or food sciences course or courses must be clearly labeled with the educational institution's name, license number, date of purchase and course with which the liquor is associated. [PL 2019, c. 282, §1 (NEW).] [PL 2021, c. 658, §263 (AMD).]

4. License fee. The annual fee for a postsecondary educational institution sampling license is $100. [PL 2019, c. 282, §1 (NEW).]
28-A M.R.S. § 2202 — ME Code / Title 28-A / Part 7 / Chapter 91 / Section 2202
28-A §2202. Bail after failure to comply with terms of bond
Status: in_force

In any prosecution for violation of the laws relating to manufacture or sale of liquor, a defendant who has failed to comply with the term of any bond entered into by the defendant in that case may not again be admitted to bail in that case or upon arrest on any warrant issued in that case, except by a judge or justice of the court in which that prosecution is pending. [PL 2021, c. 658, §278 (AMD).]
28-A M.R.S. § 2086 — ME Code / Title 28-A / Part 6 / Chapter 83 / Section 2086
28-A §2086. Sale or furnishing of brewing or wine-making equipment prohibited
Status: in_force

1. Violation. A person who knowingly sells, furnishes, gives away or offers to sell, furnish or give away to a minor equipment that is specifically constructed, manufactured or marketed for the purpose of brewing malt liquor or fermenting or making wine is guilty of a civil violation. [PL 1999, c. 103, §4 (NEW).]

2. Exception. This section does not apply to a minor's parent, legal guardian or custodian, as defined in Title 22, section 4002 , who furnishes the equipment to the minor for use in a supervised manner. [PL 1999, c. 103, §4 (NEW).]
28-A M.R.S. § 6 — ME Code / Title 28-A / Part 1 / Chapter 1 / Section 6
28-A §6. Form of advertising restricted
Status: in_force

1. Advertising form subject to bureau authorization. No person may advertise liquor within the State, except in the form specifically authorized by the bureau. Radio, television, billboards, signs, newspapers, magazines and periodicals may carry advertising subject to the rules of the bureau. [PL 1997, c. 373, §23 (AMD).]

2. Bureau may adopt rules governing advertising brand names in local option areas. The bureau may adopt rules restricting the advertising of any type of liquor by brand names during the period when such sales are prohibited in any municipality that has voted in any particular local option election against the sale of all types of liquor. [PL 1997, c. 373, §23 (AMD).]

3. Use of picture or representation of State House prohibited. No person may use or display a picture or other form of representation of the State House for the advertising of liquor. [PL 1987, c. 45, Pt. A, §4 (NEW).]
28-A M.R.S. § 1459 — ME Code / Title 28-A / Part 3 / Chapter 57 / Section 1459
28-A §1459. Price of product
Status: in_force

No certificate of approval holder, whether by means of a term or condition of an agreement or otherwise, may fix or maintain the price at which the wholesale licensee sells any product. [PL 1987, c. 45, Pt. A, §4 (NEW).]
28-A M.R.S. § 1001 — ME Code / Title 28-A / Part 3 / Chapter 41 / Section 1001
28-A §1001. Class I licenses
Status: in_force

1. Types of liquor which may be sold. A Class I licensee may sell spirits, wine and malt liquor to be consumed on the premises where sold. [PL 1987, c. 45, Pt. A, §4 (NEW).]

2. Fees. The license fees for a Class I license are: A. Full-time (one year)...............$900. [PL 1993, c. 410, Pt. ZZ, §6 (AMD).] B. [PL 1993, c. 410, Pt. ZZ, §6 (RP).] C. [PL 1987, c. 342, §56 (RP).] D. [PL 1993, c. 410, Pt. ZZ, §6 (RP).] [PL 1993, c. 410, Pt. ZZ, §6 (AMD).]

3. Eligible premises. The following premises are eligible to obtain a Class I license: A. Airline corporations; [PL 2021, c. 658, §120 (AMD).] B. Auditoriums; [PL 1989, c. 158, §3 (REEN).] B-1. Bowling centers; [PL 1989, c. 244, §2 (NEW).] C. Civic auditoriums; [PL 1987, c. 45, Pt. A, §4 (NEW).] D. Class A restaurants; [PL 1987, c. 45, Pt. A, §4 (NEW).] E. Clubs with catering privileges; [PL 1987, c. 45, Pt. A, §4 (NEW).] E-1. Curling centers; [PL 2021, c. 658, §121 (NEW).] F. [PL 2021, c. 658, §122 (RP).] F-1. Disc golf courses; [PL 2017, c. 17, §2 (NEW).] G. Golf courses; [PL 2017, c. 167, §15 (AMD).] H. Hotels; [PL 1987, c. 45, Pt. A, §4 (NEW).] H-1. Indoor golf centers; [PL 2023, c. 44, §10 (NEW).] I. Indoor ice skating centers; [PL 2021, c. 658, §123 (AMD).] J. Indoor racquet centers; [PL 2021, c. 658, §124 (AMD).] J-1. Outdoor stadiums; [PL 2021, c. 598, §2 (NEW).] J-2. Outdoor golf centers; [PL 2023, c. 44, §11 (NEW).] K. Performing arts centers; [PL 1987, c. 45, Pt. A, §4 (NEW).] K-1. Pool halls; [PL 2021, c. 598, §3 (NEW).] L. Qualified catering services; [PL 2021, c. 658, §125 (AMD).] L-1. Railroad corporations; and [PL 2021, c. 658, §126 (NEW).] M. Vessel corporations. [PL 2021, c. 658, §127 (AMD).] [PL 2023, c. 44, §§10, 11 (AMD).]
28-A M.R.S. § 1356 — ME Code / Title 28-A / Part 3 / Chapter 51 / Section 1356
28-A §1356. Illegal manufacture
Status: in_force

1. Illegal manufacture; penalty. Any person not licensed by the bureau who manufactures for sale any liquor, and any person who sells any liquor manufactured by that person without a license in the State, commits a Class E crime. [PL 1997, c. 373, §114 (AMD).]

2. Seizure and libeling of equipment and materials. [PL 1987, c. 342, §108 (RP).]
28-A M.R.S. § 703 — ME Code / Title 28-A / Part 3 / Chapter 29 / Section 703
28-A §703. Employment of violators prohibited
Status: in_force

A licensee may not employ as a manager or leave in charge of the licensed premises any person who, by reason of conviction of violation of any liquor laws within the last 5 years or because of a revocation of that person's license for sale of liquor within the last 5 years, is not eligible for a liquor license. [PL 1997, c. 373, §65 (AMD).]
28-A M.R.S. § 1402 — ME Code / Title 28-A / Part 3 / Chapter 55 / Section 1402
28-A §1402. Taste testing of wine and malt liquor products
Status: in_force

1. Taste testing on wholesale licensee's premises. With the bureau's written permission, a wholesale licensee may designate a special area or room on the wholesale licensee's premises for the specific purpose of taste testing wine or malt liquor products. [PL 1997, c. 373, §124 (AMD).]

2. Taste testing on retail licensee's premises or other venue. With the bureau's written permission, a wholesale licensee may rent or lease an area or room from an on-premises retail licensee or from any unlicensed venue for the purpose of inviting retail licensees to taste test wine or malt liquor products. [PL 2025, c. 8, §1 (AMD).]

3. Conditions on taste-testing events. The following conditions apply to all taste-testing events under this section. A. The wholesale licensee or a certificate of approval holder may provide the products for taste-testing events only if all taxes required by this Title have been paid. [PL 2021, c. 658, §237 (AMD).] B. Taste-testing events must be conducted only within the special designated area or room. [PL 2021, c. 658, §237 (AMD).] C. Taste-testing events must be open only to invited retail licensees or their authorized agents and not to their family members, guests or the public. [PL 2021, c. 658, §237 (AMD).] D. After the taste-testing event is concluded, the wholesale licensee shall remove all products supplied for the taste-testing event from the premises of the retail licensee or unlicensed venue. [PL 2025, c. 8, §2 (AMD).] E. Malt liquor or wine products may not be served to a person who is a minor or who is visibly intoxicated. [PL 2021, c. 658, §237 (NEW).] [PL 2025, c. 8, §2 (AMD).]
28-A M.R.S. § 2082 — ME Code / Title 28-A / Part 6 / Chapter 83 / Section 2082
28-A §2082. Sale of imitation liquor
Status: in_force

1. Sale of imitation liquor to minor prohibited. No person may sell or offer for sale or exchange to any minor any imitation liquor. [PL 1987, c. 45, Pt. A, §4 (NEW).]

2. Applicability. This section does not apply to the following products: A. Products commonly known as "root beer," "ginger ale," "cider" and all soft drinks; and [PL 1987, c. 45, Pt. A, §4 (NEW).] B. Beverages containing more than 1/2 of 1% alcohol by volume. [PL 1987, c. 45, Pt. A, §4 (NEW).] [PL 1987, c. 45, Pt. A, §4 (NEW).]

3. Violation. Any person who violates this section commits a civil violation for which a forfeiture of not more than $500 may be adjudged. [PL 1993, c. 266, §32 (AMD).]
28-A M.R.S. § 2502 — ME Code / Title 28-A / Part 8 / Chapter 100 / Section 2502
28-A §2502. Purposes
Status: in_force

1. Primary legislative purpose. The primary legislative purpose of this Act is to prevent intoxication-related injuries, deaths and other damages among the State's population. [PL 1987, c. 45, Pt. A, §4 (NEW).]

2. Secondary purposes. The secondary legislative purposes are to: A. Establish a legal basis for obtaining compensation for those suffering damages as a result of intoxication-related incidents in accordance with this Act; [PL 1987, c. 45, Pt. A, §4 (NEW).] B. Allocate the liability for payment of damages fairly among those responsible for the damages, which will encourage liquor liability insurance availability; and [PL 1987, c. 45, Pt. A, §4 (NEW).] C. Encourage all servers of alcohol to exercise responsible serving practices. [PL 1987, c. 45, Pt. A, §4 (NEW).] [PL 1987, c. 45, Pt. A, §4 (NEW).]
28-A M.R.S. § 709 — ME Code / Title 28-A / Part 3 / Chapter 29 / Section 709
28-A §709. Prohibition of certain practices
Status: in_force

1. Certain practices prohibited. The following practices are prohibited. A. A licensee, employee of a licensee or agent of a licensee may not: (1) Offer or deliver any free liquor to any person or group of persons; (2) Deliver more than 4 1/2 ounces of spirits over 15% alcohol by volume, a carafe containing more than one liter or 33.8 ounces of wine or any serving or pitcher containing more than one liter or 33.8 ounces of malt liquor to one person at one time; (3) Sell, offer to sell or deliver to any person or group of persons an unlimited number of drinks for a fixed price, except at private functions not open to the public; (4) Encourage or permit, on the licensed premises, any game or contest that involves drinking or the awarding of drinks as prizes; or (5) Engage in any other practice the specific purpose of which is to encourage customers of the licensee to drink to excess. [PL 2025, c. 230, Pt. C, §5 (AMD).] B. No licensee may advertise or promote in any way, whether within or without the licensed premises, any of the practices prohibited under paragraph A . This paragraph does not prohibit a licensee or employee or agent of a licensee from including the alcohol content of malt liquor, wine or spirits in an advertisement or on a label, or in a display on an advertisement or label, if the alcohol content is expressed as a percentage of alcohol by volume. [PL 2013, c. 504, §1 (AMD).] [PL 2025, c. 230, Pt. C, §5 (AMD).]

2. Exceptions. Subsection 1 does not prohibit the following practices: A. Licensees offering free food or entertainment either with or without the purchase of one drink; [PL 1987, c. 45, Pt. A, §4 (NEW).] B. Licensees increasing the prices for drinks when entertainment is provided; [PL 1987, c. 45, Pt. A, §4 (NEW).] C. Licensees including a drink as part of a meal package; [PL 1987, c. 45, Pt. A, §4 (NEW).] D. The sale or delivery of wine, malt liquor or mixed drinks by the bottle, carafe or pitcher when sold with meals or to more than one person; [PL 1987, c. 342, §45 (AMD).] E. Those licensed under section 1052‑D offering free samples or tastings; [PL 2013, c. 531, §1 (AMD).] F. Licensed hotels or bed and breakfasts offering room service to hotel guests or bed and breakfast guests, respectively; [PL 2021, c. 658, §103 (AMD).] G. Licensees offering reduced prices for prearranged private parties on the premises of the licensee; [PL 2005, c. 319, §1 (AMD).] H. Licensees whose licensed premises include more than one room charging different prices for the same drink served in the different rooms; [PL 2011, c. 629, §13 (AMD).] I. Conducting taste testing under section 460 , 462 , 1051 , 1205 , 1207 , 1368 or 1402 ; [PL 2025, c. 230, Pt. A, §9 (AMD).] J. Providing samples authorized under section 1055 , 1355‑A , 1402‑A or 1504 ; [PL 2021, c. 658, §105 (AMD).] K. Donations authorized under section 708‑C ; [PL 2023, c. 103, §1 (AMD).] L. [PL 2021, c. 658, §107 (RP).] M. Product supplied by licensees authorized under section 1052‑D for the purposes of providing taste-testing samples under a taste-testing event license; or [PL 2023, c. 103, §2 (AMD).] N. A restaurant, Class A restaurant or Class A restaurant/lounge giving, serving or permitting to be served a bottle of wine as authorized under section 1051, subsection 10 . [PL 2023, c. 103, §3 (NEW).] [PL 2025, c. 230, Pt. A, §9 (AMD).]
28-A M.R.S. § 1073 — ME Code / Title 28-A / Part 3 / Chapter 43 / Section 1073
28-A §1073. Indoor racquet centers; indoor ice skating centers; golf courses; curling centers; bowling centers; indoor golf centers; outdoor golf centers; and disc golf courses
Status: in_force

1. Issuance of licenses. The bureau may issue licenses under this section for the sale of spirits, wine and malt liquor for on-premises consumption to bowling centers, curling centers, disc golf courses, golf courses, indoor golf centers, indoor ice skating centers, indoor racquet centers and outdoor golf centers as defined in section 2, subsection 15, paragraphs B-1, D‑1, F‑1, G, I-1, J, K and L-2, respectively. [PL 2023, c. 44, §24 (AMD).]

2. Food availability. [PL 2023, c. 44, §25 (RP).]

3. Separate area for sale of liquor. A licensee under this section shall set aside a separate area for the sale and consumption of liquor in accordance with the rules of the bureau. [PL 2023, c. 44, §26 (AMD).]
28-B M.R.S. § 212 — ME Code / Title 28-B / Chapter 1 / Section 212
28-B §212.  Abandonment or cessation of license
Status: in_force

1. Notification of abandonment or cessation required. A licensee that voluntarily abandons the licensed premises or otherwise permanently ceases all activities relating to the operation of a cannabis establishment under its license shall notify the office and the municipality in which the licensed premises are located at least 48 hours in advance of the abandonment or cessation. [PL 2023, c. 679, Pt. B, §44 (AMD).]

2. Forfeiture and destruction of cannabis and cannabis products. Prior to abandoning the licensed premises of the licensee or ceasing operations, a licensee shall provide the office and the municipality in which the licensed premises are located with a full accounting of all adult use cannabis and adult use cannabis products located within the licensed premises and forfeit the cannabis and cannabis products to the office for destruction in accordance with section 803. [PL 2023, c. 679, Pt. B, §44 (AMD).]

For the purposes of this section, "municipality" means, in the case of a cannabis establishment not located in the unorganized and deorganized areas, the city, town or plantation in which the cannabis establishment is located; or, in the case of a cannabis establishment located in the unorganized and deorganized areas, the Maine Land Use Planning Commission and the town or plantation in which the cannabis establishment is located or, in the case of a cannabis establishment located in a township, the county commissioners of the county in which the township is located. [PL 2017, c. 409, Pt. A, §6 (NEW); PL 2021, c. 669, §5 (REV).]
28-A M.R.S. § 1461 — ME Code / Title 28-A / Part 3 / Chapter 57 / Section 1461
28-A §1461. Management and personnel of wholesale licensee
Status: in_force

No certificate of approval holder may require or prohibit any change in management or personnel of any wholesale licensee unless the current or potential management or personnel fails to meet reasonable qualifications and standards required by the certificate of approval holder. [PL 1987, c. 45, Pt. A, §4 (NEW).]
28-A M.R.S. § 1463 — ME Code / Title 28-A / Part 3 / Chapter 57 / Section 1463
28-A §1463. Sale of certificate of approval holder
Status: in_force

1. Purchaser obligated. The purchaser of a certificate of approval holder is obligated to all of the terms and conditions of the agreement in effect on the date of purchase. [PL 1987, c. 45, Pt. A, §4 (NEW).]

2. Purchase defined. "Purchase," as defined for the purposes of this chapter, includes, but is not limited to: A. Sale of stock; [PL 1987, c. 45, Pt. A, §4 (NEW).] B. Sale of assets; [PL 1987, c. 45, Pt. A, §4 (NEW).] C. Merger; [PL 1987, c. 45, Pt. A, §4 (NEW).] D. Lease; [PL 1987, c. 45, Pt. A, §4 (NEW).] E. Transfer; or [PL 1987, c. 45, Pt. A, §4 (NEW).] F. Consolidation. [PL 1987, c. 45, Pt. A, §4 (NEW).] [PL 1987, c. 45, Pt. A, §4 (NEW).]
28-A M.R.S. § 802 — ME Code / Title 28-A / Part 3 / Chapter 33 / Section 802
28-A §802. Causes for revocation and suspension of licenses and certificates of approval
Status: in_force

The District Court may revoke or suspend licenses and certificates of approval for the following causes: [PL 2021, c. 658, §116 (AMD).]

1. Violation of law or infraction of rule. Violation of a federal or state law, rule or regulation relating to liquor or substantial infraction of a rule adopted by the bureau. A. This subsection does not require the District Court to hold licensees that sold liquor to minors who furnished fraudulent proof of age liable administratively; [PL 2021, c. 658, §116 (AMD).] [PL 2021, c. 658, §116 (AMD).]

2. False material statement. Knowingly making a false material statement of fact in the application for the license or certificate of approval; and [PL 2021, c. 658, §116 (AMD).]

3. Failure to maintain requirements. Failure to have and maintain throughout the entire license or certificate of approval period all of the requirements of definitions, laws and rules necessary to qualify for a license or certificate of approval. A. For this offense the District Court may suspend licenses or certificates of approval for an indefinite period of time until the District Court is satisfied that the licensee has conformed to all applicable qualifications. [PL 2021, c. 658, §116 (AMD).] [PL 2021, c. 658, §116 (AMD).]
28-B M.R.S. § 213 — ME Code / Title 28-B / Chapter 1 / Section 213
28-B §213. Notice of new principal
Status: in_force

Before any proposed new principal may own, manage, work for or otherwise associate with a licensee, the licensee shall notify the office in writing of the name, address and date of birth of the proposed new principal. The proposed new principal shall submit to a criminal history record check pursuant to section 204, obtain an individual identification card pursuant to section 106 and, in the case of a new principal or other person assuming an equity ownership interest or a partial equity ownership interest in the license, obtain approval for the transfer of ownership interests pursuant to section 210, unless the transfer of ownership interests is otherwise exempt from prior approval under section 210, subsection 1-A. [PL 2023, c. 679, Pt. B, §45 (AMD).]
28-A M.R.S. § 451 — ME Code / Title 28-A / Part 2 / Chapter 19 / Section 451
28-A §451. Agency liquor stores
Status: in_force

This chapter governs the issuance of an agency liquor store license and the operation of agency liquor stores licensed pursuant to this Part. The bureau may license and regulate a person as an agency liquor store on an annual or temporary basis for the purposes of selling liquor in sealed bottles, containers or original packages for off-premises consumption. [PL 2021, c. 658, §67 (AMD).]
28-A M.R.S. § 1003 — ME Code / Title 28-A / Part 3 / Chapter 41 / Section 1003
28-A §1003. Class II licenses
Status: in_force

1. Types of liquor which may be sold. A Class II licensee may sell spirits to be consumed on the premises where sold. [PL 1987, c. 45, Pt. A, §4 (NEW).]

2. Fees. The fees for a Class II license are as follows: A. Full-time (one year)...............$550. [PL 1993, c. 410, Pt. ZZ, §8 (AMD).] B. [PL 1993, c. 410, Pt. ZZ, §8 (RP).] C. [PL 1987, c. 342, §59 (RP).] D. [PL 1993, c. 410, Pt. ZZ, §8 (RP).] [PL 1993, c. 410, Pt. ZZ, §8 (AMD).]

3. Eligible premises. The following premises are eligible to obtain a Class II license: A. Airline corporations; [PL 2021, c. 658, §128 (AMD).] B. Auditoriums; [PL 1989, c. 158, §4 (REEN).] B-1. Bowling centers; [PL 1989, c. 244, §3 (NEW).] C. Civic auditoriums; [PL 1987, c. 45, Pt. A, §4 (NEW).] D. Class A restaurants; [PL 1987, c. 45, Pt. A, §4 (NEW).] E. Clubs with catering privileges; [PL 1987, c. 45, Pt. A, §4 (NEW).] E-1. Curling centers; [PL 2021, c. 658, §129 (NEW).] F. [PL 2021, c. 658, §130 (RP).] F-1. Disc golf courses; [PL 2017, c. 17, §3 (NEW).] G. Golf courses; [PL 2017, c. 167, §16 (AMD).] H. Hotels; [PL 1987, c. 45, Pt. A, §4 (NEW).] H-1. Indoor golf centers; [PL 2023, c. 44, §12 (NEW).] I. Indoor ice skating centers; [PL 2021, c. 658, §131 (AMD).] J. Indoor racquet centers; [PL 2021, c. 658, §132 (AMD).] J-1. Outdoor stadiums; [PL 2021, c. 598, §4 (NEW).] J-2. Outdoor golf centers; [PL 2023, c. 44, §13 (NEW).] K. Performing arts centers; [PL 1987, c. 45, Pt. A, §4 (NEW).] K-1. Pool halls; [PL 2021, c. 598, §5 (NEW).] L. Qualified catering services; [PL 2021, c. 658, §133 (AMD).] L-1. Railroad corporations; and [PL 2021, c. 658, §134 (NEW).] M. Vessel corporations. [PL 2021, c. 658, §135 (AMD).] [PL 2023, c. 44, §§12, 13 (AMD).]
28-A M.R.S. § 14 — ME Code / Title 28-A / Part 1 / Chapter 1 / Section 14
28-A §14. Hard cider sold by wine or malt liquor licensees
Status: in_force

1. Retail sales. Notwithstanding any provision of this Title to the contrary, a person licensed to sell malt liquor for on-premises or off-premises consumption may also sell hard cider. All provisions of this Title applicable to malt liquor, except chapter 65 , apply to hard cider when hard cider is sold by persons licensed to sell malt liquor for on-premises or off-premises consumption. Nothing in this subsection prohibits a person licensed to sell wine for on-premises or off-premises consumption from selling hard cider. [PL 2021, c. 658, §50 (NEW).]

2. Wholesale sales. Notwithstanding any provision of this Title to the contrary, a person licensed under section 1401 as an in-state wholesaler of malt liquor may also sell and distribute hard cider. Nothing in this subsection prohibits a person licensed under section 1401 as an in-state wholesaler of wine from selling and distributing hard cider. [PL 2021, c. 658, §50 (NEW).]
28-A M.R.S. § 459 — ME Code / Title 28-A / Part 2 / Chapter 19 / Section 459
28-A §459. Delivery of spirits by reselling agents
Status: in_force

Reselling agents may deliver spirits to establishments that are licensed to sell spirits for on-premises consumption. [PL 2021, c. 658, §76 (AMD).]
28-B M.R.S. § 401 — ME Code / Title 28-B / Chapter 1 / Section 401
28-B §401. Municipal regulation of cannabis establishments generally
Status: in_force

In accordance with the applicable provisions of this subchapter and pursuant to the home rule authority granted under the Constitution of Maine, Article VIII, Part Second and Title 30‑A, section 3001 , a municipality may regulate cannabis establishments within the municipality, including, but not limited to, adoption of the following types of regulations and restrictions. [PL 2017, c. 409, Pt. A, §6 (NEW); PL 2021, c. 669, §5 (REV).]

1. Land use regulations. A municipality may adopt an ordinance providing land use regulations applicable to cannabis establishments within the municipality. [PL 2017, c. 409, Pt. A, §6 (NEW); PL 2021, c. 669, §5 (REV).]

2. General authorization or limitation of cannabis establishments. A municipality may adopt an ordinance generally authorizing the operation of some or all types of cannabis establishments within the municipality. A municipality may adopt an ordinance limiting the number of any type of cannabis establishment that may be authorized to operate within the municipality. [PL 2017, c. 409, Pt. A, §6 (NEW); PL 2021, c. 669, §5 (REV).]

3. Municipal licensing requirements. A municipality may adopt an ordinance providing licensing requirements applicable to cannabis establishments within the municipality, which may include, but are not limited to, provisions establishing a municipal licensing fee schedule pursuant to Title 30‑A, section 3702 . [PL 2017, c. 409, Pt. A, §6 (NEW); PL 2021, c. 669, §5 (REV).]

Notwithstanding any provision of law to the contrary, a municipal ordinance regulating cannabis establishments within the municipality adopted pursuant to this subchapter is not subject to the requirements or limitations of Title 7, chapter 6 or 8‑F . Nothing in this subchapter may be construed to require an applicant for a sample collector license or a sample collector licensee to seek local authorization prior to the issuance or renewal of an active license. [PL 2019, c. 676, §10 (AMD); PL 2021, c. 669, §5 (REV).]
28-A M.R.S. § 2509 — ME Code / Title 28-A / Part 8 / Chapter 100 / Section 2509
28-A §2509. Limit on awards
Status: in_force

1. Limitation on damages for losses other than expenses for medical care and treatment. In actions for damages permitted by this Act, the claim for and award of damages for all losses, except expenses for medical care and treatment, including devices or aids, against both a server and the server's employees and agents, may not exceed $350,000 for any and all claims arising out of a single accident or occurrence. [PL 2009, c. 247, §1 (AMD).]

2. Multiple claimants. When the amount for all losses, except expenses for medical care and treatment, including devices and aids, awarded to or settled for multiple claimants, exceeds the limit imposed by this section, any party may apply to the Superior Court for the county where the server is located to allocate each claimant an equitable share of the total, limited as required by this section. A. Any award by the court in excess of the maximum liability limit specified by subsection 1 must be automatically abated by operation of this section to the maximum limit of liability. [PL 2021, c. 658, §282 (AMD).] [PL 2021, c. 658, §282 (AMD).]
28-B M.R.S. § 110 — ME Code / Title 28-B / Chapter 1 / Section 110
28-B §110. Investigation by a criminal justice agency of unlawful activity
Status: in_force

A criminal justice agency may investigate unlawful activity in relation to a cannabis establishment and may conduct a criminal history record check of a licensee or its employees during an investigation of unlawful activity in relation to a cannabis establishment. [PL 2017, c. 409, Pt. A, §6 (NEW); PL 2021, c. 669, §5 (REV).]
28-B M.R.S. § 702 — ME Code / Title 28-B / Chapter 1 / Section 702
28-B §702. Signs, advertising and marketing
Status: in_force

1. Prohibitions. Signs, advertising and marketing used by or on behalf of a licensee: A. May not be misleading, deceptive or false; [PL 2017, c. 409, Pt. A, §6 (NEW).] B. [PL 2023, c. 396, §14 (RP).] C. May not be placed or otherwise used within 1,000 feet of the property line of a preexisting public or private school, except that, if a municipality by ordinance or other regulation, or, in the case of a town, plantation or township located in the unorganized and deorganized areas, the Maine Land Use Planning Commission, chooses to prohibit the placement or use of signs or advertising by or on behalf of a cannabis establishment at distances greater than or less than 1,000 feet but not less than 500 feet from the property line of a preexisting public or private school, that greater or lesser distance applies. As used in this paragraph, "school" has the same meaning as in section 402, subsection 2, paragraph A ; and [PL 2017, c. 409, Pt. A, §6 (NEW); PL 2021, c. 669, §5 (REV).] D. May not violate any other requirement or restriction on signs, advertising and marketing imposed by the office by rule pursuant to subsection 2 . [PL 2023, c. 679, Pt. B, §123 (AMD).] [PL 2023, c. 679, Pt. B, §123 (AMD).]

2. Rules on signs, advertising and marketing. The office may adopt rules regarding the placement and use of signs, advertising and marketing by or on behalf of a licensee, which may include, but are not limited to: A. A prohibition on health or physical benefit claims in advertising or marketing, including, but not limited to, health or physical benefit claims on the label or packaging of adult use cannabis or an adult use cannabis product; [PL 2017, c. 409, Pt. A, §6 (NEW); PL 2021, c. 669, §5 (REV).] B. A prohibition on unsolicited advertising or marketing on the Internet, including, but not limited to, banner advertisements on mass-market websites; [PL 2017, c. 409, Pt. A, §6 (NEW).] C. A prohibition on opt-in advertising or marketing that does not permit an easy and permanent opt-out feature; [PL 2023, c. 396, §15 (AMD).] D. A prohibition on advertising or marketing directed toward location-based devices, including, but not limited to, cellular telephones, unless the marketing is a mobile device application installed on the device by the owner of the device who is 21 years of age or older and includes a permanent and easy opt-out feature; and [PL 2023, c. 396, §16 (AMD).] E. Limitations on signs, advertising and marketing specifically designed to target minors regarding adult use cannabis and adult use cannabis products. [PL 2023, c. 679, Pt. B, §124 (AMD).] [PL 2023, c. 679, Pt. B, §124 (AMD).]

3. Restrictions on signs, advertising and marketing. A licensee may advertise or market the promotion of the licensee's business and adult use cannabis and adult use cannabis products sold by the licensee, including the display of a sign on the licensed premises and off the licensed premises on the exterior of a motor vehicle in accordance with this section. [PL 2023, c. 396, §18 (NEW).]

4. Voluntary sign, advertising and marketing approval. A licensee may submit to the office a request for approval of any sign, advertisement or marketing materials the licensee intends to use. The request must include the following information as applicable: A. A digital or physical sample of the sign, advertisement or marketing materials for which approval is requested; and [PL 2023, c. 679, Pt. B, §125 (NEW).] B. Any additional information required on the sign, advertisement or marketing materials approval request form provided by the office and available on the office's publicly accessible website. [PL 2023, c. 679, Pt. B, §125 (NEW).] The office may not refuse to review any voluntary request for approval. The office may deny any sign, advertisement or marketing materials it determines do not comply with this chapter or the rules adopted pursuant to this chapter. Within 30 days of submission of the request, the office shall issue a written decision either approving or denying the request, including the reason for denial, if applicable. If the request is approved, the office may not take any enforcement action of any kind against the licensee solely for using the approved sign, advertisement or marketing materials. [PL 2023, c. 679, Pt. B, §125 (NEW).]
28-A M.R.S. § 2085 — ME Code / Title 28-A / Part 6 / Chapter 83 / Section 2085
28-A §2085. False statement by retail employee
Status: in_force

Notwithstanding Title 17‑A, section 453 , a person who makes a false statement in the affidavit required under section 703‑A commits a Class E crime. [PL 1989, c. 526, §§25, 28 (NEW).]
28-A M.R.S. § 352-A — ME Code / Title 28-A / Part 2 / Chapter 15 / Section 352-A
28-A §352-A. Purchase of spirits from agency liquor stores; purchase from reselling agents
Status: in_force

Purchases of spirits by a nonlicensee from an agency liquor store must be made by cash, check, credit card or debit card. Purchases from a reselling agent by a licensee authorized to sell spirits for on-premises consumption must be made by cash, check or electronic funds transfer. [PL 2013, c. 476, Pt. A, §13 (NEW).]
28-A M.R.S. § 2081 — ME Code / Title 28-A / Part 6 / Chapter 83 / Section 2081
28-A §2081. Furnishing or allowing consumption of liquor by certain persons prohibited
Status: in_force

1. Offense. Except as provided in subsection 2 , a person may not knowingly: A. Procure, or in any way aid or assist in procuring, furnish, give, sell or deliver liquor for or to a minor. The following penalties apply to violations of this paragraph. (1) A person who violates this paragraph commits a Class D crime. (2) A person who violates this paragraph commits a Class D crime for which a fine of not less than $500 may be imposed, none of which may be suspended, if the violation involves a minor who is less than 18 years of age. (3) A person who violates this paragraph after having been previously convicted of violating this paragraph or paragraph B within a 6-year period commits a Class D crime for which a fine of not less than $1,000 may be imposed, none of which may be suspended. (4) A person who violates this paragraph after having been previously convicted of violating this paragraph or paragraph B 2 or more times within a 6-year period commits a Class D crime for which a fine of not less than $1,500 may be imposed, none of which may be suspended. (5) A person who violates this paragraph commits a Class C crime if the consumption of liquor by the minor in fact causes serious bodily injury to or death of the minor or any other individual. For purposes of this subsection, "serious bodily injury" has the same meaning as set out in Title 17‑A, section 2, subsection 23 ; [PL 2005, c. 292, §1 (AMD).] B. Allow a minor under that person's control or in a place under that person's control to possess or consume liquor. The following penalties apply to violations of this paragraph. (1) A person who violates this paragraph commits a Class D crime. (2) A person who violates this paragraph commits a Class D crime for which a fine of not less than $1,000 may be imposed, none of which may be suspended, if the violation involves a minor who is less than 18 years of age. (3) A person who violates this paragraph after having been previously convicted of violating this paragraph or paragraph A within a 6-year period commits a Class D crime for which a fine of not less than $2,000 may be imposed, none of which may be suspended. (5) A person who violates this paragraph commits a Class C crime if the consumption of liquor by the minor in fact causes serious bodily injury to or death of the minor or any other individual. For purposes of this subsection, "serious bodily injury" has the same meaning as set out in Title 17‑A, section 2, subsection 23 ; [PL 2005, c. 292, §1 (AMD).] C. Procure, or in any way aid or assist in procuring, furnish, give, sell or deliver liquor to a visibly intoxicated person. Violation of this paragraph is a Class E crime, except notwithstanding Title 17‑A, sections 1704 and 1705 , the fine may not be more than $500; or [PL 2019, c. 113, Pt. C, §70 (AMD).] D. Procure, or in any way assist in procuring, furnish, give, sell or deliver imitation liquor for or to a minor, or allow a minor under that person's control or in a place under that person's control to possess or consume imitation liquor. Violation of this paragraph is a Class E crime, except notwithstanding Title 17‑A, sections 1704 and 1705 , the fine may not be more than $500. [PL 2019, c. 113, Pt. C, §70 (AMD).] [PL 2019, c. 113, Pt. C, §70 (AMD).]

2. Exceptions. This section does not apply to a person who serves liquor or imitation liquor to a minor in a home in the presence of the minor's parent, guardian or custodian, as defined in Title 22, section 4002 . [PL 2003, c. 452, Pt. P, §9 (AMD); PL 2003, c. 452, Pt. X, §2 (AFF).]

3. Penalties. [PL 2003, c. 452, Pt. P, §9 (RP); PL 2003, c. 452, Pt. X, §2 (AFF).]

4. Application. This section does not apply to licensees or agents of licensees in the scope of their employment. [PL 1987, c. 45, Pt. A, §4 (NEW).]

5. Aggravated offense. [PL 2003, c. 452, Pt. P, §9 (RP); PL 2003, c. 452, Pt. X, §2 (AFF).]
28-B M.R.S. § 114 — ME Code / Title 28-B / Chapter 1 / Section 114
28-B §114. Confidentiality
Status: in_force

The home address, telephone number and e-mail address of the applicant, employees of the applicant and all natural persons having a direct or indirect financial interest in the applied-for license are confidential. [PL 2023, c. 396, §3 (NEW).]
28-B M.R.S. § 303 — ME Code / Title 28-B / Chapter 1 / Section 303
28-B §303. Increase in cultivation tier upon renewal
Status: in_force

A licensee seeking renewal of a cultivation facility license may, if applicable and in accordance with this section, apply for a tier of cultivation facility license with a greater area of authorized plant canopy than is authorized under the licensee's current cultivation facility license. [PL 2017, c. 409, Pt. A, §6 (NEW).]

1. Approval criteria. The office may issue the applied-for tier of cultivation facility license if the licensee otherwise meets all applicable requirements for continued licensure under this chapter and the rules adopted pursuant to this chapter and the licensee has demonstrated to the office's satisfaction that: A. The licensee has over the current period of licensure sold at least 85% of the adult use cannabis cultivated by the licensee at its cultivation facility; and [PL 2017, c. 409, Pt. A, §6 (NEW); PL 2021, c. 669, §5 (REV).] B. The approval of the applied-for tier of cultivation facility license will not cause the licensee to exceed the combined plant canopy limitation in section 205, subsection 2, paragraph A . [PL 2017, c. 409, Pt. A, §6 (NEW).] [PL 2023, c. 679, Pt. B, §50 (AMD).]

2. Consideration of renewal of current license tier if approval criteria not met. If the office determines that the licensee has failed to satisfy the requirements of this section for the applied-for tier of cultivation facility license, the office shall consider renewing the license at the current tier. [PL 2023, c. 679, Pt. B, §50 (AMD).]

This section does not apply to a nursery cultivation facility licensee. [PL 2017, c. 409, Pt. A, §6 (NEW).]
28-A M.R.S. § 1505 — ME Code / Title 28-A / Part 3 / Chapter 59 / Section 1505
28-A §1505. Participation in tasting events
Status: in_force

A sales representative holding a license under section 1502 may participate in a tasting event permitted under section 460 ; section 1051, subsection 8 ; section 1205 ; or section 1207 subject to the provisions of this section. [PL 2015, c. 329, Pt. D, §2 (RPR); PL 2015, c. 329, Pt. D, §4 (AFF).]

1. Educational presentations. A sales representative participating in a tasting event pursuant to this section may provide written or oral educational presentations and materials relating to the brands and products being offered for tasting at the event, as long as no cost is imposed for the presentations or materials on the licensee or the consumer. [PL 2009, c. 459, §5 (NEW).]

2. Complimentary food or snacks. A sales representative participating in a tasting event pursuant to this section may provide and distribute, at no cost to the consumer or the licensee, complimentary food or snacks to be offered and consumed in conjunction with the products to be tasted, as long as the total cost for the food or snacks does not exceed $200 per event. Any remaining food or snacks provided in conjunction with a tasting event must be removed from the licensee's premises by the sales representative at the conclusion of the tasting event. [PL 2009, c. 459, §5 (NEW).]

3. Records and invoices. A sales representative participating in a tasting event pursuant to this section shall keep and maintain records and invoices showing the costs for any food, snacks or educational or informational materials provided at any approved tasting event. [PL 2009, c. 459, §5 (NEW).]

4. Pour, provide or distribute. A sales representative participating in a tasting event pursuant to this section may not pour or distribute to consumers the products being offered for tasting during the event unless the sales representative was listed on a request submitted to the bureau by a licensee to conduct a taste testing in accordance with section 460; section 1051, subsection 8; section 1205; or section 1207. A sales representative who pours or distributes products to consumers at a tasting event under section 460; section 1051, subsection 8; section 1205; or section 1207 must have successfully completed an alcohol server education course approved by the commissioner. A sales representative may purchase or provide liquor for a consumer tasting event in compliance with section 460, section 1205 or section 1207 if the sales representative has successfully completed an alcohol server education course approved by the commissioner. [PL 2023, c. 349, §7 (AMD).]

The bureau 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 2013, c. 476, Pt. A, §32 (AMD).]
28-A M.R.S. § 11 — ME Code / Title 28-A / Part 1 / Chapter 1 / Section 11
28-A §11. Retailer on same premises as other businesses
Status: in_force

1. Connection with other licensed premises. Notwithstanding any law or rule of the bureau to the contrary, a retailer's licensed premises may be connected with another retailer's licensed premises by a doorway or other aperture that is not securely and permanently sealed. [PL 2021, c. 658, §47 (AMD).]

2. Violation of public drinking law. A person taking a drink of liquor to another person, offering a drink of liquor to another person or consuming liquor within the licensed premises of an off-premises retail licensee under the common roof is considered in violation of and subject to punishment under Title 17, section 2003‑A . This subsection does not prohibit product sampling and taste testing authorized by and conducted in accordance with the requirements of this Title. [PL 2021, c. 658, §48 (AMD).]

3. Premises operated by licensee identified. An applicant for a license shall fully describe in the application the part of the premises that the applicant owns, leases or rents. The bureau may require the licensee to identify on the premises by an appropriate marking the area that the licensee owns, rents or leases. [PL 1997, c. 373, §25 (AMD).]

4. Inspection of business premises under common roof of licensee. All persons carrying on any business, except a financial institution or credit union, under the common roof and having common entranceways with a licensee shall agree in writing to allow reasonable inspection of their premises by authorized enforcement agents of the Department of Administrative and Financial Services and authorized representatives of the bureau. [PL 2013, c. 476, Pt. A, §6 (AMD).]
28-A M.R.S. § 2229 — ME Code / Title 28-A / Part 7 / Chapter 91 / Section 2229
28-A §2229. Disposal of forfeited liquors
Status: in_force

1. Court or judge to order forfeited liquor to be turned over to the bureau. All spirits declared forfeited by a court under this Title must, by order of the court rendering the final judgment, be turned over to the bureau. All malt liquor or wine declared forfeited by a court under this Title must, by order of the court rendering final judgment, be turned over to the bureau. Liquor forfeited under this section must be disposed of in the same manner as abandoned liquor under section 2230 . [PL 1997, c. 373, §162 (AMD); PL 2013, c. 368, Pt. V, §61 (REV).]

2. Sale or destruction of forfeited spirits by bureau. The bureau or the wholesale spirits provider may restock and resell forfeited spirits at agency liquor stores throughout the State or may destroy forfeited spirits by pouring the spirits upon the ground or into a public sewer. A. [PL 2021, c. 658, §280 (RP).] [PL 2021, c. 658, §280 (RPR).]
28-A M.R.S. § 4 — ME Code / Title 28-A / Part 1 / Chapter 1 / Section 4
28-A §4. Business days and hours
Status: in_force

No liquor may be sold except as provided in this section. [PL 1987, c. 45, Pt. A, §4 (NEW).]

1. Hours for sale of liquor. Except as provided in this subsection, licensees may sell or deliver liquor from 5 a.m. on any day until 1 a.m. of the following day. A. [PL 2015, c. 74, §1 (RP).] B. Licensees may sell liquor on January 1st of any year from 12 midnight to 2 a.m. (1) In areas in which liquor may be sold except on Sundays, if January 1st falls on a Monday, licensees may sell or deliver liquor between 9 p.m. Sunday, December 31st and 2 a.m. January 1st, notwithstanding any local option decisions to the contrary. [PL 1987, c. 45, Pt. A, §4 (NEW).] C. [PL 1993, c. 266, §3 (RP).] D. Wholesale licensees may sell or deliver liquor to licensed establishments from 4 a.m. on any day until 1 a.m. the following day. [PL 2001, c. 21, §1 (NEW).] E. An on-premises retail licensee located in an international air terminal may sell liquor to an international passenger in transit at any time of day. [PL 2021, c. 658, §41 (NEW).] [PL 2021, c. 658, §41 (AMD).]

2. Consumption and possession of liquor. Except as provided in paragraphs A and B , licensees may not permit the consumption or possession of liquor on their premises after 1:15 a.m. A. Licensees may permit the consumption of liquor on their premises until 2:15 a.m. on January 1st. [PL 1987, c. 45, Pt. A, §4 (NEW).] B. This subsection does not apply to consumption or possession by bona fide hotel guests in their rooms. [PL 1993, c. 730, §14 (AMD).] [PL 1993, c. 730, §14 (AMD).]

3. Regulation of bottle clubs. Except as provided in paragraph A , municipalities may regulate the hours of operation of bottle clubs between the hours of 1 a.m. and 6 a.m. A. Municipalities may regulate the hours of operation of bottle clubs between the hours of 2 a.m. and 6 a.m. on January 1st. [PL 1987, c. 45, Pt. A, §4 (NEW).] [PL 1987, c. 45, Pt. A, §4 (NEW).]

4. Local option decisions govern. Except as provided in subsection 1, paragraph B and section 353 , nothing in this section may be construed to allow the sale of liquor in municipalities in violation of chapter 5 . [PL 1991, c. 528, Pt. PP, §1 (AMD); PL 1991, c. 528, Pt. RRR (AFF); PL 1991, c. 591, Pt. PP, §1 (AMD).]

5. Illegal sales and purchases on Sunday. [PL 2015, c. 74, §2 (RP).]

6. Penalty. [PL 2015, c. 74, §2 (RP).]

7. License or right to sell on Sunday suspended or revoked. [PL 1987, c. 342, §14 (RP).]

8. License suspended during appeal of conviction. [PL 1987, c. 342, §14 (RP).]
28-A M.R.S. § 1070 — ME Code / Title 28-A / Part 3 / Chapter 43 / Section 1070
28-A §1070. Auditoriums; civic auditoriums; outdoor stadiums; and performing arts centers
Status: in_force

1. Issuance of licenses. The bureau may issue licenses to auditoriums, civic auditoriums, outdoor stadiums and performing arts centers under this section for the sale of spirits, wine and malt liquor. The license may be issued to the owner or the operator of the auditorium, civic auditorium, outdoor stadium or performing arts center or to the entity providing spirits, wine and malt liquor to the public in the auditorium, civic auditorium, outdoor stadium or performing arts center. [PL 2025, c. 230, Pt. A, §18 (AMD).]

2. Events on licensed premises only. [PL 2025, c. 230, Pt. A, §18 (RP).]

3. No sales during events for minors. Licensees may not sell spirits, wine or malt liquor during any school activities or events primarily attended by minors in the rooms where these activities are taking place. [PL 1987, c. 45, Pt. A, §4 (NEW).]

4. Licensee must notify bureau. [PL 2015, c. 101, §1 (RP).]

5. Bottle service of spirits; designated areas. A licensee under this section may sell spirits in original containers for service in a club suite under the following conditions: A. Spirits to be consumed in the club suite must be provided exclusively by the licensee; [PL 2025, c. 230, Pt. A, §18 (AMD).] B. Spirits containers provided for consumption in the club suite must remain in the club suite for the duration of the event for which they were provided; and [PL 2025, c. 230, Pt. A, §18 (AMD).] C. [PL 2025, c. 230, Pt. A, §18 (RP).] D. The registered tenant of the club suite or individual specifically granted access to the club suite by the licensee must sign a contract with the auditorium, civic auditorium, outdoor stadium or performing arts center agreeing that any person who has not attained 21 years of age will not be provided or served liquor in the club suite. [PL 2025, c. 230, Pt. A, §18 (AMD).] For the purposes of this subsection, "venue" means the licensed premises of an auditorium, civic auditorium, outdoor stadium or performing arts center. For purposes of this subsection, "club suite" means a designated area within a venue to provide premium viewing of an event in the venue and to which access is limited to registered tenants, invited guests and those who have been specifically granted access by the operator of the venue and is not accessible to the public or venue patrons with tickets that provide for general admission to that event at the venue. A club suite must have a clearly designated point of access for the registered tenant or person specifically granted access by the operator of the venue to ensure that persons present in the suite are limited to invited guests and employees providing services to the club suite. [PL 2025, c. 230, Pt. A, §18 (AMD).]
28-A M.R.S. § 462 — ME Code / Title 28-A / Part 2 / Chapter 19 / Section 462
28-A §462. Purveyor of spirits
Status: in_force

1. License. An agency liquor store may obtain a purveyor of spirits license to conduct unlimited taste-testing events as provided in this section. [PL 2025, c. 230, Pt. A, §7 (NEW).]

2. License fee. The fee for a purveyor of spirits license is $500. [PL 2025, c. 230, Pt. A, §7 (NEW).]

3. Eligibility. An agency liquor store is eligible for a purveyor of spirits license if it meets the following criteria: A. The agency liquor store has in stock a minimum of 1,500 different product codes. For the purposes of this paragraph, "product code" has the same meaning as in section 461 ; and [PL 2025, c. 230, Pt. A, §7 (NEW).] B. At least 50% of the agency liquor store sales are from the sale of liquor. [PL 2025, c. 230, Pt. A, §7 (NEW).] [PL 2025, c. 230, Pt. A, §7 (NEW).]

4. Conditions for conducting taste-testing events. The conditions under this subsection apply to taste-testing events under this section. A. Spirits may not be served to a person who has not yet attained 21 years of age. [PL 2025, c. 230, Pt. A, §7 (NEW).] B. A person who is visibly intoxicated may not be served. [PL 2025, c. 230, Pt. A, §7 (NEW).] C. Spirits served at a taste‑testing event under a purveyor of spirits license must be: (1) Provided by the agency liquor store; (2) Purchased at the retail price by a licensed sales representative participating in the taste‑testing event from existing stock available for purchase at the agency liquor store; or (3) Provided by a licensed sales representative participating in the taste-testing event or a spirits supplier, including those licensed under section 1355‑A , participating in the taste‑testing event and purchased in the State at the retail price. The purveyor of spirits shall maintain and make available to the bureau a record of transactions under this subparagraph. [PL 2025, c. 230, Pt. A, §7 (NEW).] D. Spirits may be poured for the taste-testing event only by the owner or an employee of the agency liquor store, by a sales representative licensed under section 1502 or by the spirits supplier. [PL 2025, c. 230, Pt. A, §7 (NEW).] [PL 2025, c. 230, Pt. A, §7 (NEW).]

5. Mixed drinks. The purveyor of spirits licensee may provide mixed drinks containing spirits for a taste-testing event. [PL 2025, c. 230, Pt. A, §7 (NEW).]

6. Spirits containers used for taste-tasting events. Spirits containers that have been opened for a taste‑testing event must be resealed and stored in an area not accessible by the public after the taste‑testing event. [PL 2025, c. 230, Pt. A, §7 (NEW).]

7. Rules. The bureau may adopt rules to implement this section. Rules adopted pursuant to this subsection are routine technical rules as defined in Title 5, chapter 375, subchapter 2‑A . [PL 2025, c. 230, Pt. A, §7 (NEW).]
28-B M.R.S. § 704 — ME Code / Title 28-B / Chapter 1 / Section 704
28-B §704. Coordination with labeling and packaging rules for cannabis and cannabis products for medical use
Status: in_force

In adopting rules and regulating the labeling and packaging of adult use cannabis and adult use cannabis products under this subchapter, the office shall ensure that, when necessary and practicable, the regulation of the labeling and packaging of adult use cannabis and adult use cannabis products under this subchapter is consistent with the regulation of the labeling and packaging of cannabis and cannabis products for medical use under the Maine Medical Use of Cannabis Act. [PL 2023, c. 679, Pt. B, §131 (AMD).]
28-A M.R.S. § 1010-A — ME Code / Title 28-A / Part 3 / Chapter 41 / Section 1010-A
28-A §1010-A. Class VIII licenses
Status: in_force

1. Types of liquor that may be sold. A Class VIII licensee may sell malt liquor, wine and spirits to be consumed off the premises where sold. [PL 2011, c. 460, §2 (NEW).]

2. Fees. The fees for a Class VIII license are as follows: A. The initial fee for a Class VIII license is $2,000; [PL 2021, c. 658, §152 (RPR).] B. The annual renewal fee for a Class VIII license is $700; and [PL 2021, c. 658, §152 (RPR).] C. The fee to transfer a Class VIII license to a new owner of an agency liquor store in accordance with section 457 is $2,000. [PL 2021, c. 658, §152 (NEW).] [PL 2021, c. 658, §152 (RPR).]

3. Eligible premises. The following premises are eligible to obtain a Class VIII license: A. Agency liquor store licensees with a qualifying stock of groceries, compatible merchandise or a combination of both, as described in section 1201, subsections 6 and 7 . [PL 2021, c. 658, §153 (AMD).] [PL 2021, c. 658, §153 (AMD).]
28-A M.R.S. § 1464 — ME Code / Title 28-A / Part 3 / Chapter 57 / Section 1464
28-A §1464. Coverage
Status: in_force

The provisions of this chapter apply to agreements between certificate of approval holders and wholesale licensees in existence on September 16, 1979, and those entered into after that date. [PL 1987, c. 45, Pt. A, §4 (NEW).]
28-A M.R.S. § 2230 — ME Code / Title 28-A / Part 7 / Chapter 91 / Section 2230
28-A §2230. Abandonment of liquor
Status: in_force

The following provisions govern the procedures for handling abandoned liquor. [PL 1993, c. 730, §51 (NEW).]

1. Bureau as repository. Notwithstanding any other provisions of law, the bureau acts as a repository for all liquor found abandoned in this State. [PL 1993, c. 730, §51 (NEW).]

2. Procedure. A law enforcement agency that takes custody of abandoned liquor shall: A. Notify the bureau that the agency has taken custody of the abandoned liquor and forward to the bureau the reason for taking custody and a complete list of the quantities and types of liquor in the agency's custody the day the law enforcement agency takes custody or the next regular business day; and [PL 1993, c. 730, §51 (NEW).] B. Secure the liquor for a period of 30 days, after which time the agency shall transfer the liquor to the bureau for disposal. [PL 2013, c. 368, Pt. V, §55 (AMD).] [PL 2013, c. 368, Pt. V, §55 (AMD).]

3. Filing a claim. A person who wishes to file a claim for abandoned liquor must notify the bureau in writing within the 30-day period prescribed in subsection 2, paragraph B and identify the abandoned liquor. If a claim is not made within the 30-day period, the abandoned liquor becomes the property of the State. [PL 1993, c. 730, §51 (NEW).]
28-A M.R.S. § 1202 — ME Code / Title 28-A / Part 3 / Chapter 45 / Section 1202
28-A §1202.  Employment of minors
Status: in_force

1. Employees under 17. An employee under 17 years of age may not accept payment for the sale of malt liquor or wine at the check-out counter of an off-premises retail licensee's establishment. [PL 2021, c. 658, §211 (AMD).]

2. Employees who are 17. An employee who is at least 17 years of age but less than 21 years of age may accept payment only in the presence of an employee who is at least 21 years of age and is in a supervisory capacity. [PL 1997, c. 373, §108 (AMD).]
28-A M.R.S. § 461 — ME Code / Title 28-A / Part 2 / Chapter 19 / Section 461
28-A §461. Minimum stock requirement
Status: in_force

An agency liquor store shall maintain a minimum number of product codes in accordance with this section. For the purposes of this section, "product code" means a single spirit product purchased from the State or the State's wholesale distributor. [PL 2013, c. 269, Pt. C, §8 (AMD); PL 2013, c. 269, Pt. C, §13 (AFF).]

1. Store in municipality with population of 1,000 or more. An agency liquor store located in a municipality with a population of 1,000 or more shall have in stock, or on hand, a minimum of 100 different product codes. [PL 2011, c. 140, §1 (NEW).]

2. Store in municipality with population of 999 or less. An agency liquor store located in a municipality with a population of 999 or less shall have in stock, or on hand, a minimum of 50 different product codes. [PL 2011, c. 140, §1 (NEW).]
28-A M.R.S. § 1063-B — ME Code / Title 28-A / Part 3 / Chapter 43 / Section 1063-B
28-A §1063-B. Pool halls
Status: in_force

1. Issuance of licenses. The bureau may issue licenses under this section for the sale of malt liquor and wine for on-premises consumption to pool halls as defined in section 2, subsection 15, paragraph N‑1 . [PL 2021, c. 658, §181 (AMD).]

2. Minors prohibited on premises; exceptions. [PL 2003, c. 493, §11 (RP); PL 2003, c. 493, §14 (AFF).]

3. Smoking when minors are prohibited. [PL 2003, c. 493, §11 (RP); PL 2003, c. 493, §14 (AFF).]