12 M.R.S. § 13070 — ME Code / Title 12 / Part 13 / Chapter 935 / Section 13070
12 §13070. Operating airmobile
Status: in_force

1. No permission given. This chapter does not give license or permission to cross or go on the property of another. [PL 2003, c. 614, §9 (AFF); PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §382 (AMD); PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §422 (AFF).]

2. Stop and identify requirement. Persons operating an airmobile upon the land of another shall stop and identify themselves upon the request of the landowner or the landowner's representative. A person who violates this subsection commits a Class E crime. [PL 2025, c. 267, §2 (AMD).]

3. Restrictions. If restrictions on operation are posted on the land of another, a person operating an airmobile shall observe those restrictions. [PL 2003, c. 414, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 614, §9 (AFF).]

4. Operating airmobile upon public way. Except as provided in this subsection, a person may not operate an airmobile upon a public way. A. Properly registered airmobiles may cross public ways, including bridges, overpasses and underpasses. For crossing public ways, sidewalks and culverts, persons operating airmobiles may travel only the distance necessary, but in no case exceeding 300 yards, for the sole purpose of crossing as directly as possible. For crossing bridges, overpasses and underpasses, persons operating airmobiles may travel only the distance necessary, but in no case exceeding 500 yards, for the sole purpose of crossing as directly as possible. All crossings are subject to the following conditions: (1) The operator of the airmobile may cross public ways only if the crossing can be made safely and does not interfere with vehicular traffic approaching from either direction; (2) The operator of the airmobile shall dismount and lead the machine along the extreme right of the traveled way; and (3) The operator of the airmobile shall yield the right-of-way to all vehicular traffic. [PL 2003, c. 414, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 614, §9 (AFF).] B. The following penalties apply to violations of this subsection. (1) A person who violates this subsection commits a civil violation for which a fine of not less than $100 nor more than $500 may be adjudged. (2) A person who violates this subsection after having been adjudicated as having committed 3 or more civil violations under this Part within the previous 5-year period commits a Class E crime. [PL 2003, c. 614, §9 (AFF); PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §382 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §422 (AFF).] [PL 2003, c. 614, §9 (AFF); PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §382 (AMD); PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §422 (AFF).]

5. Failing to stop airmobile before entering public way. A person shall bring an airmobile to a complete stop before entering a public way. A. A person who violates this subsection commits a civil violation for which a fine of not less than $100 nor more than $500 may be adjudged. [PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §382 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §422 (AFF).] B. A person who violates this subsection after having been adjudicated as having committed 3 or more civil violations under this Part within the previous 5-year period commits a Class E crime. [PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §382 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §422 (AFF).] [PL 2003, c. 614, §9 (AFF); PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §382 (AMD); PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §422 (AFF).]

6. Failing to yield right-of-way while operating airmobile. A person shall yield the right-of-way to all vehicular traffic while operating an airmobile on a public way. A. A person who violates this subsection commits a civil violation for which a fine of not less than $100 nor more than $500 may be adjudged. [PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §382 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §422 (AFF).] B. A person who violates this subsection after having been adjudicated as having committed 3 or more civil violations under this Part within the previous 5-year period commits a Class E crime. [PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §382 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §422 (AFF).] [PL 2003, c. 614, §9 (AFF); PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §382 (AMD); PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §422 (AFF).]

7. Operating airmobile that exceeds noise limit. Airmobiles are subject to the following noise level limits. A. Except as provided in this paragraph, a person may not operate an airmobile that exceeds 78 decibels of sound pressure at 50 feet on the "A" scale, as measured by the Society of Automotive Engineers standards J-192. Airmobiles that are operating in a race approved by the commissioner under section 13061 may exceed this maximum noise level. [PL 2003, c. 414, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 614, §9 (AFF).] B. A person may not operate an airmobile in such a manner as to exceed: (1) A noise level of 90 decibels when subjected to a stationary sound level test with and without cutouts engaged and as prescribed by the commissioner; or (2) A noise level of 75 decibels when subjected to an operational test measured with and without cutouts engaged and as prescribed by the commissioner. [PL 2003, c. 614, §9 (AFF); PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §382 (AMD); PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §422 (AFF).] C. The following penalties apply to violations of this subsection. (1) A person who violates this subsection commits a civil violation for which a fine of not less than $300 nor more than $500 may be adjudged. (2) A person who violates this subsection after having been adjudicated as having committed 3 or more civil violations under this Part within the previous 5-year period commits a Class E crime. [PL 2003, c. 614, §9 (AFF); PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §382 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §422 (AFF).] [PL 2003, c. 614, §9 (AFF); PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §382 (AMD); PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §422 (AFF).]

8. Operating airmobile on railroad tracks. A person may not operate an airmobile along or adjacent and parallel to the tracks of any railroad within the limits of the railroad right-of-way without written permission from the railroad. A. A person who violates this subsection commits a civil violation for which a fine of not less than $100 nor more than $500 may be adjudged. [PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §382 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §422 (AFF).] B. A person who violates this subsection after having been adjudicated as having committed 3 or more civil violations under this Part within the previous 5-year period commits a Class E crime. [PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §382 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §422 (AFF).] [PL 2003, c. 614, §9 (AFF); PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §382 (AMD); PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §422 (AFF).]

9. Operating airmobile too close to certain buildings. [PL 2003, c. 614, §9 (AFF); PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §382 (RP); PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §422 (AFF).]

10. Operating airmobile too close to certain buildings. Except as provided in this subsection, a person may not operate an airmobile within 200 feet of a dwelling, hospital, nursing home, convalescent home or church. A. This subsection does not apply to a person operating an airmobile: (1) On public ways in accordance with subsections 4 , 5 , 6 and 7 ; (2) On the frozen surface of any body of water; and (3) On land that the operator owns or is permitted to use. [PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §382 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §422 (AFF).] B. The following penalties apply to violations of this subsection. (1) A person who violates this subsection commits a civil violation for which a fine of not less than $100 nor more than $500 may be adjudged. (2) A person who violates this subsection after having been adjudicated as having committed 3 or more civil violations under this Part within the previous 5-year period commits a Class E crime. [PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §382 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §422 (AFF).] [PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §382 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §422 (AFF).]
12 M.R.S. § 4655 — ME Code / Title 12 / Part 4 / Chapter 419 / Section 4655
12 §4655. Accounts
Status: in_force

The commission shall keep accurate accounts of all receipts and disbursements and shall report to the Governor and the Legislature of the State of Maine on or before the 10th day of December in each year, setting forth in detail the transactions conducted by it during the 12 months preceding December 1st of that year and shall make recommendations for any legislative action deemed by it advisable, including amendments to the statutes of the State of Maine which may be necessary to carry out the intent and purposes of the compact between the signatory states.

The State Auditor of the State of Maine is authorized and empowered from time to time to examine the accounts and books of the commission, including its receipts, disbursements and such other items referring to its financial standing as such auditor may deem proper and to report the results of such examination to the Governor.
12 M.R.S. § 10109 — ME Code / Title 12 / Part 13 / Chapter 903 / Section 10109
12 §10109. Acquisition and disposal of land
Status: in_force

1. Acquisition of land; wildlife management and public access. The commissioner may acquire property pursuant to this subsection for fish hatchery or fish feeding stations or wildlife management areas or public access sites. A. The commissioner may acquire in the name of the State, by gift, bequest or otherwise, real and personal property for the location, construction and convenient operation of a fish hatchery or fish feeding station or a wildlife management area or public access sites to inland or coastal waters. When acquiring land or interest in land for a wildlife management area or for a public access site, the commissioner shall examine options for obtaining public vehicular access rights to the land. If an acquisition is made that does not include guaranteed public vehicular access, the commissioner shall describe the acquisition in the annual report submitted pursuant to section 10103, subsection 11 and the justification for that acquisition. [PL 2003, c. 414, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 614, §9 (AFF).] B. The commissioner may purchase, lease or take and hold, for and on behalf of the State as for public uses, land and all materials in and upon it or any rights necessary for the purpose of establishing, erecting and operating fish hatcheries or fish feeding stations or wildlife management areas or public access sites to inland or coastal waters. [PL 2003, c. 614, §9 (AFF); PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §31 (AMD); PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §422 (AFF).] C. When the commissioner finds that a public need requires the taking of any land or rights for the purposes set out in this subsection, the commissioner shall cause the land or rights to be surveyed, located and described so that the land or rights can be located. [PL 2003, c. 414, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 614, §9 (AFF).] D. A plan of the land or rights must be filed and recorded in the registry of deeds where the land or rights are located. [PL 2003, c. 414, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 614, §9 (AFF).] E. The filing of the plan and description vests the title to the land and right in the State or its grantees, to be held at the pleasure of the State. [PL 2003, c. 414, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 614, §9 (AFF).] [PL 2003, c. 614, §9 (AFF); PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §31 (AMD); PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §422 (AFF).]

1-A. Acquisition of land; deer wintering areas. The commissioner shall identify areas that are important to the conservation of deer in northern, eastern and western Maine, and may acquire these lands, including with funds provided by the Land for Maine's Future Trust Fund or the Conservation and Recreation Fund in accordance with Title 5, section 6207 . These lands must be designated as wildlife management areas and managed with deer conservation as the highest management priority, and the commissioner shall ensure that appropriate deed restrictions are placed on the land that reflect these priorities. The commissioner shall also develop appropriate purchase and sale agreements that ensure that deer wintering areas on land to be acquired pursuant to this subsection are preserved as deer wintering areas prior to purchase. Beginning January 15, 2023 and annually thereafter, the department shall report to the joint standing committee of the Legislature having jurisdiction over inland fisheries and wildlife matters on the acquisition and management of deer wintering areas. [PL 2023, c. 284, §20 (AMD).]

2. Acquisition of land; state game farms. The commissioner may purchase suitable lands and erect buildings on those lands within this State necessary for the operation of state game farms for the propagation of wild animals and wild birds for restocking the woods and forests of the State. [PL 2003, c. 414, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 614, §9 (AFF).]

3. Compensation to landowners. The owners of property taken under this section must be compensated for that taking. A. The owners of property, either real or personal, taken by the commissioner under this section, are entitled to damages equal to the reasonable value of the property, as is provided when land is taken for highway purposes under Title 23, chapter 3 . [PL 2003, c. 414, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 614, §9 (AFF).] B. In the event of a disagreement over the value of property taken under this section, the reasonable value must be determined by the county commissioners of the county in which the land is situated, upon the written application of any interested party. [PL 2003, c. 414, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 614, §9 (AFF).] C. If any party in interest is aggrieved by the decision of the county commissioners under paragraph B rendered in conformity with this section, an appeal may be made to the Superior Court of the county in the same manner as is provided when land is taken by the State for highway purposes. [PL 2003, c. 414, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 614, §9 (AFF).] [PL 2003, c. 414, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 614, §9 (AFF).]

4. Unneeded property. The Governor, on recommendation of the commissioner, may sell and convey on behalf of the State the interests of the State in property taken or acquired by purchase under this Part and determined no longer necessary for the purposes of this Part. The commissioner, with the approval of the Governor, may lease these same properties. The proceeds from these sales or leases must be credited to the funds of the department. [PL 2003, c. 414, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 614, §9 (AFF).]

5. Transfer of property containing deer wintering habitat. Prior to final negotiations and legislative and administrative review of the sale of state-designated lands or an interest in designated lands that contain significant deer wintering habitat, the commissioner shall report to the joint standing committee of the Legislature having jurisdiction over conservation matters and the joint standing committee of the Legislature having jurisdiction over inland fisheries and wildlife matters regarding the proposed sale. For purposes of this section, "designated lands" has the same meaning as in section 598‑A . [PL 2011, c. 381, §4 (NEW).]
12 M.R.S. § 11854 — ME Code / Title 12 / Part 13 / Chapter 915 / Section 11854
12 §11854. Nest or eggs of wild birds
Status: in_force

A person may not take, possess or needlessly destroy the nest or eggs of a wild bird, except the English or European house sparrow, the rock pigeon, also known as the rock dove, and the European starling. A person who violates this section commits a Class E crime. [PL 2019, c. 355, §5 (AMD).]
12 M.R.S. § 11211 — ME Code / Title 12 / Part 13 / Chapter 915 / Section 11211
12 §11211. Unlawful use of firearm in Southport
Status: in_force

1. Prohibited act. A person may not use any firearm other than a shotgun in the Town of Southport or the islands within the confines of the Town of Southport. [PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §141 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §422 (AFF).]

2. Penalties. The following penalties apply to violations of this section. A. A person who violates subsection 1 commits a civil violation for which a fine of not less than $100 nor more than $500 may be adjudged. [PL 2007, c. 463, §5 (AMD).] B. A person who violates subsection 1 after having been adjudicated as having committed 3 or more civil violations under this Part within the previous 5-year period commits a Class E crime. [PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §141 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §422 (AFF).] [PL 2007, c. 463, §5 (AMD).]
12 M.R.S. § 1850 — ME Code / Title 12 / Part 2 / Chapter 220 / Section 1850
12 §1850. Acquisition of public reserved land
Status: reserved

1. Authority to acquire lands. With the consent of the Governor and the commissioner, the bureau may acquire lands or interests in lands on behalf of the State to be managed as public reserved lands. When acquiring land or interest in land, the bureau shall examine options for obtaining public vehicular access rights to the land. If an acquisition is made that does not include guaranteed public vehicular access, the bureau shall describe the acquisition in its annual report submitted pursuant to section 1853 and the justification for that acquisition. The bureau shall deliver to the State Archives within a reasonable period of time after their creation or acquisition the originals of all deeds, planbooks and surveyors' field and chainage notes, and any other materials the preservation of which it considers necessary, relating to the ownership, location and management of public reserved lands described in this subchapter. [PL 2001, c. 466, §6 (AMD); PL 2011, c. 657, Pt. W, §7 (REV); PL 2013, c. 405, Pt. A, §24 (REV).]

2. Public Reserved Lands Acquisition Fund. To accomplish the purposes of this subchapter, there is established the Public Reserved Lands Acquisition Fund. All income or proceeds received by the bureau from the sale, exchange or relocation of any public reserved lands must be recorded on the books in a separate account and must be deposited with the Treasurer of State to be credited to the Public Reserved Lands Acquisition Fund. Any interest earned on this money must also be credited to the fund. [PL 1997, c. 678, §13 (NEW); PL 2011, c. 657, Pt. W, §7 (REV); PL 2013, c. 405, Pt. A, §24 (REV).]

3. Expenditures of fund. All money credited to the fund must be used exclusively to purchase and assemble quantities of lands of sizes and locations that the director determines best fulfill the purposes of this subchapter. Lands acquired with this money are considered to be public reserved lands. The State shall hold and manage these lands subject to the same terms and conditions that apply to other public reserved lands. There is appropriated to pay for this property as much of the funds raised from income designated in subsection 2 and paid into the State Treasury as necessary to pay for the purchase of real property to be held and managed as public reserved lands. The director, with the prior approval of the Governor and the commissioner, shall authorize the State Controller to draw the director's warrant for such a purchase at any time. Any remaining balance must continue from year to year as a fund available only for the purposes of this section. [PL 1997, c. 678, §13 (NEW).]
12 M.R.S. § 6174 — ME Code / Title 12 / Part 9 / Chapter 607 / Section 6174
12 §6174. Rules as law; proof of rules; penalty
Status: in_force

1. Rules as law. All rules adopted by the commissioner have the force of law. [PL 2003, c. 248, §3 (AMD).]

2. Proof of rules. A certified copy of a rule is admissible in court to prove the rule and is prima facie evidence that the rule was properly adopted. A rule must be personally certified by the commissioner, deputy commissioner or Chief of the Bureau of Marine Patrol and must be accompanied by a signed statement that it was in force on the date of the alleged violation. The certified copy is admissible in evidence on the testimony of a marine patrol officer that the patrol officer received the certified rule after requesting it by telephone or otherwise from the department. No further foundation is necessary for the admission of the certified copy. [PL 2003, c. 248, §3 (AMD).]

3. Penalty. Whoever violates a rule commits a civil violation for which a fine of not less than $100 for each violation may be adjudged, unless another penalty is provided. [PL 2021, c. 168, §3 (AMD).]
12 M.R.S. § 6748-C — ME Code / Title 12 / Part 9 / Chapter 623 / Section 6748-C
12 §6748-C. Drags
Status: in_force

Except as provided in this section, it is unlawful for any person to fish for or take sea urchins using a drag, or any combination of drags, in any coastal waters of the State. [PL 1993, c. 740, §2 (NEW).]

1. Exception. The commissioner may adopt rules that allow the use of a drag that is designed to minimize impact on the benthic environment and harvested resources. Rules adopted by the commissioner under this section must describe the type of drag that may be used, including any limitations on type or size of drag components or limitations on the length or width of the drag. [PL 1993, c. 740, §2 (NEW).]
12 M.R.S. § 12804 — ME Code / Title 12 / Part 13 / Chapter 925 / Section 12804
12 §12804. Conservation of threatened and endangered species
Status: in_force

1. Conservation of threatened and endangered species. The commissioner may establish such programs as are necessary to bring any endangered or threatened species to the point where it is no longer endangered or threatened, including: A. Acquisition of land or aquatic habitat or interests in land or aquatic habitat; [PL 2003, c. 414, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 614, §9 (AFF).] B. Propagation; [PL 2003, c. 414, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 614, §9 (AFF).] C. Live trapping; [PL 2003, c. 414, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 614, §9 (AFF).] D. Transplantation. Prior to the transplantation, introduction or reintroduction of an endangered or threatened species in the State, the commissioner shall, in conjunction with the Department of Marine Resources, when appropriate, develop a recovery plan for that species, conduct a public hearing on that recovery plan pursuant to Title 5, Part 18 and submit that plan to the joint standing committee of the Legislature having jurisdiction over inland fisheries and wildlife matters. The introduction or reintroduction of that species must be conducted in accordance with the recovery plan developed under this paragraph and may not begin sooner than 90 days after all conditions of this paragraph have been met; and [PL 2009, c. 561, §34 (AMD).] E. In the extraordinary case where population pressures for a given species cannot be otherwise relieved, regulated taking. [PL 2025, c. 333, §14 (AMD).] [PL 2025, c. 333, §14 (AMD).]

2. Habitat. For species designated as endangered or threatened under this subchapter the commissioner may by rule identify areas currently or historically providing physical or biological features essential to the conservation of the species and that may require special management considerations. Rules adopted pursuant to this subsection are routine technical rules as defined in Title 5, chapter 375, subchapter 2‑A . [PL 2003, c. 614, §9 (AFF); PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §309 (AMD); PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §422 (AFF).]

3. Protection guidelines. The commissioner may by rule develop guidelines for the protection of species designated as endangered or threatened under this subchapter. Rules adopted pursuant to this subsection are routine technical rules as defined in Title 5, chapter 375, subchapter 2‑A . [PL 2003, c. 614, §9 (AFF); PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §309 (AMD); PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §422 (AFF).]

4. Annual report. [PL 2007, c. 651, §14 (RP).]

5. Confidential information. Specific information concerning the location of a threatened or endangered species or species of special concern is confidential if, in the judgment of the commissioner, disclosure of that information would threaten the continued existence of the threatened or endangered species or species of special concern. If the commissioner determines that information is confidential under this subsection, the commissioner may not disclose the information except to the landowner whose property is the location of the threatened or endangered species or species of special concern. [PL 2025, c. 333, §14 (AMD).]
12 M.R.S. § 12806 — ME Code / Title 12 / Part 13 / Chapter 925 / Section 12806
12 §12806. State and local cooperation
Status: in_force

1. Review. A state agency or municipal government may not permit, license, fund or carry out projects that will: A. Significantly alter the habitat identified under section 12804, subsection 2 of any species designated as threatened or endangered under this subchapter; or [PL 2003, c. 414, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 614, §9 (AFF).] B. Violate protection guidelines set forth in section 12804, subsection 3 . [PL 2003, c. 414, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 614, §9 (AFF).] The commissioner shall make information under section 12804 available to all other state agencies and municipal governments for the purposes of review. [PL 2003, c. 414, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 614, §9 (AFF).]

2. Variance. Notwithstanding subsection 1 , state agencies and municipal governments may grant a variance from this section provided that: A. The commissioner certifies that the proposed action would not pose a significant risk to any population of endangered or threatened species within the State; and [PL 2003, c. 414, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 614, §9 (AFF).] B. A public hearing is held on the proposed action. [PL 2003, c. 414, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 614, §9 (AFF).] [PL 2003, c. 414, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 614, §9 (AFF).]

3. Pending applications. Notwithstanding Title 1, section 302 , applications pending at the time of adoption of habitats and guidelines under section 12804, subsections 2 and 3 are governed by this section. [PL 2003, c. 414, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 614, §9 (AFF).]
12 M.R.S. § 8867-F — ME Code / Title 12 / Part 11 / Chapter 805 / Section 8867-F
12 §8867-F. Fee schedule
Status: in_force

The bureau shall establish a schedule of fees through rulemaking for the administration of sections 8867‑D and 8867‑E . Notwithstanding Title 5, section 8071, subsection 2, paragraph A , rules adopted pursuant to this section are routine technical rules as defined in Title 5, chapter 375, subchapter 2‑A . The bureau may not issue an approval, certificate, special exception or variance until the required fee has been paid. [PL 2011, c. 599, §6 (NEW).]
12 M.R.S. § 6172 — ME Code / Title 12 / Part 9 / Chapter 607 / Section 6172
12 §6172. Contaminated or polluted flats
Status: in_force

1. Commissioner's powers. The commissioner may examine the coastal waters and the intertidal zone and classify coastal waters or intertidal zone areas as closed if the commissioner determines that any marine organisms are or may become contaminated or polluted and may classify coastal waters or intertidal areas as open if the commissioner determines that the marine organisms no longer present a risk to public health. The commissioner may classify areas through text descriptions and maps as the commissioner determines necessary, setting forth standards for closure of contaminated or polluted areas and for opening areas determined to no longer present a risk to public health, giving consideration to established state water quality standards, the most recently adopted federal sanitation standards or other state or federal public health standards, the most recent generally accepted research data and known sources of pollution in any area, in a manner to protect the public health and safety while allowing reasonable use of the State's marine organisms. [PL 2011, c. 527, §2 (AMD).]

1-A. Federal waters. The commissioner may classify an area through text descriptions and maps to close waters under the jurisdiction of the Federal Government to the harvesting of a marine organism that the commissioner determines is or may become contaminated or polluted and to open waters under the jurisdiction of the Federal Government to the harvesting of marine organisms that the commissioner determines no longer present a risk to public health. [PL 2011, c. 527, §2 (AMD).]

1-B. Advisory council. [PL 2011, c. 527, §2 (RP).]

2. Emergency rules. [PL 2011, c. 527, §2 (RP).]

3. Repeal. [PL 2011, c. 527, §2 (RP).]

4. Procedure. [PL 2011, c. 527, §2 (RP).]

5. Private property; right of entry. The commissioner's authority to enter privately owned land or buildings to carry out the purposes of this section is prescribed as follows: A. The commissioner, upon presentation of credentials, may enter privately owned land at reasonable times with the owner's permission. If entry to the land is denied by the owner, the commissioner may seek a search warrant to inspect the land for sources of pollution under this section. A warrant may not be issued to search a domicile or residential building or ancillary structures; and [PL 1991, c. 242, §1 (NEW).] B. The commissioner may enter a privately owned domicile, building or structure only with the owner's permission and only in the presence of the owner or the owner's agent. [PL 1991, c. 242, §1 (NEW).] For the purposes of this subsection, "commissioner" means the Commissioner of Marine Resources or an employee of the department authorized by the commissioner to inspect coastal waters and intertidal zones for sources of pollution. [PL 1991, c. 242, §1 (NEW).]

6. Effective immediately upon signature. The classification of an area as open or closed under this section is effective immediately upon signature by the commissioner or the commissioner's authorized designee. [PL 2011, c. 527, §2 (NEW).]

7. Notification. Notification of the classification of a shellfish area as open or closed and any information concerning the opening or closing of a shellfish area under this section must be placed on the department’s publicly accessible website and must be provided to the municipal office of each municipality in the affected area and to the Bureau of Marine Patrol. [PL 2011, c. 527, §2 (NEW).]

8. Enforcement. Upon notification as described in subsection 7 , marine patrol officers shall take action to prevent the taking of shellfish from a closed area, including the embargo of contaminated shellfish under section 6856, subsection 6 and the arrest or summons of any person taking or attempting to take shellfish from an area classified as closed unless that person holds a valid depuration certificate pursuant to section 6856, subsection 3 . [PL 2011, c. 527, §2 (NEW).]
12 M.R.S. § 51-A — ME Code / Title 12 / Part 1 / Chapter 1 / Section 51-A
12 §51-A. Advisory council established
Status: in_force

The State Conservation District Advisory Council, as established by Title 5, section 12004‑I, subsection 68‑A , advises the commissioner on matters affecting the operations and responsibilities of soil and water conservation districts. The State Conservation District Advisory Council consists of one representative from each of the soil and water conservation districts. The president and vice-president of the Maine Association of Conservation Districts and the State Conservationist of the United States Department of Agriculture, Natural Resources Conservation Service shall serve as ex officio, nonvoting members. The president and vice-president of the Maine Association of Conservation Districts shall also serve as chair and vice-chair. The advisory council shall: [PL 1995, c. 532, §8 (NEW).]

1. Formulation of budget. Consult with the commissioner regarding the formulation of that part of the department's budget that pertains to the operations of the soil and water conservation districts; [PL 1995, c. 532, §8 (NEW).]

2. Procedures for election of supervisors. Advise the Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry on the appointment of soil and water conservation district supervisors and on procedures for the election of supervisors; [PL 1995, c. 532, §8 (NEW); PL 2011, c. 657, Pt. W, §5 (REV).]

3. Consult in areas of expertise. Regularly consult with the Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry on matters in which the soil and water conservation districts have individual or collective expertise, including agriculture, forestry, water quality, economic and community development and the protection of landowner rights; [PL 1995, c. 532, §8 (NEW); PL 2011, c. 657, Pt. W, §5 (REV).]

4. Distribution of grant money. Advise the department on procedures for the distribution of federal, state or private grant money that passes through the department and is intended for the work of soil and water conservation districts; and [PL 1995, c. 532, §8 (NEW).]

5. Conservation districts. Advise the department regarding the formation or discontinuance of soil and water conservation districts. [PL 1995, c. 532, §8 (NEW).]
12 M.R.S. § 11108 — ME Code / Title 12 / Part 13 / Chapter 915 / Section 11108
12 §11108. Hunting without license
Status: in_force

1. On certain land. Notwithstanding section 11109, subsection 1 as it applies to this subchapter, and subject to all other applicable laws and rules, a resident and a member of the resident's immediate family, as long as the hunter's license to hunt is not under suspension or revocation, may hunt without a license, including, but not limited to, a license to hunt with a firearm, an archery hunting license and a muzzle-loading permit, on a single plot of land: A. To which they are legally entitled to possession; [PL 2015, c. 494, Pt. A, §6 (RPR).] B. On which they are actually domiciled; and [PL 2025, c. 126, §1 (AMD).] C. [PL 2025, c. 126, §1 (RP).] D. That is 10 or more contiguous acres in size. [PL 2025, c. 126, §1 (AMD).] [PL 2025, c. 126, §1 (AMD).]

2. Junior hunters. [PL 2003, c. 614, §9 (AFF); PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §113 (RP); PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §422 (AFF).]

3. Allowing junior hunter to hunt without adult supervision. [PL 2003, c. 614, §9 (AFF); PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §113 (RP); PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §422 (AFF).]

4. Expiration of junior hunting license. [PL 2003, c. 614, §9 (AFF); PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §113 (RP); PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §422 (AFF).]

5. Hunting assistance. A person may assist in a hunt without a license or permit for that activity as long as that person does not carry hunting equipment or engage in driving deer as described in section 11453 . [PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §113 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §422 (AFF).]
12 M.R.S. § 12808-A — ME Code / Title 12 / Part 13 / Chapter 925 / Section 12808-A
12 §12808-A. Authorized activities regarding endangered or threatened species
Status: in_force

Notwithstanding section 12808 and notwithstanding section 10650 as it applies to rules adopted in accordance with this subchapter, the commissioner may authorize certain activities regarding endangered or threatened species in accordance with the following. [PL 2015, c. 423, §2 (NEW).]

1. Education, research, conservation and transportation. Under such terms and conditions as the commissioner prescribes, the commissioner may: A. Authorize an act prohibited by section 12808 or by rule for educational or scientific purposes or to enhance the recovery or survival of an endangered or threatened species; and [PL 2015, c. 423, §2 (NEW).] B. Authorize a person to transport without restriction but in accordance with the terms of any federal or state permit an endangered or threatened species into, within or out of the State. [PL 2015, c. 423, §2 (NEW).] [PL 2015, c. 423, §2 (NEW).]

2. Specific activity; incidental take plan. Under such terms and conditions as the commissioner prescribes, the commissioner may authorize a person to take an endangered or threatened species pursuant to an incidental take plan if: A. The taking is incidental to, and not the purpose of, carrying out an otherwise lawful activity; [PL 2015, c. 423, §2 (NEW).] B. The taking will not impair the recovery of any endangered or threatened species; and [PL 2015, c. 423, §2 (NEW).] C. The person develops and implements an incidental take plan in accordance with subsection 5 and that plan is approved by the commissioner. The commissioner may modify or waive the requirement under this paragraph if the commissioner determines the criteria in subsection 5 are substantially addressed in another permit, license or agreement. [PL 2015, c. 423, §2 (NEW).] The commissioner shall seek input from knowledgeable individuals or groups on each proposed incidental take plan developed under this subsection. If the person violates any of the terms or conditions of an authorization granted pursuant to this subsection, the authorization must be immediately suspended or revoked and the person is subject to the prohibitions and penalties in section 12808 for that violation. [PL 2015, c. 423, §2 (NEW).]

3. Widespread activity; incidental take plan. Under such terms and conditions as the commissioner prescribes, the commissioner may authorize the taking of an endangered or threatened species pursuant to a widespread activity incidental take plan developed by the commissioner in accordance with subsection 5 if: A. The taking is incidental to, and not the purpose of, carrying out an otherwise lawful activity; [PL 2015, c. 423, §2 (NEW).] B. The taking will not impair the recovery of any endangered or threatened species; and [PL 2015, c. 423, §2 (NEW).] C. The commissioner determines that the activity is widespread, is conducted by a reasonably identifiable group of participants and poses a manageable risk of taking an endangered or threatened species. [PL 2015, c. 423, §2 (NEW).] The commissioner shall hold at least one public hearing and seek input from knowledgeable individuals or groups on each proposed incidental take plan developed under this subsection. If a person violates any of the terms or conditions of an authorization granted pursuant to this subsection, the authorization must be immediately suspended or revoked for that person and that person is subject to the prohibitions and penalties in section 12808 for that violation. [PL 2015, c. 423, §2 (NEW).]

4. Broad activity exemption. The commissioner may adopt rules to provide an exemption, under such terms and conditions as the commissioner determines necessary, for a specific activity otherwise prohibited by section 12808 , if the commissioner determines the exemption: A. Addresses a specific activity that is widespread in its occurrence but may not have a reasonably identifiable group of participants; [PL 2015, c. 423, §2 (NEW).] B. Poses little or no risk of taking an endangered or threatened species; and [PL 2015, c. 423, §2 (NEW).] C. Will not individually or cumulatively impair the recovery of any endangered or threatened species. [PL 2015, c. 423, §2 (NEW).] The commissioner shall hold at least one public hearing and seek input from knowledgeable individuals or groups on each proposed rule to provide a broad activity exemption. Rules adopted pursuant to this subsection are routine technical rules as defined in Title 5, chapter 375, subchapter 2‑A . [PL 2015, c. 423, §2 (NEW).]

5. Incidental take plan criteria. The commissioner may approve or adopt an incidental take plan developed pursuant to subsection 2 or 3 that minimizes the incidental taking of an endangered or threatened species and that provides the following: A. A description of the specific activities sought to be authorized by the incidental take plan and an analysis of potential alternatives; [PL 2015, c. 423, §2 (NEW).] B. The individual and cumulative effects that may reasonably be anticipated to result from the proposed actions covered by the incidental take plan; [PL 2015, c. 423, §2 (NEW).] C. The recovery measures the applicant will implement to prevent, minimize and mitigate the individual and cumulative effects and any provisions that are necessary to prevent, minimize and mitigate circumstances that are likely to impair the recovery of any endangered or threatened species covered by the incidental take plan; [PL 2015, c. 423, §2 (NEW).] D. The procedures for monitoring the effectiveness of the recovery measures in the incidental take plan; [PL 2015, c. 423, §2 (NEW).] E. The anticipated costs of implementing the incidental take plan and the availability of necessary funding for the applicant to implement the plan; and [PL 2015, c. 423, §2 (NEW).] F. Other modifications to the incidental take plan or additional measures, if any, that the commissioner may require and such other matters as the commissioner determines to be necessary for the recovery of species consistent with this section. [PL 2015, c. 423, §2 (NEW).] [PL 2015, c. 423, §2 (NEW).]
12 M.R.S. § 6651 — ME Code / Title 12 / Part 9 / Chapter 623 / Section 6651
12 §6651. Shellfish Fund
Status: in_force

1. Surcharge fees to be paid into fund. In addition to the applicable license fees for shellfish licenses, mussel hand-raking and boat licenses, shellfish transportation licenses and wholesale seafood licenses, the commissioner shall assess the following surcharge fees, which must be deposited into the Shellfish Fund: A. Seventy-four dollars and seventy-five cents for a commercial shellfish license; [PL 2017, c. 284, Pt. EEEEE, §16 (AMD).] B. One hundred forty-nine dollars and fifty cents for a mussel boat license; [PL 2017, c. 284, Pt. EEEEE, §16 (AMD).] C. Seventy-four dollars and seventy-five cents for a mussel hand-raking license; [PL 2017, c. 284, Pt. EEEEE, §16 (AMD).] D. Two hundred ninety-nine dollars for a shellfish transportation license; [PL 2017, c. 284, Pt. EEEEE, §16 (AMD).] E. Ninety-seven dollars and fifty cents for a shellfish transportation supplemental license; [PL 2017, c. 284, Pt. EEEEE, §16 (AMD).] F. Two hundred fifty dollars and twenty-five cents for a wholesale seafood license; [PL 2017, c. 284, Pt. EEEEE, §16 (AMD).] G. Forty-eight dollars and seventy-five cents for a wholesale seafood supplemental license; and [PL 2017, c. 284, Pt. EEEEE, §16 (AMD).] H. Twenty-eight dollars for an enhanced retail certificate. [PL 2017, c. 284, Pt. EEEEE, §16 (AMD).] The Shellfish Fund may receive any other money, including any other gift, grant or other source of revenue. [PL 2017, c. 284, Pt. EEEEE, §16 (AMD).]

1-A. Additional fees to be paid into fund. Any fees collected pursuant to section 6072, subsection 13, paragraph I must be deposited into the Shellfish Fund. [PL 2021, c. 52, §19 (NEW).]

2. Uses of fund. The commissioner may expend the money in the Shellfish Fund for management, enforcement, restoration, development and conservation of shellfish and mussels in the intertidal zone or coastal waters and for the costs associated with the Shellfish Advisory Council established by Title 5, section 12004‑I, subsection 57‑G . [PL 2007, c. 606, Pt. A, §3 (AMD).]

3. Nonlapsing fund. The Shellfish Fund shall not lapse. [PL 1977, c. 661, §5 (NEW).]
12 M.R.S. § 12952 — ME Code / Title 12 / Part 13 / Chapter 931 / Section 12952
12 §12952. Taxidermy; general provisions
Status: in_force

1. Definitions. As used in this chapter, unless the context otherwise indicates, the following terms have the following meanings. A. "Board" means the Advisory Board for the Licensing of Taxidermists established by Title 5, section 12004‑I, subsection 23‑A . [PL 2003, c. 414, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 614, §9 (AFF).] [PL 2003, c. 414, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 614, §9 (AFF).]

2. Permitted activities. The holder of a taxidermist license may: A. Possess, at the licensee's place of business, lawfully acquired fish or wildlife specimens for the sole purpose of preparing and mounting them, including skull mounts; [PL 2013, c. 408, §22 (AMD).] B. Transport lawfully acquired fish and wildlife specimens to and from the licensee's place of business; [PL 2003, c. 414, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 614, §9 (AFF).] C. Sell lawfully acquired specimens of fish and wildlife that have been preserved through the art of taxidermy if that sale does not violate regulations of the federal Migratory Bird Treaty Act or other federal regulations; [PL 2003, c. 414, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 614, §9 (AFF).] D. Designate others to aid or assist in conducting business at the licensee's place of business; and [PL 2003, c. 414, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 614, §9 (AFF).] E. Buy, sell or barter raw, untanned hides or heads of wild animals. [PL 2003, c. 414, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 614, §9 (AFF).] [PL 2013, c. 408, §22 (AMD).]

2-A. Record-keeping requirements. The following provisions apply to keeping and filing records. A. The holder of a taxidermist license shall: (1) Keep a true and complete record, in such form as required by the commissioner, of all activities conducted by virtue of the taxidermist license; (2) File a copy of the record with the commissioner no later than 10 days after the end of the year during which the license is valid; and (3) Retain a record of taxidermy work completed for a period of 4 years after the date of completion of the work. [PL 2015, c. 301, §41 (AMD).] B. The following penalties apply to violations of this subsection. (1) A person who violates this subsection commits a civil violation for which a fine of not less than $100 nor more than $500 may be adjudged. (2) A person who violates this subsection after having been adjudicated as having committed 3 or more civil violations under this Part within the previous 5-year period commits a Class E crime. Each day a person violates this subsection is a separate offense. [PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §343 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §422 (AFF).] [PL 2015, c. 301, §41 (AMD).]

3. Records inspection. Records retained under subsection 2‑A must be open for inspection by any agent of the commissioner during normal business hours for the period the person holds a taxidermist license and 30 days after the effective date of a revocation or the expiration of that license. [PL 2015, c. 301, §42 (AMD).]

4. Competency standards. The commissioner shall establish standards of competency for the practice of taxidermy and shall provide a copy of these standards to each applicant for a taxidermy license. [PL 2003, c. 414, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 614, §9 (AFF).]

5. Rules. The commissioner may, pursuant to the Maine Administrative Procedure Act, adopt rules to implement the provisions of this section. Rules adopted pursuant to this subsection are routine technical rules as defined in Title 5, chapter 375, subchapter 2‑A . [PL 2003, c. 614, §9 (AFF); PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §345 (AMD); PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §422 (AFF).]
12 M.R.S. § 6804 — ME Code / Title 12 / Part 9 / Chapter 623 / Section 6804
12 §6804. Northern shrimp license
Status: in_force

1. License required. A person may not engage in the activities authorized under this section without a current: A. Resident commercial northern shrimp license; [PL 2003, c. 452, Pt. F, §25 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 452, Pt. X, §2 (AFF).] B. Resident with crew commercial northern shrimp license; [PL 2025, c. 244, §4 (AMD).] C. Nonresident with crew commercial northern shrimp license; or [PL 2025, c. 244, §4 (AMD).] D. Resident noncommercial northern shrimp license. [PL 2025, c. 244, §4 (NEW).] [PL 2025, c. 244, §4 (AMD).]

2. Licensed activities. Except as limited pursuant to subsection 2‑A : A. A holder of a commercial northern shrimp license may fish for or take northern shrimp or possess, ship, transport or sell northern shrimp that the license holder has taken. A license issued under subsection 7, paragraph B or C also authorizes unlicensed crew members aboard the vessel declared by the license holder to engage in these activities; and [PL 2025, c. 244, §4 (NEW).] B. A holder of a resident noncommercial northern shrimp license may fish for or take northern shrimp or possess, ship or transport northern shrimp that the license holder has taken. [PL 2025, c. 244, §4 (NEW).] [PL 2025, c. 244, §4 (AMD).]

2-A. Commercial licenses limited. The commissioner may establish by rule a system to limit the number of commercial northern shrimp licenses issued under this section when the total allowable catch for northern shrimp established for Maine by the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission is less than 2,000 metric tons. Rules adopted pursuant to this subsection are routine technical rules as defined in Title 5, chapter 375, subchapter 2‑A . Prior to initiating rulemaking, the commissioner shall consult with members of the northern shrimp industry, including individuals who are eligible to obtain a license that allows fishing for or taking northern shrimp and holders of a license or permit issued under chapter 625 that allows wholesale or retail activity involving northern shrimp. The commissioner shall provide a report regarding management of the northern shrimp resource and the northern shrimp fishing industry to the joint standing committee of the Legislature having jurisdiction over marine resources matters by January 15th of the year following a year in which the commissioner limited the number of licenses issued under this section. The joint standing committee may report out legislation to the session of the Legislature in which the report was received regarding management of the northern shrimp resource or the northern shrimp fishing industry. [PL 2025, c. 244, §4 (AMD).]

3. Commercial license holder boat declaration. The commercial license holder shall declare the name of the vessel to be used for fishing under the commercial northern shrimp license at the time of application for the license and may not change that declaration during the license year unless the original vessel is sold and replaced, has been damaged and will be under repair for not less than one month or has been destroyed or lost. [PL 2025, c. 244, §4 (AMD).]

4. Reporting. [PL 2003, c. 520, §11 (RP).]

5. Exemption. [PL 2025, c. 244, §4 (RP).]

6. Eligibility. A commercial northern shrimp license may be issued only to an individual. [PL 2003, c. 248, §10 (AMD).]

7. Fees. Fees for the northern shrimp license are as follows: A. Thirty-eight dollars for a resident commercial license that authorizes the license holder to engage in the licensed activities under subsection 2, paragraph A ; [PL 2025, c. 244, §4 (AMD).] B. One hundred three dollars for a resident commercial license that authorizes the license holder and crew members to engage in the licensed activities under subsection 2, paragraph A ; [PL 2025, c. 244, §4 (AMD).] C. Three hundred eighty-five dollars for a nonresident commercial license that authorizes the license holder and crew members to engage in the licensed activities under subsection 2, paragraph A ; and [PL 2025, c. 244, §4 (AMD).] D. Twenty dollars for a resident noncommercial license that authorizes the license holder to engage in the licensed activities under subsection 2, paragraph B . [PL 2025, c. 244, §4 (NEW).] [PL 2025, c. 244, §4 (AMD).]

8. Disposition of fees. Fees for northern shrimp licenses must be deposited in the Shrimp Management Fund established in section 6805 as follows: A. Thirty-three dollars for a resident commercial license that authorizes the license holder to engage in the licensed activities under subsection 2, paragraph A ; [PL 2025, c. 244, §4 (AMD).] B. Eighty-nine dollars for a resident commercial license that authorizes the license holder and crew members to engage in the licensed activities under subsection 2, paragraph A ; [PL 2025, c. 244, §4 (AMD).] C. Three hundred thirty-four dollars for a nonresident commercial license that authorizes the license holder and crew members to engage in the licensed activities under subsection 2, paragraph A ; and [PL 2025, c. 244, §4 (AMD).] D. Twenty dollars for a resident noncommercial license that authorizes the license holder to engage in the licensed activities under subsection 2, paragraph A . [PL 2025, c. 244, §4 (NEW).] [PL 2025, c. 244, §4 (AMD).]

9. Violation. A person who violates this section commits a civil violation for which a fine of not less than $100 nor more than $500 may be adjudged. [PL 2003, c. 248, §10 (AMD).] Revisor's Note: §6804. Seaweed Management Fund (As enacted by PL 1999, c. 501, §4 is REALLOCATED TO TITLE 12, SECTION 6806)
12 M.R.S. § 1804 — ME Code / Title 12 / Part 2 / Chapter 220 / Section 1804
12 §1804. Powers and duties of the director
Status: reserved

The director shall exercise the powers of the bureau and is responsible for the execution of its duties. The director, when appointed or while in office, may not be directly or indirectly concerned in the acquisition of any interest in land owned by the State or any of its political subdivisions except in an official capacity. In exercising powers and duties, the director shall: [PL 1997, c. 678, §13 (NEW); PL 2011, c. 657, Pt. W, §7 (REV); PL 2013, c. 405, Pt. A, §24 (REV).]

1. Administration. Administer all functions of the bureau, including, but not limited to, the management of state parks and historic sites, public reserved lands, nonreserved public lands, submerged lands, intertidal lands and the Allagash Wilderness Waterway, and adopt methods of administration that are determined necessary to render the office efficient; [PL 2015, c. 267, Pt. X, §1 (AMD).]

2. Classification of lands. Set apart and classify as parks or historic sites within the meaning of this chapter areas of land in this State including improvements or other structures thereon, title to which has been acquired under lawful authority. The provisions of subchapter II apply specifically to lands classified as state parks or historic sites. The director shall set apart and classify as public reserved lands or nonreserved public lands within the meaning of this chapter areas of land in this State, including improvements or other structures thereon, title to which has been acquired under lawful authority. The provisions of subchapters III and IV apply specifically to lands classified as public reserved lands or nonreserved public lands; [PL 1997, c. 678, §13 (NEW).]

3. Acceptance of funds. Accept donations, gifts, grants and bequests of money or other personal property to be used in advancing recreational, educational, conservation, land acquisition and land management purposes in state parks, historic sites, submerged and intertidal lands, public reserved lands and nonreserved public lands. All money received from donations, gifts, bequests and grants must be deposited in nonlapsing, dedicated accounts according to the specified purposes and intents of the donors or grantors. The funds are subject to allocation by the Legislature; [PL 1997, c. 678, §13 (NEW).]

4. Surplus property. Sell storehouses and other structures and fixtures that are surplus to the needs of the bureau; [PL 2001, c. 604, §4 (AMD); PL 2011, c. 657, Pt. W, §7 (REV); PL 2013, c. 405, Pt. A, §24 (REV).]

5. Bureau budget. Prepare and submit to the commissioner the budget for the bureau; [PL 2019, c. 110, §1 (AMD).]

6. Restrictions on public access. Post notice of any restrictions to public access at points commonly used to access the land or at a facility or structure where such rules and notices are regularly posted. The director may restrict public access to any portion of the land or waters within the bureau's jurisdiction when the restrictions reasonably relate to protecting public health, safety or welfare or the economic interests or natural resources of the State; and [PL 2019, c. 110, §2 (AMD).]

7. Minimum staffing levels. Determine minimum levels of staffing for all state parks, except Baxter State Park, and historic sites and national parks that are controlled and managed by the State. When making a determination of staffing levels under this subsection, the director shall consider for each park and historic site the following: A. Visitor capacity limits; [PL 2019, c. 110, §3 (NEW).] B. Historical data regarding visitor use; [PL 2019, c. 110, §3 (NEW).] C. Availability of local emergency response services; [PL 2019, c. 110, §3 (NEW).] D. If local emergency response services are used, response time of emergency response; [PL 2019, c. 110, §3 (NEW).] E. Distance to medical services; [PL 2019, c. 110, §3 (NEW).] F. Communication capacity of staff to summon emergency response services or assistance; [PL 2019, c. 110, §3 (NEW).] G. Relative to emergency response, training and authority levels of staff; [PL 2019, c. 110, §3 (NEW).] H. Emergency planning issues specific to a park or historic site; [PL 2019, c. 110, §3 (NEW).] I. Historical record of emergency response incidents and near misses; and [PL 2019, c. 110, §3 (NEW).] J. Historical record of severe weather emergencies. [PL 2019, c. 110, §3 (NEW).] For purposes of this subsection, historical data must include 10 years of data at a minimum. [PL 2019, c. 110, §3 (NEW).]
12 M.R.S. § 598-C — ME Code / Title 12 / Part 2 / Chapter 202-D / Section 598-C
12 §598-C. Process for determination of reduction or substantially altered use of designated land
Status: in_force

The Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry, Bureau of Parks and Lands shall adopt rules to establish an objective evaluation process for determining if a proposed activity on land designated under this chapter and under the jurisdiction of the bureau would cause the land to be reduced or the uses of the land to be substantially altered. In the case of a high‑impact electric transmission line crossing or utilizing such land or a portion of such land that is a rail trail or recreational corridor or land of similar configuration, as determined by the bureau, the rules must include criteria for determining that the high‑impact electric transmission line would not cause the land to be reduced or the uses of the land to be substantially altered. In adopting the rules, the bureau shall observe the requirements relating to designated lands in the Constitution of Maine, Article IX, Section 23 and ensure proper exercise of the bureau's public trust responsibility. These rules must also include provisions for public notice and comment before authorizing any such activity and for determining the appropriate instrument to be used to authorize that activity, including but not limited to whether an easement, lease, license or other instrument should be used. Rules adopted pursuant to this section are major substantive rules as defined in Title 5, chapter 375, subchapter 2‑A . [PL 2023, c. 644, §1 (AMD).]
12 M.R.S. § 9205 — ME Code / Title 12 / Part 11 / Chapter 807 / Section 9205
12 §9205. Payment of costs beyond 1/4 of 1% of state valuation
Status: in_force

All forest fire suppression costs in municipalities in an amount greater than 1/4 of 1% of the state valuation of the municipality in which the fire occurred, excluding any costs for use or loss of that municipality's municipally owned equipment, must be paid by the State on a calendar year basis. Any municipality, in order to pay labor quickly, may pay beyond 1/4 of 1% of its state valuation and submit for full state reimbursement or forward the unpaid bills, approved by the state forest ranger in charge, for payment. [PL 1991, c. 780, Pt. MM, §2 (AMD).]
12 M.R.S. § 6404-C — ME Code / Title 12 / Part 9 / Chapter 617 / Section 6404-C
12 §6404-C. Suspension based on conviction of sea urchin fishing in zone for which person is not licensed
Status: in_force

The commissioner shall suspend the sea urchin fishing license of any license holder convicted in court of violating section 6749-P . The suspension must be for one year from the date of conviction. [PL 1999, c. 244, §1 (NEW).]
12 M.R.S. § 12601 — ME Code / Title 12 / Part 13 / Chapter 923 / Section 12601
12 §12601. Rule violations; open-water fishing or ice fishing
Status: in_force

1. Civil violations. Notwithstanding section 10650 , a person who violates a rule regulating open-water fishing or ice fishing, except a rule implementing a statute the violation of which is a Class E crime, commits a civil violation for which a fine of not less than $100 nor more than $500 may be adjudged. [PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §266 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §422 (AFF).]

2. Crime. A person who violates a rule regulating open-water fishing or ice fishing, except a rule implementing a statute the violation of which is a Class E crime, after having been adjudicated as having committed 3 or more civil violations under this Part within the previous 5-year period commits a Class E crime. [PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §266 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §422 (AFF).]
12 M.R.S. § 6732 — ME Code / Title 12 / Part 9 / Chapter 623 / Section 6732
12 §6732. Other quahogs
Status: in_force

1. License required. A person may not engage in the activities authorized under this section without a current commercial shellfish license or other license issued under this Part authorizing the activities. [PL 2005, c. 434, §8 (AMD).]

2. Licensed activities. The holder of a commercial shellfish license may fish for or take quahogs, other than mahogany quahogs, or possess or transport quahogs within the state limits or sell quahogs the holder has taken to a wholesale seafood license holder certified under section 6856 . [PL 2005, c. 434, §8 (AMD).]

3. Violation. A person who violates this section commits a civil violation for which a forfeiture of not less than $100 nor more than $500 may be adjudged. [PL 2001, c. 421, Pt. B, §43 (NEW); PL 2001, c. 421, Pt. C, §1 (AFF).]
12 M.R.S. § 1897 — ME Code / Title 12 / Part 2 / Chapter 220 / Section 1897
12 §1897. Fees
Status: in_force

The director may charge reasonable fees for the services provided under this subchapter. Such fees must be used to supervise and manage public facilities for boats. The director may set aside no more than 10% of those fees per year as a reserve fund for repairs and maintenance of those facilities and for marking the waters where in the director's judgment a hazard to boating exists. [PL 1997, c. 678, §13 (NEW).]

When it is essential for public safety, the director may prepare, print and distribute navigation charts and publications and may charge a reasonable fee for them. [PL 1997, c. 678, §13 (NEW).]

When it is in the State's best interest, the director may charge reasonable amounts for the actual costs of providing materials and services associated with the construction and repair of boating facilities. [PL 1997, c. 678, §13 (NEW).]
12 M.R.S. § 6575 — ME Code / Title 12 / Part 9 / Chapter 621 / Section 6575
12 §6575. Open season; elver harvesting
Status: in_force

1. Open season. It is unlawful for a person to fish for or take elvers within the waters of the State except during the open season from noon on March 22nd to noon on June 7th. [PL 2015, c. 391, §9 (AMD).]

1-A. Federally recognized Indian tribes; violation. It is unlawful for a person to fish for or take elvers in violation of rules adopted by the commissioner under section 6302-B, subsection 4 . [PL 2015, c. 391, §10 (NEW).]

2. Setting nets and traps. It is unlawful for a person to immerse or leave immersed an elver fyke net or a Sheldon eel trap in any river, stream or brook of the waters of the State at any time other than the open season for elver fishing. [PL 1999, c. 7, §7 (AMD).]

3. Locating nets. It is unlawful for a person to designate or claim by any means a location in which to set an elver fyke net or a Sheldon eel trap at any time other than the open season for elver fishing. [PL 1999, c. 7, §7 (AMD).]

4. Nets of certain sizes. [PL 1999, c. 7, §7 (RP).]

5. Violation. A person who violates this section commits a Class D crime for which a fine of $2,000 must be imposed, none of which may be suspended. Violation of this section is a strict liability crime as defined in Title 17-A, section 34, subsection 4-A . [PL 2013, c. 49, §11 (NEW).]
12 M.R.S. § 6173 — ME Code / Title 12 / Part 9 / Chapter 607 / Section 6173
12 §6173. Confidentiality of statistics
Status: in_force

1. Collection and reporting of statistics. The commissioner may, with the advice and consent of the advisory council, adopt rules to collect pertinent data with respect to the fisheries, including, but not limited to, information regarding the type and quantity of fishing gear used, catch by species in numbers of fish or weight, areas in which fishing was conducted, time of fishing, number of hauls and the estimated processing capacity of, and the actual processing capacity utilized by United States fish processors. The commissioner may collect statistics from any source and may require reporting of these statistics. The information collected by or reported to the commissioner is confidential and may not be disclosed in a manner or form that permits identification of any person or vessel, except when required by court order or when specifically permitted under this section. The commissioner may share data collected under this section with the National Marine Fisheries Service or successor organization for research or fisheries management purposes as long as federal laws and regulations protect the confidentiality of the shared data. The commissioner may share landings data collected under this subsection with the Bureau of Marine Patrol when necessary for the enforcement of reporting requirements under this section. The commissioner shall adopt rules to carry out the purposes of this section. Rules adopted under this section are routine technical rules pursuant to Title 5, chapter 375, subchapter 2‑A . [PL 2013, c. 49, §1 (AMD).]

2. Renewal of licenses. If a holder of a license issued under this Part fails to provide information required under this section, the commissioner may refuse to renew that holder's license until the holder complies with the requirements of this section. [PL 2003, c. 170, §1 (NEW).]

3. Equipment required. The commissioner may require a person licensed under chapter 625 to purchase specific equipment that is necessary to comply with rules regarding electronic reporting adopted pursuant to this section as a condition of engaging in the licensed activities. [PL 2015, c. 201, §1 (NEW).]

4. Reimbursement for equipment provided. If the holder of a license issued under chapter 625 fails to pay a fee or charge for equipment that is necessary to comply with rules regarding electronic reporting adopted pursuant to this section and that was provided by the department and either not returned to the department by the license holder or returned in poor condition, the commissioner may refuse to renew or issue any marine resources license or permit to that license holder. [PL 2015, c. 201, §1 (NEW).]
12 M.R.S. § 6301 — ME Code / Title 12 / Part 9 / Chapter 615 / Section 6301
12 §6301. General provisions
Status: in_force

1. Resident license. Any individual who has been domiciled in Maine for the 6 months preceding the date of application is eligible for a resident license. A corporation is eligible for a resident license if it has been created and exists under the laws of Maine and it has existed in Maine during the 6 months preceding the date of application. A firm or partnership is eligible if all of its officers or partners have been domiciled in Maine for the 6 months preceding the date of application. For the purposes of this chapter, a resident is a person who: A. If registered to vote, is registered in Maine; [PL 1991, c. 692 (NEW).] B. If licensed to drive a motor vehicle, has made application for a Maine motor vehicle operator's license; [PL 1991, c. 692 (NEW).] C. If the owner of one or more motor vehicles located within the State, has registered at least one of the motor vehicles in Maine; and [PL 1991, c. 692 (NEW).] D. If required to file a Maine income tax return on the previous April 15th, filed a Maine income tax return. [PL 1991, c. 692 (NEW).] [PL 1991, c. 692 (AMD).]

2. Expiration. A license or certificate issued by the commissioner expires on December 31st of the year in which it is issued, except that: A. A depuration certificate issued under section 6856 expires on April 30th of each year; [PL 1993, c. 80, §1 (NEW).] B. A shellfish license issued under section 6601 expires on April 30th of each year; [PL 1993, c. 497, §1 (AMD).] C. A marine worm digger's license issued under section 6751 expires on April 30th of each year; [PL 1995, c. 492, §1 (AMD).] D. A shellfish sanitation certificate issued under section 6856 expires on March 31st of each year; [PL 2021, c. 168, §4 (AMD).] E. A marine worm dealer's license issued under section 6853 expires on March 31st of each year; [PL 1995, c. 492, §3 (NEW); PL 1995, c. 492, §5 (AFF).] F. A marine worm dealer's supplemental license issued under section 6853 expires on March 31st of each year; [PL 1995, c. 492, §3 (NEW); PL 1995, c. 492, §5 (AFF).] G. A retail seafood license issued under section 6852 expires on March 31st of each year; [PL 1995, c. 492, §3 (NEW); PL 1995, c. 492, §5 (AFF).] H. A wholesale seafood license with a lobster permit issued under section 6851 expires on March 31st of each year; [PL 1995, c. 492, §3 (NEW); PL 1995, c. 492, §5 (AFF).] I. A wholesale seafood license issued under section 6851 expires on March 31st of each year; [PL 1995, c. 492, §3 (NEW); PL 1995, c. 492, §5 (AFF).] J. A wholesale seafood license with a sea urchin buyer's permit issued under section 6851 expires on March 31st of each year; [PL 1995, c. 492, §3 (NEW); PL 1995, c. 492, §5 (AFF).] K. A wholesale seafood license with a sea urchin processor's permit issued under section 6851 expires on March 31st of each year; [PL 1995, c. 492, §3 (NEW); PL 1995, c. 492, §5 (AFF).] L. A wholesale seafood supplemental license issued under section 6851 expires on March 31st of each year; [PL 1995, c. 492, §3 (NEW); PL 1995, c. 492, §5 (AFF).] M. A shellfish transportation license issued under section 6855 expires on March 31st of each year; [PL 1995, c. 492, §3 (NEW); PL 1995, c. 492, §5 (AFF).] N. A shellfish transportation supplemental license issued under section 6855 expires on March 31st of each year; [PL 1995, c. 492, §3 (NEW); PL 1995, c. 492, §5 (AFF).] O. A lobster meat permit issued under section 6857 expires on March 31st of each year; [PL 1995, c. 492, §3 (NEW); PL 1995, c. 492, §5 (AFF).] P. A lobster transportation license issued under section 6854 expires on March 31st of each year; [PL 1999, c. 491, §1 (AMD); PL 1999, c. 491, §9 (AFF).] Q. A lobster transportation supplemental license issued under section 6854 expires on March 31st of each year; [PL 2009, c. 523, §1 (AMD); PL 2009, c. 561, §7 (AMD).] R. A wholesale seafood license with a shrimp permit issued under section 6851 expires on March 31st of each year; [PL 2011, c. 420, Pt. A, §9 (RPR).] S. An enhanced retail certificate issued under section 6852, subsection 2‑A expires on March 31st of each year; [PL 2011, c. 598, §16 (AMD).] Revisor's Note: Paragraph S as enacted by PL 2009, c. 523, §3 is REALLOCATED TO TITLE 12, SECTION 6301, SUBSECTION 2, PARAGRAPH V T. A seaweed buyer's license issued under section 6803‑A expires on March 31st of each year; [RR 2009, c. 2, §23 (COR).] U. [PL 2015, c. 68, §2 (RP).] V. (REALLOCATED FROM T. 12, §6301, sub-§2, ¶S) A lobster processor license issued under section 6851‑B expires on March 31st of each year; [PL 2017, c. 296, §3 (AMD).] W. A commercial green crab only license issued under section 6808 expires on April 30th of each year; [PL 2025, c. 169, §1 (AMD).] X. An aquaculture license issued under section 6810‑B expires on April 30th of each year; and [PL 2025, c. 169, §2 (AMD).] Y. A green crab only wholesale dealer license issued under section 6866 expires on March 31st of each year. [PL 2025, c. 169, §3 (NEW).] [PL 2025, c. 169, §§1-3 (AMD).]

3. Nontransferable. A license or certificate shall not be transferable. [PL 1977, c. 661, §5 (NEW).]

4. Supplemental license. A supplemental license may only be issued for an establishment or vehicle which is owned, leased or rented by the license holder. [PL 1977, c. 661, §5 (NEW).]

5. Information. When application information concerning any person, establishment or vehicle named in a license or certificate changes, the holder shall immediately notify the commissioner in writing within 3 business days or the license or certificate shall become void. [PL 1977, c. 661, §5 (NEW).]

6. Ownership identified. If a license issued under chapter 625 is issued to a firm, corporation or partnership, the individual who owns the highest percentage of that firm, corporation or partnership must be identified on the license application. When 2 or more individuals own in equal proportion the highest percentages of a firm, corporation or partnership, each of those owners must be identified. [PL 2013, c. 282, §1 (NEW).]
12 M.R.S. § 7 — ME Code / Title 12 / Part 1 / Chapter 1 / Section 7
12 §7. Discontinuance of districts
Status: in_force

At any time after 5 years after the organization of a district under this chapter, any 25 occupiers of land lying within the boundaries of such district may file a petition with the State Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry requesting that the operations of the district be terminated and the existence of the district discontinued. Upon receipt of the petition for the discontinuance of a district, the Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry shall conduct such public hearings and referenda as may be necessary to assist it in the consideration thereof. In conducting such hearings and referenda, the Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry shall adhere substantially to the same procedures and give weight to each of the considerations set forth in section 101 , as were followed in the organization of such districts. The Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry may not determine that the continued operation of the district is administratively practicable and feasible unless at least a majority of the votes cast in the referendum shall have been cast in favor of the continuance of such district. [PL 1965, c. 190, §5 (AMD); PL 1995, c. 532, §17 (AMD); PL 2011, c. 657, Pt. W, §5 (REV).]

The State Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry shall not entertain petitions for the discontinuance of any district nor conduct referenda upon such petitions nor make determinations pursuant to such petitions in accordance with this chapter, more often than once in 5 years. [PL 1969, c. 477, §1 (AMD); PL 1995, c. 532, §17 (AMD); PL 2011, c. 657, Pt. W, §5 (REV).]
12 M.R.S. § 9406 — ME Code / Title 12 / Part 11 / Chapter 807 / Section 9406
12 §9406. Devices to prevent fires
Status: in_force

Every railroad operating locomotives powered by diesel or other type fuel shall equip the same with devices designed to prevent the escape of live coals, sparks or carbon deposits which may cause fires. Employees shall exercise due care to keep such devices in effective operating condition. Every such railroad shall make and enforce regulations concerning the use of open-flame type signals or flares in such manner as to prevent the spread of fire upon the right-of-way or to adjacent land. No person shall throw or drop burning matches, burning cigars, burning cigarettes or parts thereof from any railroad equipment. [PL 1979, c. 545, §3 (NEW).]
12 M.R.S. § 8869-B — ME Code / Title 12 / Part 11 / Chapter 805 / Section 8869-B
12 §8869-B. Maine Forestry Operations Cleanup and Response Fund
Status: in_force

The Maine Forestry Operations Cleanup and Response Fund, referred to in this section as "the fund," is established to be used by the bureau as a nonlapsing, revolving fund for carrying out the purposes of this subchapter. The balance in the fund is limited to $20,000. To this fund are credited permit fees, civil penalties and other fees and charges related to this subchapter. To this fund are charged expenses of the bureau incurred to mitigate and remediate damages or potential damages to waters of the State created by violations of this subchapter, including but not limited to costs of cleanup of discharges of pollutants to waters of the State and the restoration of water supplies. [PL 2021, c. 63, §1 (NEW).]

1. Disbursements from and use of fund. Money in the fund may be used by the department and disbursed only to pay the costs, including without limitation payments to contractors undertaking physical mitigation and remediation activities and equipment expenses, involved in the control of sediment and water flow, the abatement of pollution and the implementation of remediation activities, including restoration of water supplies, related to the discharge of sediment and other pollutants discharged or at risk of discharging to waters of the State by timber harvesting activities. Prior to undertaking mitigation or remediation activities that will result in the use of the fund, the director shall use all reasonable efforts to notify the responsible party of the mitigation and remediation activities needed and to provide a reasonable time frame for the responsible party to implement those activities. The director shall notify the responsible party that a lien may be imposed on real estate owned by the responsible party in accordance with subsection 3 if the department undertakes mitigation and remediation activities that will result in the use of the fund. [PL 2021, c. 63, §1 (NEW).]

2. Reimbursements to the fund. The following provisions govern reimbursements to the fund. A. The director shall seek recovery of all costs paid from the fund from the responsible party, unless the bureau finds the amount involved too small, the likelihood of success too uncertain or that recovery of costs is unlikely due to the inability of the responsible party to pay those costs. [PL 2021, c. 63, §1 (NEW).] B. Requests by the department for reimbursement of costs paid from the fund, if not paid by the responsible party within 30 days of the request, may be turned over to the Attorney General for collection or may be submitted to a collection agency or agent or an attorney retained by the department with the approval of the Attorney General in conformance with Title 5, section 191 , or the bureau may file an appropriate action in District Court for recovery of the costs paid from the fund. [PL 2021, c. 63, §1 (NEW).] [PL 2021, c. 63, §1 (NEW).]

3. Lien. All costs incurred by the State to mitigate and remediate damages or potential damages to waters of the State created by violations of this subchapter under subsection 1 and interest on those costs are a lien against the real estate of the responsible party. A certificate of lien signed by the director must be sent by certified mail to the responsible party prior to being recorded and may be filed in the office of the clerk of the municipality in which the real estate is located. The lien is effective when the certificate is recorded with the registry of deeds for the county in which the real estate is located. The certificate of lien must include a description of the real estate, the amount of the lien and the name of the owner as grantor. When the amount for which a lien has been recorded under this subsection has been paid or reduced, the director, upon request by any person of record holding interest in the real estate that is the subject of the lien, shall issue a certificate discharging or partially discharging the lien. The certificate must be recorded in the registry in which the lien was recorded. Any action of foreclosure of the lien must be brought by the Attorney General in the name of the State in the Superior Court for the judicial district in which the real estate subject to the lien is located. [PL 2021, c. 63, §1 (NEW).]
12 M.R.S. § 11218 — ME Code / Title 12 / Part 13 / Chapter 915 / Section 11218
12 §11218. Game fees
Status: in_force

A person may not charge any fee for access to land if the fee is contingent upon the taking of game on the land or directly related to the taking of game on the land unless the land is an authorized commercial shooting area licensed under section 12101 . This section does not apply to: [PL 2003, c. 414, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 614, §9 (AFF).]

1. Gate fees. Gate fees or other access fees that are unrelated to the taking of game; [PL 2003, c. 414, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 614, §9 (AFF).]

2. Guiding fees. Fees charged by licensed guides or other fees that are unrelated to access to land; or [PL 2003, c. 414, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 614, §9 (AFF).]

3. Fees for placing bear bait. Fees that are directly related to the placing of bear bait on land. [PL 2003, c. 414, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 614, §9 (AFF).]

A person who violates this section commits a Class E crime. [PL 2003, c. 414, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 614, §9 (AFF).]
12 M.R.S. § 6676 — ME Code / Title 12 / Part 9 / Chapter 623 / Section 6676
12 §6676. Summary of municipal ordinances
Status: in_force

The department shall prepare a summary description of all municipal shellfish ordinances, which must include, but not be limited to, a listing for each municipality of the license application period, fee structure and number of licenses available to residents and nonresidents. The department shall update the summary and make it available to the public in a manner that the commissioner considers to be effective in reaching the persons affected. [PL 2005, c. 434, §6 (AMD).]
12 M.R.S. § 13154-A — ME Code / Title 12 / Part 13 / Chapter 939 / Section 13154-A
12 §13154-A. Age restrictions
Status: in_force

1. Minimum age. Except as provided in subsection 6 , a person under 10 years of age may not operate an ATV. A. A person who violates this subsection commits a civil violation for which a fine of not less than $100 nor more than $500 may be adjudged. [PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §404 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §422 (AFF); PL 2003, c. 695, Pt. B, §12 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 695, Pt. C, §1 (AFF).] B. A person who violates this subsection after having been adjudicated as having committed 3 or more civil violations under this Part within the previous 5-year period commits a Class E crime. [PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §404 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §422 (AFF); PL 2003, c. 695, Pt. B, §12 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 695, Pt. C, §1 (AFF).] [PL 2021, c. 184, §15 (AMD).]

2. Permitting child under 10 years to operate ATV. Except as provided in subsection 6 , a person may not permit a child under 10 years of age to operate an ATV. A. A person who violates this subsection commits a civil violation for which a fine of not less than $100 nor more than $500 may be adjudged. [PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §404 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §422 (AFF); PL 2003, c. 695, Pt. B, §12 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 695, Pt. C, §1 (AFF).] B. A person who violates this subsection after having been adjudicated as having committed 3 or more civil violations under this Part within the previous 5-year period commits a Class E crime. [PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §404 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §422 (AFF); PL 2003, c. 695, Pt. B, §12 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 695, Pt. C, §1 (AFF).] [PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §404 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §422 (AFF); PL 2003, c. 695, Pt. B, §12 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 695, Pt. C, §1 (AFF).]

3. Unlawfully operating ATV by person 10 to under 16 years of age. Except as provided in subsection 6 , a person 10 years of age or older but under 16 years of age may not operate an ATV unless that person has successfully completed a training course approved by the department pursuant to section 13152 and is accompanied by an adult. Proof of having completed a training course must be presented for inspection upon request of a law enforcement officer. A. A person who violates this subsection commits a civil violation for which a fine of not less than $100 nor more than $500 may be adjudged. [PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §404 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §422 (AFF); PL 2003, c. 695, Pt. B, §12 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 695, Pt. C, §1 (AFF).] B. A person who violates this subsection after having been adjudicated as having committed 3 or more civil violations under this Part within the previous 5-year period commits a Class E crime. [PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §404 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §422 (AFF); PL 2003, c. 695, Pt. B, §12 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 695, Pt. C, §1 (AFF).] [PL 2011, c. 253, §36 (AMD).]

4. Person under 16 years of age crossing public way. A person under 16 years of age may not cross a public way maintained for travel unless the crossing is in accordance with section 13157‑A, subsection 6, paragraph A and the person satisfies the requirements of subsection 3 . A. A person who violates this subsection commits a civil violation for which a fine of not less than $100 nor more than $500 may be adjudged. [PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §404 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §422 (AFF); PL 2003, c. 695, Pt. B, §12 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 695, Pt. C, §1 (AFF).] B. A person who violates this subsection after having been adjudicated as having committed 3 or more civil violations under this Part within the previous 5-year period commits a Class E crime. [PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §404 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §422 (AFF); PL 2003, c. 695, Pt. B, §12 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 695, Pt. C, §1 (AFF).] [PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §404 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §422 (AFF); PL 2003, c. 695, Pt. B, §12 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 695, Pt. C, §1 (AFF).]

5. Permitting an unaccompanied person under 16 years of age to operate an ATV. Except as provided in subsection 6 , a person may not permit an unaccompanied person 10 years of age or older but under 16 years of age to operate an ATV. A. A person who violates this subsection commits a civil violation for which a fine of not less than $100 nor more than $500 may be adjudged. [PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §404 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §422 (AFF); PL 2003, c. 695, Pt. B, §12 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 695, Pt. C, §1 (AFF).] B. A person who violates this subsection after having been adjudicated as having committed 3 or more civil violations under this Part within the previous 5-year period commits a Class E crime. [PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §404 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §422 (AFF); PL 2003, c. 695, Pt. B, §12 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 695, Pt. C, §1 (AFF).] [PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §404 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §422 (AFF); PL 2003, c. 695, Pt. B, §12 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 695, Pt. C, §1 (AFF).]

6. Exceptions for certain property. This section does not apply to the operation of an ATV on: A. The land on which the operator is domiciled; [PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §404 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §422 (AFF); PL 2003, c. 695, Pt. B, §12 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 695, Pt. C, §1 (AFF).] B. Land owned or leased by the operator's parent or guardian; or [PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §404 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §422 (AFF); PL 2003, c. 695, Pt. B, §12 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 695, Pt. C, §1 (AFF).] C. A safety training site approved by the department. [PL 2005, c. 397, Pt. E, §18 (RPR).] [PL 2005, c. 397, Pt. E, §18 (AMD).]
12 M.R.S. § 1884 — ME Code / Title 12 / Part 2 / Chapter 220 / Section 1884
12 §1884. Enforcement, inspection and penalties for violations
Status: in_force

Permits issued by the bureau under this subchapter have the force and effect of law. No timber harvesting operation may be undertaken except in conformance with this subchapter. [PL 2001, c. 604, §16 (AMD); PL 2011, c. 657, Pt. W, §7 (REV); PL 2013, c. 405, Pt. A, §24 (REV).]

For the purposes of inspection and to ensure compliance with permits issued or adopted by the bureau, authorized bureau staff or consultant personnel may conduct investigations, examinations, tests and site evaluations that are determined to be necessary to verify information presented to the bureau and may obtain access to any lands and structures regulated under this subchapter. [PL 1997, c. 678, §13 (NEW); PL 2011, c. 657, Pt. W, §7 (REV); PL 2013, c. 405, Pt. A, §24 (REV).]

In addition, the bureau may in the name of the State institute any appropriate action, injunction or other proceeding to prevent, restrain, correct or abate any violation of this subchapter or of the permits issued under it or rules adopted under section 1803 . This action may include, but is not limited to, proceedings to revoke or suspend any bureau permit or approval taken before the District Court in accordance with Title 4, section 152, subsection 9 and Title 4, chapter 5 or, notwithstanding the provisions of Title 5, section 10051 , before the Superior Court, as part of an enforcement action brought by the bureau. [PL 2001, c. 604, §16 (AMD); PL 2011, c. 657, Pt. W, §7 (REV); PL 2013, c. 405, Pt. A, §24 (REV).]
12 M.R.S. § 9204 — ME Code / Title 12 / Part 11 / Chapter 807 / Section 9204
12 §9204. Payment of costs
Status: in_force

Municipalities shall pay the costs for controlling and extinguishing forest fires up to 1/4 of 1% of their state valuation on a calendar year basis. These costs must be approved by the forest fire warden in charge. A municipality going to the aid of another, even to protect itself, when requested by the state forest ranger in charge, is entitled to be paid by the municipality aided if the total suppression cost of the municipality is not over 1/4 of 1% of its state valuation. [PL 1991, c. 780, Pt. MM, §1 (RPR).]
12 M.R.S. § 4 — ME Code / Title 12 / Part 1 / Chapter 1 / Section 4
12 §4. Limitation of authority
Status: in_force

The powers and duties conferred upon the Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry or the soil and water conservation districts under this chapter shall not infringe upon or impair in any way the rights of any owner of riparian lands located upon, or any rights heretofore or hereafter granted by the Legislature to any person, firm, corporation, association, public or quasi-public body to use or take the water in or from, any lake, pond, river, stream, brook or any other body of water located wholly or partly in the State of Maine. [PL 1969, c. 477, §1 (AMD); PL 1995, c. 532, §17 (AMD); PL 2011, c. 657, Pt. W, §5 (REV).]
12 M.R.S. § 9326 — ME Code / Title 12 / Part 11 / Chapter 807 / Section 9326
12 §9326. Electronic issuance of permits
Status: in_force

The Director of the Bureau of Forestry shall develop or cause to be developed a system to electronically issue permits for burning in all areas of the State using a publicly accessible site on the Internet. [PL 2013, c. 35, §1 (AMD); PL 2013, c. 405, Pt. A, §23 (REV).]

The system developed under this section for electronically issuing permits must provide a fire warden with the ability to change the criteria for issuing a permit in a municipality except for times when the director imposes more restrictive criteria or a ban on the issuance of permits. [PL 2005, c. 12, Pt. U, §2 (NEW).]

A person may apply for a permit to burn using the Internet or as otherwise provided in this article. When a person applies for and is issued a permit electronically pursuant to this section, a fee may not be charged. [PL 2021, c. 414, §1 (AMD).]
12 M.R.S. § 12204 — ME Code / Title 12 / Part 13 / Chapter 917 / Section 12204
12 §12204. Apprentice trapper license
Status: in_force

1. Definitions. As used in this section, unless the context otherwise indicates, the following terms have the following meanings. A. "In the presence of" means in visual and voice contact without the use of visual or audio enhancement devices, including but not limited to binoculars and citizen band radios. [PL 2011, c. 51, §1 (NEW).] B. "Apprentice trapper supervisor" means a person who is 18 years of age or older and has held a valid adult trapping license under this subchapter for the prior 3 consecutive years. [PL 2019, c. 639, §12 (AMD).] [PL 2019, c. 639, §12 (AMD).]

2. Apprentice trapper supervisor required. A holder of an apprentice trapper license may not trap other than in the presence of an apprentice trapper supervisor. [PL 2019, c. 639, §13 (AMD).]

3. Apprentice trapper supervisor responsibility. An apprentice trapper supervisor shall ensure that the holder of an apprentice trapper license follows safe and ethical trapping protocol and adheres to the laws under this Part. An apprentice trapper supervisor may not intentionally permit a person trapping under an apprentice trapper license with that apprentice trapper supervisor to violate subsection 2. [PL 2019, c. 639, §14 (AMD).]

4. Eligibility. A resident or nonresident 16 years of age or older who has never held a valid adult trapping license in this State, or any other state, province or country, is eligible to obtain an apprentice trapper license. Notwithstanding section 12201, subsection 3 , a person is eligible to obtain an apprentice trapper license without having successfully completed a trapper education course as described in section 10108, subsection 7 . A person may not obtain an apprentice trapper license more than twice. [PL 2013, c. 538, §34 (AMD).]

5. Expiration of apprentice trapper license. An apprentice trapper license is valid for up to 12 calendar months and expires on June 30th. [PL 2011, c. 51, §1 (NEW).]

6. Issuance; fee. The commissioner, through the commissioner's authorized agent, shall issue an apprentice trapper license to an eligible person. The fee for an apprentice trapper license is $36 for residents and $318 for nonresidents. [PL 2017, c. 164, §17 (AMD).]

7. Restrictions. The holder of an apprentice trapper license is not eligible to obtain a permit to trap for bear under section 12260-A . [PL 2011, c. 51, §1 (NEW).]

8. Penalties. The following penalties apply to violations of this section. A. A person who violates this section commits a civil violation for which a fine of not less than $100 and not more than $500 may be adjudged. [PL 2011, c. 51, §1 (NEW).] B. A person who violates this section after having been adjudicated as having committed 3 or more civil violations under this Part within the previous 5-year period commits a Class E crime. [PL 2011, c. 51, §1 (NEW).] [PL 2011, c. 51, §1 (NEW).]
12 M.R.S. § 405-A — ME Code / Title 12 / Part 2 / Chapter 200 / Section 405-A
12 §405-A. St. Croix River
Status: repealed

1. Special consideration. In consideration of the special status of the St. Croix River as an international boundary governed in part by the International Joint Commission and the Province of New Brunswick, the Legislature establishes the following provisions. [PL 1987, c. 635 (NEW).]

2. Commercial, industrial or residential development. Except as provided in this subsection, no person may undertake any further commercial, industrial or residential development in the area within 250 feet of the St. Croix River from the Grand Falls flowage to the north end of Wingdam Island. The following activities shall be exempt from these provisions: A. Development of hydroelectric or other dams, plants and related facilities or improvements subject to the conditions described in subsection 3 ; [PL 1987, c. 635 (NEW).] B. A bridge at Vanceboro; [PL 1987, c. 635 (NEW).] C. A haul road from Grand Falls; [PL 1987, c. 635 (NEW).] D. Activities and developments related to timber harvesting, mining or extraction of sand and gravel; and [PL 1987, c. 635 (NEW).] E. Any recreational management activity conducted or approved by the State. [PL 1987, c. 635 (NEW).] [PL 1987, c. 635 (NEW).]

3. New hydroelectric dams. No person may develop new hydroelectric dams on the St. Croix River from Grand Falls to the north end of Wingdam Island without first: A. Having performed a feasibility study, by a qualified consultant, approved by the Governor to examine the alternative potentials for hydropower development downstream from Grand Falls and having made the findings available to the State for review; [PL 1987, c. 635 (NEW).] B. Having consulted with the office of the Governor or other agency of the State, designated by the Governor, regarding the feasibility of this downstream development; [PL 1987, c. 635 (NEW).] C. Having determined that there exists no economically feasible site downstream from Grand Falls; and [PL 1987, c. 635 (NEW).] D. Having consulted with the St. Croix International Waterway Commission. [PL 1987, c. 635 (NEW).] If the State disagrees with any of the assumptions, findings or conclusions of the economic feasibility study, the comments of the State shall be considered and responded to by the consultant. These comments and the responses of the consultant shall be noted in the final report of the economic feasibility study. [PL 1987, c. 635 (NEW).]

4. Review. The Governor's Energy Office shall review the status of hydropower development on the St. Croix River and shall report to the joint standing committee of the Legislature having jurisdiction over energy and natural resources by January 1, 2013 and every 5 years thereafter. The report must include any recommendations for changes in the provisions of this section together with the justification for the changes. If the St. Croix River is included in any legislative Act or regulation that directly or indirectly has as its effect the essential prohibition of construction of new dams or development or redevelopment of existing dams on the St. Croix River, this section is repealed on the effective date of that Act or regulation. [PL 2011, c. 655, Pt. MM, §11 (AMD); PL 2011, c. 655, Pt. MM, §26 (AFF).]
12 M.R.S. § 12906 — ME Code / Title 12 / Part 13 / Chapter 929 / Section 12906
12 §12906. Rule violations; whitewater rafting
Status: in_force

The following penalties apply to violations of rules regulating commercial whitewater rafting. [PL 2003, c. 614, §9 (AFF); PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §324 (RPR); PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §422 (AFF).]

1. Civil. Notwithstanding section 10650 , a person who violates a rule regulating commercial whitewater rafting commits a civil violation for which a fine of not less than $100 nor more than $500 may be adjudged. [PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §324 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §422 (AFF).]

2. Criminal. A person who violates a rule regulating commercial whitewater rafting after having been adjudicated as having committed 3 or more civil violations under this Part within the previous 5-year period commits a Class E crime. [PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §324 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §422 (AFF).]
12 M.R.S. § 401 — ME Code / Title 12 / Part 2 / Chapter 200 / Section 401
12 §401. Maine's rivers
Status: in_force

The Legislature finds: [PL 1983, c. 458, §1 (NEW).]

1. Rivers and streams a natural resource. That the State's nearly 32,000 miles of rivers and streams comprise one of its most important natural resources, historically vital to the state's commerce and industry and to the quality of life enjoyed by Maine people; [PL 1983, c. 458, §1 (NEW).]

2. Increase in value of rivers and streams. That the value of its rivers and streams has increased in recent years due to the improvement in the quality of their waters, the restoration of their fisheries, the growth in demand for hydropower and the expanding interest in river recreation activities, leading at times to conflict among these uses; [PL 1983, c. 458, §1 (NEW).]

3. Use of rivers and streams. That its rivers and streams afford the state's people with major opportunities for the enjoyment of nature's beauty, unique recreational activities and solace from an industrialized society, as well as for economic expansion through the development of hydropower, the revitalization of waterfronts and ports and the attraction of both tourists and desirable new industries; and [PL 1983, c. 458, §1 (NEW).]

4. Policy. That the best interests of the state's people are served by a policy which recognizes the importance that their rivers and streams have for meeting portions of several public needs, provides guidance for striking a balance among the various uses which affords the public maximum benefit and seeks harmony rather than conflict among these uses. [PL 1983, c. 458, §1 (NEW).]
12 M.R.S. § 9323 — ME Code / Title 12 / Part 11 / Chapter 807 / Section 9323
12 §9323. Slash and brush permits
Status: in_force

1. Prohibition. No person shall kindle or use a fire for clearing land or burning logs, stumps, roots, brush, slash, fields of grass, pasture or blueberry lands without a permit from the director. [PL 1979, c. 545, §3 (NEW).]

2. Jurisdiction. The requirement for a permit under this section shall apply statewide. [PL 1979, c. 545, §3 (NEW).]
12 M.R.S. § 12501 — ME Code / Title 12 / Part 13 / Chapter 923 / Section 12501
12 §12501. General fishing license
Status: in_force

1. License required. Except as otherwise permitted pursuant to this Part, a person may not fish for, transport or possess fish without a valid license issued under this section. Each day a person violates this subsection, that person commits a Class E crime for which a minimum fine of $50 and an amount equal to twice the applicable license fee must be imposed. [PL 2003, c. 414, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 614, §9 (AFF).]

2. Eligibility. The commissioner may issue the following licenses to the following persons: A. A resident fishing license to a resident 16 years of age or older; and [PL 2003, c. 414, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 614, §9 (AFF).] B. A nonresident fishing license to a nonresident 16 years of age or older. [PL 2013, c. 380, §1 (AMD); PL 2013, c. 380, §5 (AFF).] [PL 2013, c. 380, §1 (AMD); PL 2013, c. 380, §5 (AFF).]

3. Agent's fee. Clerks or other agents appointed by the commissioner to issue licenses shall charge a fee of $2 for each license issued. The commissioner shall charge a fee of $1 for each fishing license issued by department employees. [PL 2003, c. 414, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 614, §9 (AFF).]

4. Exchange of licenses. A license issued under this section may not be exchanged for another license except as provided in this subsection. Temporary licenses may be exchanged for annual licenses as follows. A. A resident who possesses a one-day or 3-day fishing license may exchange it in the municipality in which that person resides for an annual resident fishing license or a resident combination hunting and fishing license upon the payment to the clerk or issuing agent of $2 and the difference between the fee for the one-day or 3-day license and the fee for the annual license. [PL 2003, c. 414, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 614, §9 (AFF).] B. A nonresident who possesses a 15-day nonresident fishing license may exchange it for an annual nonresident license upon the payment of the difference between the fee for the 15-day license and the fee for the annual license and $2 to the clerk or issuing agent. [PL 2011, c. 253, §28 (AMD).] [PL 2011, c. 253, §28 (AMD).]

5. Nonresident junior fishing license expiration. [PL 2021, c. 184, §8 (RP).]

6. Schedule of fees. The fees for fishing licenses are as follows. A. A resident fishing license is $30. [PL 2025, c. 388, Pt. NNN, §6 (AMD).] B. A resident combination hunting and fishing license is $48. [PL 2025, c. 388, Pt. NNN, §6 (AMD).] C. A resident combination archery hunting and fishing license is $48. [PL 2025, c. 388, Pt. NNN, §6 (AMD).] D. [PL 2013, c. 538, §41 (RPR); MRSA T. 12 §12501, sub-§6, ¶D (RP).] E. A 3-day fishing license for a resident or nonresident, valid for the 72-hour period specified on the license, is $30. [PL 2025, c. 388, Pt. NNN, §6 (AMD).] F. A nonresident 7-day fishing license, valid for 7 days from date indicated on license, is $62. [PL 2025, c. 388, Pt. NNN, §6 (AMD).] G. A nonresident 15-day fishing license, valid for 15 days from date indicated on license, is $66. [PL 2025, c. 388, Pt. NNN, §6 (AMD).] H. A nonresident season fishing license for persons 16 years of age or older is $83. [PL 2025, c. 388, Pt. NNN, §6 (AMD).] I. [PL 2017, c. 427, §18 (RP); PL 2017, c. 427, §19 (AFF).] J. A one-day fishing license for a resident or nonresident, valid for the 24-hour period indicated on license, is $18. [PL 2025, c. 388, Pt. NNN, §6 (AMD).] [PL 2025, c. 388, Pt. NNN, §6 (AMD).]

7. Reciprocity with New Hampshire. As long as the State of New Hampshire has similar laws, a fishing license issued to any person by either this State or New Hampshire meets all requirements of the law for a fishing license with respect to fishing in any lake or pond that lies partly in both of the states of Maine and New Hampshire. [PL 2003, c. 614, §9 (AFF); PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §247 (AMD); PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §422 (AFF).]
12 M.R.S. § 1867 — ME Code / Title 12 / Part 2 / Chapter 220 / Section 1867
12 §1867. Sunken logs on submerged lands owned by State
Status: in_force

1. Definitions. As used in this section, unless the context otherwise indicates, the following terms have the following meanings. A. "Log" means a portion of the trunk of a felled tree that has not been further processed for any end use. [PL 1997, c. 678, §13 (NEW).] A-1. "Pulpwood" means a portion of a tree intended for use in the paper-making process. [PL 2001, c. 391, §1 (NEW).] B. "Salvage" means any activity involved in the retrieval of sunken logs or pulpwood from submerged land. [PL 2001, c. 391, §2 (AMD).] [PL 2001, c. 391, §§1, 2 (AMD).]

2. Title to sunken logs. The State reserves to itself title and ownership to all logs resting on submerged lands that are owned by the State. [PL 1997, c. 678, §13 (NEW).]

3. Salvage and sale of sunken logs. The director may conduct a sunken log salvage program under which the director may issue a permit for the salvage of sunken logs on submerged lands owned by the State. The director may sell logs salvaged under the sunken log salvage program. Prior to conducting a log salvage operation on submerged lands, a person must obtain a sunken log salvage permit from the bureau and must obtain all other applicable permits from the appropriate local, state and federal agencies with jurisdiction over this activity. The bureau may not issue a permit for this activity if the director finds that the proposed sunken log salvage operations may unreasonably interfere with customary or traditional public access to or public trust rights or uses in, on or over the intertidal or submerged lands and the waters above those lands. [PL 1997, c. 678, §13 (NEW); PL 2011, c. 657, Pt. W, §7 (REV); PL 2013, c. 405, Pt. A, §24 (REV).]

4. Rules. [PL 2001, c. 604, §13 (RP).]

5. Revenues. The director shall charge an application fee of $100 for each permit. The director may establish reasonable prices for the sale of salvaged logs. All revenues from the bureau's activities under this section accrue to the Submerged Lands Fund established in section 1861 . [PL 1997, c. 678, §13 (NEW); PL 2011, c. 657, Pt. W, §7 (REV); PL 2013, c. 405, Pt. A, §24 (REV).]

6. Pulpwood salvage exemption. A person who has been granted a charter or other specific authorization by the Legislature prior to June 30, 1998 to erect and maintain piers and booms to collect and store pulpwood in waters over submerged lands may salvage the pulpwood stored in compliance with that charter and is exempt from subsections 3 and 5 and rules pertaining to pulpwood salvage adopted under section 1803 , as long as, prior to conducting a pulpwood salvage operation, that person: A. Provides documentation satisfactory to the bureau of the legislative charter or approval specifically authorizing pulpwood storage at the proposed salvage site; [PL 2001, c. 391, §3 (NEW); PL 2011, c. 657, Pt. W, §7 (REV); PL 2013, c. 405, Pt. A, §24 (REV).] B. Attests that the salvaged pulpwood is to be processed at a mill owned by that person; [PL 2001, c. 391, §3 (NEW).] C. Obtains all applicable permits required by local, state and federal agencies having jurisdiction over the salvage activity; and [PL 2001, c. 391, §3 (NEW).] D. Provides a plan acceptable to the bureau that results in substantial improvements or benefits to public trust rights or uses on that or a related body of water. [PL 2001, c. 391, §3 (NEW); PL 2011, c. 657, Pt. W, §7 (REV); PL 2013, c. 405, Pt. A, §24 (REV).] Pulpwood salvaged under a plan approved and implemented in accordance with the terms of this subsection is the property of the person authorized to collect and store pulpwood at the salvage site. A person who salvages pulpwood under this subsection shall comply with the provisions of the approved plan and with all applicable permitting requirements and other legal requirements pertaining to the salvage activity. Pulpwood salvaged under this section may be processed only at a mill owned by the person authorized to collect and store pulpwood at the salvage site. [PL 2001, c. 604, §14 (AMD); PL 2011, c. 657, Pt. W, §7 (REV); PL 2013, c. 405, Pt. A, §24 (REV).]
12 M.R.S. § 1825 — ME Code / Title 12 / Part 2 / Chapter 220 / Section 1825
12 §1825. Administer certain funds
Status: in_force

The bureau shall administer funds relating to state parks and historic sites, municipal recreation and recreation management on lands classified as state parks or historic sites pursuant to this chapter. These funds include but are not limited to the following: [PL 1997, c. 678, §13 (NEW); PL 2011, c. 657, Pt. W, §7 (REV); PL 2013, c. 405, Pt. A, §24 (REV).]

1. Maine State Parks and Recreational Facilities Development Fund. [PL 2019, c. 343, Pt. Y, §2 (RP).]

1-A. Parks General Operations Fund. The Parks General Operations Fund is established within the bureau for the purpose of developing, maintaining and managing state parks and other recreational facilities on lands owned or leased by the bureau. Income from legislative appropriation, gifts, grants, bequests, the Maine Environmental Trust Fund in accordance with section 10255, subsection 3 and any other sources approved by the Legislature may be deposited in this fund. Any interest earned on money in the fund must be credited to the fund. The Parks General Operations Fund is nonlapsing and all funds are subject to allocation by the Legislature. [PL 2019, c. 343, Pt. Y, §2 (NEW).]

2. Maine State Parks Fund. [PL 2019, c. 343, Pt. Y, §2 (RP).]

3. Municipal Recreation Fund. The bureau shall administer a state grant-in-aid fund known as the Municipal Recreation Fund. The bureau is responsible for administering all money made available to the fund. Grants-in-aid may be made by the bureau out of the fund as follows. A. The bureau may make grants to assist municipalities and other political subdivisions in the capital improvement of public park and recreation facilities for projects the total cost of each one of which does not exceed $5,000. Such a grant may not exceed 75% of the approved project cost. A municipality may not receive more than one grant under this paragraph in any fiscal year. [PL 1997, c. 678, §13 (NEW); PL 2011, c. 657, Pt. W, §7 (REV); PL 2013, c. 405, Pt. A, §24 (REV).] B. For those projects that are approved to receive federal financial assistance under the federal Land and Water Conservation Fund Act of 1965, Public Law 88-578, as amended, the bureau may make a supplemental grant not to exceed 40% of the approved project cost. [PL 2019, c. 343, Pt. Y, §2 (AMD).] C. The bureau may make grants to assist municipalities and other political subdivisions in the development and implementation of recreation programs. Eligible costs for the program grants include, but are not limited to, employment of personnel, transportation and noncapital equipment or supplies. Any grant made under this paragraph in any single fiscal year may not exceed $1,000 or 50% of the project cost, whichever is less. [PL 1997, c. 678, §13 (NEW); PL 2011, c. 657, Pt. W, §7 (REV); PL 2013, c. 405, Pt. A, §24 (REV).] Funds credited to the Municipal Recreation Fund are nonlapsing. [PL 2019, c. 343, Pt. Y, §2 (AMD).]

4. Forest Recreation Resource Fund. The bureau may construct and maintain public campsites to prevent forest fires by providing fire-safe sites and preventing a proliferation of private fires and to provide recreation opportunities on lands within its jurisdiction and elsewhere in the State's forests where there is inadequate provision of private, primitive campsites. For the purpose of carrying out these activities, the bureau may accept voluntary services and other contributions pursuant to this chapter; enter into leases and other agreements; and, pursuant to Title 5, chapter 375, subchapter 2‑A , establish rules and a schedule of fees for the use of these campsites. All such fees and other revenues derived from grants, contributions, contracts and transfers to carry out the purposes of this subsection must be deposited in a nonlapsing account, to be called the Forest Recreation Resource Fund, which is a separate unit within the Parks General Operations Fund to be used for the purposes of this subsection. All funds in this account are subject to allocation by the Legislature. [PL 2019, c. 343, Pt. Y, §2 (AMD).]

5. State Parks Improvement Fund established; sale of merchandise. The State Parks Improvement Fund, referred to in this section as "the fund," is established within the bureau. The fund is nonlapsing and is a separate unit within the Parks General Operations program. The bureau may sell within parks or historic sites general merchandise that is distinctive to the parks or historic sites or useful to the enjoyment of the parks or historic sites. Items that may be sold include, but are not limited to, hats, coffee mugs, bumper stickers, t-shirts, tote bags and firewood. Merchandise sold by the bureau must be of good quality, appropriate for sale by the bureau and sold for a reasonable fee. The bureau also may rent items to be used for the enjoyment of the park or historic site, including, but not limited to, rowboats, canoes, kayaks and bicycles. To the extent the bureau needs to contract with vendors to obtain goods or services in order to develop, create or manufacture merchandise for sale or lease, the commissioner shall, to the maximum extent practicable, contract with vendors located in this State. Goods and services purchased by the bureau for sale or lease under this section must be procured in accordance with Title 5, chapter 155 . All proceeds from the sale or lease of merchandise pursuant to this subsection must be deposited in the fund and used for the operation and maintenance of parks. [PL 2019, c. 343, Pt. Y, §2 (AMD).]
12 M.R.S. § 8423-C — ME Code / Title 12 / Part 11 / Chapter 803 / Section 8423-C
12 §8423-C. Presalvage and salvage harvesting
Status: in_force

1. Regulation. The Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry shall regulate the presalvage and salvage harvesting of forest stands in areas that, based on the proportion of balsam fir, white spruce, red spruce, black spruce, other softwood and hardwood components present, have significant risk of damage from spruce budworm and are subject to a credible threat of imminent spruce budworm damage. A. The assessments of risk and vulnerability of a specific forest stand must be supported by adequate data, including but not limited to: (1) Forest stand type information; and (2) A documented history of recent elevated spruce budworm moth presence or foliage damage from spruce budworm feeding. [PL 2015, c. 314, §12 (NEW).] B. The director shall designate areas for presalvage and salvage harvesting subject to rules adopted pursuant to subsection 5 no later than January 1st of each year. Areas designated for presalvage and salvage harvesting must be inspected and verified by a licensed forester in the employ of the bureau. The director shall seek public comment for a 30-day period prior to designating such areas. [PL 2015, c. 314, §12 (NEW).] C. A forest stand that is identified for presalvage and salvage harvesting must be located within the areas designated pursuant to paragraph B . [PL 2015, c. 314, §12 (NEW).] [PL 2015, c. 314, §12 (NEW).]

2. Notification. Prior to beginning timber harvesting pursuant to this subchapter, a landowner or designated agent shall notify the bureau in accordance with the notification requirements set forth in chapter 805, subchapter 5 . [PL 2015, c. 314, §12 (NEW).]

3. Reporting. Timber harvests conducted pursuant to this subchapter are subject to the same reporting requirements set forth in chapter 805, subchapter 5 , except that the director may require additional information to be reported to satisfy the requirements of this subchapter. [PL 2015, c. 314, §12 (NEW).]

4. Confidentiality. Reports filed in accordance with subsection 3 are confidential. The director may publish summary reports that use aggregated data that do not reveal the activities of an individual person or firm. Reports submitted pursuant to subsection 3 must be available for the use of the State Tax Assessor for the administration of Title 36 . [PL 2015, c. 314, §12 (NEW).]

5. Rules. The commissioner shall adopt rules to implement this subchapter, including rules establishing spruce budworm timber harvesting standards. Rules adopted pursuant to this subsection are major substantive rules as defined in Title 5, chapter 375, subchapter 2‑A . A. The rules must: (1) Exclude presalvage and salvage harvesting in protection subdistricts within the jurisdiction of the Maine Land Use Planning Commission and in areas subject to timber harvesting regulation under section 8867‑B ; (2) Identify the areas subject to a credible threat of imminent spruce budworm damage and the forest stand criteria needed for presalvage and salvage harvesting; and (3) Define the size and scope of presalvage and salvage harvesting projects that will require additional review by the bureau. [PL 2015, c. 314, §12 (NEW).] B. The Commissioner of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry shall consult with the Commissioner of Environmental Protection and the Commissioner of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife to ensure that rules adopted under this subsection are consistent with wildlife habitat and environmental protection. [PL 2015, c. 314, §12 (NEW).] C. Except as otherwise provided in this subchapter or in rules developed pursuant to this subsection, the provisions of chapter 805, subchapter 3-A do not apply to presalvage and salvage harvesting regulated under this subchapter. [PL 2015, c. 314, §12 (NEW).] D. The rules must provide that regeneration requirements adopted by rule pursuant to section 8869, subsection 1 apply to spruce budworm timber harvesting conducted pursuant to this subchapter. [PL 2015, c. 314, §12 (NEW).] [PL 2015, c. 314, §12 (NEW).]

6. Penalties. A person who violates this section or a rule adopted pursuant to this section commits a civil violation and is subject to the following penalties: A. A person who violates this section or a rule adopted pursuant to this section commits a civil violation for which a fine of not less than $100 and not more than $1,000 may be adjudged for each day of that violation; and [PL 2015, c. 314, §12 (NEW).] B. A person who violates this section or a rule adopted pursuant to this section after having previously been adjudicated of a violation of this section within the previous 5-year period commits a civil violation for which a fine of not less than $1,000 but not more than $2,000 may be adjudged for each day of that violation. [PL 2015, c. 314, §12 (NEW).] If the economic benefit resulting from the violation exceeds the applicable penalties under paragraphs A and B , the maximum fines may be increased. The maximum fine may not exceed an amount equal to twice the economic benefit resulting from the violation. The bureau shall consider as economic benefit, without limitation, the costs avoided or the enhanced value accrued at the time of the violation by the violator as a result of not complying with the applicable legal requirements. [PL 2015, c. 314, §12 (NEW).]
12 M.R.S. § 13158-A — ME Code / Title 12 / Part 13 / Chapter 939 / Section 13158-A
12 §13158-A. Unlawfully permitting operation; liability for damage by other persons
Status: in_force

1. ATV owner; operation by another. A person is in violation of this subsection if that person is the owner of an ATV that is operated in violation of this chapter. A. A person who violates this subsection commits a civil violation for which a fine of not less than $100 nor more than $500 may be adjudged. [PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §416 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §422 (AFF).] B. A person who violates this subsection after having been adjudicated as having committed 3 or more civil violations under this Part within the previous 5-year period commits a Class E crime. [PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §416 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §422 (AFF).] [PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §416 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §422 (AFF).]

2. Parent or guardian; operation by minor. A person is in violation of this subsection if that person is a parent or guardian responsible for the care of a minor under 18 years of age who is operating an ATV in violation of this chapter. A. A person who violates this subsection commits a civil violation for which a fine of not less than $100 nor more than $500 may be adjudged. [PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §416 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §422 (AFF).] B. A person who violates this subsection after having been adjudicated as having committed 3 or more civil violations under this Part within the previous 5-year period commits a Class E crime. [PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §416 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §422 (AFF).] [PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §416 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §422 (AFF).]

3. Furnishing ATV. An owner of an ATV, a person who gives or furnishes an ATV to a person and a parent or guardian responsible for the care of a minor under 18 years of age are jointly and severally liable with the operator for damages caused in the operation of the vehicle or by the minor in operating any ATV. [PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §416 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §422 (AFF).]
12 M.R.S. § 9202 — ME Code / Title 12 / Part 11 / Chapter 807 / Section 9202
12 §9202. Right to call and employ assistance
Status: in_force

Forest rangers and town forest fire wardens may employ any person considered necessary to assist in fighting forest fires. All called and employed for assistance shall proceed to help control forest fires as directed by the forest ranger or forest fire warden in charge. [PL 1983, c. 556, §9 (AMD).]
12 M.R.S. § 6462-A — ME Code / Title 12 / Part 9 / Chapter 619 / Section 6462-A
12 §6462-A. Lobster Advisory Council
Status: in_force

1. Appointment; composition. The Lobster Advisory Council, established by Title 5, section 12004‑I, subsection 58 and in this subchapter known as the "council," consists of the following members: A. One person from each lobster management policy council established under section 6447 . Each lobster management policy council shall choose by majority vote a member to serve on the council; [PL 1997, c. 208, §3 (NEW).] B. Two persons who hold wholesale seafood licenses and are primarily dealers in lobsters, appointed by the commissioner; [PL 1997, c. 208, §3 (NEW).] C. One person who is a member of the general public and does not hold any license under this subchapter, appointed by the commissioner; and [PL 1997, c. 208, §3 (NEW).] D. Three persons who hold lobster and crab fishing licenses and who are not members of lobster management policy councils established under section 6447 , appointed by the commissioner. Each person appointed under this paragraph must reside in a different county. One person appointed under this paragraph must hold a noncommercial lobster and crab fishing license. [PL 2005, c. 239, §5 (AMD).] [PL 2005, c. 239, §5 (AMD).]

2. Term. The term for a member who represents a lobster management policy council is coterminous with that person's term on that policy council. All other members serve for terms of 3 years, except that a vacancy must be filled by the commissioner for the unexpired portion of the term. A vacancy for a member representing a lobster management policy council must be appointed by that policy council using procedures defined in subsection 1 . Members continue to serve until their successors are appointed. [PL 1997, c. 572, §1 (AMD).]

3. Compensation. Members are entitled to compensation according to Title 5, chapter 379 . [PL 1997, c. 208, §3 (NEW).]

4. Quorum. A quorum is a majority of the members of the council, at least 4 of whom must be lobster and crab fishing license holders. [PL 1997, c. 208, §3 (NEW).]

5. Chair and officers. The council shall annually choose one of its members to serve as chair for a one-year term. The council may select other officers and designate their duties. [PL 1997, c. 208, §3 (NEW).]

6. Meetings. The council shall meet at least 4 times a year at regular intervals. It may also meet at other times at the call of the chair or the commissioner. [PL 1997, c. 208, §3 (NEW).]
12 M.R.S. § 6953 — ME Code / Title 12 / Part 9 / Chapter 627 / Section 6953
12 §6953. Stopping for inspection; penalty
Status: in_force

It shall be unlawful for the operator of a motor vehicle, boat, vessel, airplane or conveyance of any kind, or any person: [PL 1977, c. 661, §5 (NEW).]

1. Stopping. To fail or refuse to stop immediately upon request or signal of any marine patrol officer in uniform; [PL 1979, c. 541, Pt. B, §73 (AMD).]

2. Remaining stopped. After the operator has stopped, to fail to remain stopped until the marine patrol officer reaches the operator's immediate vicinity and makes known to that operator the reason for the request or signal; [RR 2021, c. 2, Pt. B, §63 (COR).]

3. Standing by. To fail or refuse to stand by immediately for inspection on request of any marine patrol officer in uniform; [PL 1979, c. 541, Pt. B, §73 (AMD).]

4. Throwing or dumping items. Who has been requested or signaled to stop by a marine patrol officer in uniform to throw or dump into any water any marine organism, or any pail, bag, barrel or other container of any type, or the contents thereof, before the marine patrol officer has inspected the same. [PL 1979, c. 541, Pt. B, §73 (AMD).]

Violation of this section is a Class D crime, except that the court shall impose a fine of not less than $500. A court may not suspend a fine imposed under this section. [PL 2009, c. 394, §15 (AMD).]
12 M.R.S. § 9701 — ME Code / Title 12 / Part 11 / Chapter 809 / Section 9701
12 §9701. Penalty
Status: in_force

Unless otherwise specifically stated, any person who violates any requirement of this Part, the condition or terms of any permit or license issued by the director or the provision of any rule or regulation of the bureau commits a civil violation for which a forfeiture not to exceed $1,000 may be adjudged. Each day of a violation shall be considered a separate offense. [PL 1979, c. 545, §3 (NEW); PL 2011, c. 657, Pt. W, §7 (REV); PL 2013, c. 405, Pt. A, §23 (REV).]

In any action or proceeding brought by the Attorney General under this section, the court may award litigation costs, including court costs, reasonable attorney's fees and reasonable expert witness fees, to be deposited in the General Fund of the State if the State or any of its officers or agencies is a prevailing party in the action or proceeding and the defendant's defense was not substantially justified. For the purposes of this subsection, a defense is "substantially justified" if the defense had a reasonable basis in law or fact at the time it was raised. [PL 2009, c. 536, §2 (NEW).]
12 M.R.S. § 12953 — ME Code / Title 12 / Part 13 / Chapter 931 / Section 12953
12 §12953. Licensure
Status: in_force

1. License required. In order to safeguard the life, health and welfare of the people of this State, a person may not practice the art of taxidermy for commercial purposes unless that person holds a valid taxidermist license as provided in this section. Each day a person violates this subsection, that person commits a Class E crime for which a minimum fine of $50 and an amount equal to twice the applicable license fee must be imposed. [PL 2003, c. 414, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 614, §9 (AFF).]

2. License qualifications. To be eligible for a taxidermist license issued pursuant to this section, an applicant must: A. Satisfactorily pass a taxidermy examination, as prescribed by the commissioner by rule; and [PL 2003, c. 414, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 614, §9 (AFF).] B. Demonstrate trustworthiness and competence to practice the art of taxidermy in such a manner, as prescribed by the commissioner by rule, as to safeguard the interests of the public. [PL 2003, c. 414, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 614, §9 (AFF).] [PL 2003, c. 414, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 614, §9 (AFF).]

3. License application. An applicant for a license must submit a written application to the commissioner on a form prescribed by the commissioner. The commissioner may require an applicant who has previously held a taxidermist license to provide a notarized statement indicating that the person has not failed to provide services to a customer as promised through a contractual agreement with that customer. A. The application must contain satisfactory evidence of the qualifications required of the applicant under this section and must be sworn to by the applicant. [PL 2003, c. 414, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 614, §9 (AFF).] B. Failure or refusal to provide information requested on the application form is sufficient grounds for the commissioner to reject the application. [PL 2003, c. 414, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 614, §9 (AFF).] C. The application must be accompanied by a nonrefundable fee of $125. This fee also applies to examinations for general classification under department rules. [PL 2023, c. 308, §11 (AMD).] D. Within 10 working days of receipt of an application for a taxidermist license, the commissioner shall notify the applicant as to the acceptability of the application and shall provide the applicant with notice at least 2 weeks prior to any examination required under this section. [PL 2003, c. 414, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 614, §9 (AFF).] [PL 2023, c. 308, §11 (AMD).]

4. Examination. An applicant for a license shall appear at a time and place designated by the commissioner to be examined by means of written, practical and oral tests as the commissioner determines. The commissioner shall determine the form and content of examinations. [PL 2017, c. 72, §3 (AMD).]

5. Reexamination. The commissioner may require a taxidermist to be reexamined if the commissioner receives a written complaint and, upon investigation, finds that the taxidermist no longer meets the qualifications to be licensed as a taxidermist. Beginning January 1, 2016, an examination is also required for any person who has not held a valid taxidermist license within the previous 3 years. [PL 2015, c. 281, Pt. F, §2 (AMD).]

6. License and fee. License applicants who successfully meet the qualifications set forth in this section must be issued a license upon payment of a $77 fee for a 3-year license. This fee is in addition to the $125 application fee required for a first-time applicant and an application for general classification under department rules. [PL 2023, c. 308, §12 (AMD).]

7. Expiration and renewal of license; fees. Prior to January 1, 2026, licenses issued pursuant to this section expire 3 years from the date of issuance unless revoked sooner. Beginning January 1, 2026, a taxidermist license entitles a person to practice the art of taxidermy through the remainder of the calendar year in which the license was issued plus 2 calendar years unless revoked sooner. A taxidermist whose license is not suspended or revoked may renew the license every 3 years upon application by the licensee accompanied by a $77 license fee. [PL 2025, c. 132, §13 (AMD).]

8. Rules. The commissioner may adopt rules to implement the provisions of this section. Rules adopted pursuant to this subsection are routine technical rules as defined in Title 5, chapter 375, subchapter 2‑A . [PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §347 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §422 (AFF).]
12 M.R.S. § 8422 — ME Code / Title 12 / Part 11 / Chapter 803 / Section 8422
12 §8422. Legislative policy
Status: in_force

The Legislature declares that it shall be the policy of the State to undertake a spruce budworm management program to minimize the short-term and long-term impacts of spruce budworm insect infestations upon the state's spruce and fir forests in accordance with the following policy objectives: [PL 1979, c. 737, §12 (NEW).]

1. Supply of wood. Monitoring the status of and reporting on the present and future supply of wood to support the long-term economic needs of the State and of its forest products industries; [PL 2015, c. 314, §1 (AMD).]

2. Development of program. The development and utilization in both the public and private sectors of forest protection and management programs that are cost-effective, biologically sound and responsive to the public's environmental and health concerns; [PL 2015, c. 314, §1 (AMD).]

3. Reduction in use of insecticides. The reduction in reliance upon the use of chemical insecticides in spruce budworm suppression programs; [PL 1979, c. 737, §12 (NEW).]

4. Private efforts; pest management. The encouragement of private efforts to undertake a variety of integrated pest management techniques that result in a long-term reduction in the vulnerability of the State's forests to spruce budworm infestation and loss; [PL 2015, c. 314, §1 (AMD).]

4-A. Presalvage and salvage harvesting. The regulation of presalvage and salvage harvesting designed to reduce losses of timber while protecting public trust resources and supporting the protection of wildlife habitat through the retention of non-susceptible tree species where silviculturally and ecologically appropriate; [PL 2015, c. 314, §2 (NEW).]

5. Implementation. The implementation of methods for determining private and public participation in spruce budworm management programs, including provision for voluntary participation in future insecticide spray projects; [PL 2015, c. 314, §3 (AMD).]

6. Regulatory review. The provision for adequate regulatory review of any proposed insecticide spray projects by the Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry, Board of Pesticides Control; and [PL 2015, c. 314, §3 (AMD).]

7. Management options. The provision of management options for forest landowners designed to minimize impacts of spruce budworm infestation and loss. [PL 2015, c. 314, §3 (AMD).]
12 M.R.S. § 8844 — ME Code / Title 12 / Part 11 / Chapter 805 / Section 8844
12 §8844. Seizure or attachment
Status: in_force

Any officer authorized to make inspections, investigations or arrests under this Article may seize and hold Christmas trees or evergreen boughs until proof of ownership has been established. If proof of ownership has not been established, the officer shall try to determine where those trees or boughs were cut and notify the landowner. If the owner does not want the trees or boughs, or ownership cannot be determined, the State may dispose of them and any money derived from the disposition of the trees and boughs must be paid to the landowner, if the landowner's identity can be established and, otherwise, to the Treasurer of State to be credited to the General Fund. [RR 2021, c. 2, Pt. B, §65 (COR).]
12 M.R.S. § 6575-D — ME Code / Title 12 / Part 9 / Chapter 621 / Section 6575-D
12 §6575-D. Molesting elver fishing gear
Status: in_force

1. Prohibition. Except as provided in subsection 1‑A , a person other than a marine patrol officer or the license holder issued a tag for an elver fyke net may not utilize, transfer, alter, possess or in any manner handle the net unless that person has been issued a license to fish for elvers with an elver fyke net under section 6302‑A, subsection 3, paragraph E , E‑1 , F or G or section 6505‑A or a license to fish for elvers with crew with an elver fyke net under section 6505‑A and the license holder issued the tag for the elver fyke net is present and assisting in setting, tending or removing the net. A. [PL 1999, c. 7, §14 (RP).] B. [PL 2013, c. 468, §28 (RP).] [PL 2013, c. 468, §28 (AMD).]

1-A. Restriction on emptying net or trap; exception. A person other than the license holder identified on the tag for an elver fyke net or a Sheldon eel trap may not empty that net or trap unless that person has been issued an elver fishing license for the same gear type and has been issued written permission by a marine patrol officer to tend that net or trap. A marine patrol officer may issue a person written permission for the person to tend the license holder's net or trap only for the purpose of releasing captured elvers into the waters of the State if the license holder is temporarily unable to tend that net or trap because of a disability or personal or family medical condition. If the license holder is unable to tend that net or trap for more than 2 consecutive weeks, the net or trap must be removed from the water. [PL 2013, c. 468, §28 (NEW).]

2. Violation. A person who violates this section commits a Class D crime for which a fine of $2,000 must be imposed, none of which may be suspended. Violation of this section is a strict liability crime as defined in Title 17‑A, section 34, subsection 4‑A . [PL 2013, c. 49, §14 (AMD).]
12 M.R.S. § 6806 — ME Code / Title 12 / Part 9 / Chapter 623 / Section 6806
12 §6806. Seaweed Management Fund (REALLOCATED FROM TITLE 12, SECTION 6804)
Status: in_force

(REALLOCATED FROM TITLE 12, SECTION 6804)

1. Fund established. The Seaweed Management Fund, referred to in this section as the "fund," is established as a dedicated, nonlapsing fund. [RR 1999, c. 1, §18 (RAL).]

2. Permissible uses. The commissioner shall use the fund in accordance with a plan required under subsection 3 to research and manage the State's seaweed resources and to enforce the laws and rules related to seaweed. [RR 1999, c. 1, §18 (RAL).]

3. Plan required. Beginning in calendar year 2018, the commissioner shall by May 1st of each year present a plan for expenditures from the fund for the next fiscal year to the joint standing committee of the Legislature having jurisdiction over marine resource matters. When developing the plan, the commissioner shall consult with the Seaweed Fisheries Advisory Council established in Title 5, section 12004-I, subsection 57-H . [PL 2017, c. 52, §3 (AMD).]
12 M.R.S. § 1877 — ME Code / Title 12 / Part 2 / Chapter 220 / Section 1877
12 §1877. Authority to acquire property by eminent domain or otherwise
Status: in_force

The bureau may acquire, on behalf of the State, land, improvements or any interest therein and water and power rights within the boundaries of the waterway or adjacent thereto by purchase, lease or gift and to enter into agreements concerning the same. Any land acquired that is adjacent to the waterway becomes part of the waterway. The bureau is authorized to accept and receive gifts and bequests of money or other property, including funds from the Federal Government, for purposes consistent with the intent of the Legislature in establishing the waterway. [PL 1997, c. 678, §13 (NEW); PL 2011, c. 657, Pt. W, §7 (REV); PL 2013, c. 405, Pt. A, §24 (REV).]

Within the restricted zone, the bureau may acquire by eminent domain on behalf of the State any land, improvements or any interest therein and water and power rights, specifically excluding Telos Dam Lot and Lock Dam Lot and water and power rights connected therewith; however, the power and authority of the bureau as otherwise provided to accomplish the purposes of this subchapter apply to Telos Dam Lot and Lock Dam Lot. [PL 1997, c. 678, §13 (NEW); PL 2011, c. 657, Pt. W, §7 (REV); PL 2013, c. 405, Pt. A, §24 (REV).]
12 M.R.S. § 1835 — ME Code / Title 12 / Part 2 / Chapter 220 / Section 1835
12 §1835. Nonreserved Public Lands Management Fund
Status: in_force

1. Revenue sources. Except as provided in paragraph A , the bureau must receive all money, securities and other things of value accruing to the State: from the sale of nonreserved public lands, timber and grass and other rights and things of value from the nonreserved public lands under the care, custody, control or management of the bureau; in payment for timber, grass and other things of value cut or taken by trespassers; from forfeiture of a bond or a deposit when a contractor does not fulfill the terms of the contract or comply with state regulations; or as a result of a compromise or settlement of any claim. A. The first $20,000 in the aggregate of any money accruing from the alienation of rights to mine upon nonreserved public land, or other income arising out of mining operations, that is actually received during any fiscal year, and every portion thereof accruing from these mining operations, must be paid into the Division of Geology, Natural Areas and Coastal Resources. [PL 2013, c. 405, Pt. C, §8 (AMD).] [PL 2013, c. 405, Pt. A, §24 (REV); PL 2013, c. 405, Pt. C, §8 (AMD).]

2. Fund established. To accomplish the purposes of this subchapter, there is established the Nonreserved Public Lands Management Fund. All income received by the bureau pursuant to this subchapter must be recorded on the books of the State in a separate account and deposited with the Treasurer of State to be credited to the Nonreserved Public Lands Management Fund. Any interest earned on this money must be credited to the fund. [PL 1997, c. 678, §13 (NEW); PL 2011, c. 657, Pt. W, §7 (REV); PL 2013, c. 405, Pt. A, §24 (REV).]

3. Expenditure of funds. Money credited to the Nonreserved Public Lands Management Fund may be used only to produce a sustained yield of goods and services from those lands for multiple use purposes in accordance with the principles of sound planning and sound business practices or for the acquisition of additional land for the same purpose. Any balance remaining continues from year to year as a fund available only for the purposes set out in this section. [PL 1997, c. 678, §13 (NEW).]

4. Legislative approval of budget. [PL 2013, c. 368, Pt. LLLL, §1 (RP).]
12 M.R.S. § 1819-B — ME Code / Title 12 / Part 2 / Chapter 220 / Section 1819-B
12 §1819-B. Day use passes for active military personnel
Status: in_force

Notwithstanding section 1819 , the commissioner shall enter into a memorandum of agreement with the Department of Defense, Veterans and Emergency Management for the issuance of a free day use pass to state parks and historic sites to each active duty military member determined by the Department of Defense, Veterans and Emergency Management to meet the criteria established in Title 37-B, section 7 . The pass entitles the holder, and the holder's spouse and children when accompanied by the holder, to admission free of charge to all state parks and historic sites. [PL 2009, c. 220, §2 (NEW).]
12 M.R.S. § 6703 — ME Code / Title 12 / Part 9 / Chapter 623 / Section 6703
12 §6703. Noncommercial scallop license; fee
Status: in_force

1. License required. A person may not engage in the activities authorized by this license under this section without a current noncommercial scallop license. [PL 1999, c. 771, Pt. B, §8 (AMD); PL 1999, c. 771, Pt. D, §§1, 2 (AFF).]

2. Licensed activity. The holder of a noncommercial scallop license may take scallops by hand or by use of a drag and may possess, ship or transport scallops the license holder has taken. [RR 2021, c. 2, Pt. B, §60 (COR).]

3. License limitation; quantity. In any one day, the holder of a noncommercial scallop license may not take or possess more than 1 1/2 bushels of shell scallops or one gallon of shucked scallops. [PL 2013, c. 492, §8 (AMD).]

3-A. License limitation; personal use. The holder of a noncommercial scallop license may take or possess scallops for personal use only and may not sell scallops the holder has taken. [PL 2003, c. 452, Pt. F, §20 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 452, Pt. X, §2 (AFF).]

4. Fee. The fee for a noncommercial scallop license is $18, except as provided in subsection 4‑A . [PL 2019, c. 575, §3 (AMD).]

4-A. Qualified resident disabled veteran; fee waived. Notwithstanding subsection 4 and section 6729, subsection 1, paragraph D , there is no fee or license surcharge for a noncommercial scallop license issued to a qualified resident disabled veteran. For the purposes of this subsection, "qualified resident disabled veteran" means a person who: A. Was honorably discharged from the Armed Forces of the United States, the National Guard or the Reserves of the United States Armed Forces; [PL 2019, c. 575, §4 (NEW).] B. Has a service-connected disability evaluated at 50% or more; and [PL 2019, c. 575, §4 (NEW).] C. Is a resident of the State. [PL 2019, c. 575, §4 (NEW).] In order to receive a noncommercial scallop license at no cost, an applicant must provide satisfactory evidence that the applicant is a qualified resident disabled veteran. [PL 2019, c. 575, §4 (NEW).]

5. Penalty. A person who violates this section commits a civil violation for which the following penalties apply: A. For the first offense, a mandatory fine of $500 is imposed and all scallops on board may be seized; [PL 2007, c. 607, Pt. B, §3 (NEW).] B. For the 2nd offense, a mandatory fine of $750 is imposed and all scallops on board may be seized; and [PL 2007, c. 607, Pt. B, §3 (NEW).] C. For the 3rd and subsequent offenses, a mandatory fine of $750 is imposed and all scallops on board may be seized. This penalty is imposed in addition to the penalty imposed under section 6728‑B . [PL 2007, c. 607, Pt. B, §3 (NEW).] [PL 2007, c. 607, Pt. B, §3 (AMD).]
12 M.R.S. § 13151 — ME Code / Title 12 / Part 13 / Chapter 939 / Section 13151
12 §13151. Application
Status: in_force

This chapter applies to the operation of ATVs in the State. [PL 2003, c. 414, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 614, §9 (AFF).]
12 M.R.S. § 6131 — ME Code / Title 12 / Part 9 / Chapter 605 / Section 6131
12 §6131. River herring fishing rights
Status: in_force

The commissioner is authorized to develop, manage or lease river herring fishing rights as follows. [PL 2011, c. 598, §11 (AMD).]

1. River herring rights. The commissioner shall grant the right, exclusive or otherwise, to take river herring to any municipality entitled to those rights on January 1, 1974 and may grant the right to take river herring to any other municipality provided: A. Any municipality that has had the right to take river herring, exclusive or otherwise, or is granted that right by the commissioner, shall take action through its legislative body and file a copy of this action with the commissioner prior to April 20th or lose that right for the remaining part of that year; [PL 2011, c. 598, §11 (AMD).] B. Municipal rights that are not exercised for 3 consecutive years lapse; [PL 2009, c. 17, §1 (AMD).] C. At its annual meeting the municipality may determine by vote: (1) Whether river herring fishing will be operated by the municipality through the municipal officers or a committee; and (2) Whether the municipal rights to take river herring will be sold by the municipal officers or committee; and [PL 2011, c. 598, §11 (AMD).] D. Harvesting plans must be developed as follows. (1) Any municipality engaged in harvesting river herring shall submit a written harvesting plan to the commissioner prior to April 20th of each calendar year. All harvesting plans must set forth in detail the exact conditions under which river herring may be taken, all in accordance with good conservation practices. (2) The commissioner, after consultation with the appropriate municipal officers, shall approve or modify the harvesting plan as the commissioner determines necessary for the conservation of river herring and other anadromous fish, and shall file a copy of the approved plan with the clerk of the municipality. [PL 2011, c. 598, §11 (AMD).] [PL 2009, c. 17, §1 (AMD); PL 2011, c. 598, §11 (AMD).]

2. Limitations. The following limitations apply to any grant. A. It is unlawful to take river herring from 6 a.m. each Thursday morning until 6 a.m. Sunday morning. Municipalities that make other provisions for escape of spawning river herring that are approved by the commissioner are exempt from this limit. [PL 2011, c. 598, §11 (AMD).] B. It is unlawful for any municipality or purchaser or lessee of the municipal right to take river herring in any manner except as provided in the approved river herring harvesting plan. [PL 2011, c. 598, §11 (AMD).] [PL 2011, c. 598, §11 (AMD).]

3. Closed period in rivers and streams not under lease agreement. In any river or stream not managed under a lease agreement, there is a 72-hour closed period on the taking of river herring and obstruction of the watercourse to allow the free passage of fish from 6 a.m. on Thursday to 6 a.m. the following Sunday. [PL 2011, c. 598, §11 (AMD).]

4. Violation of harvesting plan. If the commissioner determines after investigation that the municipality is not following its river herring harvesting plan, the commissioner shall notify the municipality. Any municipality that fails to take corrective action within 48 hours of notification loses its river herring fishing privilege for that calendar year. Upon further notification by the commissioner of loss of river herring fishing privileges, the municipality or its agents shall cease all fishing activity and immediately remove all traps, weirs, seines or other river herring fishing gear from their river herring waters. [PL 2011, c. 598, §11 (AMD).]

5. Leasing of rights. The commissioner: A. When the commissioner decides to manage or lease any river herring fishing rights when a municipality has had those rights and has failed to act as provided in subsection 1 , shall so notify the clerk of the municipality in writing. After the notice, the commissioner may lease any of those rights to any person, as the commissioner determines is in the best interest of the State. All leases must be in writing and signed by the commissioner and the lessee and must set forth in detail the exact conditions under which the river herring may be taken, all in accordance with good conservation practices; and [PL 2011, c. 598, §11 (AMD).] B. May manage or lease river herring fishing rights in any river or stream where a municipality does not have those rights. The commissioner may lease any of those rights to any person, as the commissioner determines is in the best interest of the State. All leases must be in writing and approved and signed by the commissioner and the lessee and must set forth in detail the exact conditions under which the river herring may be taken, all in accordance with good conservation practices. [PL 2011, c. 598, §11 (AMD).] [PL 2011, c. 598, §11 (AMD).]

6. Violation of terms. It is unlawful for any person holding such a lease to violate any of its terms or to cause the same to be done. [PL 2011, c. 598, §11 (AMD).]

7. Molesting equipment. It is unlawful to molest the fishing equipment of any lease holder or to interfere with the fishing rights granted by the lease. [PL 2011, c. 598, §11 (AMD).]

8. Migratory Fish Fund. All fees received by the commissioner from river herring leasing rights are allocated to the Migratory Fish Fund, as established. Expenditures from the Migratory Fish Fund must be made: A. To build fishways for river herring and other migratory fish; [PL 2011, c. 598, §11 (AMD).] B. For construction of other facilities for improving the environment of river herring and other migratory fish; [PL 2011, c. 598, §11 (AMD).] C. For general propagation and conservation of river herring and other migratory fish; [PL 2011, c. 598, §11 (AMD).] D. For research to enhance the fishing industry based on river herring and other migratory fish; and [PL 2011, c. 598, §11 (AMD).] E. For management measures required to maintain or enhance river herring populations or populations of other migratory fish. [PL 2011, c. 598, §11 (AMD).] The Migratory Fish Fund does not lapse. [PL 2011, c. 598, §11 (AMD).]
12 M.R.S. § 11901 — ME Code / Title 12 / Part 13 / Chapter 915 / Section 11901
12 §11901. Raccoons
Status: in_force

1. Open season. An open season for hunting raccoons established by the commissioner must be of uniform duration throughout the State. [PL 2003, c. 592, §4 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 592, §5 (AFF); PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. C, §§5, 6 (AFF).]

2. Night hunting. Notwithstanding the night hunting prohibition in section 11206 , raccoons may be hunted at night during an open season established pursuant to this section. [PL 2003, c. 592, §4 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 592, §5 (AFF); PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. C, §§5, 6 (AFF).]
12 M.R.S. § 6114 — ME Code / Title 12 / Part 9 / Chapter 605 / Section 6114
12 §6114. Violation; enforcement
Status: in_force

1. Forfeiture. A violation of this subchapter is a civil violation for which a forfeiture not to exceed $100 may be adjudged. [PL 2001, c. 421, Pt. B, §13 (AMD); PL 2001, c. 421, Pt. C, §1 (AFF).]
12 M.R.S. § 9332 — ME Code / Title 12 / Part 11 / Chapter 807 / Section 9332
12 §9332. Disposal along highways
Status: in_force

A stumpage owner, operator, landowner or agent who cuts or causes or permits to be cut any forest growth on lands that are within or border the right-of-way of a public highway within the State shall dispose of the slash that is within the right-of-way or within 50 feet of the nearer side of the shoulder of the right-of-way as provided in this section. [PL 1999, c. 332, §1 (RPR).]

1. Slash may not remain. Except as provided in this section, slash may not remain on the ground within the right-of-way or within 50 feet of the nearer side of the shoulder of the right-of-way. [PL 1999, c. 332, §1 (NEW).]

2. Slash with diameter of 3 inches or less. Slash with a diameter of 3 inches or less must be hauled away, burned or chipped. [PL 1999, c. 332, §1 (NEW).]

3. Slash more than 3 inches in diameter. Slash that is more than 3 inches in diameter must be removed or limbed and placed on the ground surface so that the pieces are separated and not piled one piece over another. Usable timber products generated from right-of-way maintenance may be piled within the right-of-way but must be removed within 30 days. [PL 1999, c. 332, §1 (NEW).]
12 M.R.S. § 12554 — ME Code / Title 12 / Part 13 / Chapter 923 / Section 12554
12 §12554. Disturbing baitfish traps or baitfish holding boxes
Status: in_force

A person may not disturb or take any baitfish trap or baitfish holding box or any fish from any baitfish trap or baitfish holding box other than that person's own without the consent of the owner of the baitfish trap or baitfish holding box. [PL 2003, c. 414, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 614, §9 (AFF).]

A person who violates this section commits a Class E crime. The court shall also impose a fine of $20 for each fish unlawfully possessed, none of which may be suspended. [PL 2003, c. 414, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 614, §9 (AFF).]
12 M.R.S. § 12656 — ME Code / Title 12 / Part 13 / Chapter 923 / Section 12656
12 §12656. Possession and use of unlawful implements and devices
Status: in_force

1. Prohibition. A person may not: A. Possess any grapnel, trawl, weir, seine, gill net, trap, set line or drop net on or adjacent to any of the inland waters of the State, except in accordance with sections 12157 and 12506 , section 12551‑A, subsection 7, paragraph A , subparagraph (2) and section 12763, subsections 3 and 4 ; or [PL 2009, c. 214, §9 (AMD).] B. Except as otherwise provided, use any grapnel, spear, spear gun, trawl, weir, gaff, seine, gill net, trap or set lines for fishing. (1) A person may take suckers, eels, river herring and yellow perch in accordance with section 12506 . (2) A person may take baitfish with a baitfish trap, as defined in section 10001, subsection 7 . [PL 2017, c. 150, §7 (AMD).] [PL 2017, c. 150, §7 (AMD).]

2. Penalty. A person who violates this section commits a Class E crime. The court shall also impose a fine of $20 for each fish unlawfully possessed, none of which may be suspended. [PL 2003, c. 414, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 614, §9 (AFF).]
12 M.R.S. § 10401 — ME Code / Title 12 / Part 13 / Chapter 905 / Section 10401
12 §10401. Officials with full powers of game wardens
Status: in_force

Sheriffs, deputy sheriffs, police officers, constables, marine patrol officers, Baxter Park rangers, wardens of the Penobscot Indian Nation within the Penobscot Indian Territory, as defined by Title 30, section 6205, subsection 2 , wardens of the Passamaquoddy Tribe within the Passamaquoddy Indian Territory, as defined by Title 30, section 6205, subsection 1 , and law enforcement personnel employed by the United States Department of the Interior have the powers of game wardens. [PL 2003, c. 414, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 614, §9 (AFF).]

The commissioner shall grant the powers of game wardens outside the Penobscot Indian Territory to wardens of the Penobscot Indian Nation and game wardens outside the Passamaquoddy Indian Territory to wardens of the Passamaquoddy Tribe who have qualified under the written code prepared by the commissioner and approved by the State Human Resources Officer within the Department of Administrative and Financial Services, as specified in section 10351 . The commissioner may revoke these powers for good cause shown and shall provide a subsequent hearing on the revocation under Title 5, chapter 375, subchapter 4 , if requested. [PL 2003, c. 414, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 614, §9 (AFF); PL 2023, c. 412, §3 (REV).]
12 M.R.S. § 6433-B — ME Code / Title 12 / Part 9 / Chapter 619 / Section 6433-B
12 §6433-B. Runners
Status: in_force

1. Definitions. As used in this section, unless the context otherwise indicates, the term "runner" means a device on the bottom of a lobster trap that prevents damage to lobster claws and allows the trap to be pulled smoothly out of the water. [PL 2001, c. 205, §1 (NEW).]

2. Device to prevent damage to lobster claws. A lobster trap must have a device attached to the trap that is designed to prevent damage to lobster claws. A. If stick runners are used: (1) The runners may be made out of any material; (2) The runners must be at least 1/4 inch thick; and (3) A minimum of two runners must be attached to the lobster trap and the runners must be placed on opposite sides of the bottom of the lobster trap. [PL 2001, c. 205, §1 (NEW).] B. If a 2nd layer of material is used in lieu of stick runners, it must be layered in a manner that creates a mesh size smaller than the base trap mesh when attached to the bottom of the trap. [PL 2001, c. 205, §1 (NEW).] C. If a device other than a device identified in paragraph A or B is used, the device must be designed to minimize damage to lobster claws and must be approved by the commissioner. [PL 2001, c. 205, §1 (NEW).] [PL 2001, c. 205, §1 (NEW).]
12 M.R.S. § 4807 — ME Code / Title 12 / Part 6 / Chapter 423-A / Section 4807
12 §4807. Definitions
Status: in_force

As used in this chapter, unless the context otherwise indicates, the following terms shall have the following meanings. [PL 1973, c. 411, §1 (NEW).]

1. Multiple unit housing. "Multiple unit housing" shall mean a structure or structures located on a single lot, which structures are designed or used to house 2 or more families. [PL 1973, c. 411, §1 (NEW).]

1-A. Engineered disposal system. "Engineered disposal system" means a subsurface wastewater disposal system designed, installed and operated as a single unit to treat and dispose of at least 2,000 gallons of wastewater per day or a system designed to be capable of treating wastewater with significantly high 5-day biochemical oxygen demand and total suspended solid concentrations. [PL 2003, c. 308, §1 (NEW).]

1-B. First-time subsurface waste disposal system. "First-time subsurface waste disposal system" means the first subsurface waste disposal system designed to serve a specific structure. [PL 2003, c. 308, §1 (NEW).]

2. Other land use activity. "Other land use activity" includes any commercial or industrial uses or combination of such uses. [PL 1973, c. 411, §1 (NEW).]

3. Person. "Person" means any individual, corporation, firm, partnership, municipality, quasi-municipal corporation, state or federal agency or any other legal entity. [PL 1973, c. 411, §1 (NEW).]

4. Single family residential unit. "Single family residential unit" means any structure of any kind, including mobile homes, used or designed to house a single family, and shall include those structures used permanently and seasonally. [PL 1973, c. 411, §1 (NEW).]

5. Subsurface waste disposal. "Subsurface waste disposal" means any system for disposing of wastes or waste waters on or beneath the surface of the earth including, but not limited to, holding ponds, surface spraying, septic tanks, drainage fields and wells, but shall not include any discharge or the waste treatment system related thereto licensed under Title 38, section 413 or any discharge into a municipal or quasi-municipal sewer system. [PL 1973, c. 411, §1 (NEW).]

6. Waste. "Waste" means any liquefied sewage, garbage, sewage sludge, chemical, biological or radiological materials, human body wastes, or any other refuse or effluent in a liquid form generated from domestic, commercial or industrial activities, except any wastes containing insufficient liquid to be free flowing and wastes generated from agricultural activities or animal husbandry. [PL 1973, c. 411, §1 (NEW).]
12 M.R.S. § 900 — ME Code / Title 12 / Part 2 / Chapter 211 / Section 900
12 §900. Purpose
Status: in_force

Seldom has a more generous gift been presented to a people than has been given by Percival Proctor Baxter to the people of the State of Maine. It is incumbent upon them, the recipients, to preserve the trust impressed upon them, to ensure for themselves and for future generations the fullest use of Baxter State Park consistent with the desires of the donor. [PL 1971, c. 477, §1 (NEW).]

Governor Baxter's expressed desires were that this park "shall forever be retained and used for state forest, public park and public recreational purposes ... shall forever be kept and remain in the natural wild state ... shall forever be kept and remain as a sanctuary for beasts and birds." [PL 1971, c. 477, §1 (NEW).]

Lest those that follow, uncertain of Governor Baxter's wishes, seek to define his desires in ways inharmonious with their original intent, this section is enacted. [PL 1971, c. 477, §1 (NEW).]

It shall be the object of the Baxter State Park Authority to preserve the grandeur and beauty of Maine's highest peak, Mount Katahdin, as well as the 45 other mountains, the numerous lakes, ponds and streams; to subordinate its own wishes to the intent of Governor Baxter; to recognize his wish that, in this era of change, one thing of natural beauty remain constant. [PL 1971, c. 477, §1 (NEW).]

This intent must be interpreted so as not to separate this park from the people to whom it was given; but rather seek to have it enjoyed and "used to the fullest extent but in the right unspoiled manner." [PL 1971, c. 477, §1 (NEW).]

As a public forest it shall remain in its natural wild state and when "the Forests of our State have been cut off and disappeared, when civilization has encroached upon the land we now refer to as 'Wild Land,' this park will give the people of succeeding generations a living example of what the State of Maine was 'in the good old days' before the song of the woodsman's axe and the whine of the power saw was heard in the land." [PL 1971, c. 477, §1 (NEW).]

As a public park and a place of recreation, it is apparent that it is intended for "those persons who enjoy the wilderness" and that the repeated use of the word "recreation" refers to the use of this park compatible with its natural state as a wilderness area and an expanse "for those who love nature and who are willing to walk and make an effort to get close to nature ... with pleasant foot-trails built and attractive camp-sites laid out in the valleys, by the brooks, and on the shores of the water." [PL 1971, c. 477, §1 (NEW).]

As a tract kept in its "natural wild state," it is intended that "everything in connection with the park must be left simple and natural and must remain as nearly as possible as it was when only the Indians and the animals roamed at will through these areas ..." Access to the park shall be provided only "as may be necessary to accommodate those persons who wish to enjoy the great unspoiled area that now is the property of our State ..." [PL 1971, c. 477, §1 (NEW).]

As a "sanctuary for beasts and birds" it shall be forever a "sanctuary and home for the creatures of the wild," and as refuge "against hunting, trapping and killing" where "hunting with cameras will take the place of hunting with guns." [PL 1971, c. 477, §1 (NEW).]

While this area bears the name park, it is not to be confused with the existing state park system and is to "be separately administered free from any connection with the larger State Park Commission." (Bureau of Parks and Lands) That system, purchased with the funds of the people, must change from time to time to accommodate changing circumstances and the varying desires of its proprietors; not so, Baxter State Park, purchased by the generosity of one man, richly endowed, and presented to the people with specific stipulations. [PL 1973, c. 625, §64 (AMD); PL 1995, c. 502, Pt. E, §30 (AMD); PL 2011, c. 657, Pt. W, §7 (REV); PL 2013, c. 405, Pt. A, §24 (REV).]

"While I am living I fear no encroachments on the park, but as time passes and new men appear upon the scene, there may be a tendency to overlook these restrictions and thus break the spirit of these gifts." [PL 1971, c. 477, §1 (NEW).]

Solemnly cognizant of the responsibility, it shall always be the purpose of the authority to satisfy the terms of the Trust. [PL 1971, c. 477, §1 (NEW).]
12 M.R.S. § 4812-D — ME Code / Title 12 / Part 7 / Chapter 424 / Section 4812-D
12 §4812-D. Shoreland zoning report to Legislature (REALLOCATED TO TITLE 38, SECTION 449)
Status: in_force

(REALLOCATED TO TITLE 38, SECTION 449)
12 M.R.S. § 9401 — ME Code / Title 12 / Part 11 / Chapter 807 / Section 9401
12 §9401. Patrol along tracks
Status: in_force

Whenever in the judgment of the director the woodlands along the railroads traversing the forest lands of the State are in a dry and dangerous condition, the director shall maintain a competent and efficient fire patrol along the right-of-way or lands of those railroads if, in the judgment of the director, a satisfactory railroad fire patrol is not being provided. [RR 2021, c. 2, Pt. B, §72 (COR).]
12 M.R.S. § 10503 — ME Code / Title 12 / Part 13 / Chapter 907 / Section 10503
12 §10503. Forfeiture of seized fish, wildlife and equipment
Status: in_force

Whenever a libel has been filed pursuant to section 10502 : [PL 2003, c. 414, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 614, §9 (AFF).]

1. Notice and hearing of libel. The judge shall fix a time for the hearing of the libel and issue a notice of the libel to all persons interested, citing them to appear at the time and place appointed and show cause why the fish, wildlife, currency or equipment possessed should not be declared forfeited. A true and attested copy of the libel and notice must be posted in 2 conspicuous places in the town or place where the fish, wildlife, currency or equipment possessed was seized, or in such place or places as is ordered by the court, at least 10 days before the day on which the libel is returnable. Copies must be served on common carriers; [PL 2011, c. 253, §5 (AMD).]

2. Disposal and sale of fish or wildlife. If the court finds that the fish or wildlife seized will be unsuitable for food or other use on the day on which the libel is returnable, the court shall order the officer making the seizure to dispose of the seized fish or wildlife. The officer disposing of the seized fish or wildlife shall, in case of sale, hold the proceeds of the sale subject to order of the court for decision as to the right of the claimant, if any appear, to the fish or wildlife. If the court finds the claimant, if any appear, is not entitled to the fish or wildlife, the officer making the seizure shall turn over to the court the proceeds of the sale, and the court shall forward the proceeds to the commissioner in the same manner as is provided by section 10203 ; [PL 2003, c. 414, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 614, §9 (AFF).]

3. Declaration of forfeiture. If no claimant appears, the court shall, on proof of notice, declare the articles forfeited to the State; [PL 2003, c. 414, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 614, §9 (AFF).]

4. Claim procedures. If a person appears and claims the articles, or any part of the articles, as having a right to the possession of them at the time when they were seized, that claimant shall file with the court a claim in writing stating specifically: A. The right so claimed; [PL 2003, c. 414, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 614, §9 (AFF).] B. The foundation of the claim; [PL 2003, c. 414, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 614, §9 (AFF).] C. The item so claimed; [PL 2003, c. 414, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 614, §9 (AFF).] D. The time and place of the seizure; [PL 2003, c. 414, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 614, §9 (AFF).] E. The name of the officer by whom the articles were seized; [PL 2003, c. 414, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 614, §9 (AFF).] F. That the articles were not possessed in violation of this Part with the person's knowledge or consent; and [PL 2003, c. 414, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 614, §9 (AFF).] G. That person's business and place of residence. [PL 2003, c. 414, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 614, §9 (AFF).] If a person makes a claim in accordance with this subsection, that claimant must be admitted as a party to the process, and the court shall proceed to determine the truth of the allegations in the claim and libel and may hear any pertinent evidence offered by the libelant or claimant; [PL 2003, c. 414, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 614, §9 (AFF).]

5. Return of articles or proceeds to claimant. If the court is, upon the hearing, satisfied that the fish, wildlife, currency or equipment possessed was not possessed in violation of this Part and that the claimant is entitled to the custody of any part of the articles, the court shall give the claimant an order in writing, directed to the officer having the articles in custody, commanding delivery to the claimant of the articles or proceeds derived from the sale of the articles, to which the claimant is found to be entitled, within 48 hours after demand; [PL 2011, c. 253, §6 (AMD).]

6. Judgment against claimant. If the court finds the claimant entitled to no part of the articles seized, the court shall render judgment against that claimant for the libelant for costs, including costs incurred to remove or euthanize the fish or wildlife possessed without a permit, to be taxed as in civil cases before the court, and issue execution thereon, and declare the articles forfeited to the State; [PL 2015, c. 374, §1 (AMD).]

7. Appeal. The claimant may appeal and shall recognize with sureties as on appeals in civil causes from a judge; [PL 2003, c. 414, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 614, §9 (AFF).]

8. Costs. The costs are: A. For the libel, 50¢; [PL 2003, c. 414, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 614, §9 (AFF).] B. For entering the libel, 30¢; [PL 2003, c. 414, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 614, §9 (AFF).] C. For trying the libel, $1; [PL 2003, c. 414, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 614, §9 (AFF).] D. For a notice, 50¢; [PL 2003, c. 414, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 614, §9 (AFF).] E. For posting notices and return, $1; [PL 2003, c. 414, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 614, §9 (AFF).] F. For an order to restore or deliver, 25¢; [PL 2003, c. 414, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 614, §9 (AFF).] G. For executing the order, 50¢; and [PL 2003, c. 414, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 614, §9 (AFF).] H. Per mile for all necessary travel, 10¢; and [PL 2003, c. 614, §9 (AFF); PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §60 (AMD); PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §422 (AFF).] [PL 2003, c. 614, §9 (AFF); PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §60 (AMD); PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §422 (AFF).]

9. Forms. The department shall provide forms for all cases arising under this section. [PL 2003, c. 414, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 614, §9 (AFF).]
12 M.R.S. § 407 — ME Code / Title 12 / Part 2 / Chapter 200 / Section 407
12 §407. Comprehensive river resource management plans
Status: in_force

The Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry, with assistance from the Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife, the Department of Marine Resources, the Department of Environmental Protection, the Governor's Energy Office and other state agencies as needed, shall develop, subject to the Maine Administrative Procedure Act, Title 5, chapter 375 , a comprehensive river resource management plan for each watershed with a hydropower project licensed under the Federal Power Act or to be licensed under the Federal Power Act. These plans must provide a basis for state agency comments, recommendations and permitting decisions and at a minimum include, as applicable, minimum flows, impoundment level regimes, upstream and downstream fish passage, maintenance of aquatic habitat and habitat productivity, public access and recreational opportunities. These plans must update, complement and, after public notice, comment and hearings in the watershed, be adopted as components of the State's comprehensive rivers management plan. A comprehensive river resource management plan adopted under this section is a major substantive rule as defined in Title 5, chapter 375, subchapter 2‑A . [PL 2021, c. 675, §1 (AMD).]
12 M.R.S. § 8867-C — ME Code / Title 12 / Part 11 / Chapter 805 / Section 8867-C
12 §8867-C. Enhancement of cold water fisheries habitat
Status: in_force

By November 1, 2012, the Commissioner of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry shall adopt rules to allow activities that enhance cold water fishery habitat without a permit or fee. The rules must establish standards for the placement of wood in stream channels and specify that only a licensed forester trained by the bureau in cooperation with the Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife in techniques to enhance fisheries habitat may implement these techniques. [PL 2011, c. 599, §3 (NEW); PL 2011, c. 657, Pt. W, §6 (REV).]

In developing standards to enhance brook trout habitat and the training required to implement habitat enhancement, the Commissioner of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry shall consult with the Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife, the Department of Marine Resources and the Department of Environmental Protection. The bureau shall notify the departments of habitat enhancement activities conducted under this section. [PL 2011, c. 599, §3 (NEW); PL 2011, c. 657, Pt. W, §6 (REV).]

A permit is not required for activities conducted in accordance with the rules adopted under this section in stream segments that have been identified by the Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife as lacking desired habitat features. The Department of Marine Resources must be consulted and approve of any habitat enhancement under this section on a stream that is identified as Atlantic salmon habitat. [PL 2011, c. 599, §3 (NEW).]

The initial rules adopted under this section are routine technical rules as defined in Title 5, chapter 375, subchapter 2‑A . Subsequent amendments to those rules are major substantive rules as defined in Title 5, chapter 375, subchapter 2‑A . This section does not relieve a person from meeting the requirements of section 8867‑B or Title 38, chapter 3, subchapter 1, article 2‑B . [PL 2011, c. 599, §3 (NEW).]
12 M.R.S. § 6852 — ME Code / Title 12 / Part 9 / Chapter 625 / Section 6852
12 §6852. Retail seafood license
Status: in_force

1. License required. A person may not engage in the activities authorized under subsection 2 without a retail seafood license or other license issued under this Part authorizing the activities. [PL 2013, c. 468, §33 (AMD); PL 2013, c. 468, §46 (AFF).]

2. License activity. Except as provided in subsections 2‑A , 2‑B and 2‑C , the holder of a retail seafood license may, in the retail trade, buy, sell, transport, ship or serve: A. Shellstock, which must be purchased from a wholesale seafood license holder certified under section 6856 ; [PL 2013, c. 468, §34 (AMD); PL 2013, c. 468, §46 (AFF).] B. [PL 2005, c. 434, §11 (RP).] C. [PL 2011, c. 598, §44 (RP).] D. Crayfish; [PL 2013, c. 468, §34 (AMD); PL 2013, c. 468, §46 (AFF).] E. [PL 2013, c. 282, §11 (RP); PL 2013, c. 282, §12 (AFF).] F. Lobsters; and [PL 2013, c. 468, §34 (NEW); PL 2013, c. 468, §46 (AFF).] G. Any marine organism that is purchased directly from a harvester licensed under this Part. [PL 2013, c. 468, §34 (NEW); PL 2013, c. 468, §46 (AFF).] A holder of a retail seafood license when buying directly from a harvester may buy only from a harvester who possesses the license or permit for that species as required under this Part. The harvester shall make the applicable marine resources license or permit available for inspection upon the retail seafood license holder’s request. [PL 2025, c. 82, §1 (AMD).]

2-A. Enhanced retail certificate authorized. The holder of a retail seafood license may obtain an enhanced retail certificate from the department. The holder of an enhanced retail certificate may, in the retail trade within the state limits, buy, sell, transport, ship or serve: A. Shellstock bought from a commercial shellfish license holder licensed under section 6601 ; [PL 2011, c. 598, §44 (NEW).] B. Shellstock bought from a surf clam boat license holder licensed under section 6602 ; [PL 2011, c. 598, §44 (NEW).] C. Shellstock bought from a mahogany quahog license holder licensed under section 6731 ; [PL 2023, c. 207, §17 (AMD).] D. Shellstock bought from a hand-raking mussel license holder licensed under section 6745 or a mussel boat license holder licensed under section 6746 ; and [PL 2023, c. 207, §18 (AMD).] E. Shellstock bought from an aquaculture license holder licensed under section 6810‑B . [PL 2023, c. 207, §19 (NEW).] For the purposes of inspection or collection of samples, the commissioner or the commissioner's agent may access an establishment or part thereof in which activities authorized under this certificate are conducted by a person holding a retail seafood license. Denial of access is grounds for suspension or revocation of a retail seafood license under the provisions of section 6372 . The holder of an enhanced retail certificate may not designate a vehicle as that person's establishment. [PL 2023, c. 207, §§17-19 (AMD).]

2-B. Endorsements. The holder of a retail seafood license buying directly from a harvester must obtain an endorsement from the department for the species being bought if the license to harvest that species requires the harvester to comply with an electronic reporting requirement. The department shall provide endorsements to license holders at no cost in accordance with rules adopted under subsection 6 . [PL 2017, c. 146, §6 (NEW).]

2-C. Limited retail seafood harvester certificate authorized. The holder of a retail seafood license may obtain a limited retail seafood harvester certificate from the department. The holder of a limited retail seafood harvester certificate may, in the retail trade within state limits, sell, transport and serve shellstock taken by the primary owner listed on the retail seafood license as long as the primary owner is also a: A. Commercial shellfish license holder licensed under section 6601 ; [PL 2025, c. 82, §1 (NEW).] B. Surf clam boat license holder licensed under section 6602 ; [PL 2025, c. 82, §1 (NEW).] C. Mahogany quahog license holder licensed under section 6731 ; [PL 2025, c. 82, §1 (NEW).] D. Hand-raking mussel license holder licensed under section 6745 or a mussel boat license holder licensed under section 6746 ; or [PL 2025, c. 82, §1 (NEW).] E. Aquaculture license holder under section 6810‑B . [PL 2025, c. 82, §1 (NEW).] For the purposes of inspection or collection of samples, the commissioner or the commissioner's agent may access the vehicle in which activities authorized under this certificate are conducted by a person holding a retail seafood license. Denial of access is grounds for suspension or revocation of a retail seafood license under the provisions of section 6372 . [PL 2025, c. 82, §1 (NEW).]

3. License limited. A license authorizes activities pursuant to subsection 2 at only one establishment or with only one vehicle. [PL 2011, c. 598, §44 (AMD).]

3-A. Retail sale of certain seafood products. [PL 2011, c. 598, §44 (RP).]

3-B. Certificate limited. An enhanced retail certificate authorizes activities pursuant to subsection 2‑A at only one establishment. A limited retail seafood harvester certificate authorizes activities pursuant to subsection 2‑C with only one vehicle. [PL 2025, c. 82, §1 (AMD).]

4. Fee. The fee for a retail seafood license under subsection 1 is $100. The fee for an enhanced retail certificate under subsection 2‑A is $100 and must be deposited in the Shellfish Fund under section 6651 . The fee for a limited retail seafood harvester certificate under subsection 2‑C is $50 and must be deposited in the Shellfish Fund under section 6651 . [PL 2025, c. 82, §1 (AMD).]

5. Violation. A person who violates this section commits a civil violation for which a forfeiture of not less than $100 nor more than $500 may be adjudged. [PL 2001, c. 421, Pt. B, §56 (NEW); PL 2001, c. 421, Pt. C, §1 (AFF).]

6. Rules. The commissioner may adopt or amend rules that establish requirements for retail seafood license holders, enhanced retail certificate holders and limited retail seafood harvester certificate holders concerning: A. The minimum sanitation standards for establishments and vehicles; [PL 2005, c. 434, §12 (NEW).] B. The sanitation and quality control standards for shellfish and whole scallops and their products; [PL 2005, c. 434, §12 (NEW).] C. The methods for handling, shipping and transporting of shellfish and whole scallops; [PL 2005, c. 434, §12 (NEW).] D. The records and reports of purchases, shipping and transporting of shellfish and whole scallops; [PL 2005, c. 434, §12 (NEW).] E. The labeling or marking of shipments of shellfish and wholesale scallops; [PL 2017, c. 146, §7 (AMD).] F. The protection of public health; and [PL 2017, c. 146, §7 (AMD).] G. Endorsements under subsection 2‑B . [PL 2017, c. 146, §8 (NEW).] Rules adopted pursuant to this subsection must be based on the particular operational requirements of each activity, the most recently adopted federal sanitation standards and the most recent generally accepted research data and must be designed to protect the public health and safety while allowing reasonable use of shellfish and whole scallops. Rules adopted pursuant to this subsection are routine technical rules as defined in Title 5, chapter 375, subchapter 2‑A . [PL 2025, c. 82, §1 (AMD).]
12 M.R.S. § 6545 — ME Code / Title 12 / Part 9 / Chapter 621 / Section 6545
12 §6545. Enforcement cooperation
Status: in_force

The Commissioner of Marine Resources and the Commissioner of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry shall cooperate in the enforcement of sections 6542 and 6543 . [RR 2009, c. 2, §25 (COR); PL 2011, c. 657, Pt. W, §6 (REV).]
12 M.R.S. § 6404-B — ME Code / Title 12 / Part 9 / Chapter 617 / Section 6404-B
12 §6404-B. Suspension based on conviction of fishing on closed days for sea urchin fishing
Status: in_force

The commissioner shall suspend the sea urchin fishing license of any license holder convicted in court of violating section 6749 or any rule adopted under section 6749 . The suspension must be for one year from the date of conviction. [PL 2003, c. 510, Pt. B, §4 (AMD).]
12 M.R.S. § 1814 — ME Code / Title 12 / Part 2 / Chapter 220 / Section 1814
12 §1814. Convey land
Status: in_force

1. Generally. Consistent with section 598‑A , the bureau may sell and convey lands under this subchapter and improvements on those lands. With the consent of the Governor and the commissioner and subject to the provisions of section 598‑A , the bureau may convey interests in lands or lease the same. Any lease to the Federal Government requires the approval of the Legislature. Any lease entered into must be canceled or revoked after due notice of intention to cancel or revoke the lease by action of the bureau when the use for which that lease was given has been abandoned or materially modified or whenever the conditions imposed in any lease have been broken. [PL 2025, c. 309, §16 (NEW).]

2. Lease for cultivating edible crops, hay or pasturage for livestock. Pursuant to the right to food as declared in the Constitution of Maine, Article I, Section 25, the bureau, with the consent of the Governor and the commissioner and subject to the provisions of section 598‑A , may lease the right to use parcels of land under this subchapter for purposes of cultivating edible crops, hay or pasturage for dairy animals or other livestock. Each lease must contain a provision that authorizes the bureau to terminate the lease at any time when the bureau in its sole discretion determines that termination is in the best interests of the State. The bureau may not issue any adjustment or compensation to any lessee under this subsection on account of that termination. The bureau, to the extent practicable, in establishing a lease under this subsection, may give priority consideration to individuals with a history of generational poverty or land dispossession in the United States or to individuals who are veterans. For purposes of this subsection, "veteran" means an individual who served in the United States Armed Forces and meets the definition of "veteran" under 38 Code of Federal Regulations, Section 3.1 or who has served or is currently serving in the Maine Army National Guard or Maine Air National Guard or the Reserves of the United States Armed Forces. [PL 2025, c. 309, §16 (NEW).]
12 M.R.S. § 6505-E — ME Code / Title 12 / Part 9 / Chapter 621 / Section 6505-E
12 §6505-E. Elver handling training course
Status: in_force

Prior to the issuance of an elver fishing license, the commissioner may require an applicant to complete an educational course that the commissioner determines appropriate to provide necessary information regarding the proper handling of elvers to ensure survivability. [PL 2025, c. 225, §5 (NEW).]
12 M.R.S. § 11156 — ME Code / Title 12 / Part 13 / Chapter 915 / Section 11156
12 §11156. Pheasant hunting permit
Status: in_force

1. Permit required. Except as otherwise authorized pursuant to this Part, a person may not hunt pheasant in Cumberland County or York County unless that person has a valid permit issued under this section. Each day a person violates this subsection that person commits a Class E crime for which a minimum fine of $50 and an amount equal to twice the applicable license fee must be imposed. [PL 2003, c. 414, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 614, §9 (AFF).]

2. Rules. The commissioner may adopt rules necessary for the proper administration, enforcement and interpretation of this section. Rules adopted pursuant to this subsection are routine technical rules as defined in Title 5, chapter 375, subchapter 2‑A . [PL 2003, c. 614, §9 (AFF); PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §131 (AMD); PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §422 (AFF).]

3. Issuance. The commissioner or the commissioner's authorized agent may issue a pheasant hunting permit to an applicant 16 years of age or older permitting the applicant to hunt or possess pheasants in Cumberland County and York County. A person under 16 years of age may hunt or possess pheasants in accordance with this Part, except that a person under 16 years of age is not required to purchase or carry a pheasant hunting permit in order to hunt or possess pheasants. Beginning January 1, 2016, for those persons who obtain a junior hunting license and turn 16 years of age during the same calendar year, the pheasant hunting permit is included even after the person has turned 16 years of age as long as that person is hunting on that person's valid junior hunting license and not longer than the remainder of the calendar year for which the license is issued. [PL 2015, c. 281, Pt. D, §3 (AMD).]

4. Fee. The fee for a pheasant hunting permit is $29, $2 of which is retained by the commissioner's authorized agent. [PL 2023, c. 308, §8 (AMD); PL 2023, c. 308, §14 (AFF).]
12 M.R.S. § 12555 — ME Code / Title 12 / Part 13 / Chapter 923 / Section 12555
12 §12555. Checking baitfish traps
Status: in_force

1. Checking baitfish traps. While trapping for baitfish in the inland waters with the use of a baitfish trap as defined in section 10001, subsection 7 from April 2nd to October 31st, a person shall check the baitfish trap or cause the baitfish trap to be checked at least once in every 7 calendar days. While trapping for baitfish in the inland waters with the use of a baitfish trap from November 1st to April 1st, a person shall check the baitfish trap or cause the baitfish trap to be checked at least once in every 21 calendar days. [PL 2025, c. 205, §1 (AMD).]

2. Penalty. The following penalties apply to violations of this section. A. A person who violates subsection 1 commits a civil violation for which a fine of not less than $100 nor more than $500 may be adjudged. [PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §265 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §422 (AFF).] B. A person who violates subsection 1 after having been adjudicated as having committed 3 or more civil violations under this Part within the previous 5-year period commits a Class E crime. [PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §265 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §422 (AFF).] [PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §265 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §422 (AFF).]
12 M.R.S. § 6505-B — ME Code / Title 12 / Part 9 / Chapter 621 / Section 6505-B
12 §6505-B. Elver gear fees
Status: in_force

1. Elver fyke net and Sheldon eel trap fee. A person may not submerge an elver fyke net or a Sheldon eel trap in the waters of the State to fish for or take elvers unless the net or trap owner pays annually the following fees: A. Fifty dollars per net or trap for the use of an elver fyke net or Sheldon eel trap, except that the fee under this paragraph does not apply to an elver fyke net or Sheldon eel trap a person utilizes pursuant to section 6505‑A, subsection 5 . [PL 2017, c. 284, Pt. EEEEE, §9 (AMD).] B. [PL 1999, c. 7, §6 (RP).] C. [PL 1999, c. 7, §6 (RP).] [PL 2017, c. 284, Pt. EEEEE, §9 (AMD).]

2. Tags for elver fyke net and Sheldon eel trap. A person may not submerge an elver fyke net or Sheldon eel trap in the coastal waters of the State to fish for or take elvers unless a tag issued by the department is affixed to the shoreside wing of the net or trap and is clearly visible. The department may issue a replacement tag when an owner issued a tag documents that a net or trap has been damaged or lost. [PL 2001, c. 421, Pt. B, §30 (AMD); PL 2001, c. 421, Pt. C, §1 (AFF).]

3. Dip net fee. A person may not utilize a dip net to fish for or take elvers without paying a fee of $50 per dip net annually. This subsection does not apply to a dip net a person utilizes pursuant to section 6505‑A, subsection 5 . [PL 2017, c. 284, Pt. EEEEE, §10 (AMD).]

4. Payment with license. The fees required under subsections 1 and 3 must be paid upon application for an elver fishing license under section 6505‑A . [PL 1995, c. 536, Pt. A, §8 (NEW).]

5. Disposition of fees. Fees collected under this section accrue to the Eel and Elver Management Fund established in section 6505‑D . A. [PL 2017, c. 284, Pt. EEEEE, §11 (RP).] B. [PL 2017, c. 284, Pt. EEEEE, §11 (RP).] [PL 2017, c. 284, Pt. EEEEE, §11 (AMD).]

6. Violation. A person who violates this section commits a Class D crime for which a fine of $2,000 must be imposed, none of which may be suspended. Violation of this section is a strict liability crime as defined in Title 17‑A, section 34, subsection 4‑A . [PL 2013, c. 49, §10 (AMD).]
12 M.R.S. § 10102 — ME Code / Title 12 / Part 13 / Chapter 903 / Section 10102
12 §10102. Office
Status: in_force

1. Facilities. The commissioner is entitled to have an office at the seat of government and adequate facilities for the transaction of the business of the department. [PL 2003, c. 414, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 614, §9 (AFF).]

2. Traveling expenses. The commissioner is entitled to receive all necessary traveling expenses. [PL 2003, c. 414, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 614, §9 (AFF).]
12 M.R.S. § 12808 — ME Code / Title 12 / Part 13 / Chapter 925 / Section 12808
12 §12808. Unauthorized activities regarding endangered or threatened species
Status: in_force

For the purposes of this section and section 12808‑A , "to take," "take" and "taking" mean the act or omission that results in the death of any endangered or threatened species. [PL 2015, c. 423, §1 (AMD).]

1. Prohibited acts regarding endangered or threatened species; negligence. Except as provided in section 12808‑A , a person may not negligently: A. Import into the State or export out of the State any endangered or threatened species. A person who violates this paragraph commits a Class E crime, for which a fine of $1,000 must be adjudged, none of which may be suspended; [PL 2019, c. 267, §1 (AMD).] B. Hunt, take, trap, harass or possess any endangered or threatened species within the State. A person who violates this paragraph commits a Class E crime, for which a fine of $1,000 must be adjudged, none of which may be suspended; [PL 2019, c. 267, §1 (AMD).] C. Possess, process, sell, offer for sale, deliver, carry, transport or ship, by any means whatsoever, any endangered or threatened species or any part of an endangered or threatened species. A person who violates this paragraph commits a Class E crime, for which a fine of $1,000 must be adjudged, none of which may be suspended; or [PL 2019, c. 267, §1 (AMD).] D. Feed or set bait for any endangered or threatened species. A person who violates this paragraph commits a Class E crime for which a fine of $1,000 must be adjudged, none of which may be suspended. [RR 2019, c. 1, Pt. A, §11 (COR).] [RR 2019, c. 1, Pt. A, §11 (COR).]

1-A. Prohibited acts regarding endangered or threatened species; intentional. Except as provided in section 12808‑A , a person may not intentionally: A. Import into the State or export out of the State any endangered or threatened species. A person who violates this paragraph commits a Class D crime, for which a fine of $2,000 must be adjudged, none of which may be suspended; [PL 2019, c. 267, §2 (AMD).] B. Hunt, take, trap, harass or possess any endangered or threatened species within the State. A person who violates this paragraph commits a Class D crime, for which a fine of $2,000 must be adjudged, none of which may be suspended; [PL 2019, c. 267, §2 (AMD).] C. Possess, process, sell, offer for sale, deliver, carry, transport or ship, by any means whatsoever, any endangered or threatened species or any part of an endangered or threatened species. A person who violates this paragraph commits a Class D crime, for which a fine of $2,000 must be adjudged, none of which may be suspended; or [PL 2019, c. 267, §2 (AMD).] D. Feed or set bait for any endangered or threatened species. A person who violates this paragraph commits a Class D crime, for which a fine of $2,000 must be adjudged, none of which may be suspended. [RR 2019, c. 1, Pt. A, §12 (COR).] [RR 2019, c. 1, Pt. A, §12 (COR).]

2. Exceptions for certain purposes. [PL 2015, c. 423, §1 (RP).]

3. Exceptions; incidental take plan. [PL 2015, c. 423, §1 (RP).]
12 M.R.S. § 11502 — ME Code / Title 12 / Part 13 / Chapter 915 / Section 11502
12 §11502. Deer tags and tagging
Status: in_force

1. Deer tags. The commissioner shall prescribe the form and content of and produce a deer tag. [PL 2003, c. 614, §9 (AFF); PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §173 (AMD); PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §422 (AFF).]

2. Tagging. Prior to presenting a deer for registration, a person may not possess or leave in the field or forest a deer killed by that person unless the deer has securely attached to it a plainly visible tag that conforms to the requirements established under this section. [PL 2003, c. 614, §9 (AFF); PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §173 (AMD); PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §422 (AFF).]

3. Penalties. The following penalties apply to violations of this section. A. A person who violates subsection 2 commits a civil violation for which a fine of not less than $100 nor more than $500 may be adjudged. [PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §173 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §422 (AFF).] B. A person who violates subsection 2 after having been adjudicated as having committed 3 or more civil violations under this Part within the previous 5-year period commits a Class E crime. [PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §173 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §422 (AFF).] [PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §173 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §422 (AFF).]
12 M.R.S. § 1818 — ME Code / Title 12 / Part 2 / Chapter 220 / Section 1818
12 §1818. Develop facilities
Status: in_force

The bureau may furnish accommodations and render services to the public at state parks, historic sites and parks under state control. [PL 1997, c. 678, §13 (NEW); PL 2011, c. 657, Pt. W, §7 (REV); PL 2013, c. 405, Pt. A, §24 (REV).]