dept-inland-fisheries-and-wildlife•Code of Maine Rules — Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife
Code of Maine Rules — Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife
dept-inland-fisheries-and-wildlifeCode Me. R. — Department of Inland Fisheries and WildlifeRegulation
09-137 Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife - General
Chapter 1 State Heritage Fish Waters
Code Me. R. 09-137 Ch. 1 -A: State Heritage Fish Waters {#sec-09-137-ch.-1 omnilex-key=us-me-regs-official--dept-inland-fisheries-and-wildlife--09-137 Ch. 1}
1. Stocking. The Commissioner may not stock or issue a permit to stock fish in a lake or pond listed as a State Heritage Fish water.
2. Restrictions. A person may not use live fish as bait or possess live fish to be used as bait on a lake or pond listed as a State Heritage Fish water. This may include an “artificial lures only” or “fly fishing only” restriction.
*Note: NRS = No record of stocking
State Heritage Fish Waters
WATCODE
STATE HERITAGE FISH WATER
ALTERNATE NAME
TOWN
COUNTY
REGION
STATE HERITAGE FISH
*LAST YEAR STOCKED
3865
COLDWATER P
KENNEBUNK
YORK
A
BKT
1967
6969
KENNEBUNK PLAINS P
KENNEBUNK
YORK
A
BKT
1971
7614
MT ZIRCON RESERVOIR
RUMFORD
OXFORD
A
BKT
NRS
5012
SAND P
LIMINGTON
YORK
A
BKT
1974
3906
SPICER P
SHAPLEIGH
YORK
A
BKT
NRS
4288
BURNT P
OTIS
HANCOCK
C
BKT
NRS
4570
DUTTON P
AMHERST
HANCOCK
C
BKT
1978
1090
FLOOD L
TALMADGE
WASHINGTON
C
BKT
NRS
1092
FLOOD L (UPPER)
TALMADGE
WASHINGTON
C
BKT
NRS
7429
FOSTER L
MARION TWP
WASHINGTON
C
BKT
NRS
4668
GOOSE P
SWANS ISLAND
HANCOCK
C
BKT
NRS
4496
HALFMILE P
AURORA
HANCOCK
C
BKT
NRS
4558
HALFMILE P
AMHERST
HANCOCK
C
BKT
1938
4306
HARRIMAN P
DEDHAM
HANCOCK
C
BKT
1973
4290
HATCASE P
DEDHAM
HANCOCK
C
BKT
1974
4576
LITTLE JELLISON HILL P
AMHERST
HANCOCK
C
BKT
NRS
0447
LONG P
LITTLE LONG POND
MOUNT DESERT
HANCOCK
C
BKT
1985
4414
NARRAGUAGUS L
T10 SD
HANCOCK
C
BKT
1985
4656
NOYES (NORRIS) P
BLUE HILL
HANCOCK
C
BKT
1938
4572
SPRING BROOK P
AMHERST
HANCOCK
C
BKT
NRS
3360
ABBIE P
BOWMANTOWN TWP
OXFORD
D
BKT
NRS
3332
ARNOLD P
COBURN GORE
FRANKLIN
D
BKT
1955
3290
AZISCOHOS L
LINCOLN PLT,
LYNCHTOWN TWP,
PARKERTOWN TWP
OXFORD
D
BKT
1999
0242
BAKER P
CARATUNK
SOMERSET
D
BKT
1969
5110
BAKER P
T5 R6 BKP WKR
SOMERSET
D
BKT
1972
0272
BAKER FLOWAGE
MAYFIELD TWP
SOMERSET
D
BKT
NRS
3118
BARKER P
BOWMANTOWN TWP
OXFORD
D
BKT
NRS
3562
BEAVER MOUNTAIN L
LONG P
SANDY RIVER PLT
FRANKLIN
D
BKT
1986
3114
BEAVER P
PARMACHENEE TWP
OXFORD
D
BKT
NRS
3310
BEAVER P
BEAVER P (BIG)
MAGALLOWAY PLT
OXFORD
D
BKT
1984
3354
BEAVER P
SEVEN PONDS TWP
FRANKLIN
D
BKT
NRS
2323
BEN GILE P
LANG TWP
FRANKLIN
D
BKT
NRS
3108
BILLINGS P #1
PARMACHENEE TWP
OXFORD
D
BKT
NRS
3110
BILLINGS P #2
PARMACHENEE TWP
OXFORD
D
BKT
NRS
3508
BIRCH P
ROXBURY
OXFORD
D
BKT
NRS
7724
BLACK P (LOWER)
OXBOW TWP
OXFORD
D
BKT
NRS
3362
BLACK P (UPPER)
BOWMANTOWN TWP
OXFORD
D
BKT
NRS
5114
BLAKESLEE L
BLAKESLEY L
T5 R6 BKP WKR
SOMERSET
D
BKT
NRS
2366
BLANCHARD P (No. 1)
LANG TWP
FRANKLIN
D
BKT
1970
3346
BOUNDARY P (SOUTH)
MASSACHUSETTS GORE
FRANKLIN
D
BKT
NRS
3120
BOWMAN P NO. 1
BOWMANTOWN TWP
OXFORD
D
BKT
NRS
0056
BUTLER P
LEXINGTON TWP
SOMERSET
D
BKT
1980
5132
BUTLER P
KING & BARTLETT TWP
SOMERSET
D
BKT
1972
3278
C POND
C SURPLUS
OXFORD
D
BKT
1968
0176
CARIBOU P
MOUNT ABRAM TWP
FRANKLIN
D
BKT
NRS
0044
CARRY P (EAST)
CARRYING PLACE TOWN TWP
SOMERSET
D
BKT
1955
0046
CARRY P (MIDDLE)
CARRYING PLACE TOWN TWP
SOMERSET
D
BKT
1945
48
CARRY P (WEST)
CARRYING PLACE TOWN TWP
SOMERSET
D
BKT
1957
5144
CEDAR P
T3 R5 BKP WKR
SOMERSET
D
BKT
NRS
0228
CHASE BOG
CARATUNK
SOMERSET
D
BKT
NRS
3330
CROSBY P
COBURN GORE
FRANKLIN
D
BKT
1955
7726
CUPSUPTIC P
OXBOW TWP
OXFORD
D
BKT
NRS
5112
DAVIS P
T5 R6 BKP WKR
SOMERSET
D
BKT
1971
0016
DAY MOUNTAIN P
AVON
FRANKLIN
D
BKT
1981
4066
DEAD STREAM P
WEST FORKS PLT
SOMERSET
D
BKT
NRS
0232
DECKER P #1
CARATUNK
SOMERSET
D
BKT
1917
0230
DECKER P #2
CARATUNK
SOMERSET
D
BKT
1917
3366
DEER P
BOWMANTOWN TWP
OXFORD
D
BKT
NRS
5128
DEER P
KING & BARTLETT TWP
SOMERSET
D
BKT
NRS
2378
DILL P
DALLAS PLT
FRANKLIN
D
BKT
NRS
9911
DIXON P
PIERCE POND TWP
SOMERSET
D
BKT
NRS
5044
DOUGLASS P
KIBBY TWP
FRANKLIN
D
BKT
NRS
4086
ELLIS P
CHASE STREAM TWP
SOMERSET
D
BKT
1955
0142
ENCHANTED P (Lower)
LOWER ENCHANTED TWP
SOMERSET
D
BKT
NRS
5134
EVERETT P
KING & BARTLETT TWP
SOMERSET
D
BKT
1945
5120
FELKER P
KING & BARTLETT TWP
SOMERSET
D
BKT
1972
0096
FISH P
PIERCE POND TWP
SOMERSET
D
BKT
NRS
2372
FLATIRON P
DAVIS TWP
FRANKLIN
D
BKT
NRS
4089
FLATIRON P
CHASE STREAM TWP
SOMERSET
D
BKT
NRS
4074
FRYPAN P
SQUARETOWN TWP
SOMERSET
D
BKT
NRS
0146
GORDON P
UPPER ENCHANTED TWP
SOMERSET
D
BKT
NRS
3348
GRANTS P
MASSACHUSETTS GORE
FRANKLIN
D
BKT
NRS
0104
GRASS P
PIERCE POND TWP
SOMERSET
D
BKT
NRS
0234
HEALD P
CARATUNK
SOMERSET
D
BKT
1960
0094
HELEN P
PIERCE POND TWP
SOMERSET
D
BKT
NRS
0034
HID P
KINGFIELD
FRANKLIN
D
BKT
NRS
0092
HIGH P
PIERCE POND TWP
SOMERSET
D
BKT
NRS
5150
HORSESHOE P
T3 R5 BKP WKR
SOMERSET
D
BKT
NRS
4082
HORSESHOE P
CHASE STREAM TWP
SOMERSET
D
BKT
1965
4102
HORSESHOE P
EAST MOXIE TWP
SOMERSET
D
BKT
NRS
7304
HUSTON BROOK P
DEAD RIVER TWP
SOMERSET
D
BKT
NRS
4094
ISLAND P
CHASE STREAM TWP
SOMERSET
D
BKT
1965
3352
ISLAND P (BIG)
SEVEN PONDS TWP
FRANKLIN
D
BKT
1947
3350
ISLAND P (LITTLE)
SEVEN PONDS TWP
FRANKLIN
D
BKT
1942
3956
JOHNS P
DAVIS TWP
FRANKLIN
D
BKT
NRS
3954
KAMANKEAG P
DAVIS TWP
FRANKLIN
D
BKT
NRS
2374
KENNEBAGO L (BIG)
DAVIS TWP
FRANKLIN
D
BKT
1954
5136
KING & BARTLETT L
KING & BARTLETT TWP
SOMERSET
D
BKT
1959
5138
KING L (LITTLE)
KING & BARTLETT TWP
SOMERSET
D
BKT
1963
5062
L POND
SEVEN PONDS TWP
FRANKLIN
D
BKT
NRS
8619
LITTLE HAMMOND P
HAMMOND P LITTLE, JULIES P
CARRABASSETT VALLEY
FRANKLIN
D
BKT
NRS
3116
LONG P
LYNCHTOWN TWP
OXFORD
D
BKT
NRS
3356
LONG P
SEVEN PONDS TWP
FRANKLIN
D
BKT
1942
5124
LONG P
KING & BARTLETT TWP
SOMERSET
D
BKT
1972
5794
LONG P (LITTLE LONG)
LONG P (LITTLE)
CHASE STREAM TWP
SOMERSET
D
BKT
NRS
5116
LOST P
KING & BARTLETT TWP
SOMERSET
D
BKT
1970
8597
MASSACHUSETTS BOG
MASSACHUSETTS GORE
FRANKLIN
D
BKT
NRS
0200
MILL (CLEAR) P
CLEAR P
PLEASANT RIDGE PLT
SOMERSET
D
BKT
1980
0212
MOORE’S BOG
CARATUNK
SOMERSET
D
BKT
NRS
7688
MOOSE BOG
BOWMANTOWN TWP
OXFORD
D
BKT
NRS
3302
MOOSELOOKMEGUNTIC L
ADAMSTOWN TWP
OXFORD
D
BKT
1984
0186
MORSE P
BINGHAM
SOMERSET
D
BKT
NRS
3540
MOUNTAIN P
RANGELEY PLT
FRANKLIN
D
BKT
NRS
4084
MUD P
CHASE STREAM TWP
SOMERSET
D
BKT
NRS
5118
MUD P
KING & BARTLETT TWP
SOMERSET
D
BKT
NRS
3342
NORTHWEST P
MASSACHUSETTS GORE
FRANKLIN
D
BKT
NRS
3344
NORTHWEST P (LITTLE)
MASSACHUSETTS GORE
FRANKLIN
D
BKT
NRS
3972
OTTER P
PARMACHENEE TWP
OXFORD
D
BKT
NRS
7344
OTTER P
CARRYING PLACE TOWN TWP
SOMERSET
D
BKT
NRS
5148
PARKER P
T3 R5 BKP WKR
SOMERSET
D
BKT
NRS
3966
PARMACHENEE L
LYNCHTOWN TWP
OXFORD
D
BKT
1951
9913
PICKEREL P
PIERCE POND TWP
SOMERSET
D
BKT
NRS
3328
POND IN THE RIVER
TOWNSHIP C
OXFORD
D
BKT
1960
2386
QUILL P
DALLAS PLT
FRANKLIN
D
BKT
NRS
2318
REDINGTON P
REDINGTON TWP
FRANKLIN
D
BKT
1951
0220
ROBINSON P
CARATUNK
SOMERSET
D
BKT
NRS
3340
ROCK P
CHAIN OF PONDS TWP
FRANKLIN
D
BKT
NRS
3530
ROSS P
RANGELEY
FRANKLIN
D
BKT
1990
5058
ROUND MOUNTAIN P
ALDER STREAM TWP
FRANKLIN
D
BKT
1951
4076
ROUND P
SQUARETOWN TWP
SOMERSET
D
BKT
1966
4092
ROUND P
CHASE STREAM TWP
SOMERSET
D
BKT
1964
3112
RUMP P
PARMACHENEE TWP
OXFORD
D
BKT
NRS
3578
SABBATH DAY P
TOWNSHIP E
FRANKLIN
D
BKT
1959
4072
SCRIBNERS BOG
SQUARETOWN TWP
SOMERSET
D
BKT
NRS
3358
SECRET P
SEVEN PONDS TWP
FRANKLIN
D
BKT
NRS
5060
SNOW MOUNTAIN P
ALDER STREAM TWP
FRANKLIN
D
BKT
NRS
5122
SPECTACLE P
KING & BARTLETT TWP
SOMERSET
D
BKT
1949
0138
STONY BROOK P
LOWER ENCHANTED TWP
SOMERSET
D
BKT
NRS
7674
SUNDAY P
LYNCHTOWN TWP
OXFORD
D
BKT
NRS
3316
SUNDAY P
MAGALLOWAY PLT
OXFORD
D
BKT
1992
3282
SURPLUS P
ANDOVER NORTH SURPLUS
OXFORD
D
BKT
NRS
3572
SWIFT RIVER P (LITTLE)
TOWNSHIP E
FRANKLIN
D
BKT
NRS
2362
TIM P
TIM POND TWP
FRANKLIN
D
BKT
NRS
4078
TOBEY P
JOHNSON MOUNTAIN TWP
SOMERSET
D
BKT
NRS
2334
TORY HILL P
PHILLIPS
FRANKLIN
D
BKT
1942
7112
UNNAMED P
OSSIE P
BALD MOUNTAIN TWP T2 R3
SOMERSET
D
BKT
NRS
4064
WILSON HILL P
WEST FORKS PLT
SOMERSET
D
BKT
NRS
0162
WILSON HILL P (LITTLE)
JOHNSON MOUNTAIN TWP
SOMERSET
D
BKT
NRS
3574
WITHAM P
TOWNSHIP E
FRANKLIN
D
BKT
NRS
3286
YORK P
GRAFTON TWP
OXFORD
D
BKT
NRS
2504
ALDER P
ALDER BROOK TWP
SOMERSET
E
BKT
NRS
9787
ALLAGASH L
T8 R14 WELS
PISCATAQUIS
E
BKT
NRS
0422
BAKER P
BOWDOIN COLLEGE GRANT WEST TWP
PISCATAQUIS
E
BKT
NRS
2658
BARRETT P
HOLEB TWP
SOMERSET
E
BKT
1917
4026
BEAN POT P
T5 R15 WELS
PISCATAQUIS
E
BKT
NRS
0636
BEAR P
RAINBOW TWP
PISCATAQUIS
E
BKT
NRS
0882
BEAR P
ELLIOTTSVILLE TWP
PISCATAQUIS
E
BKT
NRS
0356
BEAR P
SHIRLEY
PISCATAQUIS
E
BKT
1954
0528
BEAR P
TA R11 WELS
PISCATAQUIS
E
BKT
1946
5066
BEATTIE P
BEATTIE TWP
FRANKLIN
E
BKT
1951
0484
BEAVER P
SHAWTOWN TWP
PISCATAQUIS
E
BKT
1974
0670
BEAVER P
T3 R11 WELS
PISCATAQUIS
E
BKT
1968
0610
BEAVER P (BIG)
RAINBOW TWP
PISCATAQUIS
E
BKT
NRS
0612
BEAVER P (LITTLE)
T3 R11 WELS
PISCATAQUIS
E
BKT
NRS
9700
BEAVER P (LITTLE)
RAINBOW TWP
PISCATAQUIS
E
BKT
1937
0864
BENSON P (BIG)
WILLIMANTIC
PISCATAQUIS
E
BKT
1962
0828
BENSON P (LITTLE)
BOWERBANK
PISCATAQUIS
E
BKT
NRS
2550
BERRY P
JOHNSON MOUNTAIN TWP
SOMERSET
E
BKT
1916
2554
BERRY P (LITTLE)
CHAIN P # 2
JOHNSON MOUNTAIN TWP
SOMERSET
E
BKT
1916
2930
BERRY POND
T2 R13 WELS
PISCATAQUIS
E
BKT
1994
2932
BERRY P, LITTLE
T2 R13 WELS
PISCATAQUIS
E
BKT
NRS
0514
BIRCH RIDGE P # 1
TA R11 WELS
PISCATAQUIS
E
BKT
NRS
2928
BLOOD P (DUCK)
DUCK P
T2 R13 WELS
PISCATAQUIS
E
BKT
NRS
0434
BLUFF P
FRENCHTOWN TWP
PISCATAQUIS
E
BKT
NRS
0494
BOARDWAY P (BIG)
BOARDMAN P (BIG)
TA R11 WELS
PISCATAQUIS
E
BKT
1970
0496
BOARDWAY P (LITTLE)
BOARDMAN P (LITTLE)
TA R11 WELS
PISCATAQUIS
E
BKT
1947
2426
BOBS P
T4 R17 WELS
SOMERSET
E
BKT
NRS
0290
BRACKETT P
BLANCHARD TWP
PISCATAQUIS
E
BKT
1952
0440
BRANCH P (1ST WEST)
WEST BRANCH P (1ST)
SHAWTOWN TWP
PISCATAQUIS
E
BKT
1957
0442
BRANCH P
(2ND & 3RD W)
WEST BRANCH P (2ND & 3RD )
SHAWTOWN TWP
PISCATAQUIS
E
BKT
NRS
2822
BRANCH P (EAST)
T7 R11 WELS
PISCATAQUIS
E
BKT
NRS
0788
BROWN P
BOWDOIN COLLEGE GRANT WEST TWP
PISCATAQUIS
E
BKT
NRS
0644
BUCK P
RAINBOW TWP
PISCATAQUIS
E
BKT
1975
0834
BURDEN P
BUTTERMILK P (3RD)
BOWERBANK
PISCATAQUIS
E
BKT
NRS
0392
BURNHAM P
BIG MOOSE TWP
PISCATAQUIS
E
BKT
1964
0836
BUTTERMILK P (2ND)
BOWERBANK
PISCATAQUIS
E
BKT
1980
0273
BUTTERMILK P (FOURTH)
BOWERBANK
PISCATAQUIS
E
BKT
1970
2516
CANADA FALLS L
PITTSTON ACADEMY GRANT
SOMERSET
E
BKT
NRS
2568
CAPE HORN P
BLAKE GORE
SOMERSET
E
BKT
NRS
0275
CARPENTER P
T7 R11 WELS
PISCATAQUIS
E
BKT
1986
9761
CARPENTER P (LITTLE)
T7 R11 WELS
PISCATAQUIS
E
BKT
NRS
4040
CENTER P
SOLDIERTOWN TWP
SOMERSET
E
BKT
1977
0802
CHAIRBACK P (EAST)
T7 R9 NWP
PISCATAQUIS
E
BKT
NRS
0796
CHAIRBACK P (WEST)
T7 R9 NWP
PISCATAQUIS
E
BKT
NRS
4093
CHASE STREAM P
CHASE STREAM TWP
SOMERSET
E
BKT
1974
2494
CHENEY P
HAMMOND TWP
SOMERSET
E
BKT
NRS
5074
CLEAR P
LOWELLTOWN TWP
FRANKLIN
E
BKT
1951
5158
CLISH P
T5 R20 WELS
SOMERSET
E
BKT
NRS
2712
COFFEELOS P
T6 R11 WELS
PISCATAQUIS
E
BKT
1941
2538
COLD STREAM P
MISERY TWP
SOMERSET
E
BKT
1954
0634
COLLINS P
RAINBOW TWP
PISCATAQUIS
E
BKT
1942
0520
CRAWFORD P
TA R11 WELS
PISCATAQUIS
E
BKT
1959
0286
CROCKETT P
BLANCHARD TWP
E
BKT
NRS
0582
DEBSCONEAG L, FOURTH
T1 R11 WELS
PISCATAQUIS
E
BKT
1982
0608
DEBSCONEAG L, EIGHTH
RAINBOW TWP
PISCATAQUIS
E
BKT
NRS
2458
DINGLEY P
T4 R5 NBKP
SOMERSET
E
BKT
1963
2462
DINGLEY P (LITTLE)
T4 R5 NBKP
SOMERSET
E
BKT
NRS
2464
DINGLEY P (UPPER)
T4 R5 NBKP
SOMERSET
E
BKT
NRS
2454
DOLE P
DOLE BROOK TWP
SOMERSET
E
BKT
NRS
2496
DORITY P
HAMMOND TWP
SOMERSET
E
BKT
NRS
0616
DOUGHNUT P
RAINBOW TWP
PISCATAQUIS
E
BKT
NRS
0376
DOUGHTY P (LOWER)
MONSON
PISCATAQUIS
E
BKT
NRS
0374
DOUGHTY P (UPPER)
MONSON
PISCATAQUIS
E
BKT
NRS
4138
DOW P
SEBEC
PISCATAQUIS
E
BKT
1980
2478
DUBOIS P
PRENTISS TWP
SOMERSET
E
BKT
NRS
0832
DUCK P
BOWERBANK
PISCATAQUIS
E
BKT
NRS
2894
DUCK P
T5 R12 WELS
PISCATAQUIS
E
BKT
NRS
0257
DUCK P
T4 R11 WELS
PISCATAQUIS
E
BKT
1959
2954
DUCK P (BIG)
EAST MIDDLESEX CANAL GRANT TWP
PISCATAQUIS
E
BKT
NRS
9855
DURGIN P
CHAIN P #1
JOHNSON MOUNTAIN TWP
SOMERSET
E
BKT
NRS
2870
ELLIS P (LOWER)
T7 R14 WELS
PISCATAQUIS
E
BKT
NRS
2992
ELLIS P (UPPER)
T7 R14 WELS
PISCATAQUIS
E
BKT
NRS
2444
ELM P, LITTLE
ELM STREAM TWP
SOMERSET
E
BKT
NRS
0148
ENCHANTED P (LITTLE)
UPPER ENCHANTED TWP
SOMERSET
E
BKT
1948
0150
ENCHANTED P
UPPER ENCHANTED TWP
SOMERSET
E
BKT
1991
0574
FEMALE P
T1 R12 WELS
PISCATAQUIS
E
BKT
NRS
2512
FISH P (LITTLE)
ALDER BROOK TWP
SOMERSET
E
BKT
NRS
2666
FISH P (LITTLE)
HOLEB TWP
SOMERSET
E
BKT
NRS
2560
FISHER P #2
T4 R5 NBKP
SOMERSET
E
BKT
NRS
2940
FISHER P (BIG)
T2 R12 WELS
PISCATAQUIS
E
BKT
NRS
2534
FOGG P
LONG POND TWP
SOMERSET
E
BKT
NRS
0426
FOGG P
BOWDOIN COLLEGE GRANT WEST TWP
PISCATAQUIS
E
BKT
1949
2488
FOLEY P
COMSTOCK TWP
SOMERSET
E
BKT
1940
0388
FOSS P
KINGSBURY PLT
PISCATAQUIS
E
BKT
1941
2820
FOURTH L
T7 R11 WELS
PISCATAQUIS
E
BKT
NRS
0498
FOX P
TA R11 WELS
PISCATAQUIS
E
BKT
NRS
2455
FROST P
T4 R5 NBKP
SOMERSET
E
BKT
NRS
0668
FROST P (LITTLE)
T3 R12 WELS
PISCATAQUIS
E
BKT
NRS
2628
GANDER P
DENNISTOWN PLT
SOMERSET
E
BKT
NRS
0620
GOULD P
RAINBOW TWP
PISCATAQUIS
E
BKT
NRS
0152
GRACE P
UPPER ENCHANTED TWP
SOMERSET
E
BKT
1960
0842
GRAPEVINE P (LITTLE)
BOWERBANK
PISCATAQUIS
E
BKT
NRS
0420
GRASSY P
BOWDOIN COLLEGE GRANT WEST TWP
PISCATAQUIS
E
BKT
NRS
0660
GRASSY P
T2 R12 WELS
PISCATAQUIS
E
BKT
1939
9853
GRENELL P
GREENVILLE
PISCATAQUIS
E
BKT
NRS
2456
GRENIER P (BIG)
T4 R5 NBKP
SOMERSET
E
BKT
NRS
2566
HALL P
PRENTISS TWP
SOMERSET
E
BKT
NRS
2824
HAY P
T7 R11 WELS
PISCATAQUIS
E
BKT
NRS
2520
HEALD P
MOOSE RIVER
SOMERSET
E
BKT
1957
0790
HEDGEHOG P
BOWDOIN COLLEGE GRANT WEST TWP
PISCATAQUIS
E
BKT
NRS
0532
HENDERSON P
TA R11 WELS
PISCATAQUIS
E
BKT
NRS
0304
HILL P #1
HILTON P #1
KINGSBURY PLT
PISCATAQUIS
E
BKT
NRS
0306
HILLP #2
HILTON P #2
KINGSBURY PLT
PISCATAQUIS
E
BKT
NRS
0626
HORSERACE PONDS
RAINBOW TWP
PISCATAQUIS
E
BKT
NRS
0412
HORSESHOE P
BOWDOIN COLLEGE GRANT WEST TWP
PISCATAQUIS
E
BKT
1941
2540
HORSESHOE P
PARLIN POND TWP
SOMERSET
E
BKT
1989
0292
HUSSEY P
BLANCHARD TWP
PISCATAQUIS
E
BKT
NRS
2498
HUTCH P
HAMMOND TWP
SOMERSET
E
BKT
NRS
0492
HUTCHINSON P
TA R11 WELS
PISCATAQUIS
E
BKT
NRS
0782
INDIAN POND
BOWDOIN COLLEGE GRANT WEST TWP
PISCATAQUIS
E
BKT
1995
2866
INDIAN P
T7 R12 WELS
PISCATAQUIS
E
BKT
NRS
5106
IRON P
T5 R6 BKP WKR
SOMERSET
E
BKT
NRS
2510
IRONBOUND P
ALDER BROOK TWP
SOMERSET
E
BKT
NRS
0704
JACKSON P #2
JORDAN POND
T3 R11 WELS
PISCATAQUIS
E
BKT
1950
2986
JOHNSON P
T8 R14 WELS
PISCATAQUIS
E
BKT
NRS
2486
JONES P
BALD MOUNTAIN TWP T4 R3
SOMERSET
E
BKT
1950
0878
JUNIPER KNEE P
ELLIOTTSVILLE TWP
PISCATAQUIS
E
BKT
NRS
0654
KELLY P
T2 R12 WELS
PISCATAQUIS
E
BKT
NRS
2926
KIDNEY P
EAST MIDDLESEX CANAL GRANT TWP
PISCATAQUIS
E
BKT
NRS
2490
LANE P
COMSTOCK TWP
SOMERSET
E
BKT
NRS
2542
LANG P
PARLIN POND TWP
SOMERSET
E
BKT
1941
2543
LANG P (LITTLE)
PARLIN POND TWP
SOMERSET
E
BKT
NRS
0462
LLOYD P
BOWDOIN COLLEGE GRANT EAST TWP
PISCATAQUIS
E
BKT
NRS
2556
LONE JACK P
CHAIN P #3
JOHNSON MOUNTAIN TWP
SOMERSET
E
BKT
NRS
9861
LONG P (LEWISTON P)
DOLE BROOK TWP
SOMERSET
E
BKT
NRS
0424
LOST P
BOWDOIN COLLEGE GRANT WEST TWP
PISCATAQUIS
E
BKT
NRS
2420
LOST P
RUSSELL POND TWP
SOMERSET
E
BKT
NRS
0402
LUCKY P
SPENCER BAY TWP
PISCATAQUIS
E
BKT
1971
0430
LYFORD P (1ST LITTLE)
BOWDOIN COLLEGE GRANT EAST TWP
PISCATAQUIS
E
BKT
NRS
0428
LYFORD P (2ND LITTLE)
BOWDOIN COLLEGE GRANT EAST TWP
PISCATAQUIS
E
BKT
1956
0438
LYFORD P (BIG)
SHAWTOWN TWP
PISCATAQUIS
E
BKT
1957
0280
MARBLE P
BLANCHARD TWP
PISCATAQUIS
E
BKT
NRS
0158
MARKHAM
JOHNSON MOUNTAIN TWP
SOMERSET
E
BKT
NRS
2474
MARY PETUCHE P
PRENTISS TWP
SOMERSET
E
BKT
NRS
2982
MILE P
T8 R14 WELS
PISCATAQUIS
E
BKT
NRS
0930
MILL BROOK P
BOWERBANK
PISCATAQUIS
E
BKT
NRS
5800
MISERY P
MISERY TWP
SOMERSET
E
BKT
NRS
5802
MISERY P (UPPER)
MISERY TWP
SOMERSET
E
BKT
NRS
0382
MOORES P
MONSON
PISCATAQUIS
E
BKT
NRS
0902
MOOSE P
ELLIOTTSVILLE TWP
PISCATAQUIS
E
BKT
NRS
0414
MOUNTAIN BROOK P
BOWDOIN COLLEGE GRANT WEST TWP
PISCATAQUIS
E
BKT
NRS
2989
MOUNTAIN P
T8 R14 WELS
PISCATAQUIS
E
BKT
NRS
0432
MOUNTAIN P
BEAVER COVE
PISCATAQUIS
E
BKT
1949
0160
MOUNTAIN P (2nd)
JOHNSON MOUNTAIN TWP
SOMERSET
E
BKT
NRS
0488
MOUNTAIN VIEW P
TA R11 WELS
PISCATAQUIS
E
BKT
1947
0316
MOXIE P (LITTLE)
EAST MOXIE TWP
SOMERSET
E
BKT
NRS
0330
MUD P
MOOSEHEAD JUNCTION TWP
PISCATAQUIS
E
BKT
NRS
2884
MUD P
T6 R12 WELS
PISCATAQUIS
E
BKT
NRS
0400
MUD P (LITTLE)
GREENVILLE
PISCATAQUIS
E
BKT
1971
2422
MULE P
RUSSELL POND TWP
SOMERSET
E
BKT
NRS
0486
MURPHY P
TA R11 WELS
PISCATAQUIS
E
BKT
NRS
4036
MUSCALSEA P (BIG)
RUSSELL POND TWP
SOMERSET
E
BKT
NRS
2976
NARROW P
T8 R14 WELS
PISCATAQUIS
E
BKT
NRS
0870
NORTH P
ELLIOTTSVILLE TWP
E
BKT
1965
0786
NOTCH P
BOWDOIN COLLEGE GRANT WEST TWP
PISCATAQUIS
E
BKT
NRS
0328
NOTCH P (BIG)
MOOSEHEAD JUNCTION TWP
PISCATAQUIS
E
BKT
NRS
0326
NOTCH P (LITTLE)
MOOSEHEAD JUNCTION TWP
PISCATAQUIS
E
BKT
NRS
0352
ORDWAY P
SHIRLEY
PISCATAQUIS
E
BKT
1916
0354
ORDWAY P (LITTLE)
SHIRLEY
PISCATAQUIS
E
BKT
NRS
2924
OTTER P
T3 R13 WELS
PISCATAQUIS
E
BKT
NRS
9730
PARADISE POND, LOWER
PARLIN POND TWP
SOMERSET
E
BKT
1995
0339
PENOBSCOT L
DOLE BROOK TWP
SOMERSET
E
BKT-CHR
1947
0568
PENOBSCOT P
T1 R12 WELS
PISCATAQUIS
E
BKT
1963
0416
PEARL P #1
BOWDOIN COLLEGE GRANT WEST TWP
PISCATAQUIS
E
BKT
NRS
0418
PEARL P #2
BOWDOIN COLLEGE GRANT WEST TWP
PISCATAQUIS
E
BKT
NRS
0512
PLEASANT P (BIG)
TA R11 WELS
PISCATAQUIS
E
BKT
1970
0510
PLEASANT P (LITTLE)
TA R11 WELS
PISCATAQUIS
E
BKT
1947
2994
POLAND P
T7 R14 WELS
PISCATAQUIS
E
BKT
NRS
0692
POLLY P
T3 R11 WELS
PISCATAQUIS
E
BKT
1947
0576
POLLYWOG P
T1 R11 WELS
PISCATAQUIS
E
BKT
NRS
0562
PRENTISS P
T1 R11 WELS
PISCATAQUIS
E
BKT
NRS
0898
PRESCOTT P
ELLIOTTSVILLE TWP
PISCATAQUIS
E
BKT
NRS
0027
PRICK P
SKINNER TWP
FRANKLIN
E
BKT
NRS
0294
PUNCHBOWL P
BLANCHARD TWP
E
BKT
NRS
0552
RABBIT P
T1 R11 WELS
PISCATAQUIS
E
BKT
NRS
9698
RAINBOW DEADWATERS
RAINBOW TWP
PISCATAQUIS
E
BKT
NRS
0614
RAINBOW L
RAINBOW TWP
PISCATAQUIS
E
BKT-CHR
1958
0808
RAYS MILLS P
T7 R9 NWP
PISCATAQUIS
E
BKT
NRS
2910
RIPOGENUS P
T4 R12 WELS
PISCATAQUIS
E
BKT
NRS
0480
ROACH P (SIXTH)
SHAWTOWN TWP
PISCATAQUIS
E
BKT
NRS
5108
ROCK P
T5 R6 BKP WKR
SOMERSET
E
BKT
NRS
0522
ROCKY P (BIG)
TA R11 WELS
PISCATAQUIS
E
BKT
1951
0524
ROCKY P (LITTLE)
TA R11 WELS
PISCATAQUIS
E
BKT
1948
0490
ROUND P
TA R11 WELS
PISCATAQUIS
E
BKT
NRS
2670
ROUND P
APPLETON TWP
SOMERSET
E
BKT
NRS
2874
ROUND P (LITTLE)
EAGLE LAKE TWP
PISCATAQUIS
E
BKT
NRS
0780
RUM P
GREENVILLE
PISCATAQUIS
E
BKT
NRS
2424
RUSSELL P
RUSSELL POND TWP
SOMERSET
E
BKT
1942
0346
SALMON P
GREENVILLE
PISCATAQUIS
E
BKT
1987
4048
SEBOOMOOK L
PLYMOUTH TWP
SOMERSET
E
BKT
1976
0907
SECRET P
ELLIOTTSVILLE TWP
PISCATAQUIS
E
BKT
NRS
0344
SECRET P
GREENVILLE
PISCATAQUIS
E
BKT
1987
0682
SEWALL P
T3 R11 WELS
PISCATAQUIS
E
BKT
1947
2912
SHACK P
LOBSTER TWP
PISCATAQUIS
E
BKT
NRS
2868
SHALLOW L (LITTLE)
T7 R14 WELS
PISCATAQUIS
E
BKT
NRS
0558
SING SING P
T1 R11 WELS
PISCATAQUIS
E
BKT
NRS
0690
SLAUGHTER P
T3 R11 WELS
PISCATAQUIS
E
BKT
1958
2548
SNAKE P
JOHNSON MOUNTAIN TWP
SOMERSET
E
BKT
1916
2702
SNAKE P
T7 R11 WELS
PISCATAQUIS
E
BKT
1941
2728
SOURDNAHUNK L (LITTLE)
NESOWADNEHUNK L (LITTLE)
T5 R11 WELS
PISCATAQUIS
E
BKT
NRS
0282
SPECTACLE P
BLANCHARD TWP
E
BKT
1944
0334
SQUAW P (BIG)
MOOSE P (BIG)
MOOSEHEAD JUNCTION TWP
PISCATAQUIS
E
BKT
1960
0336
SQUAW P (LITTLE)
MOOSE P (LITTLE)
MOOSEHEAD JUNCTION TWP
PISCATAQUIS
E
BKT
NRS
2416
ST JOHN P (FOURTH)
SAINT JOHN P (FOURTH)
T5 R17 WELS
SOMERSET
E
BKT
NRS
2432
ST JOHN P (SECOND)
SAINT JOHN P (SECOND)
T4 R17 WELS
SOMERSET
E
BKT
NRS
2438
ST JOHN P (THIRD)
SAINT JOHN P (THIRD)
T4 R17 WELS
SOMERSET
E
BKT
NRS
2428
ST JOHN P
(LOWER 1ST)
SAINT JOHN P(LOWER 1ST)
T4 R17 WELS
SOMERSET
E
BKT
NRS
2440
ST JOHN P
(UPPER 1ST)
SAINT JOHN P (UPPER 1ST)
T4 R17 WELS
SOMERSET
E
BKT
NRS
0618
STRATTON P
RAINBOW TWP
PISCATAQUIS
E
BKT
NRS
2434
SUMMIT P
T4 R17 WELS
SOMERSET
E
BKT
NRS
4088
TEN THOUSAND
ACRE P
CHASE STREAM TWP
SOMERSET
E
BKT
NRS
4038
TOMHEGAN P
WEST MIDDLESEX CANAL GRANT
SOMERSET
E
BKT
1969
0792
TROUT P
BOWDOIN COLLEGE GRANT WEST TWP
PISCATAQUIS
E
BKT
NRS
0322
TROUT P
MOOSEHEAD JUNCTION TWP
PISCATAQUIS
E
BKT
1967
0548
TUMBLEDOWN DICK P
T1 R11 WELS
PISCATAQUIS
E
BKT
NRS
2642
TURNER P (BIG)
FORSYTH TWP
SOMERSET
E
BKT
1969
2640
TURNER P (LITTLE)
FORSYTH TWP
SOMERSET
E
BKT
1950
5084
TWIN ISLAND P
LOWELLTOWN TWP
FRANKLIN
E
BKT
NRS
5072
UNKNOWN POND
GORHAM GORE
FRANKLIN
E
BKT
NRS
7073
UNNAMED P
T6 R15 WELS
PISCATAQUIS
E
BKT
NRS
7115
UNNAMED P
COMSTOCK TWP
SOMERSET
E
BKT
NRS
8416
UNNAMED P
COMSTOCK TWP
SOMERSET
E
BKT
NRS
8934
UNNAMED P
ATTEAN TWP
SOMERSET
E
BKT
NRS
8942
UNNAMED P
HOLEB TWP
SOMERSET
E
BKT
NRS
8980
UNNAMED P
T5 R7 BKP WKR
SOMERSET
E
BKT
NRS
9746
UNNAMED P
RAILROAD P
ATTEAN TWP
SOMERSET
E
BKT
NRS
6224
UNNAMED P
3RD RAINBOW DEADWATER
RAINBOW TWP
PISCATAQUIS
E
BKT
NRS
8928
UNNAMED P
(JIM MACK P)
SANDY BAY TWP
SOMERSET
E
BKT
1941
2453
UNNAMED P (LEATH)
LEATH P
T5 R20 WELS
SOMERSET
E
BKT
NRS
9676
UNNAMED P (RUBBERNECK)
TA R11 WELS
PISCATAQUIS
E
BKT
NRS
2972
WADLEIGH P
T8 R15 WELS
PISCATAQUIS
E
BKT-CHR
2011
2974
WADLEIGH P (LITTLE)
T8 R15 WELS
PISCATAQUIS
E
BKT
NRS
9760
WELMAN P (LOWER)
PRENTISS TWP
SOMERSET
E
BKT
NRS
2482
WELMAN P (UPPER)
PRENTISS TWP
SOMERSET
E
BKT
1937
0444
WEST BRANCH P (4th)
SHAWTOWN TWP
PISCATAQUIS
E
BKT
NRS
0734
WILLIAMS P
T4 R11 WELS
PISCATAQUIS
E
BKT
1947
0900
WILSON P (LITTLE)
ELLIOTTSVILLE TWP
PISCATAQUIS
E
BKT
NRS
0622
WOODMAN P
RAINBOW TWP
PISCATAQUIS
E
BKT
1942
2484
WOUNDED DEER P
PRENTISS TWP
SOMERSET
E
BKT
NRS
0504
YOKE PONDS
TA R11 WELS
PISCATAQUIS
E
BKT
1967
4250
ATTWOOD P
T5 R8 WELS
PENOBSCOT
F
BKT
NRS
0478
B POND
TB R11 WELS
PISCATAQUIS
F
BKT
1978
2042
BASIN P #1
MOUNT KATAHDIN TWP
PISCATAQUIS
F
BKT
NRS
2044
BASIN P #2
MOUNT KATAHDIN TWP
PISCATAQUIS
F
BKT
NRS
4210
BELL P
T4 R9 WELS
PISCATAQUIS
F
BKT
NRS
0912
BRANCH P (MIDDLE)
T5 R9 NWP
PISCATAQUIS
F
BKT
NRS
4224
BRANCH P (UPPER SO)
SOUTH BRANCH P (UPPER)
T5 R9 WELS
PISCATAQUIS
F
BKT
1966/1980
2706
BRAYLEY P
T7 R10 WELS
PISCATAQUIS
F
BKT
NRS
0474
CEDAR P
TB R10 WELS
PISCATAQUIS
F
BKT
1973
2734
CENTER P
T4 R10 WELS
PISCATAQUIS
F
BKT
NRS
0538
CHURCH P
TA R10 WELS
PISCATAQUIS
F
BKT
NRS
0720
DAICEY P
T3 R10 WELS
PISCATAQUIS
F
BKT
1961
0594
DAISEY P
T2 R10 WELS
PISCATAQUIS
F
BKT
NRS
0586
DEBSCONEAG L (2ND)
T2 R10 WELS
PISCATAQUIS
F
BKT
NRS
9616
DEEP P
T4 R9 WELS
PISCATAQUIS
F
BKT
NRS
0706
DEER P
T3 R10 WELS
PISCATAQUIS
F
BKT
1970
4194
DRAPER P
T4 R9 WELS
PISCATAQUIS
F
BKT
NRS
2732
DWELLEY P
NESOURDNAHUNK TWP
PISCATAQUIS
F
BKT
NRS
0722
ELBOW P
T3 R10 WELS
PISCATAQUIS
F
BKT
NRS
0696
FOSS & KNOWLTON P
T3 R10 WELS
PISCATAQUIS
F
BKT
1947
4218
FOWLER P (LITTLE)
T5 R9 WELS
PISCATAQUIS
F
BKT
NRS
4232
FOWLER P (LOWER)
TROUT BROOK TWP
PISCATAQUIS
F
BKT
NRS
4220
FOWLER P (MIDDLE)
T5 R9 WELS
PISCATAQUIS
F
BKT
NRS
0472
GAUNTLET P
TB R10 WELS
PISCATAQUIS
F
BKT
NRS
0724
GRASSY P
T3 R10 WELS
PISCATAQUIS
F
BKT
NRS
0464
GREENWOOD P
TB R11 WELS
PISCATAQUIS
F
BKT
NRS
4242
HATHORN P
T4 R8 WELS
PENOBSCOT
F
BKT
NRS
2298
HATHORN P (LITTLE)
T4 R8 WELS
PENOBSCOT
F
BKT
NRS
4252
HAY P
T6 R8 WELS
PENOBSCOT
F
BKT
NRS
4236
HIGH P
TROUT BROOK TWP
PISCATAQUIS
F
BKT
NRS
9786
HILL P
T7 R9 WELS
PISCATAQUIS
F
BKT
NRS
0920
HOUSTON P (LITTLE)
KATAHDIN IRON WORKS TWP
PISCATAQUIS
F
BKT
1968
2724
HUDSON P
T6 R10 WELS
PISCATAQUIS
F
BKT
NRS
2064
HURD P
T2 R10 WELS
PISCATAQUIS
F
BKT
1974
0596
HURD P (LITTLE)
T2 R10 WELS
PISCATAQUIS
F
BKT
NRS
2190
JERRY P
T5 R7 WELS
PENOBSCOT
F
BKT
1959
0534
JOHNSTON P
TA R10 WELS
PISCATAQUIS
F
BKT
NRS
2016
KATAHDIN L
T3 R8 WELS
PENOBSCOT
F
BKT
1959
0716
KIDNEY P
T3 R10 WELS
PISCATAQUIS
F
BKT
1961
3664
LANE BROOK P
T6 R6 WELS
PENOBSCOT
F
BKT
NRS
0718
LILY PAD P
T3 R10 WELS
PISCATAQUIS
F
BKT
1945
4230
LONG P
TROUT BROOK TWP
PISCATAQUIS
F
BKT
NRS
0728
LOST P
T3 R10 WELS
PISCATAQUIS
F
BKT
1959
3030
LOST P
T7 R7 WELS
PENOBSCOT
F
BKT
1947
4244
MESSER P
T5 R8 WELS
PENOBSCOT
F
BKT
1961
0590
MINISTER P (BIG)
T2 R10 WELS
PISCATAQUIS
F
BKT
NRS
0592
MINISTER P (LITTLE)
T2 R10 WELS
PISCATAQUIS
F
BKT
NRS
0588
MOOSE P
T2 R10 WELS
PISCATAQUIS
F
BKT
NRS
0968
MOOSE P
T1 R9 WELS
PISCATAQUIS
F
BKT
1969
2302
MOOSE P
T3 R8 WELS
PENOBSCOT
F
BKT
NRS
4258
MOUNTAIN
CATCHER P
T6 R8 WELS
PENOBSCOT
F
BKT
1951
2208
PEAKED MOUNTAIN P
T4 R7 WELS
PENOBSCOT
F
BKT
NRS
3670
PLEASANT & MUD LAKES
T6 R6 WELS
PENOBSCOT
F
BKT
1956
4206
POGY P
T4 R9 WELS
PISCATAQUIS
F
BKT
NRS
0708
ROCKY P
T3 R10 WELS
PISCATAQUIS
F
BKT
1949
0710
ROCKY P (LITTLE)
T3 R10 WELS
PISCATAQUIS
F
BKT
NRS
2018
ROCKY P
T3 R8 WELS
PENOBSCOT
F
BKT
NRS
4234
(REMOVED)
2022
RUSSELL P
T4 R9 WELS
PISCATAQUIS
F
BKT
NRS
2040
SANDY STREAM P
MOUNT KATAHDIN TWP
PISCATAQUIS
F
BKT
NRS
4196
SIX PONDS #3
T4 R9 WELS
PISCATAQUIS
F
BKT
NRS
4192
SIX PONDS #4
T4 R9 WELS
PISCATAQUIS
F
BKT
NRS
2730
SOURDNAHUNK L
NESOWADNEHUNK L
T5 R11 WELS
PISCATAQUIS
F
BKT
1956
4222
SOUTH BRANCH POND, UPPER
T5 R9 WELS
PISCATAQUIS
F
BKT
1998
0466
SPRUCE MOUNTAIN P
TB R11 WELS
PISCATAQUIS
F
BKT
NRS
8260
STUMP P
T3 R10 WELS
PISCATAQUIS
F
BKT
NRS
0726
TRACY P
T3 R10 WELS
PISCATAQUIS
F
BKT
NRS
4216
TRAVELER P
T5 R9 WELS
PISCATAQUIS
F
BKT
NRS
1098
TROUT L
KOSSUTH TWP
WASHINGTON
F
BKT
NRS
4724
TROUT P
GRAND FALLS TWP
F
BKT
NRS
2026
TWIN P #1
T4 R9 WELS
PISCATAQUIS
F
BKT
NRS
2102
TWIN P (UPPER)
T2 R9 WELS
PISCATAQUIS
F
BKT
1990
2103
TWIN P (LOWER)
TROUT P (LOWER)
T2 R9 WELS
PISCATAQUIS
F
BKT
1976
7419
UNNAMED P
ABBIE P
TOPSFIELD
WASHINGTON
F
BKT
NRS
9083
UNNAMED P
T3 R8 WELS
PENOBSCOT
F
BKT
NRS
4212
WASSATAQUOIK L
T4 R10 WELS
PISCATAQUIS
F
BKT-CHR
NRS
4214
WASSATAQUOIK L (LITTLE)
T4 R10 WELS
PISCATAQUIS
F
BKT
NRS
4208
WEED P
T4 R9 WELS
PISCATAQUIS
F
BKT
NRS
2034
WHIDDEN P #1
MOUNT KATAHDIN TWP
PISCATAQUIS
F
BKT
NRS
2036
WHIDDEN P #2
MOUNT KATAHDIN TWP
PISCATAQUIS
F
BKT
NRS
2038
WHIDDEN P #3
MOUNT KATAHDIN TWP
PISCATAQUIS
F
BKT
NRS
0730
WINDY PITCH P
T3 R10 WELS
PISCATAQUIS
F
BKT
1951
2970
ALLAGASH P
T9 R15 WELS
PISCATAQUIS
G
BKT
NRS
1718
B LAKE
HAMMOND
AROOSTOOK
G
BKT
NRS
1480
BIG BROOK L
T14 R10 WELS
AROOSTOOK
G
BKT
NRS
1862
BLACK BROOK L (LITTLE)
CASWELL
AROOSTOOK
G
BKT
1964
1666
BLACK L
FORT KENT
AROOSTOOK
G
BKT
1975
1506
BLACK L
BLACK P
T15 R9 WELS
AROOSTOOK
G
BKT-CHR
NRS
1508
BLACK P (LITTLE NORTH)
T15 R9 WELS
AROOSTOOK
G
BKT
NRS
1648
BLAKE L
T16 R6 WELS
AROOSTOOK
G
BKT
1945
1468
BLUE P
T13 R13 WELS
AROOSTOOK
G
BKT
NRS
2794
BLUFFER P
T8 R11 WELS
PISCATAQUIS
G
BKT
NRS
2796
BLUFFER P (LITTLE)
T8 R11 WELS
PISCATAQUIS
G
BKT
NRS
2798
BLUFFER P (UPPER)
T8 R11 WELS
PISCATAQUIS
G
BKT
NRS
9759
BOURGOIN L
SAINT AGATHA
AROOSTOOK
G
BKT
NRS
1548
BRAN L
SAINT FRANCIS
AROOSTOOK
G
BKT
NRS
4182
BROWN BROOK P
T9 R9 WELS
PISCATAQUIS
G
BKT
NRS
2840
BUCKLEY P
T8 R10 WELS
PISCATAQUIS
G
BKT
NRS
1996
BURNT P
T9 R7 WELS
AROOSTOOK
G
BKT
NRS
1848
BUTTERFIELD L
CASWELL
AROOSTOOK
G
BKT
1964
1467
CAMPBELL P
G
BKT
NRS
1766
CARLISLE P
T8 R3 WELS
AROOSTOOK
G
BKT
NRS
1684
CARRY P
T16 R4 WELS
AROOSTOOK
G
BKT
1968
1582
CENTER P
T10 R8 WELS
AROOSTOOK
G
BKT
NRS
2834
CHANDLER P
T8 R10 WELS
PISCATAQUIS
G
BKT
1968
2752
CHASE L
T9 R10 WELS
PISCATAQUIS
G
BKT
NRS
1538
CHASE P (FIRST)
HOURGLASS P
T14 R9 WELS
AROOSTOOK
G
BKT
NRS
1540
CHASE P (SECOND)
T14 R9 WELS
AROOSTOOK
G
BKT
NRS
1542
CHASE P (THIRD)
T14 R9 WELS
AROOSTOOK
G
BKT
NRS
9806
CHURCHILL L (LITTLE)
T10 R13 WELS
PISCATAQUIS
G
BKT
NRS
1958
CLAYTON L
T12 R8 WELS
AROOSTOOK
G
BKT
1966
2780
CLIFF L
T9 R12 WELS
PISCATAQUIS
G
BKT
NRS
0487
CRATER P
T15 R9 WELS
AROOSTOOK
G
BKT
1976
1890
CUNLIFFE L
T12 R13 WELS
AROOSTOOK
G
BKT
NRS
2772
CURRIER P (FOURTH)
T9 R11 WELS
PISCATAQUIS
G
BKT
NRS
2774
CURRIER P (SECOND)
T9 R11 WELS
PISCATAQUIS
G
BKT
1987
1512
DEBOULLIE LAKE
T15 R9 WELS
AROOSTOOK
G
BKT, CHR
1996
1524
DENNY P
T15 R9 WELS
AROOSTOOK
G
BKT
NRS
2996
DESOLATION P
T8 R16 WELS
SOMERSET
G
BKT
NRS
9771
EASTON P
EASTON
AROOSTOOK
G
BKT
1939
1490
FALLS P
FALL BROOK L
T18 R10 WELS
AROOSTOOK
G
BKT
NRS
1486
FALLS P (LITTLE)
FALL BROOK L (LITTLE)
ALLAGASH
AROOSTOOK
G
BKT
NRS
1592
FERGUSON P
T14 R8 WELS
AROOSTOOK
G
BKT
NRS
1526
GALILEE P
T15 R9 WELS
AROOSTOOK
G
BKT
NRS
1528
GARDNER L
T15 R9 WELS
AROOSTOOK
G
BKT-CHR
NRS
1868
GERARD P
CASWELL
AROOSTOOK
G
BKT
NRS
1556
GILBERT P
SAINT JOHN PLT
AROOSTOOK
G
BKT
NRS
1558
GILBERT P (LITTLE)
JALBERT P (LITTLE)
SAINT JOHN PLT
AROOSTOOK
G
BKT
NRS
3638
GILMAN P
MORO PLT
AROOSTOOK
G
BKT
NRS
3646
GRASS P
MORO PLT
AROOSTOOK
G
BKT
NRS
3648
GREEN P
MORO PLT
AROOSTOOK
G
BKT
1917
9470
GREY P
T12 R12 WELS
AROOSTOOK
G
BKT
NRS
1498
HAFEY P
T18 R11 WELS
AROOSTOOK
G
BKT
NRS
1934
HARROW L
T10 R12 WELS
PISCATAQUIS
G
BKT
NRS
9277
HORSESHOE P
T16 R9 WELS
AROOSTOOK
G
BKT
NRS
1926
HORSESHOE P
T11 R10 WELS
AROOSTOOK
G
BKT
1966
1928
HUDSON POND, UPPER
T11 R10 WELS
AROOSTOOK
G
BKT
1997
1554
HUNNEWELL L
SAINT JOHN PLT
AROOSTOOK
G
BKT
1976
1632
ISIE L
EAGLE LAKE
AROOSTOOK
G
BKT
NRS
1516
ISLAND P
T15 R9 WELS
AROOSTOOK
G
BKT
NRS
2740
ISLAND P (UPPER)
T10 R10 WELS
PISCATAQUIS
G
BKT
NRS
1500
JONES P
BIG TWENTY TWP
AROOSTOOK
G
BKT
NRS
1002
KETCHUM L
TD R2 WELS
AROOSTOOK
G
BKT
NRS
9775
LAMBERT P
NEW LIMERICK
AROOSTOOK
G
BKT
NRS
2764
LEADBETTER P
T9 R11 WELS
PISCATAQUIS
G
BKT
NRS
1822
LINDSAY L
EASTON
AROOSTOOK
G
BKT
NRS
1924
LOST P
T11 R10 WELS
AROOSTOOK
G
BKT
1967
1650
MARCUM P
FORT KENT
AROOSTOOK
G
BKT
NRS
1858
MARTIN L
CASWELL
AROOSTOOK
G
BKT
NRS
1660
MCCLUSKY L
T14 R5 WELS
AROOSTOOK
G
BKT
NRS
1962
MCGOWAN P
T11 R8 WELS
AROOSTOOK
G
BKT
NRS
1476
MCKEEN L
T14 R10 WELS
AROOSTOOK
G
BKT
NRS
1550
MCLEAN L
SAINT FRANCIS
AROOSTOOK
G
BKT
NRS
1992
MCPHERSON P
T10 R10 WELS
PISCATAQUIS
G
BKT
NRS
9800
MIDDLE BROOK P
T9 R9 WELS
PISCATAQUIS
G
BKT
NRS
1982
MINK MARSH P
T11 R10 WELS
AROOSTOOK
G
BKT
NRS
1990
MOOSELEUK L
T10 R9 WELS
PISCATAQUIS
G
BKT
NRS
1604
MOSQUITO BROOK P
T14 R7 WELS
AROOSTOOK
G
BKT
NRS
4180
MUNSUNGAN L
T8 R9 WELS
PISCATAQUIS
G
BKT
1940
1920
MUSQUACOOK L (4TH)
T10 R11 WELS
PISCATAQUIS
G
BKT
NRS
9781
NORTH P
T14 R9 WELS
AROOSTOOK
G
BKT
NRS
4186
NORWAY P
T3 R10 WELS
PISCATAQUIS
G
BKT
NRS
5774
PEAKED MOUNTAIN P
T10 R11 WELS
PISCATAQUIS
G
BKT
NRS
1564
PELLETIER B L (1ST)
T16 R9 WELS
AROOSTOOK
G
BKT
NRS
1566
PELLETIER B L (2ND)
T16 R9 WELS
AROOSTOOK
G
BKT
NRS
1560
PELLETIER B L (3RD)
T16 R9 WELS
AROOSTOOK
G
BKT
NRS
1562
PELLETIER B L (4TH)
T16 R9 WELS
AROOSTOOK
G
BKT
NRS
1504
PELLETIER B L (5TH)
T15 R9 WELS
AROOSTOOK
G
BKT
NRS
1502
PELLETIER B L (6TH)
T15 R9 WELS
AROOSTOOK
G
BKT
NRS
1482
PETE'S P
T13 R10 WELS
AROOSTOOK
G
BKT
NRS
2756
PLEASANT L (BIG)
T9 R11 WELS
PISCATAQUIS
G
BKT
NRS
1943
PLEASANT P (LITTLE)
T10 R11 WELS
PISCATAQUIS
G
BKT
NRS
2762
PORTAGE P (UPPER)
T9 R11 WELS
PISCATAQUIS
G
BKT
NRS
1870
PRESLEY L
T12 R17 WELS
AROOSTOOK
G
BKT
NRS
1758
PRESQUE ISLE L
T9 R3 WELS
AROOSTOOK
G
BKT
NRS
1514
PUSHINEER P
T15 R9 WELS
AROOSTOOK
G
BKT-CHR
NRS
2746
RAGGED P
RAGGED P # 1
T9 R10 WELS
PISCATAQUIS
G
BKT
NRS
2744
RAGGED P (LITTLE)
RAGGED P # 2
T9 R10 WELS
PISCATAQUIS
G
BKT
NRS
1716
READ L
MERRILL
AROOSTOOK
G
BKT
NRS
2842
REED P (BIG)
T8 R10 WELS
PISCATAQUIS
G
BKT-CHR
2011
2838
REED P (LITTLE)
T8 R10 WELS
PISCATAQUIS
G
BKT
NRS
0521
RITTER L
BRIDGEWATER
AROOSTOOK
G
BKT
1967
9794
ROBBINS BROOK P
T12 R11 WELS
AROOSTOOK
G
BKT
NRS
1020
ROSS L
LITTLETON
AROOSTOOK
G
BKT
NRS
1470
ROUND P
T13 R12 WELS
AROOSTOOK
G
BKT
NRS
1594
ROUND P
T14 R8 WELS
AROOSTOOK
G
BKT
NRS
4158
ROUND P
T7 R9 WELS
PISCATAQUIS
G
BKT
NRS
2960
RUSSELL P (UPPER)
T9 R14 WELS
PISCATAQUIS
G
BKT
NRS
1484
SAG P
T13 R10 WELS
AROOSTOOK
G
BKT
NRS
2398
SAINT FRANCIS L
T8 R16 WELS
SOMERSET
G
BKT
NRS
3660
SECRET P
MORO PLT
AROOSTOOK
G
BKT
1952
2748
SEWALL
DEADWATER P
T9 R10 WELS
PISCATAQUIS
G
BKT
NRS
1642
SLY BROOK L (FIRST)
NEW CANADA
AROOSTOOK
G
BKT
1967
1644
SLY BROOK L (SECOND)
NEW CANADA
AROOSTOOK
G
BKT
1945
9783
SOLDIER P
WALLAGRASS
AROOSTOOK
G
BKT
NRS
1488
SOWISH L
T18 R10 WELS
AROOSTOOK
G
BKT
NRS
2832
SPRING P
T7 R10 WELS
PISCATAQUIS
G
BKT
NRS
1518
STINK P
T15 R9 WELS
AROOSTOOK
G
BKT
NRS
1904
SWEENEY P
T12 R12 WELS
AROOSTOOK
G
BKT
NRS
9285
THOMAS L
T16 R8 WELS
AROOSTOOK
G
BKT
NRS
1902
THREEMILE P
T12 R12 WELS
AROOSTOOK
G
BKT
NRS
9765
TWO MILE P
T16 R14 WELS
AROOSTOOK
G
BKT
NRS
9466
UNNAMED P
NO NAME P
T13 R10 WELS
AROOSTOOK
G
BKT
NRS
6402
UNNAMED P (VIOLETTE BROOK L)
VIOLETTE
BROOK L
CYR PLT
AROOSTOOK
G
BKT
NRS
1521
UPPER P
T15 R9 WELS
AROOSTOOK
G
BKT
1978
1628
WALLAGRASS
(1ST & 2ND)
SAINT JOHN PLT
AROOSTOOK
G
BKT
1967
1552
WALLAGRASS L (THIRD)
SAINT JOHN PLT
AROOSTOOK
G
BKT
1967
1968
WEEKS P
T11 R8 WELS
AROOSTOOK
G
BKT
1970
1614
WHEELOCK L
SAINT JOHN PLT
AROOSTOOK
G
BKT
1945
0324
INDIAN POND, BIG
MOOSEHEAD JUNCTION TWP
PISCATAQUIS
E
BKT
1997
History
- STATUTORY AUTHORITY: 12 MRSA §12461
- EFFECTIVE DATE: June 23, 2014 – filing 2014-121
- AMENDED: October 13, 2014 – Baker Flowage, Enchanted Pond (Lower), Otter Pond added to Region D; Gander Pond, added to Region E - filing 2014-258
- AMENDED: October 5, 2015 – Cedar Pond, Stony Brook Pond, added to Region D; Debsconeag Lake (Eighth), Unknown Pond, added to Region E – filing 2015-179
- AMENDED: January 1, 2017 – 4218 Fowler Pond (Little), 2302 Moose Pond, 2102 Twin Pond (Upper), added to Region F – filing 2016-175
- AMENDED: January 1, 2018 – 7614 Mt Zircon Reservoir, added to Region A; 0212 Moore's Bog, 0186 Morse Pond, 3530 Ross Pond, 3316 Sunday Pond, added to Region D; 0356 Bear Pond, 0150 Enchanted Pond, 0292 Hussey Pond, 0416 Pearl Pond # 1, 0418 Pearl Pond # 2, 6224 Unnamed Pond, added to Region E; 4210 Bell Pond, 4194 Draper Pond, 2018 Rocky Pond, added to Region F; 1996 Burnt Pond, 9800 Middle Brook Pond, 4186 Norway Pond, added to Region G – filing 2017-161
- AMENDED: October 1, 2018 – 2964 Crescent Pond, removed from Region G – filing 2018-202
- AMENDED: January 1, 2019 – 0228 Chase Bog, 5118 Mud Pond, added to Region D; 2932 Berry Pond, Little, 0290 Brackett Pond, 2540 Horseshoe Pond, added to Region E; 4234 Round Pond, removed from Region F; 1650 Marcum Pond, added to Region G – filing 2018-202
- AMENDED: January 1, 2020 – 1468 Blue Pond; 2444 Elm Pond, Little; 5162 Line Pond (removed), 1858 Martin Lake; 4034 Muscalsea Pond, Little (removed); 5164 Roberts Pond (removed); 4078 Tobey Pond; 2334 Tory Hill Pond – filing 2019-180
- AMENDED: January 1, 2021 – 4416 Myrick Pond (removed); 1436 Western Lake (removed); 2930 Berry Pond (added to Region E)– filing 2020-222
- AMENDED: January 1, 2022 – 1322 Butcher Lake (removed) – filing 2021-217
- AMENDED: January 1, 2023 – 1512 Deboullie Lake, added to Region G; 0782 Indian Pond, added to Region E; 9730 Paradise Pond, Lower, added to Region E – filing 2022-228
- AMENDED: January 1, 2024 – filing 2023-183
- AMENDED: January 1, 2025 – 3290 Aziscohos L added to Reg D; 1928 Hudson Pd Upper added to Reg G; 4222 South Branch P Upper added to Reg F; 9285 Thomas L added to Reg G - filing 2024-181
Chapter 2 Rules Pertaining to Commercial Fishing, Fish Culture and Fishing Derbies and Tournaments
Code Me. R. 09-137 Ch. 2 Rules Pertaining to Commercial Fishing, Fish Culture and Fishing Derbies and Tournaments {#sec-09-137-ch.-2 omnilex-key=us-me-regs-official--dept-inland-fisheries-and-wildlife--09-137 Ch. 2}
2.01 Waters Designated for Use in Fish Culture and Scientific Research by the State
All inland waters of the state (as defined in Chapter 701, Section 7001, sub-section 18, 12 M.R.S.A.) are designated as waters for the use of the State in the prosecution of the work of fish culture and scientific research relative to fish, for the period beginning July 1, 1989, through June 30, 1999.
2.02 Rules for the Taking, of Alewives, Cusk, Eels, Hornpout, Suckers and Yellow Perch Under Provisions of Permits Authorized by 12 M.R.S.A., Section 7153
NOTE: This rule may be filed under Ch. 1, Section 2.
A. Applications
-
Bids for specific sites for trapping devices which extend from bank to bank must be received in January and February to insure a specific site.
-
Sites not awarded on bid may be awarded at the minimum fee after March 1 each year.
-
All permit applications must include the landowner's permission for use on the site desired.
-
No more than one permit will be issued for a trapping device that extends from bank to bank on any one brook, stream, river or lake outlet.
-
In-stream alteration (use of mechanical equipment in dam building) shall be limited to a fifty-foot swath across the thread of the stream.
B. Permits
Each permit shall specify:
-
How the species may be taken. The method of taking may be by weir, trap net, seine, pot or dip net.
-
Dates, days of the week, and times of day that any trapping device may be operated.
-
Installation and removal dates.
-
Type of construction and/or material that may be used.
C. Rules that apply to dip nets, seines, and eel pots for the taking of alewives, cusk, eels, hornpout, suckers, and yellow perch
-
No exclusive territory permits will be granted.
-
A permit shall be issued for each body of water.
-
Live fish shall not be used as bait.
D. Release of unauthorized species
- Species of fish or other wildlife not covered by any permit used must be released unharmed.
2.03 Commercially Grown or Imported Fish
A. Scope
These rules shall be applicable only to freshwater fish which have been grown commercially within the State or imported from outside the State as provided in Title 12, M.R.S.A., Section 7201 and Section 7205. Nothing in these rules shall in any way restrict or regulate the harvest, transportation or sale of live smelts, minnows and other unprotected fish commonly used for bait purposes.
B. Identification
All live or dead freshwater fish taken from hatcheries, aquaculture operations or private ponds within the State and all live or dead freshwater fish imported from outside the State shall, while being transported, held in storage or offered for sale, be identified with the name and address of the original source in one of the following manners:
-
Each fish shall bear a tag or seal which shall identify the source; or
-
Each package, bag, box or container of fish shall be marked in such a manner as to identify the source; or
-
Each display case or tank containing fish for resale shall be marked with a sign which shall identify the source.
All fish shall bear identification as described above from the time they leave the original source until they reach their ultimate destination.
C. Certain Permits Required
- All live freshwater fish imported into the State shall, while in transit, be accompanied by an importation permit from the Commissioner as described in Title 12, M.R.S.A., Section 7202.
1.a. Tropical Fish Exception. Pursuant to Title 12 M.R.S.A, §7377, Sub‑§5-A, acceptable species of tropical fish that may be imported without an importation permit shall be designated by the Commissioner, a list of which shall be maintained and made available by the Department. The acceptability of any tropical fish to be imported or possessed shall be based on an informed determination by the Commissioner that the species will not unreasonably threaten indigenous aquatic species or habitats if accidentally or intentionally released into the waters of the State.
-
All live freshwater fish taken from hatcheries, aquaculture operations or private ponds within the State or imported from outside the State shall, while in transit, be accompanied by an invoice or other documentation describing the species involved, the number of fish involved and the destination of the fish.
-
All live freshwater fish which are to be introduced into either public or private waters of this State shall, while in transit, be accompanied by the appropriate written permit from the Commissioner as described in Title 12, M.R.S.A., Section 7203 (inland waters) and Section 7204 (private waters)
2.03-A Salmonid Fish Health Inspection Regulations
A. Scope and Intent
The transfer and/or introduction of organisms fall within the jurisdiction of the Department of Marine Resources (12 M.R.S.A., §6071) into coastal waters within the State of Maine and the Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife (12 M.R.S.A., §§ 7011, 7035 and 7201, 7202) into public and/or private waters within the State of Maine. These rules are intended to protect wild and farmed salmonid fish populations and shall be applicable to all individuals involved in the culture and movement of live salmonids and gametes.
B. Prohibited Activity
(1) It is unlawful to transfer live salmonid gametes or fish to any fish culture facility in Maine or stock salmonid fish or gametes into the waters of Maine that do not meet the requirements of these rules.
(2) No clinically diseased salmonid fish shall be introduced into the waters of Maine.
C. Definitions
For the purposes of these rules the following terms have the following meanings:
(1) Active Surveillance
“Active surveillance” means laboratory testing which is conducted during the annual hatchery inspection and during spawning as outlined in Chapter 2.03‑A (F).
(2) Blue Book
“Blue Book” means Thoesen, J.C. 1994. Suggested procedures for the detection and identification of certain finfish and shellfish pathogens, 4th edition. Bluebook Fish Health Section American Fisheries Society.
(3) Broodstock
“Broodstock” means sexually mature fish (Size group 4).
(4) Clinical
“Clinical” means any visual signs of disease by gross external examination.
(5) Confidence level
“Confidence level” means the probability of detecting evidence of at least one infected fish within the population of fish tested at the respective prevalence levels of the agent.
(6) Diseases of Regulatory Concern
“Diseases of Regulatory Concern” mean infectious agents that have been demonstrated to cause a significant increase in the risk of mortality among salmonid populations in the State of Maine. Diseases of Regulatory Concern are classified by the Commissioner into three (3) disease categories exotic, endemic (limited distribution) and endemic based on an annual review and analysis of epidemiological data. See the following definitions and Chapter 2.03-A (E).
(a) Exotic
“Exotic” means those infectious agents that have not been detected in Maine as of the effective date of this rule. Pathogens classified as exotic based on available current information include:
(i) VHSV: Viral Hemorrhagic Septicemia Virus
(ii) IHNV: Infectious Hematopoietic Necrosis Virus
(iii) OMV: Oncorhynchus masou Virus
(iv) CS: Ceratomyxosis (Ceratomyxa shasta)
(v) PKD: Proliferative Kidney Disease (PKX)
(vi) WD: Whirling Disease (Myxobolus cerebralis)
(vii) IsaV: Infectious Salmon Anemia Virus
(viii) Other: Any pathogen not detected in Maine as of the effective date of these rules.
(b) Endemic (limited distribution)
“Endemic (limited distribution)” means those infectious agents of special concern whose geographic distribution within the State of Maine is not fully known. Pathogens classed as endemic (limited distribution) based on available information include:
(i) IPNV: Infectious Pancreatic Necrosis Virus
(ii) BKD: Bacterial Kidney Disease (Renibacterium salmoninarum)
(iii) BF: Furunculosis (Aeromonas salmonicida)
(iv) BR: Enteric Redmouth (Yersinia ruckeri)
(c) Endemic
“Endemic” means those infectious agents currently recognized to occur with predictable regularity in the State of Maine with only minor fluctuation in frequency over time.
(7) Fish Culture Facility
“Fish culture facility” means an establishment where salmonids are grown for sale or release into inland waters of the State of Maine.
(8) Infectious agents and abbreviations
The name of each infectious pathogen and its accepted abbreviation are:
IPNV Infectious Pancreatic Necrosis Virus
IHNV Infectious Hematopoietic Necrosis Virus
VHSV Viral Hemorrhagic Septicemia Virus
OMV Oncorhynchus masou Virus
BF Furunculosis (Aeromonas salmonicida)
BR Enteric Redmouth (Yersinia ruckeri)
BKD Bacterial Kidney Disease (Renibacterium salmoninarum)
WD Whirling Disease (Myxobolus cerebralis)
CS Ceratomyxosis (Ceratomyxa shasta)
PKD Proliferative Kidney Disease (PKX)
IsaV Infectious Salmon Anemia virus
Other Any pathogen not detected in Maine as of the effective date of these rules.
(9) Inspection
“Inspection” means an on-site, statistically-based sampling of all lots of fish on the facility and resulting laboratory tests and inspection reports conducted by an inspector in accordance with the testing requirements and procedures set forth in these rules.
(10) Inspector
“Inspector” means an accredited, licensed veterinarian, a certified fish health inspector or persons recognized by federal or state agencies with responsibility for fish health or transfer in the state from which the fish or gametes originate upon approval of the Commissioner. No owner or employee with direct supervisory authority over a facility may serve as an inspector for their fish culture facility.
(a) “Accredited licensed veterinarian” means a veterinarian holding a current veterinary license who has also fulfilled the accreditation requirements of United States Department of Agriculture Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (USDA/APHIS).
(b) “Certified fish health inspector” means an individual certified by the American Fisheries Society/Fish Health Section (AFS/FHS) as a Fish Health Inspector or Fish Pathologist.
(11) Lot
“Lot” means the following:
(a) A lot for size groups 1, 2, and 3 (non-brood facilities) is defined as fish of the same species and age that originated from the same spawning stock and share a common water supply.
(b) A lot for size group 4 is defined as fish of the same species that originated from the same spawning stock and share a common water supply, but several age groups (e.g., 3, 4, and 5 year old brood fish) may be combined to form a representative composite lot for sampling.
(12) Marine Fish Health Zones
(Reserved for use by Department of Marine Resources.)
(13) New England Salmonid Health Guidelines
“New England Salmonid Health Guidelines” mean the January 15, 1997 edition of the New England Salmonid Health Guidelines.
(14) Owner
“Owner” means any person, partnership, company or corporation with a proprietary interest in the fish culture facility being inspected.
(15) Passive Surveillance
“Passive surveillance” means the collection of disease data from historical records or diagnostic sampling done during a disease outbreak or a disease investigation.
(16) Prevalence
“Prevalence” means the number of detectable cases of disease (or disease agents) present in a population.
(17) Production Stock
“Production stock” means salmonid fish of size groups 1, 2, and 3.
(18) Size Group
“Size Group” means:
Size Group 1: Fish less than or equal to 4 cm in length, commonly referred to as fry.
Size Group 2: Fish from 4 to 6 cm in length, commonly referred to as fingerlings.
Size Group 3: Non-brood fishes greater than 6 cm in length, commonly referred to as yearlings/adults, which are not being held as brood stock.
Size Group 4: Sexually mature fish used as brood stock.
(19) Qualified Source/Hatchery
“Qualified source/hatchery” means an established source/hatchery that has had 3 consecutive annual inspections in which pathogens as described in Chapter 2.03-A (E) have not been detected; or a new hatchery that has had 3 successive negative annual inspections over a continuous 2 year period.
(20) Quarantine
“Quarantine” means:
No movement of live fish off or to the site;
No visitors to site except necessary fish health personnel;
A biosecurity program approved by the Commissioner must be instituted at the site; and
Disposition of deceased and quarantined fish must be approved by the Commissioner.
(21) Reproductive Fluids
“Reproductive fluids” means testicular and ovarian fluids.
(22) Restriction
"Restriction" means:
No movement of live fish off or to the site;
Disinfection protocols and biosecurity must be instituted at the site.
(23) Salmonid Fish
“Salmonid Fish” means fish of the family Salmonidae.
(24) Spawning Broodstock
“Spawning broodstock” means a lot of sexually mature salmonid fish whose gametes will be incubated at fish culture facilities within Maine.
(25) Transfer Permits and Reports
(A) Annual Fish Health Inspection Report
“Annual Fish Health Inspection Report” means the letter from the Inspector acknowledging that all lots of fish have been inspected according to procedures outlined in Chapter 2.03-A (F). The Fish Health inspection report shall include an itemized account of results.
(B) Fish Health Inspection Report
“Fish Health Inspection Report” means a letter from the Inspector acknowledging that a specific lot or lots of fish have been inspected according to procedures outlined in Chapter 2.03-A (F). The Fish Health inspection report shall include an itemized account of results.
(C) Annual Fish Culture Facility Health Report
“Annual Fish Culture Facility Health Report” means a letter from the Commissioner stating the health status of any Fish Culture Facility that requires an annual Fish Health Inspection Report. The Fish Culture Facility Health Report shall be based upon the findings of Annual Fish Health Inspection Reports, the guidelines provided in Annex V of the New England salmonid Health Guidelines and any other fish health inspection reports.
(D) Importation Permit
“Importation Permit” means the permit issued by the Commissioner that authorizes the recipient to import salmonids to designated geographical area(s) in the inland waters of Maine during a specified time period.
(E) Pond Stocking Permit
“Pond Stocking Permit” means the permit issued by the Commissioner that authorizes the recipient to transfer and/or release live salmonids into inland waters of Maine.
D. Compliance Reporting Requirements, Reporting and Permits
(1)
(a) Any person wishing to import, possess, or sell live salmonids or gametes for the purposes of stocking into inland waters of maine shall provide a fish health inspection report stating that such salmonid fish or gametes have been inspected for all diseases of regulatory concern before a permit to engage in such activity is issued.
(b) Live salmonid fish or gametes taken from the wild shall be subject to isolation as defined in Annex V and Annex VI of the New England salmonid Health Guidelines pending the completion of inspection procedures outlined in Chapter 2.03-A (F) and the issuance of a fish health inspection report.
(2) Any salmonid fish facility raising fish to be introduced into the inland waters of Maine must submit the most current annual fish health inspection report on approved forms to the Department of Inland Fisheries & Wildlife prior to the sale and/or movement of such fish from the facility.
(3) Any person applying for a permit to import live salmonids or gametes into the State of Maine shall demonstrate that the fish or gametes being imported are free from evidence of all diseases of regulatory concern, from a source which meets or exceeds the standards established in these rules and that the source and facility have been free from evidence of all diseases of regulatory concern for three years immediately preceding the permit application or a new hatchery that has had 3 successive negative annual inspections over a continuous 2 year period. The Commissioner may prescribe additional fish health testing requirements for importation of salmonids or gametes into the State of Maine. A copy of the current approved importation permit shall accompany the fish or gametes during transfer.
(4) Any person offering live salmonids or gametes for sale or transferring live salmonids or gametes to a source in Maine shall provide a current fish health inspection report to any customer or recipient of the fish. A copy of the current approved importation or stocking permit shall accompany the fish or gametes during transfer.
(5) Live salmonid fish or gametes transferred for purposes of immediate harvest for human consumption, diagnostic inspection or related laboratory research shall not be subject to the provisions of these rules. Salmonids harvested for the purposes of human consumption shall be harvested, handled, processed and transported using measures to minimize the introduction of infectious disease into Maine waters. The Fish Health Technical Committee will serve as a technical resource in developing guidelines for biosecurity measures associated with harvesting, transport and processing.
E. Testing requirements for Diseases of Regulatory Concern
Spawning Broodstock
Production Stock
Size Group 4
Size Group 1
Size Groups 2 & 3
Inspection
Testing Requirement
Exotic
Reportable
Endemic, limited distribution
Reportable
Exotic Reportable
Endemic, limited distribution Reportable
Exotic
Reportable
Endemic, limited distribution
Reportable
Active
Surveillance
VHSV
IHNV
ISAV
IPNV
BKD
VHSV
IHNV
IPNV
VHSV
IHNV
WD
ISAV
BF
BR
IPNV
BKD
Passive
Surveillance
OMV
CS
WD
PKD
Other
BF
BR
Other
OMV
CS
PKD
Other
BF
BR
BKD
OMV
CS
PKD
Other
F. Inspection Procedure: The following procedures shall be carried out by an inspector, as defined in these regulations.
(1) A fish culture facility inspection of all production lots shall be completed at least annually.
(2) Fish health inspections shall be conducted at a time or times of the year conducive for the detection of pathogens with regard to the age and size of fish and environmental conditions.
(3) A visual exam of all tanks/raceways to assess general health status shall be conducted during the annual inspection.
(4) Testing procedures for infectious agents shall be conducted according to requirements and methodologies approved by the Commissioner. Testing requirements for salmonids in the respective size groups shall be conducted according to Chapter 2.03-A (E). For viral pathogens, the inspector shall test at the 95% confidence level, 5% prevalence per lot. For bacterial pathogens, the inspector shall test at 95% confidence level, 10% prevalence per lot. In order to detect evidence of the agent of Whirling Disease, the inspector shall sample sixty fish per facility or per water supply, if the facility has more than one water supply . Samples examined for evidence of Whirling Disease shall be of the most susceptible species and ages of fish available. For example, select brook or rainbow trout over brown trout or coho salmon. Select fish at least 5 months old if possible, as referenced in the Blue Book under Parasitology, Section VI, Whirling Disease, part F, procedures for detecting subclinical infections. If bacterial pathogens are negative for 3 consecutive annual inspections, then sampling levels may drop to 20% prevalence for as long as sampling continues to test negative.
(5) Spawning Broodstock shall be tested within 30 days immediately before or after spawning for diseases of regulatory concern according to Chapter 2.03-A (E).
(a) Reproductive fluids shall be sampled at the 100% level or lethal sampling at the 10% prevalence up to a maximum of 30 fish and reproductive fluids at the 2% prevalence level. Reproductive fluids can be collected by trained facility personnel under the direction of the inspector using a chain of custody protocol in accordance with Chapter 2.03-A (F)(4).
(b) Complete laboratory diagnostic testing (virology, bacteriology and parasitology) done on broodstock mortalities during a given year can be included if the lethal sampling option is chosen.
(6) Sample size
(a) For viral and bacterial pathogens the number of samples to be collected from a given lot shall be based upon stratified random sampling which provides 95 percent confidence of detecting a pathogen with an assumed minimum prevalence of detectable infection of two to twenty percent depending upon conditions outlined as follows:
Minimum sample sizes for populations varying from 50 to infinity are as follows:
Assumed Prevalence: 2% 5% 10% 20%
Population or lot size Size of sample
50 50 35 20 5
100 75 45 23 8
250 110 50 25 11
500 130 55 26 13
1,000 140 55 27 14
1,500 140 55 27 14
2,000 145 60 27 15
10,000 145 60 27 15
100,000 150 60 30 15
and any larger
The above sample sizes are the minimum number of fish to be tested and in situations where pathogens are suspected, larger samples shall be taken at the discretion of the fish health inspector. The method of collecting sub samples from rearing units to obtain a representative sample is left to the discretion of the inspector.
(b) Inspections shall be performed and samples collected by the inspector or a person working under his/her supervision. The inspector is responsible for all work performed.
(c) Pathogens as described in Chapter 2.03-A (E)detected by passive surveillance between annual fish health inspections must be reported by the owner of the fish culture facility to the Commissioner at the time of inspection.
(d) Upon completion of the annual inspection of the fish culture facility, an inspection report will be issued to the owner/operator and the Commissioner . Uponreceipt of the inspection report, the Department will review the report and may issue a permit if the report meets the standards outlined in these rules.
(e) Lots of fish and/or gametes received from qualified sources/hatcheries will not invalidate that fish culture facility’s annual inspection status.
(f) Lots of fish and/or gametes received from sources other than qualified sources/hatcheries that do not comply with Chapter 2.03-A (D)(1) will invalidate the receiving fish culture facility’s annual inspection status.
G. Fish Health Technical Committee
A Fish Health Technical Committee shall be established jointly by the Commissioners of the Departments of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife and the Department of Marine Resources to provide advice to maintain optimum health among Maine’s aquatic resources and to safeguard wild and cultured organisms from the introduction of infectious organisms.
(1) Composition and Selection
The composition and selection of the Fish Health Technical Committee shall reflect the interdisciplinary expertise required to address aquatic animal health issues. All members of the Fish Health Technical Committee shall be qualified fish health inspectors or qualified professionals in the fish health field.
(a) There shall be three members representing the public resource agencies Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife, Department of Marine Resources and Department of Agriculture, Food and Rural Resources.
(b) There shall be one member representing the United States Fish and Wildlife Service.
(c) There shall be one member representing the National Marine Fisheries Service.
(d) There shall be one member representing the U.S. Department of Agriculture, Animal Plant Inspection Service.
(e) There shall be two members at large of which at least one shall be from academia.
(f) There shall be two members with experience in commercial finfish culture.
(g) The chair person shall be elected by a majority vote of the Fish Health Technical Committee.
(2) Responsibilities
(a) Responsibilities of the Fish Health Technical Committee shall be to provide technical advice to the Commissioners in the following areas:
(i) Procedures for disease surveillance and health monitoring among salmonid resources.
(ii) Diagnostic protocols and standards.
(iii) Criteria for biosecurity, quarantine, animal destruction and facility clean up.
(iv) Control of a disease outbreak.
(v) Following annual review and analysis of epidemiological data provide recommendations to the Commissioners regarding the classification and testing requirements for Diseases of Regulatory Concern.
(b) The Fish Health Technical Committee shall also:
(i) Annually review and make recommendations on disease surveillance and the health status of salmonid resources.
(ii) Actively pursue the development of research programs for addressing the salmonid health issues facing the State’s resources.
(iii) Serve as a technical resource for fish facility managers to improve management and husbandry practices.
(iv) Develop recommendations for rules to address inspection requirements for non-salmonid fish species.
H. Consequences/Action Plan
(1) Exotic Diseases
(a) When any exotic disease of regulatory concern is confirmed at any salmonid fish culture facility in Maine as a result of active or passive surveillance, the owner of the facility shall notify the Commissioner in writing and by telephone within 24 hours of the confirmation. In addition, within 24 hours all fish on the site must be immediately restricted. The report to the Commissioner must include, as a minimum:
(i) Species of fish affected;
(ii) Size group and age of fish;
(iii) Pathogen and whether it is clinical or non clinical;
(iv) Prevalence;
(v) Actions being taken to contain or eradicate the pathogen; and
(vi) Proposed actions to restore the facility to a qualified source/hatchery.
(b) The Commissioner shall review the relevant facts and may consult with the Fish Health Technical Committee, relevant State and federal agencies, other professionals, and make a decision concerning the restricted fish. Consideration will be given to certain risk factors including but not limited to:
(i) Risk to the aquaculture industry;
(ii) Risk to wild stocks;
(iii) Feasibility of eradication by stock destruction;
(iv) Time frame and degree of pathogen spread i.e., local vs. regional;
(v) Final intended disposition of infected stocks; and
(vi) Public health ramifications.
(c) Following completion of risk assessment, the Commissioner may order one or more of the following remedial actions.
(i) Harvest and sale of processed fish;
(ii) Destruction of the stock and proper disposal to minimize release of pathogen(s);
(iii) Stocking of the fish if such action possesses no or minimal risk to wild populations;
(iv) Re-test stock for pathogen;
(v) Treatment of fish and re-test;
(vi) Quarantine and continued quarantine of fish for purpose of study or salvage of gametes; or
(vii) Other actions determined to be appropriate by the Commissioner upon consultation with the Fish Health Technical committee.
(2) Endemic Diseases (Limited Distribution)
(a) When any Endemic Disease (Limited Distribution) of regulatory concern is confirmed at any salmonid fish culture facility in Maine as a result of active or passive surveillance, the owner of the facility shall notify the Commissioner within 14 days after confirmation of the disease and prior to movement or transfer. The report to the Commissioner must include, as a minimum:
(i) Species of fish affected;
(ii) Size group and age of fish;
(iii) Pathogen and whether it is clinical or non clinical;
(iv) Prevalence;
(v) Actions being taken to contain or eradicate the pathogen; and
(vi) Proposed actions to restore the facility to a qualified source/hatchery.
(b) The Commissioner shall review the report, Annex IV of the New England Salmonid Health Guidelines and may consult with the Fish Health Technical Committee, relevant State and Federal agencies, other professionals, and make a decision concerning movement or transfer of the fish.
(3) Endemic Diseases
(a) When any Endemic Disease of regulatory concern is confirmed at any salmonid fish culture facility in Maine as a result of active or passive surveillance, the owner of the facility shall notify the Commissioner 14 days prior to movement or transfer. The report to the Commissioner must include, as a minimum:
(i) Species of fish affected;
(ii) Size group and age of fish;
(iii) Pathogen and whether it is clinical or non clinical;
(iv) Prevalence;
(v) Actions being taken to contain or eradicate the pathogen; and
(vi) Proposed actions to restore the facility to a qualified source/hatchery.
2.04 Rules Pertaining to Fishing Derbies
A. Scope of Rules
These rules shall be applicable only to fishing derbies as authorized by Title 12, M.R.S.A., Sections 12504 & 12504-A.
B. Applications
- An application for a permit to conduct a fishing derby shall be on such forms as the department requires. The following information is required:
a. Name and address of the sponsor
b. Rules of the derby
c. Body(s) of water affected
d. Date(s) and time(s) of the derby
e. Prize structure
-
(Repealed. This fee has been established by the Legislature, P.L. 1991, c.443)
-
Applications for open water fishing derbies will be accepted after January 1 annually.
-
Applications for ice fishing derbies will be accepted after September 1 annually.
-
Applications for fishing derbies will be processed in order of receipt.
C. Restrictions
-
No fishing derbies will be permitted on any single body of water having a surface area of less than 100 acres and managed by the department for cold water fish species (trout, salmon and/or togue) or if the issuance of a permit would be inconsistent with the fisheries management objectives of the waters being affected.
-
Open water fishing derbies are not allowed to be held between April 1 – June 15, except where fishing derbies are consistent with the fisheries management objectives of the Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife.
-
No more than 4 derbies will be permitted on any single body of water in any calendar year. County-wide or state-wide derbies shall not be counted as a derby on any one body of water.
-
The total cash value of prizes to be awarded at any single fishing derby (excluding door prizes) shall not exceed $10,000, except:
a. when the derby is of a regional or statewide nature, involves more than a single body of water, or only involves waters not managed by the department for cold water fish species (trout, salmon and/or togue), in which case the total cash value of prizes to be awarded (excluding door prizes) shall not exceed $25,000.
-
No derby shall occur at a public access facility in a manner that prevents non-event participants from launching and retrieving watercraft.
-
The Commissioner has the authority to put any condition necessary on any derby to assure that appropriate measures are taken to protect biological resources and address social concerns.
D. Requirements
-
Except as otherwise provided by law, all anglers in the derby must comply with the licensing requirements of Title 12, M.R.S.A., Sections 10751 to 10759.
-
A copy of the derby permit and a copy of the rules affecting the derby shall be conspicuously displayed during each derby at a location accessible to all derby contestants.
-
Watercraft participating in an open water derby must be inspected for invasive aquatic species prior to launching and for a second time after the watercraft is retrieved from the water. Inspections may be performed by the watercraft operator, a passenger, or an available courtesy boat inspector.
4.All anglers participating in a derby must possess a valid Maine fishing license
unless of an age where a license is not required.
- Any person or organization hosting a derby must submit a completed questionnaire via a state-approved electronic data collection and management tool or system when requested to do so by an agent of the Commissioner, provided that such request is identified on the derby permit or made in writing to the derby host prior to the day of the derby.
2.05 Regulations Pertaining to Bass Fishing Tournaments
A. Scope
These rules shall be applicable to bass fishing tournaments as authorized by Title 12, M.R.S.A., Section 12505.
B. Definitions
For the purposes of these rules the following terms have the following meanings:
Bass Club
For purposes of determining eligibility to apply for a permit to conduct a one-day bass tournament, a "bass club" is defined as any organized group of five or more individual bass anglers which is able to satisfy one of the following criteria.,
-
Provide current documentation of being a member club in a nationally recognized bass fishing organization; or
-
Provide a current listing of club officers and members along with a signed affidavit affirming that the club (consisting of at least 5 members), although not affiliated with any nationally recognized bass fishing organization, is a bona-fide independent fishing club. The affidavit must include a list of all members with contact information and must indicate those members who have participated in an approved aquatic species and livewell inspection training program within the last three years, with a minimum of four trained inspectors per club.
NOTE: It is a Class E crime to obtain a permit through fraud, misstatement, or misrepresentation - Title 12 M.R.S.A., Section 10757.
Pre-launch
For the purpose of determining whether or not an activity falls under the term “pre-launch” within these rules, pre-launching is defined as the activity of launching a watercraft on a body of water for the purpose of participating in a bass tournament on that body of water within the next five days. Watercraft launched for this purpose are only to be considered pre-launching if they are not retrieved from the water between the initial launch and the commencement of the bass tournament on that body of water.
C. Requirements (General)
Any bass club which sponsors a bass tournament must submit a completed bass tournament questionnaire via a state-approved electronic data collection and management tool or system, when requested to do so by an agent of the Commissioner, provided that such request is identified on the tournament permit or made in writing to the sponsoring club prior to the day of the tournament.
Each tournament requires the presence of boat inspectors who have participated in a state-approved aquatic invasive species inspection training program within the last three years, to conduct watercraft and livewell aquatic invasive species inspections. Inspectors during a tournament must be at a sufficient number such that all watercraft can be inspected at the launch sites identified by the hosting bass club as an inspection station launch. Each watercraft will first be inspected immediately before a tournament participant launches prior to the tournament, unless the watercraft was inspected for the purpose of pre-launching by an inspector who has taken a state-approved aquatic invasive species inspection training program. Watercraft will be inspected and for a second time after retrieval from the water immediately after the conclusion of the tournament for that participant by an inspector who has taken a state-approved aquatic invasive species inspection training program. If a watercraft remains on the water after the end of the tournament, the watercraft must be inspected either on the water, inclusive of trimming up motor and opening livewell for thorough inspection, or upon final retrieval from the water by an inspector who has taken a state-approved aquatic invasive species inspection training program.
-
Bass clubs must submit all watercraft inspection data via a state-approved electronic data collection and management tool or system. For boats that pre-launch prior to a tournament or remain on the water at the end of a tournament and intend to be inspected by an inspector who has taken a state-approved aquatic invasive species inspection training program but is not associated with the bass club (e.g., Courtesy Boat Inspector), record that an inspection has or will be taking place with an outside inspector must be noted.
-
Bass clubs will ensure that all tournament participants are informed of the water access site(s) at which aquatic invasive species inspections will occur such that every watercraft associated with the tournament can receive required launching and retrieval inspections at one of the designated inspection sites. Bass clubs must designate at least one water access site for inspections in their permit application, however additional water access sites for inspections can be added, removed, or changed without notification to the Department so long as the full, final list is available upon commencement of the tournament.
-
All anglers in the tournament must possess a valid Maine fishing license unless of an age where a license is not required.
-
Bass tournament watercraft must be specifically identified by attaching at least one strand of fluorescent biodegradable tape to the watercraft in a manner visible from the exterior of the watercraft and a roster of participants must be available on site.
-
Only one permit will be issued on a waterbody for a specific date.
-
All fishing will be restricted to artificial lures.
-
No weigh-in bass tournaments will be permitted on a body of water less than 500 surface acres.
-
A copy of the tournament permit, a copy of the rules affecting tournaments, and a list of water access sites being used by the tournament for aquatic invasive species watercraft inspections shall be conspicuously displayed during each tournament at a location accessible to all tournament contestants. If tournament permit, rules, and inspection site locations are displayed in an enclosed location (e.g., vehicle window/dash), the enclosed location must be specifically identified by attaching at least one strand of fluorescent biodegradable tape to the exterior of the enclosed location in a manner plainly visible.
-
Tournaments are limited to one watercraft per 35 acres with a maximum of 100 watercraft.
-
Tournaments may be Catch/Measure/Release or Weigh‑In.
a) For Catch/Measure/Release tournaments in waters managed by MDIFW under the South Zone General Law, all bass caught must be immediately released to the location from which caught. Youth tournaments are to be Catch/Measure/Release only. There will be no application fee for Youth tournament permits.
b) For Weigh-In tournaments in waters managed by MDIFW under the South Zone General Law, all bass retained shall be kept in a livewell being operated with the pump(s) in a mode that constantly exchanges livewell water with fresh lake or river water as a flow-through system, except when watercraft are being operated under power of the main outboard while changing locations, or while motoring to shore immediately prior to weigh-in, at which time the pump(s) may be operated in a manner that aerates a fixed volume of water in the livewell. All bass taken shall be returned to the water from which it was caught, unharmed as far as possible, at the conclusion of the tournament day. The daily limit shall be 5 bass per participant with no weight limit.
-
The total cash value of prizes for single‑day tournaments shall not exceed $25,000.
-
The Commissioner has the authority to put any condition necessary on any tournament to assure that appropriate measures are taken to protect biological resources and address social concerns.
-
Weigh‑In tournaments are not permitted in Hancock & Washington Counties from May 20 to June 30 (dates inclusive). In all other South Zone counties weigh‑in tournaments are not permitted from May 8 to June 14 (dates inclusive).
-
Weigh-in tournaments are not permitted in Maine and New Hampshire Border waters from May 15 to June 30 (dates inclusive).
-
There will be no more than seven weigh‑in tournaments per calendar year on any water greater than 500 acres.
-
Bass tournaments are not permitted in any waters managed by MDIFW under North Zone General Law except for the following waters which are exempt due to a history of ongoing bass tournaments:
Indian Pond in Saint Albans;
Moose Lake (Great) in Athens, Harmony, Hartland, and Saint Albans;
Schoodic Lake in Brownville, Lake View Plt, and T4 R9 NWP;
Sebec Lake in Bowerbank, Dover-Foxcroft, Sebec, and Willimantic; and
Wesserunsett Lake (Hayden Lake) in Madison.
On these five exempt waters, bass tournaments may be permitted as Catch/Measure/Release tournaments or Weigh-In tournaments as above. However, bass tournament participants are not prohibited from harvesting bass during a permitted bass tournament.
- No bass tournament shall occur at a public water access facility in a manner that prevents non-event participants from launching and retrieving watercraft.
D. Multi-Day-Tournaments
The following section applies to multi-day bass tournaments and shall be considered “in addition to” the requirements listed in Sections 2.05.B and 2.05.C above. All other existing State laws and rules pertaining to bass tournaments which are not modified herein continue to apply to multi-day tournaments.
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Multi-day permit applications will be accepted up to 24 months prior to planned date of the tournament.
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Multi-day permits will only be allowed for a statewide, multi-state or national championship tournament of a nationally recognized fishing. The organization must provide current documentation of being a nationally recognized bass fishing organization at the time of application.
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Each day of a multi-day tournament prior to Labor Day will be deducted from the number of one-day weigh-in tournaments allowed per water but these one-day tournaments may be replaced after Labor Day. Multi-day tournaments may be held after Labor Day without displacing one-day weigh-in tournaments.
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Multi-day tournaments are only permitted on bodies of water greater than 2000 acres.
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The maximum number of multi-day tournaments/year shall be six statewide, no more than one per water, per calendar year.
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Number of watercraft permitted for a multi-day tournament will be based on 1 watercraft per 35 acres, maximum of up to 300 watercraft.
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The total cash value of prizes for multi-day tournaments shall not exceed $300,000.
E. Maine and New Hampshire Border Waters
The following section applies to bass tournaments on Maine and New Hampshire Border Waters and shall be considered “in addition to” the requirements listed in Sections 2.05.B and 2.05.C above. All other existing State laws and rules pertaining to bass tournaments which are not modified herein continue to apply to Maine and New Hampshire Border water tournaments.
CATCH/ MEASURE/ RELEASE (CMR)/ WEIGH IN TOURNAMENTS
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In Weigh-In tournaments, all bass caught shall be kept on a water-circulating live-well with the intent to keep the retained bass alive. All bass entered for the weigh-in at bass tournaments shall be released unharmed into the same water body where caught as follows: in lakes and ponds, not less than 300 feet away from the shoreline; in rivers at mid-channel not less than 300 feet away from the weigh-in site. Boats designated by the bass tournament sponsor may hold more than the daily limit of bass solely for the purpose of releasing bass after weigh-in.
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The daily limit shall be 2 bass per participant from April 1 to May 14 with no minimum length or weight limit. The daily limit shall be 5 bass per participant from July 1 to November 30 with no minimum length or weight limit.
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There will be no more than ten (10) weigh-in tournaments on any water greater than 500 acres.
2.08 Free Fishing Days
In accordance with 12 M.R.S.A. Section 12503 Sub-section 3 it is lawful for a person to fish without a license in inland waters except that this subsection does not apply to a person whose license to fish is under suspension or revocation. All other provisions of the Part relating to fishing apply during a free fishing day.
History
- STATUTORY AUTHORITY: Title 12 M.R.S.A. §§ 7155 and 7035
- EFFECTIVE DATE: August 1, 1980 - Section 1
- AMENDED: January 1, 1981 - Section 2
- AMENDED: May 11, 1982 - Section 3
- AMENDED: January 15, 1984 - Section 4
- AMENDED: January 17, 1987 - Section 5
- AMENDED: August 13, 1989 - Section 1
- AMENDED: May 30, 1990 - Section 6
- AMENDED: December 2, 1991 - Section 6
- AMENDED: January 1, 1996 - Section 6
- AMENDED: May 26, 1996
- EFFECTIVE DATE (ELECTRONIC CONVERSION): May 4, 1996
- AMENDED: May 21, 1997 - added Section 2.05(F)
- NON-SUBSTANTIVE CHANGES: February 1, 1999 - converted to Microsoft Word
- AMENDED: August 30, 1999 - Section 2.03-A added
- AMENDED: February 17, 2001 - Section 2.04(D)(4)
- AMENDED: November 3, 2001 - Section 2.04
- AMENDED: May 20, 2003 - Section 2.05, filing 2003-133
- AMENDED: May 22, 2005 – Section 2.05(C)(9)(b) and (d)(12), filing 2005-170
- AMENDED: April 28, 2007 – Section 2.05(C)(9)(b), filing 2007-146
- AMENDED: January 2, 2013 – filing 2012-355
- AMENDED: October 5, 2015 – filing 2015-180
- AMENDED: February 16, 2020 – filing 2020-023
- AMENDED: January 1, 2024 – filing 2023-189
- AMENDED: April 28, 2026 – Section 2.04(D.) 2.05(B.)(C.) - filing 2026 -
- AMENDED: APAO WORD VERSION CONVERSION (IF NEEDED) AND ACCESSIBILITY CHECK: July 17, 2025
- APAO ACCESSIBILITY CHECK (Word): May 7, 2026
- AMENDED: May 7, 2026 – filing 2026-112
Chapter 3 Public Interaction and Conflicts with Wildlife (Feeding of Deer)
Code Me. R. 09-137 Ch. 3 Public Interaction and Conflicts with Wildlife {#sec-09-137-ch.-3 omnilex-key=us-me-regs-official--dept-inland-fisheries-and-wildlife--09-137 Ch. 3}
3.00 Feeding of Deer
A. Scope of Rules
In accordance with Title 12 §10105, sub-§14, the Commissioner may regulate the feeding of deer in order to minimize potential public safety hazards or detrimental effects on deer, as well as minimize the risk of chronic wasting disease, as defined in Title 7, §1821, sub-§1.
The Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife recognizes the interest from the citizens of Maine in watching and feeding wildlife. However, it has been documented that when done inappropriately, feeding deer can increase mortality due to malnutrition, vehicle collisions, predation and disease. To assist the public in minimizing these conflicts, the Department provides information on its website and works with landowners to ensure feeding is done appropriately. This rule outlines a process where, when the issues listed in statute arise, the Department will work with the landowner to address them first through education, second by suggesting adaptations for feeding to minimize the problem and then if activities that are detrimental to deer as outlined in D3 below still exist, issue a warning and then a summons if needed.
B. Definitions
- Public safety hazard – A Public safety hazard may include but is not limited to the following:
a) Increased incidence of motor vehicle accidents
b) Causing a traffic hazard
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Responsible party – The individual(s) actually feeding deer.
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Deer Feeding – The placement of food(s) determined to be attractive and/or consumed by deer in an area accessible to deer.
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Food Items - Foods determined to be attractive to and/or consumed by deer.
C. Regulations on Introduction of Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD)
If there is documented evidence of chronic wasting disease in deer in the State of Maine, as defined in Title 7, §1821, sub-§1, the Commissioner may prohibit the feeding of deer or cause the removal of previously placed food items consumed by deer at any location, in the county of occurrence, or any adjacent county to it within the State.
D. Regulations on Feeding Deer
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When a deer feeding activity creates a situation that is determined by the Department to be detrimental to deer and/or a public safety hazard, the Department will provide the responsible party or parties with a written notice of required actions to modify the feeding activity, or require that the feeding activity cease and food items be cleaned up and removed. The required action(s) will focus on avoiding the public safety hazards and activities detrimental to deer associated with the feeding activity. A written warning may be issued along with the written notice of required action(s).
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If the required action(s) are not initiated and completed within 48 hours of receipt of a written warning, a summons may be issued for a violation of a Commissioner’s rule, Title 12, Section 10650.
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Activities detrimental to the deer population include but are not limited to:
a) Providing food to deer that could or does result in the death of deer by acidosis (grain overload) and enterotoxemia (overeating disease-proliferation of Clostridium);
b) Increased vulnerability to collisions with vehicles, predation or other mortality risks.
Nothing in this rule is meant to supersede statutes prohibiting the baiting of deer as provided in Title 12, sub-§11452.
History
- STATUTORY AUTHORITY: 12 MRSA §10105
- EFFECTIVE DATE: January 16, 2013 – filing 2013-006
- EFFECTIVE DATE: 09-137 Chapter 3 page 2
Chapter 4 Falconry
Code Me. R. 09-137 Ch. 4 Falconry {#sec-09-137-ch.-4 omnilex-key=us-me-regs-official--dept-inland-fisheries-and-wildlife--09-137 Ch. 4}
4.00 Falconry
A. Definitions
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“Raptor” means a migratory bird of the Order Falconiformes or the Order Strigiformes listed in 50 Code of Federal Regulations Sec. 10.13, including the bald eagle ( Haliaeetus leucocephalus ) and the golden eagle ( Aquila chrysaetos ).
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“Falconry” is caring for and training raptors for pursuit of wild game, and hunting wild game with raptors. Falconry includes the taking of raptors from the wild to use in the sport; and caring for, training, and transporting raptors held for falconry.
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“Hacking” is the temporary release of a raptor held for falconry to the wild so that it must survive on its own.
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“Bal-chatri trap" means a cage on which many nooses are tied and which is baited with a bird or mammal and placed in view of a wild raptor.
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“Bow net trap" means a circular hoop hinged in the middle and covered with netting which is usually attached to the ground so one side can swing freely.
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"Dho-gazza trap" is a square or rectangular net of various dimensions suspended vertically next to bait.
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"Swedish goshawk trap" is a humane, predator-safe, stationary box trap.
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“Harness trap" means a light leather or cloth saddle covered with nooses which is placed on tethered bait.
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“Hybrid” means offspring of birds listed as two or more distinct species in 50 Code of Federal Regulations Sec. 10.13, or offspring of birds recognized by ornithological authorities as two or more distinct species listed in 50 Code of Federal Regulations Sec. 10.13.
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“Imprint”, for the purposes of falconry, means a bird that is hand-raised in isolation from the sight of other raptors from 2 weeks of age until it is fully feathered. An imprinted bird is considered to be so for its entire lifetime.
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“Livestock depredation area” means a specific geographic location in which depredation by golden eagles has been recognized. The boundaries and duration of a livestock depredation area are declared by U.S.D.A. Wildlife Services or by a state governor.
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“Take" means to trap or capture, or attempt to trap or capture a raptor for the purpose of falconry.
B. General provisions to practice falconry in Maine
- Practicing falconry where permittees reside.
Any person may practice falconry in Maine after he or she receives a Maine hunting license and a Maine falconry permit as described within 12 MRS §11159. Maine falconry permits will be issued for a 1-year, 2-year or 3-year period. Permits expire on December 31st and may be renewed:
a. If all conditions of the permit are met, and the permittee continues to meet all eligibility requirements of these rules;
b. If no violations of the original license have occurred;
c. If a change in license classification is not requested; and
d. The permittee submits a request for renewal accompanied by the applicable license fee.
- Permits to practice falconry
Residents of Maine must have a valid Maine falconry permit and a Maine hunting license, to take, possess, or transport raptors for falconry, or to hunt with them, except that persons who hold a valid falconry permit from another state that meets federal falconry standards may import and hunt their raptors, without a written permit, provided they possess a valid non-resident Maine hunting license, and do not remain with their falconry birds in the state for more than 30 days. To hunt migratory waterfowl, a falconer must also possess a Federal Migratory Bird Hunting and Conservation Stamp (“Duck Stamp”) and a Maine Migratory Waterfowl permit.
a. Falconers must comply with all regulations governing migratory bird permitting.
b. If a Maine falconer resides for more than 120 consecutive days in a state or territory or on tribal lands other than Maine, the falconer’s facilities must be listed on the falconer’s Maine permit.
c. Raptors that are listed as a federal or Maine endangered or threatened wildlife species, subspecies, or population may not be used in falconry except when that raptor is allowed for falconry use under Maine and federal regulations.
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Except as provided in Section B.2 of this rule, raptors may only be imported into the State of Maine under a written permit from the Commissioner. Importation permits will not be issued for the possession of species which are specifically prohibited by these regulations.
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Applying for a falconry permit
All inquiries regarding falconry licensing, applications, examination scheduling, bands, and facilities inspections should be directed to the Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife, Wildlife Division, State House Station 41, Augusta, Maine 04333. In applying for a falconry permit, applicants must include the following:
a. A completed application form.
b. Proof that the applicant has correctly answered 80 percent of the questions on a written examination relating to basic biology, care and handling of raptors, and state and federal laws and regulations relating to falconry and other appropriate subject matter administered by the Department where the applicant maintains his or her legal residence, or proof that an applicant has previously held a falconry permit at the level he or she seeks.
- The Commissioner may refuse to issue a Falconry Permit after review of the application when:
a. He or she determines that the license should not be issued because of past conviction(s) of the fish and wildlife laws as provided in M.R.S. Title 12, Section 10902;
b. The authorization requested could potentially threaten or have significant effect on a wild population of raptors;
c. The applicant has failed the written examination;
d. The applicant, upon inspection by state or federal wildlife personnel, has failed to meet or maintain the standards established for raptor housing facilities and equipment; or
e. The applicant fails to meet qualifications set forth in standards for license classes set forth in these regulations.
- Permittees are subject to all applicable rules and regulations pertaining to hunting seasons and bag limits of wild animals and wild birds, except as otherwise provided by this regulation. Any protected or out of season wildlife accidentally killed by a trained raptor shall not be retained or possessed by the permittee, but the raptor may feed upon the wildlife before leaving the site of the kill. If a prey item is killed by a falconry bird without the permittees’ intent, including an animal taken outside of a regular hunting season, the permittee:
a. May allow the falconry bird to feed on the animal, but the permittee may not take the animal into his or her possession; and
b. Must report take of any federally listed threatened or endangered species to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Ecological Services Field Office for the location in which the take occurred and report the take of any state listed threatened or endangered species to the Department within 48 hours.
- Updating a falconry permit after a move
a. A permittee who moves from Maine to a new state and takes his or her falconry birds must inform the Department of the address change within 30 days.
b. If a permittee from another state moves into Maine and brings his or her falconry birds, he or she must inform the Department within 30 days. To obtain a Maine falconry permit, applicants must follow the permit application procedures in these rules. Applicants may keep falconry birds they hold while they apply for a Maine falconry permit. However, the Department may place restrictions on their possession and use of falconry birds until they meet the Maine residency and falconry requirements.
- Reinstatement of a lapsed falconry permit
a. If a falconer’s permit has been lapsed for fewer than 5 years, it may be reinstated at the level held previously held if the falconer shows proof of certification at that level.
b. If a falconer’s permit has been lapsed for 5 years or longer, the applicant must correctly answer at least 80 percent of the questions on an examination administered by the Department. If the applicant passes the exam, his or her permit may be reinstated at the level previously held. The applicant’s facilities must also pass inspection by the Department before the applicant may possess a falconry bird.
- Suspension, revocation or denial of falconry permit
The Department may deny issuance of any falconry permit or, after hearing, may suspend, revoke or deny the renewal of any falconry permit, if the applicant or falconer fails to comply with any requirement of these regulations, ceases to be eligible for a falconry permit hereunder, or has been convicted of a violation of any falconry regulations. For the purpose of this subsection, violation of a general hunting regulation is not a violation of a falconry regulation. An applicant or falconer whose permit has been suspended, revoked or denied may appeal to the Commissioner.
- Restoration of revoked permits
Upon request of the person whose permit has been revoked, the Department may restore the person's falconry permit at the end of the revocation period, subject to review and a determination by the Department that the person is qualified and suitable for a permit in accordance with these rules. The Department may place special conditions on the permit as appropriate.
- Permit to practice falconry at an appropriate level if an applicant has experience in falconry but is a new resident in the United States.
An applicant may qualify for the falconry permit appropriate for his or her falconry experience gained in another country. To demonstrate knowledge of U.S. falconry laws and regulations, the applicant must correctly answer at least 80 percent of the questions on the supervised examination for falconers administered by the Department under which the applicant wishes to obtain a falconry permit. If the applicant passes the test, the Department will determine which level of falconry permit the applicant is qualified to possess under section C below, taking into account the applicant’s documented experience. The applicant’s falconry facilities must meet the standards in section D of this rule before the applicant may keep a raptor to use in falconry.
- Aliens practicing falconry in the United States
a. An alien to the United States may qualify for a temporary falconry permit appropriate for his or her experience.
(1) The permit may be valid for any period specified by the Department.
(2) To demonstrate knowledge of U.S. falconry laws and regulations, the visitor must correctly answer at least 80 percent of the questions on the supervised examination for falconers administered by the Department. If the alien passes the test, the Department will determine the level of temporary permit for which the person is qualified. The determination should be based on the individual's documentation of his or her experience.
(3) If a permittee holds a temporary falconry permit, the permittee may possess raptors for falconry if he or she has approved falconry facilities.
(4) A holder of a temporary falconry permit may fly raptors held for falconry by a permitted falconer.
(5) A holder of a temporary falconry permit may not take a bird from the wild to use in falconry.
b. For the duration of a permit from the Department, an alien may use any bird for falconry that he or she possesses legally in his or her country of residence for that purpose, provided that the importation of that species to the United States is not prohibited, and provided that he or she has met all importation and permitting requirements of the State of Maine.
(1) An alien must comply with all applicable requirements of these rules.
(2) The alien may transport registered raptors subject to all applicable permit requirements.
(3) Unless the alien has the necessary permit(s) to bring a raptor into Maine and leave it here, he or she must take raptors brought into the state for falconry out of the state when he or she leaves. If a raptor brought into Maine dies or is lost while in this state, the alien must document the loss before leaving the state by reporting the loss to the Department.
(4) When flown free, any bird temporarily brought to this state must have two radio transmitters attached to it that will allow the falconer to locate it.
- Permission to capture, fly, or release a falconry bird at any location
Permittees do not need special or written permission for any of these activities on public lands if it is authorized by the appropriate agency. However, permittees must comply with all applicable laws regarding falconry activities, including hunting. A falconry permit does not authorize permittees to capture or release raptors or practice falconry on public or private lands if it is prohibited.
- Practicing falconry in the vicinity of a State or Federally listed threatened or endangered animal species
In practicing falconry, permittees must ensure that their activities do not cause the intentional take of state or federally listed threatened or endangered wildlife. To obtain information about threatened or endangered species that may occur on lands where permittees wish to practice falconry, permittees should contact the Department. Permittees can also contact the Department for information on federally-listed species.
C. Classes of permits to practice falconry
The Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife (Department) recognizes Apprentice, General, and Master Falconer levels. The Maine falconry standards are at least as restrictive as federal standards, and in some cases are more restrictive than the federal laws or regulations governing falconry.
- Requirements for an Apprentice Falconer
a. General requirements for an Apprentice Falconer
(1) An Apprentice Falconer must be at least 16 years of age.
b. Application and training requirements for an Apprentice Falconer
(1) If the Apprentice Falconer applicant is less than 18 years of age, a parent or legal guardian must sign the application and is legally responsible for the Apprentice Falconer’s activities.
(2) The applicant must have a letter from a Maine Master Falconer or a Maine General Falconer with a valid Maine or Maine tribal falconry permit who is at least 18 years old and has at least 2 years’ experience at the General Falconer level, stating that he or she will assist the applicant, as necessary, and serve as the applicant’s sponsor in:
(a) Learning about the husbandry and training of raptors held for falconry;
(b) Learning and about relevant wildlife laws and regulations; and
(c) Deciding what species of raptor is appropriate for the applicant to possess while an Apprentice.
(3) Applications must be accompanied by proof that the applicant possesses a current valid Maine hunting license and proper falconry license fee. The license fee shall not be refunded if an application is denied.
(4) A sponsor from Maine is required for the entire time a Maine Apprentice permit is held, regardless of the age of the Apprentice. The sponsor, or two Maine Master Class Falconers, must attest in writing to the satisfactory completion of apprentice training.
(5) If the sponsor terminates the apprenticeship, he or she must submit a letter to the Department stating the reasons for terminating the sponsorship. The Apprentice will be allowed 90 days to find another sponsor within Maine. During this period the Apprentice may not practice falconry. If the Apprentice does not find another sponsor within the 90 day period his or her Falconry permit will be revoked and, if he or she possesses a raptor, the disposition of the raptor will be decided by the Department.
(6) Before an applicant is issued an Apprentice permit the applicant must correctly answer at least 80 percent of the questions on an examination administered by the Department. The examination will cover care and handling of falconry raptors, federal and state laws and regulations relevant to falconry, and other appropriate subject matter. Contact the Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife, Wildlife Division, State House Station 41, Augusta, Maine 04333 for information about permits and taking the test.
(7) The applicant’s raptor facilities and falconry equipment must pass on-site inspection by Department before the applicant may be granted an apprentice falconry permit.
(8) Upon receipt of a properly executed license application, the Commissioner will notify the applicant of its receipt; advise him or her of the date, time and location of the examination; and will arrange for an on-site inspection of facilities. Incomplete applications will be returned to the applicant.
c. Possession limits for an Apprentice Falconer
(1) Regardless of the number of permits the apprentice has, an Apprentice Falconer may possess no more than one raptor for use in falconry, and may not obtain more than one raptor for replacement during any calendar year.
(2) An Apprentice Falconer shall possess only an American kestrel ( Falco sparverius ) or a red-tailed hawk ( Buteo jamacicensis ) taken from the wild except he or she may not take or possess a federally or Maine listed threatened or endangered species, subspecies, or population. The Apprentice Falconer must trap the hawk himself or herself as a first year (passage) bird, except that an Apprentice Falconer may take an adult American kestrel from the wild. An Apprentice Falconer may not possess a captive-bred bird.
(3) An Apprentice Falconer may not possess a raptor taken from the wild as a nestling.
(4) An Apprentice Falconer may not possess a bird that is imprinted on humans.
- Requirements for a General Falconer
a. General requirements for a General Falconer
(1) A General Falconer must be at least 18 years of age.
(2) A General Falconer may sponsor no more than one permitted apprentice at one time and have at least 2 years’ experience at the General Falconer level.
b. Application and training requirements for a General Falconer
(1) An applicant for a General Falconer permit must submit documentation of the applicant’s experience maintaining falconry raptors, including a summary of what species the applicant has held as an Apprentice Falconer and how long the applicant possessed each bird.
(2) The General Falconer applicant must submit a document from their sponsor or from two Maine Master Class Falconers to the Department stating that the Apprentice has practiced falconry with wild raptor(s) at the Apprentice Falconer level or equivalent for at least 2 years, including maintaining, training, flying, and hunting the raptor(s) for at least 4 months in each year. That practice may include capture and release of falconry raptors.
(3) An Apprentice Falconer may not substitute any falconry school program or education to shorten the period of 2 years at the Apprentice level.
c. Possession limits for a General Falconer
(1) General Falconers may take and possess any species of Falconiform or Strigiform except a golden eagle, a bald eagle, a white-tailed eagle, a Steller's sea-eagle, or a wild taken peregrine falcon. They may use captive-bred individuals and hybrids of the species they are allowed to possess for use in falconry.
(2) Regardless of the number permits possessed, a General Falconer may possess no more than 3 raptors, may not obtain more than two raptors for replacement during each calendar year, and may take no more than two raptors from the wild during each calendar year to use in falconry.
- Requirements for a Master Falconer
a. General requirements for a Master Falconer
(1) A General Falconer must have practiced falconry with his or her own raptor(s) at the General Falconer level for at least 5 years in order to qualify as a Master Falconer.
(2) A Master Falconer may sponsor no more than three permitted apprentices at one time.
b. Possession limits for a Master Falconer
(1) Master Falconers may take and possess any species of Falconiform or Strigiform except a bald eagle. However, a Master Falconer may possess up to 3 eagles of the following species for use in falconry provided prior approval is obtained from the Department in accordance with paragraphs C.3.b.(4) below: golden eagle, white-tailed eagle, or Steller's sea eagle. Each eagle will count as one of the raptors in the Master Falconer’s annual possession limit.
NOTE: Because the golden eagle is currently listed as endangered in Maine, the Department prohibits take of golden eagles for falconry within Maine and regulates possession of other golden eagles by way of importation permits.
(2) Master Falconers may possess any captive-bred individuals or hybrids of species that the Department allows them to possess for use in falconry.
(3) Regardless of the number of permits a Master Falconer may have, he or she may possess no more than 5 raptors, including wild caught raptors, captive-bred individuals or hybrids, golden eagles or other eagles, and may take no more than two raptors from the wild during each calendar year to use in falconry. The Falconer must train them in the pursuit of wild game and use them in hunting.
(4) Before an applicant’s request to possess eagles for use in falconry is approved, the applicant must submit to the Department:
(a) Documentation showing the Master Falconer’s experience in handling large raptors, including information about the species that the applicant has handled and the type and duration of the activity in which the applicant gained the experience; and
(b) At least two letters of reference from people with experience handling and/or flying large raptors such as eagles, ferruginous hawks, goshawks ( Accipiter gentilis ), or great horned owls ( Bubo virginianus ). Each letter must contain a concise history of the author's experience with large raptors, which can include, but is not limited to, handling of raptors held by zoos, rehabilitating large raptors, or scientific studies involving large raptors. Each letter must also assess the applicant’s ability to care for eagles and fly them in falconry.
D. Facilities and care requirements
- Permittees must keep all raptors they hold in humane and healthful conditions.
a. Whether they are indoors (“mews”) or outdoors (“weathering area”), permittees’ raptor facilities must protect raptors in them from the environment, predators, and domestic animals. Permittees are responsible for the maintenance and security (protection from predators) of raptors they possess under their permits.
b. Permittees must have indoor and outdoor raptor housing facilities approved by the Department before they may obtain a bird to use in falconry. The Department must, after inspection, certify that the permittee’s facilities and equipment meet the following standards:
(1) Indoor and outdoor facilities must provide protection from predators and domestic animals.
(a) The facility must have a suitable perch for each raptor, at least one opening for sunlight, and must provide a healthy environment for raptors inside.
(b) Permittees may house untethered raptors together if they are compatible with each other. Otherwise, if more than one raptor is to be kept in the mews or weathering area, the raptors shall be tethered or separated by partitions.
(c) Each raptor must have an area large enough to allow it to fly if it is untethered or, if tethered, to fully extend its wings or bate (attempt to fly while tethered) without damaging its feathers or contacting other raptors.
(d) Each falconry bird must have access to a pan of clean water unless weather conditions, the perch type used, or some other factor makes access to a water pan unsafe for the raptor.
(2) An indoor facility must be large enough to allow easy access for the care and feeding of raptors kept there and must have an escape proof entry way if free-lofted raptors are kept within. There must be at least one window, protected on the inside by vertical bars spaced narrower than the width of the body of the smallest raptor housed in the enclosure. The floor of the mews must permit easy cleaning. Perch/perches must be provided.
(a) If raptors that permittees house in the indoor facility are not tethered, all walls that are not solid must be protected on the inside. Suitable materials may include vertical bars spaced narrower than the width of the head of the smallest raptor housed in the enclosure. However, heavy-duty netting or other such materials may be used to cover the walls or roof of the enclosure.
(b) Acceptable indoor facilities include shelf perch enclosures where raptors are tethered side by side. Other innovative housing systems are acceptable if they provide the enclosed raptors with protection and maintain healthy feathers.
(3) Permittees may keep a falconry raptor or raptors inside their place of residence if they provide a suitable perch or perches. If permittees house their raptor(s) inside their homes, they do not need to modify windows or other openings of the structure. Raptors kept in a permittee’s home must be tethered when they are not being moved into or out of the location in which they are kept.
(4) An outdoor facility must be totally enclosed, and may be made of heavy-gauge wire, slats, pipe, wood, or other suitable material.
(a) The facility must be covered and have at least a covered perch to protect a raptor held in it from predators and weather.
(b) The facility must be large enough to insure that the birds cannot strike the enclosure when flying from the perch.
(c) New types of housing facilities and/or husbandry practices may be used if they satisfy the requirements of these rules and are approved by the Department.
c. Permittees may keep falconry raptors outside in the open if they are under watch, such as by the permittee or a family member at any location or, for example, by a designated individual in a weathering yard at a falconry meet.
d. Permittees must inform the Department within 5 business days if the permittees change the location of their facilities.
e. Permittees must submit a signed and dated statement to the Department consenting to inspection of the falconry facilities and raptors by the Department, in the presence of the permittee but without advance notice, at all reasonable times.
- Falconry facilities on property permittees do not own
a. Permittees’ falconry facilities may be located on property owned by another person, provided the facilities meet the standards in paragraph D.1 of this section and the facility is approved by the Department.
b. If the facilities are not on property that the permittee owns, then the permittee must submit a statement to the Department, signed and dated by the property owner, in which the property owner consents to the inspection of the falconry facilities and raptors by the Department at all reasonable times when the property owner is present; except that the Department may not enter the facilities or disturb the raptors unless the permittee is also present.
- Equipment permittees must have and maintain
Each permittee must have jesses or the materials and equipment to make them, leash and swivel, bath container, appropriate scales or balances for weighing raptor(s) he or she possesses, and perches of suitable falconry design for each raptor as exemplified below:
a. Jesses - At least a pair of Aylmeri bracelets and jesses or similar type constructed of pliable, high-quality leather or suitable synthetic material to be used when any raptor is flown free. Traditional 1- piece jesses may be used on raptors when not being flown. Slitless hunting jesses, or no jesses, are recommended for use on all raptors being flown free.
b. Leashes and swivels - At least 1 flexible, weather-resistant leash and strong swivel of acceptable falconry design;
c. Bath Container - At least 1 suitable container; 2 to 6 inches deep and wider than the length of the raptor for drinking and bathing for each raptor unless weather conditions, the perch type used, or some other factor makes access to a bath container unsafe for the raptor;
d. Outdoor perches - At least one weathering area perch of an acceptable design shall be provided for each raptor; and
e. Weighing device - A reliable scale or balance suitable for weighing the raptor(s) held and graduated to increments of approximately 2 grams must be provided.
- Facilities a permittee must have for a raptor when they are transporting it, using it for hunting, or are away from the permanent facility where it is housed
The permittee must be sure that the bird has a suitable perch and is protected from extreme temperatures, wind, and excessive disturbance. A “giant hood'' or similar container is acceptable for transporting or housing a raptor when permittees are away from their homes.
- Temporarily housing a raptor outside of the permittees’ permanent facilities when not transporting it or using it for hunting
A permittee may house a raptor in temporary facilities for no more than 120 consecutive calendar days if the bird has a suitable perch and is protected from predators, domestic animals, extreme temperatures, wind, and excessive disturbance.
- Care of falconry raptors by another falconry permittee
Another falconry permittee may care for a raptor or raptors for permittees at their facilities or at that person's facilities for up to 120 consecutive calendar days. The other person must have a signed and dated statement from the permittee authorizing the temporary possession, plus a copy of FWS form 3-186A that shows that the permittee is the possessor of each of the raptors. The statement must include information about the time period for which he or she will keep the raptor(s), and what he or she is allowed to do with it or them.
a. Permittees’ raptor(s) will remain on their falconry permit, and will not be counted against the possession limit of the person caring for their raptors.
b. If the person caring for a permittee’s raptor(s) holds the appropriate level falconry permit, he or she may fly the permittee’s raptor(s) in whatever way permittees authorize, including hunting.
c. This care of permittees’ raptors may be extended by the Department in extenuating circumstances, such as illness, military service, or for a family emergency. The Department will consider such extensions on a case-by-case basis.
- Care of falconry raptors by someone who does not have a falconry permit
Another person may care for falconry birds that a permittee possesses at the permittee’s facilities for up to 45 consecutive calendar days.
a. The raptor(s) will remain on the permittee’s falconry permit.
b. The raptors must remain in the permittee’s facilities.
c. This care may be extended by the Department on a case by case basis in extenuating circumstances, such as illness, military service, or for a family emergency.
d. The person(s) caring for the permittee’s raptors may not fly them for any reason.
- Residence part of the year in Maine
a. If permittees live for more than 120 consecutive days in Maine and their primary residence is elsewhere, their falconry facilities in Maine must meet the standards in section D.1, and they must possess a Maine falconry permit.
NOTE: The jurisdiction in which permittees live part-time outside of Maine may require that they obtain its falconry permit. Permittees must contact the appropriate agency that regulates falconry to determine whether they need a permit.
- Falconry equipment and records may be inspected by the Department in the presence of the permittee during business hours and all other reasonable times.
E. Taking, possessing, and transporting raptors for falconry
- Raptor species that permittees may take from the wild for use in falconry.
a. Permittees may not intentionally capture a raptor species that their classification as a falconer does not allow the permittee to possess for falconry. If permittees capture a bird they are not allowed to possess, they must release it immediately.
NOTE: On some lands there may be restrictions on the take or use of these species requiring permittees to have a permit or permits to capture a bird.
- How and when permittees may take raptors from the wild to use in falconry
a. Permittees may take no more than two raptors from the wild to use in falconry during each calendar year.
b. If a permittee transfers a bird he or she took from the wild to another permittee in the same year in which it was captured, the bird will count as one of the raptors the permittee who captured the bird is allowed to take from the wild that year; it will not count as a capture by the recipient, though it will always be considered a wild bird.
c. A General or Master Falconer may remove nestlings from a nest or aerie in accordance with all applicable laws and restrictions.
d. Permittees may not take raptors at any time or in any manner that violates any law.
e. Permittees are responsible for reporting the taking of a raptor from the wild, which they must report by entering the required information in the electronic database at http://permits.fws.gov/186A and by submitting a paper form 3-186A to the Department. Permittees must do this at their first opportunity, but no later than 10 days after the capture of the bird.
(1) If a permittee is present at the capture site, even if another person captures the bird, the permittee is considered the person who removes the bird from the wild. He or she is responsible for reporting the taking of the bird from the wild as outlined in E.2.e. This would occur, for example, if another person climbs a tree or rappels down a cliff and takes a nestling for the permittee and gives it to the permittee at the tree or cliff.
(2) If a permittee is not at the immediate location where a bird is taken from the wild, the person who removes the bird from the wild must be a General or Master Falconer, and must report the taking of the bird from the wild as outlined in E.2.e. If that person then transfers the bird to another permittee, both permittees must report the transfer as outlined in E.2.e. The bird will count as one of the two raptors the person who took it from the wild is allowed to capture in any year. The bird will not count as a bird the receiving permittee took from the wild. The person who takes the bird from the wild must report the take even if he or she promptly transfers the bird to another permittee.
(3) If a permittee has a long-term or permanent physical impairment that prevents him or her from attending the capture of a species to use for falconry, a General or Master Falconer may capture a bird for the permittee. The impaired permittee is responsible for reporting the taking of the bird from the wild as outlined in E.2.e., and the bird will count against the take of wild raptors that the impaired permittee is allowed in any year.
f. A permittee must promptly release any bird he or she captures unintentionally.
g. Permittees may use only humane, predator-proof traps of a design and material which will not harm the raptor being trapped; such as the bal-chatri, harness, bow net, Dho-gazza, and Swedish goshawk trap.
h. Any raptor, as defined by these regulations, taken under a depredation permit may be used for falconry only by a Master falconer.
- Other provisions on taking raptors from the wild for falconry
a. Apprentice Falconers may take only a kestrel ( Falco sparverius ) or a red- tailed hawk ( Buteo jamacicensis ) from the wild except he or she may not take or possess a federally or Maine listed threatened or endangered species, sub-species, or population. The Apprentice Falconer must trap the hawk themselves as a first year (passage) raptor within the period from September 1 to February 28, except that they may take an adult American kestrel from the wild within that period.
b. General or Master Falconers may only take raptors less than 1 year of age from the wild at any time during the year subject to the following provisions:
(1) Raptors, other than the American kestrel, fledged during the prior calendar year may not be taken after February 28; and
(2) American kestrels may be taken from the wild at any age during the year except that American kestrels fledged during or before the prior calendar year may not be taken between May 1 and July 31.
c. Because the golden eagle is currently listed as endangered in Maine, the Department prohibits take of golden eagles for falconry within Maine and regulates possession of other golden eagles by way of importation permits.
d. A permittee may recapture a lost falconry bird at any time. Recapture of a lost falconry bird is not considered to be taking a bird from the wild.
e. Permittees may recapture a raptor wearing falconry equipment or a captive-bred bird at any time - even if they are not allowed to possess the species. The bird will not count against the permittee’s possession limit, nor will it take from the wild count against their limit. Permittees must report their recapture of the bird to the Department no more than 5 working days after the recapture. Permittees must return a recaptured falconry bird to the person who lost it, if that person may legally possess it. Disposition of a bird whose legal possession cannot be determined as determined by the Department.
f. A permittee may take any raptor that he or she is authorized to possess from the wild if the bird is banded with a Federal Bird Banding Laboratory aluminum band, except that they may not take a banded peregrine falcon from the wild.
(1) If a captured raptor (including a peregrine falcon) is marked with a seamless metal band, a transmitter, or any other item identifying it as a falconry bird, the permittee must report the bird’s capture to the Department no more than 5 working days after the capture. Permittees must return a recaptured falconry bird to the person who lost it. If that person cannot possess the bird, or does not wish to possess it, the permittee may keep it provided that all other requirements in this rule are met. Otherwise, the Department will determine disposition of a bird whose legal possession cannot be determined. While permittees keep a bird for return to the person who lost it, the bird will not count against their possession limit or their limit on take of raptors from the wild if the permittees have reported possessing the bird to the Department.
(2) If a permittee captures a peregrine falcon that has a research band (such as a colored band with alphanumeric codes) or a research marking attached to it, the permittee must immediately release the bird, except that if the falcon has a transmitter attached to it, permittees are authorized to possess the bird up to 30 days if they wish to contact the researcher to determine if he or she wishes to replace the transmitter or its batteries. If the researcher wishes to do so, or to have the transmitter removed, the researcher or his or her designee can make the change or allow the permittee to do so before they release the bird. If the researcher does not wish to keep the transmitter on the falcon, the permittee may keep the bird if they captured it in circumstances in which capture of wild peregrines is allowed.
(3) If a captured raptor has any other band, research marking, or transmitter attached to it, the permittee must promptly report the band numbers and all other relevant information to the Federal Bird Banding Laboratory at 1-800-327-2263.
(a) A permittee may contact the researcher and determine if he or she wishes to replace a transmitter attached to a bird captured by a permittee. If so, permittees are authorized to possess the bird up to 30 days until the researcher or his or her designee does so, or until the permittee can replace it themselves. Disposition of the bird will be as determined by the Department in consultation with the researcher.
(b) Temporary possession of such a bird will not count against the permittee’s possession limit for falconry raptors.
g. A permittee must leave at least one young in any nest or aerie from which he or she takes a nestling, and no eggs may be removed from any nest.
- Take of a species or subspecies that was removed from the Federal List of Endangered and Threatened Wildlife to use in falconry
Falconry use of any species, subspecies, or population that was listed as Endangered or Threatened by federal or state jurisdictions must comply with provisions of a management plan published for that species by the U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service and/or the Department.
- Raptors injured due to falconer trapping efforts
Permittees have two options for dealing with a bird injured by their trapping efforts. In either case, permittees are responsible for the costs of care and rehabilitation of the bird.
a. A permittee may put the bird on his or her falconry permit. The permittee must report take of the bird by entering the required information in the electronic database at http://permits.fws.gov/186A or by submitting a paper form 3-186A to Department at their first opportunity to do so, but no more than 10 days after capture of the bird. The permittee must then have the bird treated by a veterinarian or a permitted wildlife rehabilitator. The bird will count against the permittee’s possession limit.
b. The permittee may give the bird directly to a veterinarian, or a permitted wildlife rehabilitator, or an appropriate wildlife agency employee. If the permittee does so, it will count against their allowed take and the number of raptors that they may possess during the 12 month licensing period in which the raptor was taken.
- Acquisition, transfer, loss, or rebanding of a raptor
a.If a permittee acquires a raptor; transfers, rebands, or microchips a raptor; if a raptor a permittee possesses is stolen; if a permittee loses a raptor to the wild and does not recover it within 30 days; or if a bird a permittee possesses for falconry dies; the permittee must report the change within 10 days by entering the required information in the electronic database at http://permits.fws.gov/186A and by submitting a paper form 3-186A to the Department.
b.If a raptor that a permittee possesses is stolen, he or she must report the theft to the Department and to the Maine Warden Service Divisional Headquarters within 10 days of the theft of the bird.
c.Permittees must keep copies of all electronic database submissions documenting take, transfer, loss, rebanding or microchipping of each falconry raptor until 5 years after they have transferred or lost the bird, or it has died.
- Acquiring a bird for falconry from a permitted rehabilitator
A General or Master Falconer may acquire a raptor of any age of a species that they are permitted to possess directly from a rehabilitator upon approval by the Department.
a. If permittees acquire a bird from a rehabilitator, they must report the acquisition within 10 days by entering the required information in the electronic database at http://permits.fws.gov/186A and by submitting a paper form 3-186A to the Department.
b. If permittees acquire a bird from a rehabilitator, it will count as one of the raptors that they are allowed to take from the wild that year.
- Flying a hybrid raptor or a raptor non-indigenous to Maine in falconry
When flown free, a hybrid raptor or a raptor non-indigenous to Maine, at least two functioning radio transmitters must be attached to the raptor to help the falconer to locate the bird.
- Releasing a falconry bird to the wild
Permittees must follow all applicable laws and regulations before releasing falconry birds to the wild.
a. If the raptor a permittee wishes to release is not native to the state or territory, or is a hybrid of any kind, the permittee may not permanently release the bird to the wild. He or she may transfer it to another falconry permittee.
b.If the species a permittee wishes to release is native to the state or territory and is captive-bred, the permittee may not release the bird to the wild without permission from the Department. Before releasing the species pursuant to the Department’s approval, he or she must hack the bird (allow it to adjust) to the wild at an appropriate time of year and an appropriate location. The permittee must remove the bird’s falconry band (if it has one) and equipment, and report release of the bird by entering the required information in the electronic database at http://permits.fws.gov/186A and by submitting a paper form 3-186A to the Department.
c.If the species a permittee wishes to release is native to the state and was taken from the wild, the permittee may release the bird, but only at an appropriate time of year and location. He or she must remove its falconry band and equipment, and report release of the bird by entering the required information in the electronic database at http://permits.fws.gov/186A and by submitting a paper form 3-186A to the Department.
- Restrictions on transfers of falconry raptors from other falconers
Permittees may transfer no more than 3 raptors within a calendar year and may not exceed their possession limits.
- Non-resident falconers may take wild raptors in Maine for falconry purposes in accordance with these regulations provided that they first:
a. Obtain a non-resident annual Maine hunting license;
b. Apply to the Department for a Maine falconry permit and provide a copy of a valid falconry permit from their home jurisdiction; and
c. Obtain a Maine falconry permit from the Department. However, non-residents are exempted from Maine testing and facility inspections.
- Banding or tagging raptors used in falconry
a. A permittee who takes a goshawk, Harris's hawk ( Parabuteo unicinctus ), peregrine falcon ( Falco peregrinu s), or gyrfalcon ( Falco rusticolus ) from the wild or who acquires one from another falconer or a rehabilitator, must band the raptor with a permanent, nonreusable, numbered Fish and Wildlife Service leg band supplied by the Department if the raptor is not already banded. The permittee may purchase and implant an ISO (International Organization for Standardization)-compliant (134.2 kHz) microchip in addition to the leg band. The permittee must report the band number when reporting acquisition of the bird. Within 10 days from the day on which the permittee takes the raptor from the wild, he or she must report the taking of the bird by entering the required information (including band number) in the electronic database at http://permits.fws.gov/186A and by submitting a paper form 3-186A to the Department. A permittee may request an appropriate band from the Department in advance of any effort to capture a raptor. The Department should be contacted for information on obtaining and disposing of bands.
b. A raptor bred in captivity must be banded with a seamless metal band (see 50 Code of Federal Regulations Sec. 21.30) and may also have an implanted ISO-compliant (134.2 kHz) microchip. If a permittee must remove a seamless band, or if it is lost, the permittee must report the removal or loss within 10 days and request a replacement U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service nonreusable band from the Department. The permittee must submit the required information electronically immediately upon rebanding the raptor at http://permits.fws.gov/186A and by submitting a paper form 3-186A to the Department. The permittee must replace a seamless band that is removed or lost. A permittee may implant an ISO-compliant (134.2 kHz) microchip in a falconry raptor in addition to the seamless band.
c. If the band must be removed or is lost from a raptor in the permittee’s possession, the permittee must report the loss of the band within 5 days, and request a U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service non-reusable band from the Department. The permittee must submit the required information within 10 days of rebanding the raptor at http://permits.fws.gov/186A and by submitting a paper form 3-186A to the Department.
d. Permittees must not alter, deface, or counterfeit a band. Permittees may remove the rear tab on a band on a raptor taken from the wild, and permittees may smooth any imperfect surface so long as the integrity of the band or the numbering on it is not affected.
e. If a permittee documents proof that the band is causing health or injury problems for a raptor he or she possesses, the Department may provide an exemption to the requirement for that raptor. In that case, permittees must keep a copy of the exemption paperwork with them when transporting or flying the raptor. If the permittees’ bird is a wild goshawk, Harris's hawk, peregrine falcon, or gyrfalcon, the permittee must replace the band with an ISO-compliant microchip that the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service will supply to the Department. A microchip will not be provided for a wild goshawk, Harris's hawk, peregrine falcon, or gyrfalcon unless the permittee has demonstrated that a band has caused an injury or a health problem for the bird.
f. No permittee may band a raptor removed from the wild with a seamless numbered band.
- Carrying permit(s) when conducting falconry activities
Permittees must have their permit(s) or legible copies of them in their immediate possession at all times when they are not at the location of their falconry facilities and the permittees are trapping, transporting, working with, or flying their falconry raptor(s).
- Selling or trading raptors under a falconry permit
a. Permittees may sell or barter, or offer to sell or barter captive-bred raptors marked with seamless bands to other permittees who are authorized to possess them.
b. Permittees may not purchase, sell, trade, or barter wild raptors. They may only transfer them, and those other permittees are authorized to possess the raptors sold or bartered to them in accordance with this rule.
- Transfer of wild-caught raptors captured for falconry to another type of permit
Under some circumstances permittees may transfer a wild raptor to another permit type if the recipient of the bird (which could be the permittee) possesses the necessary permits for the other activity.
a. Permittees may transfer a wild-caught falconry bird to a raptor propagation permit after the bird has been used in falconry for at least 2 years (1 year for a sharp-shinned hawk, a Cooper's hawk, a merlin, or an American kestrel). When permittees transfer the bird, they must provide a copy of the 3-186A form documenting acquisition of the bird by the propagator to the federal migratory bird permit office that administers the propagation permit.
b. Permittees may transfer a wild-caught bird to another permit type in less than 2 years (1 year for a sharp-shinned hawk, a Cooper's hawk, a merlin, or an American kestrel) if the bird has been injured and a veterinarian has determined that the bird can no longer be flown for falconry.
(1) Within 10 days of transferring the bird the permittee must provide a copy of the 3-186A form (http://permits.fws.gov/186A) documenting acquisition of the bird to the federal migratory bird permit office that administers the other permit type.
(2) When a permittee transfers the bird, he or she must also provide a copy of the certification from the veterinarian that the bird is not useable in falconry to the federal migratory bird permits office that administers the other permit type.
- Transfer of captive-bred falconry raptors to another type of permit
Permittees may transfer captive-bred falconry raptors if the holder of the other permit type is authorized to possess the bird(s). Within 10 days permittees must report the transfer by entering the required information in the electronic database at http://permits.fws.gov/186A and by submitting a standard paper form 3-186A to the Department.
- Disposition of carcasses of falconry birds that die
a. A permittee must send the entire body of a golden eagle that was held for falconry, including all feathers, talons, and other parts, to the National Eagle Repository.
b. Permittees may donate the body or feathers of any other species of falconry raptor to any person or institution exempt under the law or who is authorized by permit to acquire and possess such parts or feathers.
c. If the bird was banded or microchipped prior to its death, the permittee may keep the body of any falconry raptor except that of a golden eagle. A permittee may keep the body so that the feathers are available for imping, or may have the body mounted by a taxidermist. The permittee may use the mount in giving conservation education programs, but must have a Maine Scientific Collection Permit to do so. If the bird was banded, permittees must leave the band on the body. If the bird has an implanted microchip, the permittee must leave the microchip in place.
d. If the permittee does not wish to donate the bird body or feathers or keep it themselves, he or she must burn, bury, or otherwise destroy it or them within 10 days of the death of the bird or after final examination by a veterinarian to determine cause of death. Carcasses of euthanized raptors could pose a risk of secondary poisoning of eagles and other scavengers. Permittees must take appropriate precautions to avoid such poisonings.
e. If the permittee does not donate the bird body or feathers or have the body mounted by a taxidermist, he or she may possess the flight feathers for as long as they have a valid falconry permit. However, permittees may not buy, sell, or barter the feathers. Permittees must keep the paperwork documenting their acquisition of the bird.
- Transfer of falconry raptors if a permittee dies
A surviving spouse, executor, administrator, or other legal representative of a deceased falconry permittee may transfer any bird held by the permittee to another authorized permittee within 90 days of the death of the falconry permittee. After 90 days, disposition of a bird held under the permit shall be as determined by the Department.
- “Possession'' and short-term handling of a falconry raptor
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the Department do not consider short-term handling, such as letting any other person hold or practice flying a raptor that permittees possess under their permit, to be possession for the purposes of this section if permittees are present and the person is under their supervision. (Note: This provision is taken from 50 Code of Federal Regulations Sec 21.29 (a) and included here because it directly affects falconers.)
- Transporting a falconry raptor or raptors through Maine
Permittees having a valid falconry permit may possess and transport for falconry purposes a lawfully possessed raptor through Maine. However, a tribal territory within Maine may further regulate such transport.
- Take of Passage Northern Peregrine Falcons for Falconry
The Commissioner may issue permits for the live capture of passage northern peregrine falcons for use in falconry during a specified period between September 1 and November 1. Each permit will: 1] limit the take of passage northern peregrine falcons to one bird, 2] designate the area(s) open to the take of passage northern peregrine falcons, 3] specify the specific dates during which take may occur, and 4] identify any other conditions deemed necessary.
NOTE: Passage northern peregrine falcons are migrants from populations at or north of 54 degrees north latitude (northernmost Canada and Greenland). Limits on falconry take of passage northern peregrine falcons are set by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. The Atlantic Flyway Council will determine the number of passage northern peregrine falcons that may be taken in Maine. The specific dates during which take may occur will be established to ensure capture of migrant birds and avoid capture of resident birds.
Persons eligible to participate in the limited take of passage northern peregrine falcons are restricted to Master Falconers who hold a current Maine Falconry Permit, and are residents of the State of Maine.
An eligible person wishing to participate in the take of passage northern peregrine falcons must file an online application on a form furnished by the Commissioner. There is no application fee. A person may file no more than one application.
Permittees will be selected by lottery to participate in the take of passage northern peregrine falcons. At the time of the random chance drawing individuals will be selected for each of the permits allocated to Maine by the USFWS in any given year. First time applicants that were not selected, upon application the following year, will receive two chances in that year’s drawing. If the same applicant is again not selected, then his or her name will go into the lottery three times the subsequent year, and so on until that applicant is drawn. To qualify for this progressive advantage, an applicant will need to apply each consecutive year until he or she is selected for a permit. All lottery selections are final; permits may not be transferred.
All other fees, laws, and rules relating to falconry apply.
F. Additional information and restrictions on the practice of falconry
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Raptors removed from the wild for falconry are always considered “wild” raptors. No matter how long such a bird is held in captivity or whether it is transferred to another permittee or permit type, it is always considered “wild”. However, it is considered to be taken from the wild only by the person who originally captured it. It is not consider to be taken from the wild by any subsequent permittee to whom it is legally transferred.
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“Hacking'' of falconry raptors
Hacking (temporary release to the wild) is an approved method for falconers to condition raptors for falconry. Only General and Master Falconers may hack a falconry raptor or raptors.
a. The Department allows a permittee to hack a bird he or she possesses for falconry.
b. Any bird a permittee is hacking counts against his or her possession limit, and must be a species he or she is authorized to possess.
c. Any hybrid or raptor non-indigenous to Maine that a permittee hacks must have two functioning radio transmitters attached to it during hacking.
d. A permittee may not hack a falconry bird near a nesting area of a state or federally threatened or endangered bird species or in any other location where the raptor is likely to harm a state or federally listed threatened or endangered animal species and that might be disturbed or taken by their falconry bird. Before hacking a falconry bird, the permittee must contact the Department.
- Use of other falconry training or conditioning techniques
Permittees may use other acceptable falconry practices, such as, but not limited to, the use of creance (tethered) flying, lures, balloons, or kites in training or conditioning falconry raptors. They also may fly falconry birds at bird species not protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act or at legally possessed pen-raised animals.
- Use of raptors held under a falconry permit in captive propagation
Permittees may use raptors they possess for falconry in captive propagation if they or the person overseeing the propagation has the necessary permit(s). Permittees do not need to transfer a bird from their falconry permit if they use it for fewer than 8 months in a year in captive propagation, but must transfer the bird from their falconry permit if it is permanently used for propagation. The bird must then be banded as required by law.
- Use of falconry raptors in conservation education programs
A General or Master Falconer may use a bird that he or she possesses in conservation education programs presented in public venues.
a. A permittee does not need a federal education permit to conduct conservation education activities using a falconry raptor held under a state permit.
b. A permittee may present conservation programs as an Apprentice Falconer if a General or Master Falconer is present when the permittee does so.
c. The permittee must use the bird primarily for falconry.
d. A permittee may charge a fee for presentation of a conservation education program. The fee may not exceed the amount required to recoup the permittee’s costs.
e. In conservation education programs, permittees must provide information about the biology, ecological roles, and conservation needs of raptors and other migratory birds, although not all of these topics must be addressed in every presentation. Permittees may not give presentations that do not address falconry and conservation education.
f. Permittees are responsible for all liability associated with conservation education activities they undertake.
- Other educational uses of falconry raptors
Permittees may allow photography, filming, or other such uses of falconry raptors to make movies or other sources of information on the practice of falconry or on the biology, ecological roles, and conservation needs of raptors and other migratory birds, though they may not be paid for doing so.
a. Permittees may not use falconry raptors to make movies, commercials, or in other commercial ventures that are not related to falconry. Filming, photography, or illustration of falconry birds to demonstrate or advertise falconry equipment is acceptable.
b. Permittees may not use falconry raptors for commercial entertainment; for advertisements; as a representation of any business, company, corporation, or other organization; or for promotion or endorsement of any products, merchandise, goods, services, meetings, or fairs, with the following exceptions:
(1) Permittees may use a falconry raptor to promote or endorse a nonprofit falconry organization or association.
(2) Permittees may use a falconry raptor to promote or endorse products or endeavors related to falconry, including, but not limited to items such as hoods, telemetry equipment, giant hoods, perches, materials for raptor facilities, falconry training and education materials, and scientific research and publication.
- Assisting in rehabilitation of raptors to prepare them for release
A General or Master Falconer may assist a permitted migratory bird rehabilitator to condition raptors in preparation for their release to the wild. Permittees may keep a bird they are helping to rehabilitate in their facilities.
a. The rehabilitator must provide the permittee with a letter or form that identifies the bird and explains that the permittee is assisting in its rehabilitation.
b. Subject to federal regulations, permittees do not need to meet the rehabilitator facility standards. Permittees need only meet the facility standards in this rule.
c. Permittees do not have to add any raptor they possess for this purpose to their falconry permit; it will remain under the permit of the rehabilitator.
d. Permittees must return any such bird that cannot be permanently released to the wild to the rehabilitator for placement within the 180-day timeframe in which the rehabilitator is authorized to possess the bird, unless the permittee is authorized by an appropriate agency to retain the bird for longer than 180 days.
e. Upon coordination with the rehabilitator, permittees must release all releasable raptors to the wild or return them to the rehabilitator for release within the 180-day timeframe in which the rehabilitator is authorized to possess the birds, unless the permittee is authorized by an appropriate agency to retain and condition a bird for longer than 180 days, or unless the rehabilitator transfers the bird to the permittee to hold under their falconry permit.
- Using a falconry bird in abatement activities
a. A Master Falconer may conduct abatement activities with a bird or birds he or she possesses for falconry, if the permittee has a Special Purpose Abatement permit. A General Falconer may conduct abatement activities only as a subpermittee of the holder of the abatement permit.
b. Permittees may receive payment for providing abatement services if they have a Special Purpose Abatement permit.
- Feathers that a falconry bird or birds molts
a. For imping (replacing a damaged feather with a molted feather), permittees may possess flight feathers for each species of raptor they possess or previously held for as long as they have a valid falconry permit. Permittees may receive feathers for imping from other permitted falconers, wildlife rehabilitators, or propagators in the United States, and they may give feathers to them. Permittees may not buy, sell, or barter such feathers.
b. Permittees may donate feathers from a falconry bird, except golden eagle feathers, to any person or institution with a valid permit to have them, or to anyone exempt from the permit requirement under the law.
c. Except for primary or secondary flight feathers or retrices from a golden eagle, permittees are not required to gather feathers that are molted or otherwise lost by a falconry bird. Permittees may leave the feathers where they fall, store them for imping, or destroy them. However, permittees must collect molted flight feathers and retrices from a golden eagle. If permittees choose not to keep them for imping, they must send the feathers to the National Eagle Repository at the following address: U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, National Eagle Repository, Rocky Mountain Arsenal, Building 128, Commerce City, Colorado 80022. The telephone number at the Repository is 303-287-2110. In addition, the Department request that permittees send all feathers (including body feathers) that they collect from any falconry golden eagle and that they do not need for imping, to the National Eagle Repository.
d. If a permittee’s permit expires or is revoked, he or she must donate the feathers of any species of falconry raptor except a golden eagle to any person or any institution exempt from the permit requirement under the law or who is authorized by permit to acquire and possess the feathers. If the permittee does not donate the feathers, he or she must burn, bury, or otherwise destroy them.
G. Falconry Hunting Seasons: Please see DIFW Chapter 16 Hunting Rules for more information on the Falconry Gray Squirrel Season and the Falconry Waterfowl Season.
History
- STATUTORY AUTHORITY: 12 MRS §10104
- EFFECTIVE DATE: February 12, 2019
- EFFECTIVE DATE: APAO WORD VERSION CONVERSION (IF NEEDED) AND ACCESSIBILITY CHECK: July 17, 2025
Chapter 5 State Owned Wildlife Management Areas, Shooting Ranges and Boat Launch Facilities
Code Me. R. 09-137 Ch. 5 State Owned Wildlife Management Areas, Shooting Ranges and Boat Launch Facilities {#sec-09-137-ch.-5 omnilex-key=us-me-regs-official--dept-inland-fisheries-and-wildlife--09-137 Ch. 5}
5.01 State Owned Wildlife Management Areas, Shooting Ranges and Boat Launch Facilities
A. Hunting and Trapping
- Unless otherwise provided, state-owned Wildlife Management Areas and Boat Launch Facilities shall be open to the hunting and trapping of all wild birds and animals under the provisions of state and federal laws and regulations relating to the hunting and trapping of wild birds and wild animals. Hunting and Trapping are prohibited within the boundaries of Shooting Ranges.
B. Use of Motor Driven Vehicles
- The operation of any motor vehicle, excluding motorboats, within the boundaries of any state-owned Wildlife Management Area, Boat Launch Facility or Shooting Range is prohibited except as provided below.
a. Motor driven vehicles may be operated on roads unless roads are posted as closed or as restricted in 5.01(g)
b. Motor driven vehicles may be operated on trails designated for their use.
c. Motor driven vehicles may be operated in other areas where their use is specifically authorized.
- This restriction will not apply to Department personnel on official business.
C. Use of Motorboats
The use of motorboats within the boundaries of any state-owned Wildlife Management Area is allowed except as restricted below.
-
Lt. Gordon Manual Wildlife Management Area, Hodgdon, Cary, and Linneus, Arroostook County. From January 1 to June 30 each year, the operation of a motorboat is prohibited. From July 1 to December 31 each year, the operation of a motorboat with a motor of over 6 horsepower rating is prohibited.
-
Scarborough Marsh Wildlife Management Area, Scarborough, Cumberland County and Saco and Old Orchard Beach, York County. From March 1 to September 30 each year, the operation of a motorboat on that portion of the area upstream of the abandoned railroad right-of-way is prohibited.
-
Brownfield Wildlife Management Area, Brownfield, Fryeburg and Denmark, Oxford County. - From October 1 through November 30 each year, the operation of a motorboat is prohibited, except on Lovewell Pond, Fryeburg or on those water of the Saco River within the area.
-
These restrictions will not apply to Department personnel on official business
D. Camping
Camping and open fires on state-owned Wildlife Management Areas and Shooting Ranges are prohibited except at designated campsites.
E. Swimming
Swimming on state-owned Wildlife Management Areas and Shooting Ranges is prohibited except at designated locations.
F. Other Restrictions
-
Storage of personal property on state-owned Wildlife Management Areas, Shooting Ranges and Boat Launch Facilities is prohibited without the written permission of the Regional Wildlife Biologist.
-
Cutting of live or dead trees or collection of boughs (tipping) on state-owned Wildlife Management Areas, Shooting Ranges and Boat Launch Facilities is prohibited without the written permission of the Regional Wildlife Biologist.
-
The extraction or removal of sand or gravel on state-owned Wildlife Management Areas, Shooting Ranges and Boat Launch Facilities is prohibited without the written permission of the Regional Wildlife Biologist. Unauthorized removal or excavation of any material from berms at Shooting Ranges is prohibited.
-
The unauthorized disposal of any material, by-products or waste is prohibited on state-owned Wildlife Management Areas, Shooting Ranges and Boat Launch Facilities.
G. Area Specific Regulations
- Kennebunk Plains Wildlife Management Area, Kennebunk, York County. From May 1 through September 30 each year, the following restrictions will apply.
a. Public use is prohibited between 9:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m.
b. Dogs must be restrained by a leash and kept on roadways.
c. Operation of motor vehicles on roads is prohibited except parking in designated areas.
-
Scarborough Marsh Wildlife Management Area. The shooting of trap and skeet is prohibited unless written permission is obtained from the Regional Wildlife Biologist.
-
Lt. Gordon Manuel Wildlife Management Area. The filling of spray tanks is prohibited.
-
Steve Powell Wildlife Management Area (Swan Island) Perkins Township, Sagadahoc County
a. Operating Season Dates: The Wildlife Management Area is open for public use as follows.
-
Steve Powell Wildlife Management Area (Swan Island) is open to camping and day use from May 1 to October 30 annually.
-
For other times, permission must be obtained from the Regional Wildlife Biologist or facility manager to access Swan Island.
b. Fees: The Commissioner may establish reasonable fees for admission to Swan Island and Little Swan Island (Steve Powell Wildlife Management Area).
c. Public Access:
-
Access to the Steve Powell Wildlife Management Area (Swan Island) is undertaken at the risk of the individual.
-
Unauthorized use of the area by persons on snowmobiles and ATV's is prohibited, notwithstanding designated snowmobile trails allowed by the Department and maintained by local snowmobile clubs.
-
Campers will be limited to a stay of three (3) consecutive nights, unless extended by the facility manager or staff.
d. Restrictions on the use of the area:
-
Little Swan Island, portions of Swan Island and some historical buildings are restricted areas. Entrance into these areas or any area designated as restricted by the Department is by permission only; all visitors to restricted areas must be accompanied by Department personnel.
-
Supervision. All groups composed of minors under 16 years of age, must be accompanied by adult supervisors. A ratio of 1 supervisor for every 8 minors is required.
-
Fires: No person shall build or maintain an open fire except (i) at a campsite duly authorized and designated for open fires where a fire ring has been provided and (ii) when a permit has been obtained for such fire from the Maine Forest Service. No fire shall be left unattended. Camp stoves are permitted in areas designated for open fires. The cutting of live trees in prohibited.
-
Refuse: All visitors and campers must "carry out" all refuse and trash.
-
Pets: No dogs or other pets will be allowed on the Island. Guide dogs for visually impaired individuals are allowed.
-
Hunting and Trapping: Hunting trapping and possession of hunting and trapping equipment is prohibited above the normal high-water line unless permitted by Department staff.
Notwithstanding the above restrictions, Department personnel who are carrying out wildlife management activities that are a part of the Wildlife Management area Plan and/or individuals who are participating in these activities and are supervised by Department staff may possess and use firearms and may hunt, trap, or remove any animal or bird. This paragraph does not prohibit a person from carrying a handgun for personal protection pursuant to Public Law 2015, Chapter 327 (LD 652).
-
Fireworks: The use or possession of fireworks and explosives is prohibited. The Department may grant a permit to municipalities for the purpose of a public fireworks display, when the appropriate permits and insurance are presented, and a request is made in writing to the Regional Biologist prior to the event.
-
Liquor: No intoxicating beverages or drugs may be possessed or consumed on Swan Island.
-
Camping. Tent camping is allowed only in the immediate vicinity of the existing shelters or at designated camp sites. No more than six persons will be allowed to use each shelter for overnight camping.
-
Vandalism. The destruction or defacement of any property is prohibited. The removal of cultural, historic, or natural artifacts is prohibited.
H. Coast of Maine Wildlife Management Area
- Restriction. Trespass is prohibited during specific periods on the islands in the Coast of Maine Wildlife Management Area unless written permission is obtained from the Regional Wildlife Biologist.
a. Specific regulations to minimize disturbance to nesting birds are noted in the "Restriction" column for each island in the list in 2. (below)
b. The restricted periods are:
"a" April 15 through July 31, annually.
"b" April 15 through August 31, annually.
"c" February 15 through August 31, annually.
c. This restriction does not apply to Department personnel on official business.
- The following state-owned coastal islands are used for nesting by colonial water birds and are a portion of the Coast of Maine Wildlife Management Area:
Location
Coastal Island
County/Town
Island Name
Registry Number
Restriction
York County
Biddeford
Beach Island
Gooseberry Island
81018
81025
b
a
Kennebunkport
West Goose Rocks
81040, 81041
b
Cumberland County
Brunswick
Freyee Island
55012
c
Portland
Stepping Stones Island
Vaill Island
Outer Green Island
Junk of Pork
Inner Green Island
55357
55369
55386
55486
55499
a
a
a
a
a
Cumberland
Upper Green Island
Crow Island
Goose Nest Island
West Brown Cow
55275, 55297
55331
55400
55458, 55453
a
a
a
a
Falmouth
Clapboard Island Ledge
55328, 55330
b
Harpswell
Black Rock
Grassy Ledge
Jenny Island
Long Ledge
Two Bush Island
Cedar Ledge
Little Mark Island
Haddock Rock
Whale Rock
Little Birch Island
Thrumcap
adj. to Jaquish Island
Pond Island
Sister's Island
White Bull Island
East Brown Cow
Flash Island
Duck Rock
Mark Island
55252
55259
55159
55175, 55176
55178
55179, 55608
55437
55438
55445
55406
55407
55436
55615
55620
55628
55632
55144
55156
55630
b
b
b
a
a
a
a
a
a
a
a
a
a
a
a
b
Portland
Ram Island
55383
b
Yarmouth
Nubbin Island
55223
b
Sagadahoc County
Phippsburg
North Sugarloaf
South Sugarloaf
Hen Island
Heron Island Ledge
73213
73280
73178
73314
b
b
a
Georgetown
Middle Mark Island
Black Rock
Ellingwood Rock
73234
73266
73319
a
a
a
Lincoln County
Southport
The Cuckolds
65466
a
Bremen
Crotch Island(s)
65173
b
Bristol
Killick Stone
Wreck Island
Jones Garden Island
Wreck Island Ledge
Thief Island
Thrumcap Island
New Harbor Dry Ledge
65189
65194
65188
65191, 65192
65186
65193
65301
b
c
a
a
a
a
a
South Bristol
Christmas Cove
65244
b
Monhegan Plt.
Duck Rocks
Eastern Duck Rocks
Smuttynose Island
Inner Duck Rocks
65310
65313
65314
65316
a
a
a
a
Knox County
Friendship
Gull Rock
Franklin Ledge
Crotch Island Ledge
Long Ledge
63724
63708
63737
63774
a
a
a
a
Isle au Haut
So. Popplestone Island
Great Spoon Island
Hardwood Island
Sparrow Island
W. Halibut Ledge
Southern Mark Island
Fog Island Ledge
Green Ledge
White Ledge
The Cow Pen (both)
White Horse Island
Black Horse Island
63265
63287
59204
63200
63206
63260
63263
63266
63267
63283, 63284
63293
63294
b
b
c
a
a
a
a
a
a
a
a
a
Matinicus Island
Little Two Bush
No Man's Island
Pudding Island
Fisherman Island
Marblehead Island
Crescent Island
Little Two Bush
Two Bush Ledge
Shag Ledge
Green Ledge
Seal Ledge
Brig Ledge
63652
63900
63924
63402
63403
63411
63652
63902
63925
63929
63931
63934
b
b
b
a
a
a
a
a
a
a
a
a
North Haven
Dagger Island
Spoon Ledge
Dagger Island Ledge
Tthe Downfall
Egg Rock
East Goose Rocks
Goose Island
Robinson Rock
The Sugarloaves
63015
63011
63014
63016
63333
63335
63336
63340, 63341
63464
b
a
a
a
a
a
a
a
a
St. George
Gunning Rocks
Seal Island
Yellow Ridge Island
Shag Ledges
Goose Rock
Little Burnt Island
Little Egg Rock
Shark Island
Eastern Egg Rock
Old Hump Ledges
63578, 63836
63637, 63638
63640
63820, 63821
63792
63841
63873
63875
63860
63838, 63839
a
a
a
a
a
a
a
a
b
b
Rockport
Goose Rocks
63314
a
South Thomaston
Garden Island
63420
a
Vinalhaven
Carber's Island
Deadman's Ledge
Roberts Island(w)
S. Dogfish Ledge
Green Island
Green Ledge
Medric Rock
Hurricane I. Ledge
S. Hurricane Ledge
63166, 63186
63170
63175
63474
63485
63493
63496
63516
63526
a
a
a
a
a
a
a
a
a
Hancock County
Brooklin
Green Island Ledge
Smuttynose Island
59750
59931
a
a
Brooksville
Thrumcap Island
Buck Island
59669
59672
a
a
Deer Isle
Green Ledge
Two Bush Island
Barred Island
Colthead Island
Sheep Island Ledge
Eaton Island Ledge
Bar Island Ledge
Channel Rock
Sloop Island
Sloop Island Ledge
Grass Ledge E
Green Ledge
Shabby Island
Hardhead Island
Grass Ledge (West)
59674
59681
59683, 59684
59685
59711, 59712
59716
59717, 59718
59792
59795
59796
59802
59949
59996
59782
59789
a
a
a
a
a
b
a
a
a
a
a
a
a
a
b
Stonington
Moose Island Ledge
Scraggy Island Ledge
Rams Island
No Man's Island
59479
59837
59966
59977
a
a
c
c
Swans Island
Brimstone Island
Mason Ledge
Halibut Rocks
Spirit Ledge
Saddleback Island
High Sheriff
59479
5948
59991
59998
59999
59397
a
a
a
a
a
a
Long Island Plt.
Green Island
Dry Money Ledge
59446, 59445
59449
a
b
Bar Harbor
The Thrumcap
Indian Point Ledge
59300
59127
a
b
Gouldsboro
Bald Rock
59192
a
Frenchboro
Great Duck Island
59440
c
Blue Hill
Salt Pond Islet
59742
c
Waldo County
Isleboro
Flat Island
77047
a
Washington County
Milbridge
Unnamed Ledges
Egg Rock
79930, 79932
79927, 79935
aa
Addison
Batson Ledge
Stanley Ledge
Pot Rock
Little Drisko Island
Inner Goose Island
79613
79618
79902
79638
79422
a
a
a
a
c
Beals
Inner Ram Island
Egg Rock
Curlew Rock
Crumple Island Ledge
Little Ram Island
79601
79605
79697
79695
79600
a
a
a
a
c
Jonesport
Ballast Island
Green Island
Pulpit Rock
Freeman Rock
West Brothers Island
79488
79572
79576
79676
79586
a
a
a
a
b
Machiasport
Big Libby Island
Shag Ledge
79359
79556
b
a
Lubec
Razor Island
Pope Folly Island
79147
79371
a
c
Perry
Red Island
79137
a
Steuben
Green Island
79929
b
Edmunds
Bellier Cove Islet
79085
c
Pembroke
Wilbur Neck Islet
79072
c
Trescott
Talbot Cove Island
79222
c
5.02 Classified Wildlife Management Areas
A. Unless otherwise provided, those areas described in 12 M.R.S. §12708 §1 A. shall be closed to the hunting and trapping of all wild birds and animals.
B. Bartlett Island in Hancock County shall be open to the hunting and trapping of all wild birds and animals during the open season on these species.
C. Deer Isle and Stonington, Hancock County, shall be open to the hunting and trapping of all wild birds and animals during the open season on these species.
D. It shall be unlawful for any person to feed, or attempt to feed, migratory waterfowl within the confines of Sebago Lake Basin Wildlife Management Area, Cumberland County.
E. Marsh Island, Penobscot County, shall be open to the trapping of all wild animals and the hunting of deer by bow and arrow during the open season(s) on these species.
F. No person shall at any time hunt for, pursue, molest, catch, take, kill, wound or destroy wild birds or wild animals in the following described territory situated in the town of Camden in the County of Knox: On the north by the dam at the outlet of Megunticook Lake, southerly along the west bank of the Megunticook River to the Molyneaux Road, so-called, westerly on the Molyneaux Road to Route 105, thence northerly on Route 52 to Molyneaux Road, so-called, thence westerly to the east bank of Megunticook River, thence northerly along the east bank of the Megunticook River to the dam at the outlet of Megunticook Lake.
G. Long Lake Wildlife Management Area, Aroostook County, shall be open to the hunting and trapping of all wild birds and animals during the open season on these species.
5.03 Shooting Ranges
A. Hours of Operation
The commissioner may set hours when a shooting range is open for public use. These hours shall be posted prominently at the entrance to each shooting range.
B. Range Safety Officers
The commissioner may designate range safety officers to monitor public use of shooting ranges. Users of shooting ranges must comply with the directions of Department authorized range safety officers.
C. Targets
On rifle and pistol ranges, the only allowable targets are paper targets attached to approved target frames, and steel targets. On shotgun ranges, only clay targets may be used. Explosive targets are prohibited on all Department shooting ranges.
D. Loaded Firearms
The possession of a loaded firearm or the discharge of a firearm from any location other than an established shooting station is prohibited. Exception: Holstered lawfully carried pistols are allowed to be loaded on the range outside of an established shooting station.
E. Ammunition
The use or possession of armor piercing, incendiary, explosive, tracer, or steel core ammunition is prohibited.
F. Intoxicating beverages and controlled substances
The use or possession of intoxicating beverages or controlled substances is prohibited.
G. Certain calibers
The use or possession of any firearm chambered in .50 BMG is prohibited.
H. (Not in use)
Litter
Depositing litter or refuse is prohibited except in approved refuse containers.
J. Minimum Age
Persons under 16 years of age may not use shooting ranges unless accompanied by a person 21 years of age or older.
K. Prohibited Activities
The following are prohibited on shooting range facilities: bicycles, fireworks, model airplanes, kites, drones, golfing, and pets.
L. Exception for approved training events
The provisions of this section do not apply to training events authorized by the Department.
- State-Owned Boat Launch Facility Sites
Commissioner’s authority: In accordance with 12 M.R.S. §12701, subsection 5, the commissioner may adopt rules regulating public use of department-owned or department-maintained boat launch facility sites hereinafter referred to as a boat launch.
Boats unattended: No person shall tie up or leave any boat unattended in the area around any launching ramps, floats or docks, except when loading or unloading cargo and/or passengers.
Power loading of boats: No person shall power load a boat on a trailer at a boat launch.
Fires, camping, overnight stays, and overnight parking: No person shall camp, park overnight or have an open fire at a boat launch.
Alcoholic beverages or controlled substances: No person shall use or possess intoxicating beverages or controlled substances at a boat launch.
Disorderly conduct: No person shall engage in disorderly conduct, including, but not limited to, indecent acts, intoxication or coarse language at a boat launch.
Damage to facility: No person shall remove, injure or damage any portion of the facility including plants, land, structures, or natural conditions at the boat launch.
Discharging waste: No person shall wash vehicles, boats or laundry or discharge waste of any kind, including but not limited to soaps, detergents, and refuse; dispose of any material, by-products or waste or deposit any litter except in approved refuse containers at a boat launch.
Storage of boats, trailers, vehicles, equipment, ice shacks, and other property: No person shall store personal property of any kind on a boat launch.
Swimming: No person shall swim at a boat launch except in designated locations.
Parking: No parking shall be allowed outside of designated parking spaces.
Other uses of the facility: No person shall utilize the facility inconsistent with the launching and retrieving boats, and associated parking, without written authorization from the Department, including but not limited to, commercial use, water extraction, non‑boating related use, and fishing tournament use of the facilities.
Use sunset to sunrise: No person shall use a boat launch or related parking area between sunset and sunrise for purposes other than fishing or the launching and retrieving of boats.
Pet owners: No pet owner shall leave a boat launch without cleaning any fecal deposits left by their pets.
Advertising: No person shall post an advertisement or other notice without prior approval from the Department.
EFFECTIVE DATE:
October 1, 1978 - filed September 14, 1978
AMENDED:
September 29, 1979 - Section 1(A)
October 2, 1978 - Section 1(B), filed September 26, 1978
April 30, 1979 - Section 11?
June 1, 1979 - Section 1 - 10
June 23, 1979 - Section 1 - 10)
December 8, 1979 - Section 12
April 1, 1980 - Section 10
May 4, 1980 - Section 3(C)
October 1, 1980 - Section 3(C)
November 5, 1980 - Section 12 (EMERGENCY)
November 9, 1980 - Section 12
May 16, 1981 - Section 12
August 8, 1981 - Section 12
November 23, 1981 - Section 12 (E)
May 11, 1982 - Section 10
June 9, 1986 - Section 12 A and repeal of Section 1(B)
REPEAL & REPLACE:
March 10, 1996
EFFECTIVE DATE (ELECTRONIC CONVERSION):
April 4, 1996
AMENDED:
May 26, 1996 - Section 2, added sub-Section F & G
May 21, 1997 - Section 1(G)(4)(c)(2)
NON-SUBSTANTIVE CHANGES:
February 2, 1999 - converted to Microsoft Word
AMENDED:
May 26, 1999 - Section 2 (H)
July 8, 2001 - Section 2(G) and (H) repealed
December 28, 2005 - new Section 2(G), filing 2005-535
April 18, 2009 - Section 1 sub-Section G paragraph 4, filing 2009-159
September 14, 2011 - Section 5.02, filing 2011-313
December 3, 2016 - Sections 5.01, 5.03, filing 2016-206
January 14, 2019 - format correction at 5.03 title
June 11, 2019 - minor correction: statutory citation in 5.02(A)
August 16, 2019 – punctuation corrected in 5.03
December 22, 2019 - additions to 5.01, new 5.04, filing 2019-242
May 21, 2023 - 5.01(G)(4), amendments to Steve Powell Wildlife Management Area (Swan Island), Perkins Township, Sagadahoc County, filing 2023-072
APAO WORD VERSION CONVERSION (IF NEEDED) AND ACCESSIBILITY CHECK: July 17, 2025
Chapter 6 Educational and Scientific Collection Permit Rule
Code Me. R. 09-137 Ch. 6 Educational and Scientific Collection Permit Rule {#sec-09-137-ch.-6 omnilex-key=us-me-regs-official--dept-inland-fisheries-and-wildlife--09-137 Ch. 6}
6.01 Scope of Rules
Pursuant to 12 M.R.S. §12152 the Commissioner may issue a permit to any person, permitting that person to hunt, trap, possess, band and transport wildlife for educational or scientific purposes.
These rules apply to:
The use of native wildlife, including their parts, for educational or scientific purposes within the State of Maine.
These rules do not apply to:
A. The importation of wildlife from outside the state as provided in 12 M.R.S. and department rule Chapter 7;
B. The possession, propagation, research, rehabilitation, or exhibition of wildlife as provided in 12 M.R.S. and department rule Chapter 7;
C, The possession, propagation, and exhibition of fish as provided in 12 M.R.S. and department rule Chapter 2; or
D. The importation, capture or possession of raptors for hunting as provided in 12 M.R.S. §11159 and department rule Chapter 4.
E. The use of native invertebrates not listed as state Endangered, Threatened or Special Concern as provided in 12 M.R.S. §12152.
6.02 Permit Required
An educational or scientific collection permit is required by any person who wishes to take, transport or possess wildlife and their parts or products for scientific research or educational purposes at any time of the year; and/or before any person may lawfully salvage, otherwise acquire, transport or possess wildlife for any purpose not specifically covered under any other permit or license.
6.03 Application Form
Applications for educational or scientific collection permits must be submitted on an appropriate application form to be provided by the Commissioner.
6.04 Submission of Application
Completed applications for all educational or scientific collection permits should be submitted to the department.
6.05 Supporting Information
If any applicant plans to utilize firearms or archery for any purpose while conducting activities covered by scientific collection permit, the application must be accompanied by proof that the applicant possesses a current valid Maine hunting license. This requirement also applies to any subpermittee listed on the application. Also, if applicable, proof must be furnished of a valid federal scientific collection special purpose permit.
6.06 Incomplete Applications
Incomplete applications will be returned to the applicant.
6.07 Age
Applicants must be 16 years of age or older.
6.08 Grounds for Permit Denial
Upon receipt of a properly executed permit application, the Commissioner may issue a permit unless:
A. The applicant has been assessed a civil penalty or convicted of any criminal statute or regulation relating to the activity for which the application is filed if such conviction or assessment evidences a lack of responsibility.
B. The applicant has failed to disclose information required or has made false statements as to any material fact in connection with his application.
C. The applicant has failed to demonstrate a valid justification for the permit.
D. The authorization requested potentially threatens a wildlife population.
6.09 Rights of Permittee
Permits shall entitle the person to whom issued to engage in the activity specified in the permit for the prescribed time unless the permit is terminated.
6.10 Records; Reporting Requirements
The person to whom the permit is issued shall maintain complete and accurate records of any activity conducted pursuant to such permit. A report of these activities shall be submitted to the Commissioner within 30 days following permit expiration or with request for renewal. Report forms shall be provided by the Commissioner.
6.11 Renewal Requirements
Permits are renewable and may be renewed:
A. If a satisfactory report of work accomplished during the preceding year is submitted.
B. If, in order to meet a stated objective the permittee intends to continue the activity described in the permit during any portion of the year ensuing its expiration.
C. If the above criteria are met and the permittee requests the renewal.
6.12 Transfer of Permits Prohibited; Exception
Permits are not transferable; except any person/s employed by or under contract to the permittee for the purposes authorized by the permit may carry out the authorized activity; provided the permittee notifies the department in writing of the name and address of those person/s so authorized by him prior to commencement of field work. A copy of the written authorization will be carried by the individual while conducting activities under the permittee's supervision.
6.13 Penalty
Any violation of these rules and regulations or the conditions of any permit may subject the permittee to the following:
A. Upon conviction, punishment as provided by Title 12 §12705
B. Revocation of the permit. When revoked, permits must be surrendered to the Commissioner on demand.
History
- STATUTORY AUTHORITY: 12 M.R.S. §§ 10104, 12704
- EFFECTIVE DATE: March 1, 1976 (filed 6-1-79) – filing 79-123, as “Scientific and Collection Permits”
- AMENDED: May 1, 1977 (filed 6-1-79) - filing 79-123
- AMENDED: November 2, 1986 - Section 4, filing 86-402, as “Scientific Collection Permits”
- AMENDED: November 8, 1987 – filing 87-390
- NON-SUBSTANTIVE CHANGES: February 1, 1999 - converted to Microsoft Word
- AMENDED: August 28, 2016 – filing 2016-142 – renamed “Educational and Scientific Collection Permit Rule”
- AMENDED: December 16, 2017 - filing 2017-195, Sections 6.01 and 6.02
- AMENDED: December 7, 2020 – filing 2020-243, as “Educational and Scientific Collection Permit Rule”
- APAO ACCESSIBILITY CHECK: July 30, 2025
Chapter 7 Rules for Importation, Possession, Propagation, Rehabilitation, and Exhibition of Wildlife
Code Me. R. 09-137 Ch. 7 Rules for Importation, Possession, Propagation, Rehabilitation, and Exhibition of Wildlife {#sec-09-137-ch.-7 omnilex-key=us-me-regs-official--dept-inland-fisheries-and-wildlife--09-137 Ch. 7}
7.01 Scope of Rules
The Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife is established to preserve, protect and enhance the inland fisheries and wildlife resources of the state; to encourage the wise use of these resources; to ensure coordinated planning for the future use and preservation of these resources; and to provide for the effective management of these resources.
Pursuant to 12 M.R.S. §12152 the commissioner has the authority to adopt rules necessary for the administration of wildlife in captivity, including provisions to ensure that all wildlife possessed under these permits receives humane treatment and proper husbandry and security, and to safeguard the interests of the wildlife and citizens of the State. Non-native wildlife potentially carries risks for the native wildlife resources and ecosystems of the State of Maine and the public at large. Collection of some native wildlife can be unsustainable and when held in captivity may pose risks upon release. With changing environmental conditions and the inherent adaptability of wildlife, the ability to predict the likelihood of a non-native wildlife species to survive in the wild is difficult. Therefore, these rules are established to protect Maine’s wildlife and people from the introduction or spread of diseases, the establishment of exotic species, and from bodily injury caused by dangerous native and exotic wildlife species. These rules are also established to govern trade in wildlife species that are rare or threatened in their native range and to ensure the proper care and welfare of all wildlife in captivity.
These rules are organized into general provisions applying to all permits under this Chapter, followed by specific provisions applying to each permit. The approval of permits shall be subject to the ability of the applicant to meet the provisions of these rules and other legal requirements.
These rules shall apply to:
- The possession, propagation, research, rehabilitation, or exhibition of any wildlife in captivity and to the importation of live wildlife from an area outside the state, including wildlife that has been hybridized, genetically altered, or reared in captivity, pursuant to 12 M.R.S. Part 13.
These rules do not apply to:
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The collection or use of any native wildlife from within Maine for personal, scientific or educational purposes as provided within 12 M.R.S. and department rule chapter 6; or
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The personal possession of any reptile, amphibian or invertebrate that is native to Maine and captured in Maine and is not listed by the department as threatened or endangered or of special concern. Possession limits for each species are provided within 12 M.R.S. §12152.
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The harvest of amphibians or nonmarine invertebrates for the purpose of export, sale or commercial purposes as provided within 12 M.R.S. §12159 and §12161 and as provided within department rule chapter 26; or
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The possession, propagation, and exhibition of fish which can be found within 12 M.R.S and as provided with department rule chapter 2; or
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The release of captive, raised, or imported wild animals or wild birds into the wild as provided within 12 M.R.S. §12156; or
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Importation permits issued to operators of commercial shooting areas specific to mallard ducks, quail, chukar partridge and Hungarian quail, which can be found within 12 M.R.S. §12102;
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The importation, capture or possession of raptors for hunting as provided within 12 M.R.S. §11159 and department rule chapter 4; or
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Savannah cats that are an F4 or higher generation; or
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The importation or possession of dead wildlife or wildlife parts that are legally possessed; or
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The hunting or possession of wildlife within commercial large game shooting areas as provided within Title 7 M.R.S. §1342-A.
7.02 Table of Contents
7.03 Governing Agencies
7.04 Definitions
7.05 Technical Committee
7.06 Classification of Species
7.07 Permit Types
7.08 Application Procedures for All Permits
7.09 Site Inspection
7.10 Standard Conditions and Restrictions Governing All Wildlife in Captivity Permits
7.11 Conditions and Requirements for Each Type of Wildlife in Captivity Permit
7.12 Exceptions and Conditions for Specific Restricted Species
7.13 Costs of recovery
7.14 Complaints
7.15 Penalties
7.16 Transition and Grandfathering Provisions for Current Permit Holders
7.17 Care and Housing Requirements
7.18 Species Lists
7.03 Governing Agencies
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The Maine Department of Inland Fisheries & Wildlife: (the “department”) regulates the importation, possession, propagation, research, rehabilitation and exhibition of wildlife in accordance with 12 M.R.S. §12152, has authority to regulate the possession of wildlife in captivity in the state.
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The Maine Department of Marine Resources: has lead management authority for marine mammals, marine turtles, marine fishes, and marine invertebrates and regulates the importation of marine organisms and diadromous fishes if they are intended for introduction into the coastal waters or marine environment of the state pursuant to 12 M.R.S. §6701.
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The Maine Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry: in accordance with Title 7 M.R.S. Part 9 has authority to regulate licensing of pet shops, animal shelters, agricultural fairs and commercial large game shooting areas.
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The United States Department of Agriculture: in accordance with 7 U.S. Code Chapter 54 has federal authority to regulate transportation, sale, and handling of certain animals and requires anyone wishing to conduct activities with wildlife in a manner regulated under the Animal Welfare Act to hold a valid and current USDA License.
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The United States Fish and Wildlife Service: in accordance with 022 FW 1.1, the USFWS is responsible for conserving, protecting, and enhancing fish and wildlife and their habitats for the continuing benefit of the American people through federal programs relating to migratory birds, endangered species, interjurisdictional fish and marine mammals, and inland sport fisheries.
7.04 Definitions
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“Dangerous Wildlife”: any wildlife capable of inflicting serious bodily injury.
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“Exhibitor”: a person or organization that shows, displays, exhibits, or trains wildlife for the purpose of conservation, public education, or entertainment, and who meets the requirements of section 7.11 of this chapter. An exhibitor does not include a person who shows wildlife in connection with theatrical exhibition, circus, or agricultural fair.
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“Husbandry”: the act of caring for and breeding of wildlife.
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“Importation”: bringing or causing to be transported into the state any wildlife species.
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“Native species”: wildlife species that are naturally occurring or naturalized in Maine.
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“Naturalized species”: an exotic or an introduced species of wildlife that has become established in Maine.”
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“Propagation”: the raising, possessing or reproduction of wildlife (except wolf hybrids) for the purposes of consumption, release, sale or other pecuniary gain.
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“Protected Contact”: the management of an animal in a manner which the keeper and the animal do not share the same unrestricted space.
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“Public Contact”: Any circumstance in which there is physical interaction between a person and wildlife, including physical interaction with wildlife from outside the exhibit or enclosure.
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“Research Facility” any school (except an elementary or secondary school), institution, or organization that uses or intends to use live animals in research, tests, or experiments, and that purchases or transports live animals in commerce, or receives funds under a grant, award, loan, or contract from a department, agency, or instrumentality of the United States for the purpose of carrying out research, tests, or experiments.
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“Serious Bodily Injury”: bodily injury that involves:
A. Substantial risk of death; or
B. Extreme physical pain; or
C. Protracted and obvious disfigurement; or
D. Protracted loss or impairment of the function of a body part, organ, or mental faculty.
- “Training”: includes, but is not limited to, formal instruction (including on-line course work), self-directed learning activities, mentoring, and on-the job learning.
7.05 Technical Committee: The commissioner shall appoint a Technical Committee to provide advice regarding proposed wildlife in captivity permits, or the conditions that should accompany the issuance of a permit. The commissioner may consult with the Technical Committee as necessary, including but not limited to for the purpose of obtaining pertinent information and advice regarding the issuance, denial or revocation of permits authorizing the possession or importation of wildlife and to review requests to change the categorization of species.
- Committee Composition: the Committee shall include a representative from the following:
A. The Department's Bureau of Resource Management;
B. The Animal Welfare Program in the Department of Agriculture, Conservation, and Forestry;
C. The State Veterinarian;
D. A current wildlife possession permit holder and;
E. A minimum of three individuals having relevant degrees and/or documented experience and/or training in:
(1) wildlife biology/conservation; or
(2) vertebrate zoology; or
(3) veterinary medicine; or
(4) herpetology; or
(5) entomology; or
(6) ichthyology; or
(7) the husbandry of captive wildlife; or
- Duties and expectations: The duties and expectations of the committee may include but are not limited to the following:
A. making scientific recommendations on the appropriate classification of a species;
B. providing advice on whether or not to issue a proposed wildlife in captivity permit;
C. providing recommendations on the conditions that should accompany the issuance of a permit for a specific species.
7.06 Classification of Species
- Unrestricted List
Pursuant to 12 M.R.S. §12152 an “Unrestricted Species List” shall be maintained by the department, be made available to the public and contain a list of species of fish and wildlife, including tropical fish and invertebrates, that do not require an importation, exhibition, propagation, research or possession permit, and may be traded by commercial pet shops. Unrestricted Species must be maintained in a humane and safe manner that does not jeopardize public health and safety, the welfare of the animal, or cause a public disturbance.
- Prohibited Species
Species which the commissioner, in consultation with the technical committee have determined pose a significant risk to Maine’s native flora and fauna, to the public welfare or to domestic animals shall be designated as prohibited and no permit shall be granted, except that the department may authorize importation or possession of these species by accredited research facilities in cases where there is a significant public benefit. The Prohibited Species List is located within section 7.18.
- Restricted Species
Notwithstanding section 7.12, Restricted Species shall require a permit before the species can be possessed, imported, exhibited, propagated, or rehabilitated.
A. Category 1 Restricted Species
(1) Criteria: The Commissioner, in consultation with the technical committee, shall consider the following criteria to determine whether a species will be listed as a Category 1 Restricted Species:
(a) It does not meet the criteria of a Prohibited Species and when:
(b) It is included on the U.S. list of endangered or threatened species, is listed in Appendix I of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species, is listed by the International Union for the Conservation of Nature as ‘Endangered, ‘Critically Endangered’ or Extinct in the Wild or is state listed as Endangered or Threatened across a significant portion of its native range; or
(c) It is known to harbor an agent substantially harmful to humans, domestic livestock, poultry, native wildlife, other animals, or Maine flora; or
(d) It has a geographic distribution and life requisites that would allow it to survive in Maine if accidentally or intentionally introduced into the wild; or
(e) It is included on the USFWS list of Injurious Species; or
(f) It is capable of inflicting serious bodily injury to humans; or
(g) It has unique requirements for housing or care that cannot be provided outside of professionally designed and operated facilities.
(2) Conditions and Restrictions: in order to import, possess, propagate, rehabilitate, or exhibit a Category 1 Restricted Species, the following conditions must be met, notwithstanding section 7.12:
(a) Permit Required: An applicant for a permit pertaining to Category 1 Restricted Species must be an exhibitor, wildlife rehabilitator; laboratory registered with the United States Department of Agriculture, or accredited research facility.
(b) Contact by the Public Prohibited: An applicant for a permit pertaining to Category 1 Restricted Species must not allow Category 1 Restricted Species to be accessible for handling or contact by the general public, unless specifically authorized by the department.
(c) Safety Measures: An applicant for a permit pertaining to Category 1 Restricted Species must maintain the Category 1 Restricted Species under conditions that give the owner or keeper exclusive control over them at all times as to prevent loss or risk of injury to the public;
(d) Credentials Required: An applicant for a permit pertaining to Category 1 Restricted Species must submit documentation to verify a minimum of one year of practical husbandry or a minimum of 100 hours of experience, training or apprenticeship in the care, feeding, handling and husbandry of the Category 1 Restricted Species to be possessed or of another species that is substantially similar to the species to be possessed in size, characteristics, care and nutritional requirements. A Bachelor of Science or higher degree in a relevant biological science, obtained at an accredited institution of higher learning, may be substituted for 50 hours of experience or apprenticeship. Documentation shall consist of: a description of the specific experience acquired; the date and time the experience was obtained and the specific locations where acquired; and a minimum of two references from a professional organization such as a university, zoological association, or governmental institution.
(e) Emergency Plan: A written emergency plan must be submitted with the application for use in the event of occurrences such as: severe damage to enclosures due to fire, wind, or floods; animals attacking and /or injuring humans, other animals or property; the escape of any animal in captivity; and absence, illness, or death of the owner or keeper. The plan must include:
(i) An updated list of the Category 1 Restricted Species in captivity;
(ii) The availability of capture equipment and weapons with specific instructions as to the precise circumstances under which dangerous wildlife are to be destroyed.
(iii) Contingencies for the maintenance or disposition of all Restricted Species covered by the permit in the event of the owner or keeper’s absence, illness, or death.
(iv) The plan must be made available for inspection upon the request of a law enforcement officer, firefighter, department representative or Animal Control Officer.
B. Category 2 Restricted Species
(1) Criteria: The commissioner, in consultation with the technical committee shall consider the following criteria to determine whether a species will be listed as a Category 2 Restricted Species:
(a) It does not meet the criteria of a Prohibited Species or Category 1 Restricted Species and when:
(b) It requires special housing or care that cannot be provided by persons without training or experience; or
(c) It requires a special commitment to ensure proper care and welfare.
(2) Conditions and Restrictions: In order to import, possess, propagate, rehabilitate, or exhibit a Category 2 Restricted Species, the following conditions must be met, notwithstanding section 7.12:
(a) Permit Required: An applicant for a permit pertaining to a Category 2 Restricted Species must be an exhibitor, rehabilitator, laboratory registered with the United States Department of Agriculture, accredited research facility, or an individual with demonstrated experience with the care and husbandry of the species for which a permit is requested or a species which is substantially similar to the species for which a permit is requested;
(b) Safety Measures: An applicant for a permit pertaining to a Category 2 Restricted Species must maintain the animal under conditions that give the owner or keeper exclusive control over them at all times as to prevent loss or risk of injury to the public;
(c) Maintenance Plan: An applicant for a permit pertaining to a Category 2 Restricted Species must submit a plan for the maintenance or disposition of all Category 2 Restricted Species in the event of the owner or keeper’s absence, illness, or death;
(d) Credentials Required: An applicant for a permit pertaining to a Category 2 Restricted Species must submit documentation to verify a minimum of one year of practical husbandry or a minimum of 100 hours of experience, training or apprenticeship in the care, feeding, handling and husbandry of the species to be possessed or of another species that is substantially similar to the species to be possessed in size, characteristics, care and nutritional requirements. A Bachelor of Science or higher degree in a relevant biological science, obtained at an accredited institution of higher learning, may be substituted for 50 hours of experience or apprenticeship. Documentation shall consist of: a description of the specific experience acquired; the date and time the experience was obtained and the specific locations where acquired; and a minimum of two personal references.
- Unclassified Species: A person may not possess any species that has not been categorized.
Any species which has not been identified as a Prohibited, Restricted, or Unrestricted species will not be eligible for a permit under this chapter, however a request may be made to review the categorization of a species subject to section 7.06(5).
- Requests to Review or Change the Categorization of a Species: must be made on application forms provided by the department. Applicants shall bear the burden of proof in proving that a species belongs in the requested category. Applications submitted with supporting documentation are evaluated by the commissioner or commissioner’s designee and the Technical Committee.
A. Commissioner’s Evaluation Criteria for Review of Requests to Change Categorization of a Species: Considering the recommendations of the Technical Consulting Committee, which are advisory in nature, the commissioner may change the status of a species according to the criteria established in this section.
B. Notification: When the commissioner approves or denies a request for review of categorization, a written notification will be sent to the applicant. When the commissioner denies a request, the department will advise the individual or entity making the request of the basis for the denial.
7.07 Permit Types
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Importation Permit: The commissioner may issue an importation permit to a person or institution, pursuant to 12 M.R.S. §12152, to import wildlife in the State. No species of wildlife, except those listed by the commissioner as Unrestricted or those which are in continuous transit through Maine as provided within 7.11, shall be imported into the State of Maine without a Wildlife Importation Permit issued by the commissioner. For the purpose of this regulation, importation includes transporting or relocating into Maine either on a permanent or temporary basis, any regulated wildlife by any means including the subsequent possession of other vertebrates not subject to the wildlife definition pursuant to 12 M.R.S. §10001.
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Exhibition Permit: The commissioner may issue an exhibition permit to a person or institution, pursuant to 12 M.R.S. §12152, for the purpose of keeping or possessing wildlife (except wolf hybrids) in captivity for commercial exhibition, attracting trade, or for educational purposes.
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General Possession Permit for Category 2 Species: The commissioner may issue a general possession permit to a person or institution, pursuant to 12 M.R.S. §12152, to possess a Category 2 Species that requires special housing or care.
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Rehabilitation Permit: The commissioner may issue a rehabilitation permit to a person or institution, pursuant to 12 M.R.S. §12152, to possess debilitated or orphaned wildlife for the purpose of restoring them to full health and release to the wild, or to be humanely euthanized.
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Research Permit: The commissioner may issue a research permit, pursuant to 12 M.R.S. §12152 which allows the holder to import and possess wildlife that is endangered or threatened or presents a risk to humans or that requires special housing or care to conduct scientific research or to use for educational purposes.
7.08 Application Procedures for All Permits
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Age of Applicants: Applicants must be 18 years of age or older.
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Application Process
A. Applications for permits to import, possess, propagate, rehabilitate, or exhibit a Restricted Species shall be made on application forms provided by the department.
B. The department will review the application and respond to the applicant with its decision or to request additional information. Decisions will usually be provided within 45 days of the submission of the application.
C. The department will conduct a preliminary review of the application to determine if the applicant meets the basic criteria for the issuance of the permit requested.
D. A site inspection of the facility where the wildlife will be kept may be required before a permit is issued (see section 7.09).
E. The department may issue a conditional approval that requires the applicant to meet additional criteria before a final permit is issued.
F. When a species is intended to be used for the production of agricultural products defined in 7 M.R.S., but is ordinarily considered wildlife pursuant to 12 M.R.S., the permitting authority for that species resides with DIFW and that species is subject to the classifications described in this Chapter 7: Rules for Importation, Possession, Propagation, Rehabilitation, and Exhibition of Wildlife . Any wildlife species proposed for use in agricultural production which has not been identified as a Prohibited, Restricted, or Unrestricted species may be reviewed upon request for classification by consult between DACF and DIFW. The resulting classification of a wildlife species may be referred to the Technical Committee for review pending mutual agreement of the agents of the commissioners for both DACF and DIFW. Agritourism as it relates to the exhibition of exotic wildlife will continue to be regulated by the Department pursuant to 12 M.R.S. §12152 and this rule chapter.
- Permit Denial: The commissioner may deny a permit request when:
A. The applicant has failed to demonstrate that the purpose for which the permit is sought is legitimate under the law, or has failed to demonstrate that legitimate and appropriate methods for the keeping and care of the species would be utilized.
B. The applicant does not have appropriate facilities or has failed to satisfactorily demonstrate the capability and qualifications to perform the functions required.
C. The applicant has not met the conditions and requirements for issuance established in this Chapter.
D. The applicant has failed to disclose information required or has made false statements as to any material fact in connection with their application.
E. The applicant fails to comply with or respond to a notice of corrective action within the required timeframe. The notice of corrective action may apply to a condition that must be met in order for a permit to be issued, or to a condition that must be satisfied in order for a permit to be renewed.
F. The applicant has been adjudicated of a civil violation, or convicted of any crime relating to the activity for which the permit is sought.
G. The applicant, within the 10 years prior to applying for the permit, has been convicted under a criminal law involving cruelty to animals that is no longer in effect, or within 10 years prior to applying for the permit, has been adjudicated of a civil violation for cruelty to animals under 7 M.R.S. chapter 739 or has been convicted or adjudicated in any other state, provincial or federal court of a violation similar to those specified in this section.
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Notification: When the Commissioner approves or denies a permit request, a written notification will be sent to the applicant. The decision notice will state the reasons for the denial.
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Appeal Process: An applicant or permittee under this section who wishes to contest a decision of the department may request an administrative hearing in accordance with 5 M.R.S., chapter 375. The hearing request must be filed in writing to the commissioner within 10 days of receipt of the decision. If a hearing is held, the commissioner may consult with such experts and professionals as may be appropriate to substantiate issues of public health and safety, animal welfare, or other facts relevant to the department’s responsibilities under this chapter in making a decision.
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Transfer of Permits Prohibited ; Exception for Importation and Exhibition: Permits are non-transferable; except any person/s employed by or under contract to a permitted importer or exhibitor may carry out the authorized activity. A copy of the permit must be carried by the individual while conducting activities under the permittee's supervision.
7.09 Site Inspection
- Wildlife in Captivity Inspectors: The commissioner may designate Wildlife in Captivity Inspectors to carry out routine inspections of wildlife facilities in Maine that are under the Department’s jurisdiction, including required records.
A. A site inspection may be required prior to the issuance or renewal of any possession, exhibition, or rehabilitation permit. Exception: The commissioner may waive the requirement for a site inspection if a facility can provide proof of current accreditation by a recognized zoological association.
B. Completed inspection reports must be submitted to the department before a permit will be issued.
C. Permit applicants, except applicants for rehabilitation permits, are responsible for all costs associated with the inspection of their facility by Wildlife in Captivity Inspectors and must submit the completed inspection form to the department.
D. Department staff will inspect wildlife rehabilitation facilities at no cost to the permit holder.
- Department Personnel and Animal Welfare Agents: Inspections of wildlife facilities (including wildlife rehabilitators) and required records may be conducted by authorized department personnel and animal welfare agents at all reasonable times. Findings of inspections may be provided in writing to the permittee upon request.
7.10 Standard Conditions and Restrictions Governing All Wildlife in Captivity Permits
Species with Special Needs or Considerations: The commissioner may set special conditions on a permit to mitigate potential impacts on, or from, wildlife having special needs or considerations and to ensure the welfare of such wildlife and the public. These conditions may include housing and care requirements, microchipping of certain species or the prohibition of public contact.
The Commissioner may designate species that require microchipping or another identification system to facilitate identification of an animal’s owner in the event of an escape. The owner of any animal requiring such identification must maintain the identification equipment in working order and show proof of such upon renewal of a permit or as requested by the Department.
For some Category 1 restricted species (such as elephants) a facility that affords protected contact for the handlers may be required. The commissioner may also require certain animals to be spayed or neutered in order to prevent reproduction by the species when such reproduction would pose a risk to the wildlife or people or the State of Maine. The commissioner may seek the advice of experts on the species involved to provide for such special needs and to ensure the welfare of the wildlife.
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Federal Permit Requirements: If applicable, proof must be furnished of a valid federal wildlife possession or importation permit, and compliance with the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES).
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Display of Permit: All persons issued wildlife in captivity permits must display the permit at the location the animal is being housed and make the permit available for inspection by licensed Wildlife in Captivity Inspectors, department representatives and animal welfare agents.
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Records: The permit holder must maintain complete and accurate records for each Category 1 and Category 2 Restricted species in its possession. The records must identify:
A. The species, sex, age, of each animal;
B. Date of birth (if known), and date of acquisition;
C. If applicable, the name and address of any person who has previously possessed or currently possesses the animal, and the dates of transfer or loan of the animal. Transfers or loans for any purpose or duration, except those to an out of state entity, must be approved by the department in writing prior to the movement of the animal.
D. The date of the death, loss or transfer to another person of each animal;
E. The records required by this subsection must be kept in chronological order, for a minimum of five years after the date of death, loss, or transfer of any wildlife and the records must be made available for inspection at all reasonable times upon request of the commissioner or the commissioner’s designee, departmental representatives and animal welfare agents.
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Addition of New Species or Individuals Prohibited: The addition of any new species, or increase in the numbers of previously permitted species, except by birth, must be approved by the commissioner before they may be possessed or added to a valid permit under this Chapter. Any increase in the numbers of a previously permitted species that occurs through reproduction must be reported to the department within 30 days of birth.
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Security and Shelter: Wildlife held in captivity must be confined, contained, controlled, and sheltered in such a way as to protect it, and to protect property of others and the health and safety of the public.
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Health and Comfort
A. All wildlife held in outdoor enclosures must be provided with adequate shelter from inclement weather and direct sunlight. Each cage or enclosure must have shelter sufficient to simultaneously protect all wildlife contained therein.
B. All wildlife must be provided with living quarters that maintain a temperature meeting the biological needs of the animal. Wildlife housed indoors must be provided with appropriate lighting and humidity.
C. All wildlife must be provided with appropriate veterinary care including but not limited to care for injuries and for the control of contagious, parasitic, and nutritional diseases.
D. No wildlife may be chained or otherwise tethered to a stake, post, tree, building or any other anchorage at any time except for training or other controlled activities, for medical treatment or grooming of such animals or as otherwise provided herein. This condition does not apply to diurnal birds of prey.
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Sanitation: All cages and enclosures must be kept in a sanitary condition. Regular cleaning schedules must be maintained. Cages may not be stacked in such a way that excrement may enter lower enclosures.
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Food and Water: All permitted wildlife must be provided necessary sustenance. This includes:
A. An adequate supply of potable water that is made available in cages and enclosures for drinking, washing or other purposes necessary to the species being contained.
B Regular feeding schedules; the rations supplied must be adequate, nutritious, and so far as possible consistent with the food which is ordinarily eaten by such animals in the wild. Food must be sufficient to maintain good body condition, and age appropriate size and weight with a healthy appearance.
C. Areas used for the preparation and storage of food must be sufficiently clean to prevent contamination by pathogens or harmful substances. Meat, fish and fresh fruits and vegetables to be fed to animals must be properly refrigerated to prevent spoilage.
D. Food for animals must be stored in such a way as to prevent damage from weather, rodents, insects and animals.
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Notification: Pursuant to 12 M.R.S. §12152 a person who possesses a restricted species shall immediately notify law enforcement officials of any escape of the regulated animal whether the species was legally permitted or illegally possessed without a permit. The permit holder may also be subject to “cost of recovery” as described in 7.13.
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Handling Techniques: Handling of wildlife must be done as expeditiously and carefully as possible and in such a way as to avoid unnecessary discomfort, behavioral stress, or physical harm to the animal. Where permitted, handling of wildlife in public settings or displayed in advertising materials must demonstrate professional techniques and methods that consider public health and safety, the welfare of the animal, and an awareness of disease or parasite transmission.
7.11 Conditions and Requirements for Each Type of Wildlife in Captivity Permit
- Wildlife Importation Permit: The duration and fees associated with the permit are set forth within 12 M.R.S. 12152. In addition to the requirements described in 7.10, the following conditions and requirements apply:
A. Permit Not Required: A wildlife importation permit shall not be required for wildlife that is in continuous transit through Maine, so long as the wildlife is fully contained and transported in a manner that does not allow it to come into contact with humans, livestock, poultry, or native wildlife.
B. Eligible Wildlife: Only wildlife that has been bred in captivity is eligible for importation, unless otherwise authorized by the commissioner. Importation of native wildlife that has been captured from the wild may be permitted as part of an approved program to aid in the recovery of a threatened or endangered species.
C. Health Certificate: The applicant must furnish the commissioner with an interstate health certificate/certification of veterinary inspection and appropriate test results or statements about specific diseases. This certification must comply with the standards of the state of origin and issued by a veterinarian licensed in the state of origin. USDA accreditation of the veterinarian may be required for certain livestock and poultry disease testing. Information required on the health certificate must include:
(1) Common and scientific name(s) of species;
(2) Number to be imported;
(3) Name and address of consignor and consignee;
(4) Origin or shipment;
(5) Destination of shipment;
(6) Appropriate descriptions of animals by criteria such as sex, age, weight, coloration, tag numbers, brand, etc.
(7) A health certificate must be signed by a qualified veterinarian and the owner or owner's representative from the point of origin.
(8) The Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry and the Department of Health and Human Services has the authority to approve disease test procedures and serve as the state's representative in interpreting the results of all tests administered in compliance with importation statutes and regulations.
- Wildlife Exhibition Permit: The duration and fees associated with the permit are set forth within 12 M.R.S. §12152. In addition to the requirements described in 7.10, the following requirements and conditions apply:
A. Public Programs Required: Applicants must conduct public programs involving the exhibition of the wildlife subject to this section and in the exhibitor’s possession, and maintain documentation thereof. Such public programs must consist of at least forty programs or attendance by at least 500 members of the public within the first two years of obtaining an exhibition permit, and for every two years thereafter. The department may waive the requirement for public programs if the wildlife is exhibited as part of an accredited educational program.
B. Federal Permit: For purposes of importing or possessing mammals, applicants must submit a copy of a Class C (“exhibitor’s”) license issued by the United States Department of Agriculture pursuant to the Animal Welfare Act (7 USC 54), and a copy of the last inspection report signed and dated by the United States Department of Agriculture.
C. Employees: Assurance must be provided that a sufficient number of adequately trained employees or volunteers will be utilized to comply with these rules. Employees and volunteers must be at least of 18 years of age to work directly with Category 1 Restricted Species.
D. Insurance Required: Applicants must submit proof of holding at least $500,000 in general liability coverage.
E. Public Contact Restricted: For dangerous wildlife, barriers such as walls, fences, moats, retaining rails or other necessary devices must be present and adequate to prevent the public from approaching the cages, pens, enclosures or areas near enough to inadvertently make contact with the wildlife.
F. Signage: Signs must be conspicuously posted on permanent cages or enclosures, requesting that the public refrain from annoying animals.
G. Feeding: Unauthorized feeding of wildlife by the public is prohibited. Food must meet the standards set forth in these rules.
- General Possession Permit Category 2 Restricted Species: In addition to the requirements described in 7.10, the following requirements and conditions apply:
A. Native Species Prohibited: Possession of any Restricted Species that is native to Maine is prohibited.
B. Public Contact Restricted: No species may be allowed to roam freely outside a containment area, taken off the premises of the permittee, or taken into a public area, except for veterinary care, transfer to a person permitted for the possession of the species, or as may be otherwise approved by the commissioner. Wildlife must be controlled or contained at such times in order to prevent contact with the public.
- Wildlife Rehabilitation Permit: The duration and fees associated with the permit are set forth within 12 M.R.S. §12152. In addition to the requirements described in 7.10, the following requirements and conditions apply:
A. Species Prohibited: Rehabilitation of black bear, moose, white-tailed deer, wild turkey, species that are listed as Threatened or Endangered, and any species that is not native or naturalized to Maine is prohibited, except as authorized by the commissioner. Any wildlife rehabilitator may temporarily possess these species in order to provide emergency care that is required to stabilize the condition of an animal prior to a transfer to a rehabilitation facility that has been authorized by the commissioner to care for the species.
B. Examination Required: First time applicants must successfully complete an examination prescribed by the commissioner, which may include a written test, to show proficiency and knowledge in the area of wildlife husbandry and rehabilitation and the pertinent laws of the state and rules of the department. Exception: Applicants who have previously held a wildlife rehabilitation permit and are applying for a new permit will be required to take a written examination if they have not successfully passed an exam within the past 3 years. This requirement will also apply to permitted wildlife rehabilitators that have not actively rehabilitated wildlife within the past 3 years.
C. Credentials Required: Applicants must submit documentation to verify successful completion of a minimum of 100 hours of experience, training or apprenticeship at an approved facility in the care, feeding, handling, and rehabilitation of native wildlife species. A Bachelor of Science or higher degree in a relevant biological science, obtained at an accredited institution of higher learning, may be substituted for 50 hours of experience or apprenticeship. Documentation must consist of:
(1) A description of the specific experience acquired;
(2) The date and time the experience was obtained and the specific locations where acquired; and
(3) A minimum of two references from a professional organization, currently permitted wildlife rehabilitator, or governmental institution such as a university, zoological association, or federal agency;
D. Selection of Wildlife Rehabilitators Based on Department Need
Wildlife rehabilitation permits shall be issued by the Commissioner based on need, geographical location, ability to perform functions and services that address rehabilitative needs for that area. The need for additional wildlife rehabilitators shall be determined taking into consideration factors including, but not limited to:
(1) Number and location of other wildlife rehabilitators;
(2) Sick, injured or distressed wildlife response levels;
(3) Local human population density; and
(4) Ability to provide unique services or species care.
E. Authorized Activities: Persons to whom a permit is issued are authorized to engage in the activity specified in the permit for the prescribed time unless the permit is terminated. A rehabilitation permit does not provide for ownership of any wildlife by individuals or institutions, or for any other use of wildlife beyond that associated with the rehabilitation or approved educational use of the wildlife species involved. Wildlife possessed pursuant to a rehabilitation permit may not be sold, bartered, or traded, although the transfer of debilitated wildlife to another permittee for treatment or care is not prohibited. Non-releasable wildlife may not be transferred to other more appropriate facilities without prior permission from the department before a transfer occurs.
F. Volunteer Enlistment: Permittees that want to enlist the services of volunteers or interns to aid in the care and rehabilitation of wildlife may request authorization from the Department. Volunteers are defined as any person whom assists in the rehabilitative care at a permanent facility, either directly or indirectly. Authorization will be based on facility need, volume, and degree of risk involved, as well as subject to the following requirements:
(1) Animals will remain at the permitted facility.
(2) The Permittee will provide appropriate training relative to assigned duties;
(3) The Permittee will oversee all work conducted by authorized helpers;
(4) The Permittee will provide training and access to appropriate personal protective equipment;
(5) Volunteers will be informed of human health risks associated with handling wildlife, including recommending a pre-exposure rabies vaccination; and
(6) The Permittee will assume responsibility and liability for the actions (or non-actions) of any volunteer or staff as it relates to the care of wildlife in the permittee’s custody.
G. Sub-permittee Training Facility Eligibility. Permittees that want to enlist the services of a sub-permittee to aid in the care and rehabilitation of certain species may request authorization from the Department. Unless otherwise determined by the Department the following criteria must be met in order to be eligible to be an approved facility:
(1) A minimum of 1 year as a permitted wildlife rehabilitation;
(2) Completion of 8 hours annual continuing education (some examples: conferences, formal trainings, workshops);
(3) Endorsement by a district game warden or regional wildlife biologist;
(4) Clear record of abiding by standards and policy; and
(5) Timely submittal of annual reports and evaluation forms.
H. Sub-Permittee Enlistment: A sub-permittee is a non-permitted person, whom is capable of a greater range of responsibilities toward the care of wildlife under a permittee’s custody, or a permitted individual whom does not have their own facility to provide rehabilitative care. All authorized sub-permittees will be listed on the qualifying permit. Any changes in the status of sub-permittees assigned to a permit, must be communicated with the Department and a replacement permit shall be issued. In order to obtain Departmental approval, the permittee must meet the following criteria:
(1) Develop and submit to the Department, a written plan outlining the qualifications, training, selection, and monitoring of sub-permittees (special considerations must be addressed regarding care of Rabies Vector Species);
(2) Designate the animals that a sub-permittee is authorized to possess (Note: this will be limited to animals that do not require a federal permit, special permissions,);
(3) Inspect the facilities of the sub-permittee and assure that the sub-permittee’s facilities are in compliance with the minimum standards for that activity;
(4) Designate the duties that a sub-permittee is authorized to do;
(5) Sub-permittees will report all rehabilitative work done at the permittee’s facility in the permittee’s annual report. The sub-permittee would report any work done at their own facility, in their own separate report;
(6) The permittee is responsible for notifying the Department if a sub-permittee no longer works for their facility and a replacement permit will be issued.
I. Costs: The permit holder is responsible for the costs of rehabilitation, including food and shelter, veterinary care, any labor or consultation charges, transportation or any other costs or charges associated with the rehabilitation of wildlife. A permit holder may not charge any third party for such costs unless the permit holder is a licensed Maine veterinarian. Voluntary contributions to rehabilitation facilities or organizations may be accepted.
J. Minimum Standards: All rehabilitation activities must meet minimum standards as published by the International Wildlife Rehabilitation Council, and/or National Wildlife Rehabilitation Association.
K. Disposition of all Wildlife Subject to Rehabilitation: All wildlife subject to rehabilitation must be released to the wild at the earliest appropriate time, or humanely destroyed, and may not be kept in captivity beyond 6 months. The commissioner may, upon request, extend this time period or authorize the transfer of non-releasable wildlife to another facility for long-term care. All wildlife that is released into the wild must be released within 10 miles of the location where it was captured, unless otherwise authorized by the commissioner.
L. Dependency on Humans: All practicable measures must be taken to prevent wildlife dependency on humans.
M. Records; Reports and Permit Renewal: The permit holder must maintain complete and accurate records of any activity conducted pursuant to such permit. A report of these activities must be submitted to the commissioner within 30 days following permit expiration or with request for renewal. Report forms may be provided by the commissioner.
N. Threatened or Endangered Species: Notification must be made to the department within 48 hours if the permit holder takes possession of an animal that is included on the Maine Endangered Species or Threatened Species list.
O. Public Viewing: Wildlife rehabilitators may request authorization from the commissioner to allow public viewing of wildlife contained in their facility for educational purposes.
- Research Permit: The permit applicant shall submit an animal care and use policy.
7.12 Exceptions and Conditions for Specific Restricted Species
- Exception for Possession Permits for Non-human Primates: Capuchin monkeys (primates in the Genus Cebus and Sapajus) may be possessed by individuals if the following conditions are met:
A. The applicant/permit holder demonstrates a legitimate need for physical aide from a primate, and the animal in question is specifically trained for such purposes, or the applicant must be providing foster care or training for the primate under direction or supervision of a recognized authority for same;
B. The animal is supplied by, or approved by, a recognized institution or organization specializing in such use of primates;
C. The primate held in captivity for said purposes is vaccinated as may be prescribed by a qualified veterinarian or public health official, and is prevented at all times from direct contact with the public in such a way that physical injury or disease transmission may occur.
Wildlife in the Family Cervidae: Rehabilitators must contact the Department upon the death of any adult animal in the family Cervidae. Other permit holders must submit the head of any species in the family Cervidae to the Department of Agriculture, Conservation, and Forestry for disease testing upon death of the animal.
Wolf Hybrids: No Wolf Hybrid may be permitted under this chapter unless the applicant has first presented proof from a licensed veterinarian that:
A. The wolf hybrid has been permanently identified in accordance with 7 M.R.S. §3921-A;
B. The wolf hybrid has been spayed or neutered; and
C. All other criteria for a Wildlife Possession Permit have been met.
Disposition of Wolf Hybrid at large
A. Owner of wolf hybrid located. If a wolf hybrid at large is licensed under 7 M.R.S. §3922, §3-B or 12 M.R.S. §12152 or its owner can otherwise be identified and located, an animal control officer or person acting in that capacity shall take the wolf hybrid to its owner and may issue citations for violations of 7 M.R.S. §3911-B.
B. Unable to locate owner. In the event owner of record cannot be located, an animal control officer or person acting in that capacity shall take the wolf hybrid to the animal shelter designated by the respective municipality in which the wolf hybrid was found. An animal shelter that accepts a wolf hybrid under this subsection is entitled to receive from the department the sum of $4 a day for the period for which food and shelter are furnished, not to exceed 6 days. The wolf hybrid will be held for 6 days during which the owner may reclaim the animal provided it is sufficiently demonstrated that animal is/will be properly licensed under 7 M.R.S. or 12 M.R.S. Upon expiration of the 6-day period, ownership of the wolf hybrid is vested in the shelter. The animal shelter shall:
(1) Transfer ownership of the wolf hybrid to a person holding a permit to possess wildlife under 12 M.R.S. §12152 who is authorized to accept wolf hybrids in compliance with rules adopted under 12 M.R.S. §12160(2) or,
(2) After keeping the wolf hybrid for 8 days, euthanize the wolf hybrid humanely in accordance with 17 M.R.S. Chapter 42, subchapter 4.
7.13 Costs of recovery
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Escape of Restricted Species: Restricted Species that have escaped the permit holder’s holding facilities and/or control, and that are determined by the commissioner to be detrimental to public safety, native fish and wildlife habitat, or any of the state’s fish and wildlife resources by threat of predation, the spread of disease, habitat competition, interbreeding with native fish or wildlife, or other significant damage, may be seized, captured or, where necessary, destroyed by the department, or any law enforcement officer, for the purpose of protecting and preserving Maine’s fish and wildlife and their environment. The commissioner may consider such escaped wildlife to be a public nuisance and seek to hold the permit holder thereof responsible for any costs incurred in recovering, holding, testing for disease, or disposing of such wildlife, as well as any damages to the state's wildlife resources. Pursuant to M.R.S. §12152 a person may be charged for failing to notify law enforcement of an escape of a prohibited species whether permitted or held illegally without a permit.
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Financial Security: Prior to issuing a permit, the commissioner may require that a bond or other financial security for the potential costs associated with the recovery, handling or disposition of any permitted wildlife be posted. Such bond, if required, must be maintained in force until the disposition of the animals has been approved by the department.
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Confiscation: The permit holder shall be responsible for all costs incurred by the state resulting from the necessary confiscation of animals from the premises of the permit holder or as the result of the revocation of the permit.
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Wildlife That Are Illegally Possessed: Restricted Species that are illegally possessed may be seized, captured or, where necessary in cases of disease, public health, human safety, or threats to the state’s fish and wildlife, destroyed by the department. The owner thereof shall be responsible for any costs incurred in recovering, holding, testing for disease, or disposing of illegally possessed wildlife, as well as any damages to the state's fish and wildlife resources, under appropriate law. Pursuant to 12 M.R.S. §10503-6 a court may render judgment against the person illegally possessing wildlife to cover costs incurred to remove or euthanize the fish or wildlife possessed without a permit.
7.14 Complaints
Complaints pertaining to wildlife in captivity will be investigated and findings associated with that investigation may be considered at the time of permit renewal. If warranted a permit may be suspended or terminated in accordance with 12 M.R.S §10902. Any termination or suspension of a permit may be appealed in accordance with the administrative hearing procedures described above.
7.15 Penalties
Any violation of these rules and regulations or the conditions of any wildlife in captivity permit may subject the permit holder to the following:
A. Civil or criminal penalties as provided for in law.
B. Revocation of any wildlife in captivity permit issued by the department. When revoked, permits must be surrendered to the commissioner. When a permit is revoked and the appeal period has expired, the permit holder will be required to transfer any wildlife held under the permit to another permitted facility under a plan approved by the department.
C. Suspension of permit: when a permit is suspended the department will notify the permit holder of any conditions that must be corrected and when a follow-up inspection will be conducted to assure those conditions have been met before the permit may be re-instated.
D. Confiscation of any restricted wildlife species in the possession of the violator.
E. Suspension of public visitation to any wildlife exhibition facility until such time as the violation is remedied.
7.16 Transition and Grandfathering Provisions for Current Permit Holders
Any person or organization who, on the effective date of these rules, holds a valid permit to import, possess, exhibit, or rehabilitate wildlife and who meets the housing requirements described in Department Rule Chapter 7 as of August 1, 2016, has until January 1, 2018 to comply with the provisions contained in section 7.17. Any person or organization who, on the effective date of these rules, holds a valid permit to import, possess, exhibit, or rehabilitate wildlife, has until January 1, 2018 to comply with the provisions contained in sections 7.06(3)A(2), 7.06(3)B(2), 7.11(2)A, and 7.11(5)F. Compliance with these sections is required prior to any request to add new individuals or species to an existing permit. All permit holders that legally possess a Prohibited or Restricted Species as of the effective date of these rules, but who do not comply with the provisions contained in sections 7.06(3)A(2), 7.06(3)B(2), 7.11(2)A, and 7.11(5)F by January 1, 2018, will be authorized by the commissioner to retain the individual animals currently in their possession until such time that the animal dies, however the commissioner may place conditions on their permit to ensure the welfare of the animal or to protect native wildlife, domestic animals, or the public. Conditions may include requiring the animals to be tattooed or microchipped. Any offspring that are born to Prohibited or Restricted species that are in the possession of a permit holder through this grandfathering clause must be euthanized or transferred to another facility approved by the department.
7.17 Care and Housing Requirements
Unless otherwise specified, the department shall require minimum caging requirements for individual restricted species as described within the Zoological Association of America’s Animal Care & Enclosure Standards and Related Policies 2016 Version, Section 5 through 7. The requirements can be located at: www.zaa.org.
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Wildlife rehabilitators must comply with the minimum housing requirements published by the International Wildlife Rehabilitation Council and/or National Wildlife Rehabilitation Association.
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The commissioner may require additional or more specific housing or care requirements for individual permits as necessary.
7.18 Species Lists
- Prohibited Species: See 7.06(2) for exceptions for research institutions.
A. Monk parakeet (Myiopsitta monachus);
B. Mute swan (Cygnus olor);
- Category 1 Restricted Species: The following species are listed as Category 1 Restricted species, unless they are identified in another category in this Chapter or are on the Unrestricted List:
A. Any wildlife listed by the USFWS as an injurious species within 50 CFR 16 Injurious Wildlife (http://www.fws.gov/injuriouswildlife/pdf_files/Current_Listed_IW.pdf)
B. Any species listed in CITES Appendix I ( https://cites.org/eng/app/appendices.php )
C. Any species listed as threatened or endangered by the USFWS
D. Amphibia (Amphibians) - Captive Bred Origin Only
Hymenochirus curtipes Western Dwarf Clawed Frog
Mantella aurantiaca Golden Mantella
Mantella bernhardi Bernhard's Mantella
Mantella crocea Yellow Mantella
Mantella viridis Green Mantella
Xenopus laevis African Clawed Frog
E. Aves (Birds)
All pet birds including federally regulated birds brought into this state, must be obtained from companies that are registered with the Maine Department of Agriculture. Birds must be identified as having a health certificate when importing the following birds from out of state, regardless of the purpose. The birds must have current VS 9-3 or VS 9-2 form certifying that the birds come from a flock participating in the Nation Poultry Improvement Plan (NPIP). For more information on importing domesticated game birds and examples of the required forms please visit the Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry’s website: http://www.maine.gov/dacf/ahw/animal_health/documents/Importationoflivegamebirdsetc.pdf
Cyanoliseus patagonus Burrowing Parrot
Dacelo novaeguineae Laughing Kookaburra
Enicognathus ferrugineus Austral Parakeet
Enicognathus leptorhynchus Slender-billed Parakeet
Family Anatidae All Species in Family Anatidae (Ducks, Geese, and Swans)
Family Bucerotidae All Species in Family Bucerotidae (Hornbills)
Family Casuariidae All Species in Family Casuariidae (Cassowaries and Emu)
Family Ciconiidae All Species in Family Ciconiidae (Storks)
Family Columbidae All Species in Family Columbidae (Pigeons and Doves)
Family Coraciidae All Species in Family Coraciidae (Rollers)
Family Corvidae All Species in Family Corvidae (Crows, Jays, and Magpies)
Family Cracidae All Species in Family Cracidae (Chachalacas, Curassows, Guans)
Family Gruidae All Species in Family Gruidae (Cranes)
Family Musophagidae All Species in Family Musophagidae (Turacos)
Family Phasianidae All Species in Family Phasianidae (Pheasants, Grouse, and Allies)
Family Phoenicopteridae All Species in Family Phoenicopteridae (Flamingos)
Family Psophiidae All Species in Family Psophiidae (Trumpters)
Family Ramphastidae All Species in Family Ramphastidae (Toucans)
Family Spheniscidae All Species in Family Spheniscidae (Penguins)
Family Strigopidae All Species in Family Strigopidae (New Zealand Parrots)
Family Sturnidae All Species in Family Sturnidae (Starlings)
Lybius dubius Bearded Barbet
Order Accipitriformes All Species in Order Accipitriformes (Hawks, Eagles, Vultures, and Allies)
Order Charadriiformes All Species in Order Charadriiformes (Waders, Gulls, and Auks)
Order Falconiformes All Species in Order Falconiformes (Falcons)
Order Otidiformes All Species in Order Otidiformes (Bustards)
Order Pelecaniformes All Species in Order Pelecaniformes (Pelicans, Herons, Ibises, and Allies)
Order Strigiformes All Species in Order Strigiformes (Owls)
Struthio camelus Common Ostrich
F. Mammalia (Mammals)
Callosciurus prevostii Prevost's Squirrel
Choloepus hoffmanni Hoffmann's Two-toed Sloth
Coendou prehensilis Brazilian Porcupine
Cynomys ludovicianus Black-tailed Prairie Dog
Dasyprocta aguti Red-rumped Agouti
Dasypus novemcinctus Long-nosed Armadillo
Family Antilocapridae All Species in Family Antilocapridae (Pronghorn and Relatives)
Family Aplodontiidae All Species in Family Aplodontiidae (Mountain Beavers)
Family Bovidae All Species in Family Bovidae (Bovids)
Family Canidae All Species in Family Canidae (Canids)
Family Castoridae All Species in Family Castoridae (Beavers)
Family Cervidae All Species in Family Cervidae (Deer)
Family Elephantidae All Species in Family Elephantidae (Elephants)
Family Equidae All Species in Family Equidae (Horses, Zebras, and Asses)
Family Felidae All Species in Family Felidae (Cats)
Family Giraffidae All Species in Family Giraffidae (Giraffids)
Family Hippopotamidae All Species in Family Hippopotamidae (Hippopotamuses)
Family Hyaenidae All Species in Family Hyaenidae (Hyenas)
Family Macropodidae All Species in Family Macropodidae (Kangaroos, Wallabies, and Allies)
Family Mustelidae All Species in Family Mustelidae (Badgers, Otters, Weasels, and Relatives)
Family Odobenidae All Species in Family Odobenidae (Walruses)
Family Otariidae All Species in Family Otariidae (Eared Seals)
Family Phocidae All Species in Family Phocidae (True Seals)
Family Rhinocerotidae All Species in Family Rhinocerotidae (Rhinoceroses)
Family Suidae All Species in Family Suidae (Pigs, including but not limited to Eurasian Wild Boar, Sus scrofa).
Family Tapiridae All Species in Family Tapiridae (Tapirs)
Family Viverridae All Species in Family Viverridae (Civets and Allies)
Hystrix cristata Crested Porcupine
Monodelphis domestica Gray Short-tailed Opossum
Order Cetacea All Species in Order Cetacea (Whales, Dolphins, and Porpoises)
Order Chiroptera All Species in Order Chiroptera (Bats)
Order Primates All Species in Order Primates (Primates)
Order Sirenia All Species in Order Sirenia (Sea Cows)
Orycteropus afor Aardvark
Potos flavus Kinkajou
Prionodon spp. All Species in Genus Prionodon (Asiatic Linsangs)
Tamandua tetradactyla Southern Tamandua
G. Reptilia (Reptiles) - Captive Bred Origin Only
Boiga irregularis Brown Treesnake
Chilabothrus inornatus Puerto Rican Boa
Chilabothrus subflavus Jamaican Boa
Cyclura nubila lewisi Grand Cayman Blue Iguana
Drymarchon corais couperi Eastern indigo snake
Eunectes spp. All Species in Genus Eunectes
Family Elapidae All Species in Family Elapidae (Cobras, Coral Snakes, Elapids, Kraits)
Family Helodermatidae All Species in Family Helodermatidae (Beaded Lizards)
Family Viperidae All Species in Family Viperidae (Vipers)
Gopherus Polyphemus Gopher Tortoise
Lampropeltis herrerae Isla Todos Santos King Snake
Morelia amethistina Amethystine Python
Morelia kinghorni Scrub Python
Nerodia clarkii Atlantic Salt Marsh Snake
Order Crocodilia All Species in Order Crocodilia (Crocodilians)
Pelodiscus sinensis Chinese softshell turtle
Pituophis ruthveni Louisiana Pine Snake
Python molurus Indian Python
Python natalensis Southern African Rock Python
Python reticulatus Reticulated Python
Python sebae Northern African Rock Python
Terrapene carolina Common Box Turtle
Terrapene carolina major Gulf Coast Box Turtle
Terrapene carolina triunguis Three-toed Box Turtle
Trachemys scripta Pond Slider
Trachemys scripta elegans Red-eared Slider
- Category 2 Restricted Species: The following species are listed as Category 2 Restricted species, unless they are identified in another category in this Chapter or are on the Unrestricted List:
Amphibia (Amphibians) - Captive Bred Origin Only
Anura ( Frogs and Toads)
Phyllobates terribilis Golden Poison Frog
Phyllobates vittatus Golfo Dulce Poison-dart Frog
Rhinella marina Cane Toad
Caudata ( Salamanders)
Ambystoma mexicanum Axolotl
B. Aves (Birds) - All pet birds including federally regulated birds, including finches and parrots brought into this state, must be obtained from companies that are registered with the Maine Department of Agriculture. Birds identified with a Health certificate is required: Anyone who will be importing the following birds from out of state, regardless of the purpose must have a current VS 9-3 or VS 9-2 form certifying that the birds come from a flock participating in the Nation Poultry Improvement Plan (NPIP).
Passeriformes ( Perching Birds)
Zosterops japonicas Japanese White-eye
C. Mammalia(Mammals)
Artiodactyla (Even-toed Ungulates)
Family Camelidae All Species in Family Camelidae (Camels and Llamas)
Carnivora (Carnivores)
Arctictis binturong Binturong
Genetta spp. All Species in Genus Genetta (Genets)
Nasua narica White-nosed Coati
Nasua South American Coatimundi
Nasuella olivacea Mountain Coati
Rodentia (Rodents)
Family Caviidae All Species in Family Caviidae (Cavies)
D. Reptilia (Reptiles) - Captive Bred Origin Only
Sauria (Lizards)
Cyclura cornuta Rhinoceros Iguana
Iguana Green Iguana
Nephrurus deleani Pernatty knob-tail
Varanus albigularis Rock Monitor
Varanus panoptes Argus Monitor
Varanus salvadorii Crocodile Monitor
Varanus salvator Common Water Monitor
Varanus togianus Togian Water Monitor
Serpentes (Snakes)
Charina spp. All Species in Genus Charina (Rubber Boas)
Elaphe schrenckii Russian ratsnake
Hydrodynastes gigas Brazillian Smooth Snake
Liasis olivaceus Olive Python
Nerodia paucimaculata Concho Water Snake
Pantherophis gloydi Eastern Fox Snake
Testudines (Turtles and Tortoises) ; must be a minimum 4" diameter.
Geochelone sulcate African Spurred Tortoise
Kinosternon flavescens Yellow Mud Turtle
Macrochelys spp. All Species in Genus Macrochelys (Alligator Snapping Turtles)
Malaclemys terrapin Northern Diamondback Terrapin
Terrapene ornate Ornate Box Turtle
History
- STATUTORY AUTHORITY: 12 MRS §§ 10104, 12152
- EFFECTIVE DATE: June 6, 1979 (7.01 - 7.07) - as "Regulations for Roadside Menageries"
- EFFECTIVE DATE: July 25, 1979 (7.08 - 7.11) - as "Regulations for Wild Animals in Captivity"
- AMENDED: January 30, 1981
- AMENDED: March 21, 1982
- AMENDED: June 9, 1986 - Section 13 (REPEALED)
- AMENDED: November 8, 1987 - Part III
- AMENDED: December 1, 1991
- AMENDED: November 20, 1996
- NON-SUBSTANTIVE CHANGES: February 2, 1999 - converted to Microsoft Word.
- REPEALED AND REPLACED: December 23, 2001 - as "Regulations for Wildlife in Captivity"
- AMENDED: July 2, 2012 – language on wolf hybrids, filing 2012-187
- REPEALED AND REPLACED: August 30, 2016 – filing 2016-144, as “Rules for Importation, Possession, Propagation, Rehabilitation and Exhibition of Wildlife”
- CORRECTION: November 15, 2017 – bracket removed from E. on page 15
- AMENDED: January 8, 2018 – filing 2018-003
- AMENDED: February 18, 2020 – filing 2020-025
- AMENDED: February 23, 2021 – filing 2021-040
Chapter 8 Endangered Species
Code Me. R. 09-137 Ch. 8 Endangered Species {#sec-09-137-ch.-8 omnilex-key=us-me-regs-official--dept-inland-fisheries-and-wildlife--09-137 Ch. 8}
8.01 Agency Jurisdiction
A. The Commissioner has the authority to recommend to the Legislature the designation of any species of fish or wildlife found in the State (12 M.R.S.A. §12803) as Endangered [12 M.R.S.A.) §10001 (19)] or Threatened (12 M.R.S.A. §10001 (63)] in accordance with the provisions of the Maine Endangered Species Act (12 MRSA §12804). The Legislature has sole authority to designate a species as Endangered or Threatened.
B. ( Repealed )
8.02 Designation of Endangered and Threatened Species
A. In determining whether a species meets one or more of the standards for designating a species as Endangered or Threatened as listed in 12 M.R.S.A. §12803, qualifications for consideration for listing, population guidelines for risk of extinction in Maine, and other factors will be considered. For the purposes of this chapter, "species" will mean "species" or "subspecies" and "populations" will mean all individuals of the species, statewide.
- Qualifications for Consideration for Listing
A species may only be recommended for listing as a state Endangered or Threatened species if it meets all of the following qualifications:
a. It is a species of mammal, bird, fish, amphibian, reptile, or invertebrate wild by nature as distinguished from domestic species;
b. It is an indigenous species to Maine, meaning it is not an exotic deliberately or accidentally introduced into Maine, the United States, or North America;
c. It is a species that spends some portion of its annual cycle in Maine, including breeding, migration, or wintering, but is not a vagrant or accidental visitor;
d. It is a species that has not expanded into Maine within the past 50 years as part of a general range expansion, unless it historically occurred in Maine or is threatened or declining throughout a significant portion of its total range;
e. It is a species that has not been reintroduced into Maine as part of an experimental wildlife management program, unless listing is part of the reintroduction plan; and
f. It is taxonomically classified no finer than a subspecies, unless federally Endangered or Threatened.
- Population Guidelines for Risk of Extinction
The following population characteristics, when available, will be considered by the Commissioner when recommending whether a species meets the definition of Endangered or Threatened as provided 12 M.R.S.A.) §10001 (19 and 63).
a. Population viability,
b. Population size,
c. Population trend,
d. Population distribution,
e. Population fragmentation, and
f. Endemism, meaning the species entirely or largely occurs only in Maine and immediate bordering jurisdictions.
- Other Factors
In addition to population guidelines (2) above, other factors, including range or habitat loss, disease, predation, over-utilization, inadequacy of regulations, and other natural or human-related factors as measured through observation, inference, or projection, will be considered when determining whether to recommend a species for listing as Endangered or Threatened as provided in 12 M.R.S.A.) §10001 (19 and 63).
4. Listing Handbook
The Department shall develop an “Endangered and Threatened Species Listing Handbook” that will provide scientifically based listing guidelines and criteria based on Sections A-1, 2, and 3 of this rule to guide the listing process.
B. Review of List
-
At least every 8 years, the Department shall initiate a review of the designation of species as Endangered or Threatened to determine if any species should be recommended to be added to, deleted from, or changed between the lists.
-
Requests to add, change, or remove species on the lists may be submitted to the Commissioner for review and recommendation no later than six months before the start of the next legislative session. Each request must include a completed and current “Maine Endangered and Threatened Species Listing Review Work Sheet” and scientific documentation that the species meets the criteria for an Endangered or Threatened species. Guidelines for completing the worksheet can be found in a current version of the “Maine Endangered and Threatened Species Listing Handbook.”
C. Prior to recommending an addition, deletion or other change to the Endangered and Threatened Species List, the Commissioner shall provide for public notice and public hearings on the proposed recommendation(s) in accordance with the provisions of Title 5, chapter 375, subchapter II.
8.03 Federally Listed Species (Repealed)
8.04 ( Repealed)
8.05 Essential Habitat for Species Designated as Endangered or Threatened
Maps identifying Essential Habitat entitled “Essential Habitat for Endangered and Threatened Species” will be submitted upon adoption.
The following areas, identified as currently or historically providing physical or biological features essential to the conservation of an Endangered or Threatened species and requiring special management considerations, and the management guidelines for the protection of these areas are adopted in accordance with the provisions of 12 M.R.S.A. §12804. The Commissioner has identified and mapped such habitats as depicted on the maps entitled "Essential Habitat for Endangered and Threatened Species," which incorporated herein.
(APA Office Note: the maps are available from the Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife, 284 State Street, 41 State House Station, Augusta, ME 04330-0041, phone (207) 287-5252. The latest index is at the end of this file.)
A. Bald Eagle Nest Site ( Repealed )
- (Repealed)
B. Roseate Tern Nesting Area
- Purpose
To provide special protection to maintain breeding habitat and to prevent disturbance, which may cause nesting failure of roseate terns. Protection is focused on the nesting area.
- Definitions
a. Nesting area. "Nesting area" means a locality encompassing an island or portion of an island used by at least one pair of nesting roseate terns.
b. Nesting. "Nesting" means the presence of one or more nests, eggs, chicks, or pairs of territorial adult terns between May 15 and August 15.
c. Project. "Project" means a planned undertaking, newly initiated or reinitiated.
- Designation Criteria
Roseate tern nesting areas identified and mapped by the Commissioner of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife as Essential Habitat must:
a. Have a record of at least one pair of nesting roseate terns since 1930,
b. Have suitable habitat as indicated by the presence of nesting common, arctic, or roseate terns in at least any 3 years since 1976, and
c. Be considered essential to the achievement of the Department's management goals and objectives for roseate terns.
Roseate tern nesting areas designated as Essential Habitat will be deleted if:
a. The nesting area has not been occupied by any nesting pairs of common terns, arctic terns, or roseate terns during the most recent 10 years, and the lack of occupancy is not related to predation or competition from other species, or to any human-related activity, or
b. The nesting area is no longer considered essential to the achievement of the Department's management goals and objectives for roseate terns.
- Protection Guidelines
a. Projects Prohibited Without the Commissioner's Approval
Any project requiring a permit or license from, or to be funded or carried out by, a state agency or municipal government partly or wholly within a Roseate Tern Nesting Area designated as Essential Habitat shall not be permitted, licensed, funded, or carried out unless the Commissioner determines that the activity will not significantly alter or unreasonably harm the Essential Habitat. Projects that may be affected include, but are not limited to: Subdivision of land or buildings, construction, installation, expansion, alteration or repair of permanent structures; agricultural management; mineral exploration and extraction; forest management; road projects and construction; shoreland alteration, utility construction; water crossing; water impoundment; dredging; aquaculture; conversion of seasonal dwelling; installation of subsurface wastewater disposal system; and issuance of an exemption of the minimum lot size requirement.
b. Exemptions
The following activities are exempted from the requirements of this paragraph.
(1) Projects limited to repairs, maintenance and alterations to the interior of an existing structure.
(2) Emergency repairs to existing structures and utilities which due to unforeseen circumstances require immediate action.
(3) Emergency activities which due to unforeseen circumstances require immediate action for public health or safety.
(4) Licenses and permits to operate or occupy a completed project.
(5) Projects that address the protection of the Essential Habitat and the Endangered and Threatened species and are conducted as part of a Department Wildlife Management Area Plan or Species Management Plan, or a Land Use Regulation Commission Resource Protection Plan (P‑RP) to which the Department is a party, provided that the parties of the agreement perform according to its terms.
- Significant Alteration of Habitat
In determining whether a project significantly alters or unreasonably harms essential nesting habitat, the following factors will be considered:
a. Magnitude and time of year of noise and human activity generated by the project.
b. Physical alteration to the landscape of the uplands, waters, and submerged lands.
c. Destruction of or alteration to key habitat components such as island vegetation, nesting and roosting substrate, and foraging areas.
d. Increase in disturbance by humans, and in predation or competition by other species.
e. Demonstrated tolerance of terns at the site to human activity and disturbance.
f. Reduction in the future suitability of the nesting area to nesting roseate terns.
C. Piping Plover and Least Tern Nesting, Feeding, and Brood-Rearing Areas
- Purpose
The purpose of Essential Habitat designation for Piping Plovers and Least Terns is to: 1) provide special protection to maintain nesting, feeding, and brood-rearing habitats essential to the conservation of these species; and 2) minimize human-related disturbance that can cause nesting failure of these species. Protection is focused on the coastal wetlands and coastal sand dune systems used by nesting Piping Plovers or Least Terns.
This rule is not intended to, and shall not be interpreted to: 1) preclude rebuilding of existing structures in accordance with implementation of the coastal sand dune regulations (38 M.R.S.A., Sec. 480-A (Q) and Chapter 355 of Department of Environmental Protection Rules), nor 2) preclude recreational uses in practice at the time an area was designated as Essential Habitat and that are otherwise allowed by law.
- Definitions
When used in this section, the following words and terms shall have the following meaning:
a. Nesting. "Nesting" means the presence of one or more nests, eggs, or chicks of Piping Plovers or Least Terns.
b. Nesting, feeding, and brood-rearing area. "Nesting, feeding, and brood-rearing area" means a locality encompassing portions of coastal wetlands and coastal sand dune systems (including subtidal, intertidal and beach and associated salt marshes and wetlands) used by at least one pair of nesting Piping Plovers or Least Terns.
c. Project. "Project" means a planned undertaking, newly initiated or reinitiated.
- Designation Criteria
Piping Plover and Least Tern nesting, feeding, and brood-rearing areas identified and mapped as Essential Habitat by the Commissioner of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife (IF&W) must be essential to the achievement of the Department’s management goals and objectives for Piping Plovers or Least Terns.
Piping Plover and Least Tern nesting, feeding, and brood-rearing areas designated as Essential Habitat will be deleted if:
a. The area has not been occupied by any nesting pairs of Piping Plovers or Least Terns during the most recent 10 years and the lack of occupancy is not related to predation or competition from other species, or to any human-related activity; or
b. The area is no longer considered essential to the achievement of the Department's management goals and objectives for Piping Plovers or Least Terns.
- Interpretation of Essential Habitat Area Boundaries
The following guidelines shall be used to interpret mapped Essential Habitat boundaries:
a. In shaded areas, boundary lines are delineated in greater detail on composite aerial photographs (see "Boundary Line Detail Photos for Piping Plover and Least Tern Essential Habitat", prepared in November, 1994 and August 2008) Copies of these photographs are available for viewing at town offices in affected municipalities; and Maine Department of Environmental Protection offices in Portland and Augusta and all Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife offices.
Outside of shaded areas, the lines on the maps indicate the boundaries. Where a line is solid, the line on the map determines the boundary, and the inside of the line is the edge of the boundary. Where a line is dashed, the boundary is determined by the edge of the coastal wetlands as defined by 38 M.R.S.A., Sect. 480-B. Cross-hatched areas are not part of the Essential Habitat.
b. Where a boundary line follows a seawall or similar protective structure, only the beach area on the seaward side is intended to be included within the Essential Habitat: neither the seawall itself nor the property behind it are part of the Essential Habitat.
- Protection Guidelines
a. Projects Prohibited Without the Commissioner's Approval
Any project requiring a permit or license from, or to be funded or carried out by, a state agency or municipal government partly or wholly within a Piping Plover and Least Tern nesting, feeding, and brood-rearing area designated as Essential Habitat shall not be permitted, licensed, funded or carried out unless the Commissioner determines that the project will not significantly alter the Essential Habitat.
Examples of projects that may be affected include, but are not limited to: subdivision of land or buildings; construction, installation, expansion, alteration or repair of permanent structures; mineral exploration and extraction; road projects and construction; dredging; bulldozing; removing or displacing soil, sand, vegetation, or other materials; draining or otherwise dewatering; filling, including adding sand or other material to a coastal sand dune; beach nourishment projects; dune restoration projects; utility construction; water crossing; water impoundment; aquaculture; installing of subsurface wastewater disposal system; and issuance of an exemption to the minimum lot size requirement.
Projects located wholly outside an area designated as Essential Habitat, regardless of whether some other portion of the lot or parcel of land is within the Essential Habitat, are not affected by this rule.
Licensed activities which are not considered projects and therefore are not affected by this rule include, but are not limited to: recreational hunting and fishing, shellfish harvesting, sulky driving, dog ownership, and motor vehicle and boat operation.
b. Exemptions
Within areas designated as Essential Habitat, the following projects are exempted from the requirements of this paragraph:
(1) Emergency repairs to existing utilities and structures, including roads and seawalls that, due to unforeseen circumstances, require immediate action and do not require a coastal sand dune permit under 38 M.R.S.A., Section 480‑A, §Q.
(2) Emergency activities that, due to unforeseen circumstances, require immediate action for public health or safety.
(3) Licenses and permits to operate or occupy a completed project.
(4) Projects limited to repairs, maintenance, and alterations to the interior of an existing structure.
(5) Projects that address the protection of the Essential Habitat and the Endangered or Threatened Species and are conducted as part of a Department Management Area Plan or Species Management Plan, or a Land Use Regulation Commission Resource Protection Plan (P-RP) to which the Department is a party, provided that the parties of the agreement perform according to its terms.
(6) Municipal licenses or permits for a project for which the Department, through another permitting process, has already found no significant alteration of the habitat or violation of protection guidelines for the Essential Habitat as currently mapped.
c. Review Process
For projects located partly or wholly within Essential Habitat as defined by 12 M.R.S.A. §12804-2 and this chapter, it is the responsibility of the state agency or municipality considering the permit or license application, or funding or carrying out the project, to obtain the Department's review. The Department will provide forms entitled Request for Project Evaluation. Upon receiving a completed Request for Project Evaluation, the Department will provide an evaluation of whether the project would significantly alter the Essential Habitat or violate the Department protection guidelines as set forth in 12 M.R.S.A. §12806-1. If the proposed project will significantly alter Essential Habitat or violate the protection guidelines, and if a variance is sought, the Commissioner will determine whether a certification of no significant risk to the population, as described in 12 M.R.S.A. §12806-2 can be issued.
- Significant Alteration of Habitat
In determining whether a project significantly alters essential nesting, feeding, and brood-rearing habitat for Piping Plovers and Least Terns, the following factors will be considered:
a. Magnitude and time of year of noise and human activity generated by the project;
b. Within the area designated as Essential Habitat, destruction, alteration, or degradation of a portion of a coastal wetlands or coastal sand dune system (including subtidal, intertidal, beach, associated salt marshes, and wetlands) which will adversely affect the Essential Habitat;
c. Increase in disturbance by humans and their pets, or increased predation (or attraction of predators) or competition from other species; and
Reduction in the future suitability of the nesting, feeding, and brood-rearing habitat for Piping Plovers and Least Terns.
8.06 Protection Guidelines and Broad Activity Exemptions for Bats
Definitions
When used in this section, the following words and terms shall have the following meaning:
Maternity roost trees - trees that have been used as roosts by female bats listed under 12 M.R.S. §12803, or their pups, between June 1 and July 31, as documented by the Department;
Subsurface winter hibernacula - natural caves or subterranean mines that are accessible for human entry and have been used by overwintering populations of bats listed under 12 M.R.S. §12803, as documented by the Department;
Tree removal - includes, but is not limited to, all forest management activities (harvesting and constructing roadways) by landowners or their agents, cutting or pruning of trees, and maintenance or expansion of existing rights-of-way for transportation or utility corridors; and
Unoccupied building - any building not currently used as a living space, work space, or as a place to congregate by people.
Protection Guidelines
Pursuant to 12 M.R.S. §12804(3), the following Protection Guidelines are established:
Tree removal is prohibited within 0.25 miles (0.4 km) of subsurface winter hibernacula without prior written approval by the Commissioner;
Tree removal is prohibited within 150 feet (45 m) of maternity roost trees during the period from June 1 to July 31 without prior written approval by the Commissioner;
All entry into subsurface winter hibernacula is prohibited during the period from October 1 to April 30 without prior written approval by the Commissioner;
Installation of materials to exclude bats listed under 12 M.R.S. §12803 from unoccupied buildings is prohibited during the period from June 1 to July 31 without prior written approval by the Commissioner;
Accidental mortality of bats listed under 12 M.R.S. §12803 that results from their removal from unoccupied buildings or the demolition of unoccupied buildings will be addressed with a “Widespread Activity Incidental Take Plan” (12 M.R.S. §12808-A(3)) developed by the Commissioner; and
Accidental mortality of little brown bats and eastern small-footed bats that results from the operation of wind turbines is best addressed by “Specific Activity Incidental Take Plans” (12 M.R.S. §12808-A (2)) customized to the unique circumstances at each facility and approved by the Commissioner.
Broad Activity Exemptions
Pursuant to 12 M.R.S. §12808-A(4), the following activities are exempt:
The removal, including lethal removal, and exclusion of bats listed under 12 M.R.S. §12803 from occupied buildings. Examples of best practices to remove and/or exclude bats from buildings are available from the Department;
The removal of hazard trees for the protection of human life and property;
Any cutting of trees that is compliant with the protection guidelines in 8.06(B); and
Accidental mortality of northern long-eared bats that results from the operation of wind turbines.
History
- STATUTORY AUTHORITY: 12 M.R.S. §§ 10104, 12803, 12804, 12808-A
- EFFECTIVE DATE: January 4, 1984 - Section 1
- AMENDED: January 17, 1987 – Section 1
- AMENDED: March 1, 1990 - Section 3
- AMENDED: March 11, 1991 - maps only
- AMENDED: March 1, 1992 - maps only
- AMENDED: March 24, 1993
- AMENDED: March 29, 1994 - added new Section 1, 2 & renumber previous Sections 1, 2 & 3
- AMENDED: May 23, 1994 - Sections 3, 4 & 5
- AMENDED: March 28, 1995 - maps only
- AMENDED: May 31, 1995 - Section 5(C)
- AMENDED: February 23, 1998 - Section 5 - added first sentence; 5(A)(3); converted to M.S. Word 2.0.
- AMENDED: October 29, 1998 - amended maps for existing Essential Habitat Site #PPLT 04 (Pine Point and Western Beach, Scarborough and Old Orchard Beach); added PPLT #11 (Fortunes Rocks Beach, Biddeford) and PPLT #12 (Scarborough Beach, Scarborough); added “List of Essential Habitat Maps and Their Current Effective Dates” as Appendix I. Maps are available from the Department.
- AMENDED: October 1, 1999 - replaced Appendix I, added Appendix II
- AMENDED: June 17, 2002 - maps only. added APA Office Note in Section 8.05
- AMENDED: April 19, 2003 - maps only, for bald eagles -- filing 2003-102
- AMENDED: August 15, 2004 - index only; APA Office Note refers users to Department for Index and maps. - filing 2004-315
- AMENDED: June 18, 2005 - index and maps; APA Office Note refers users to Department for Index and maps - filing 2005-315
- AMENDED: September 17, 2007 – index only - filing 2007-399
- AMENDED: December 5, 2009 – filing 2009-642
- AMENDED: April 5, 2010 – filing 2010-113
- AMENDED: April 8, 2017 – new Section 6, filing 2017-057
- AMENDED: APAO WORD VERSION CONVERSION (IF NEEDED) AND ACCESSIBILITY CHECK: July 17, 2025
- AMENDED: INDEX TO ESSENTIAL WILDLIFE HABITATS
- AMENDED: BY TOWN
- AMENDED: Effective January 2010
- AMENDED: TOWN NAME ESSENTIAL HABITAT ID#
- AMENDED: Addison RT021
- AMENDED: Biddeford PPLT11, RT001
- AMENDED: Bristol RT011
- AMENDED: Brooklin RT018
- AMENDED: Cape Elizabeth PPLT07, PPLT09, PPLT13, PPLT17
- AMENDED: Criehaven RT015, RT016
- AMENDED: Falmouth RT007
- AMENDED: Georgetown PPLT06, RT002, RT003, RT014
- AMENDED: Harpswell RT004, RT009
- AMENDED: Kennebunk PPLT02
- AMENDED: Kennebunkport PPLT03, RT006
- AMENDED: Matinicus Isle Plt RT012, RT013
- AMENDED: Milbridge RT020
- AMENDED: Ogunquit PPLT01
- AMENDED: Old Orchard Beach PPLT04, PPLT08, PPLT14, PPLT15
- AMENDED: Phippsburg PPLT05, RT002, RT003
- AMENDED: Saco PPLT08, RT005
- AMENDED: Scarborough PPLT04, PPLT09, PPLT12
- AMENDED: South Bristol RT010
- AMENDED: St. George RT017, RT022
- AMENDED: Wells PPLT01, PPLT02
- AMENDED: Winter Harbor RT019
- AMENDED: Yarmouth RT008
- AMENDED: PENOBSCOT NATION
- AMENDED: Tribal Lands
- AMENDED: (Repealed 12-5-2009 as part of filing 2009-642)
Chapter 9 General Snowmobile and ATV (All-terrain Vehicles) Regulations
Code Me. R. 09-137 Ch. 9 General Snowmobile Regulations {#sec-09-137-ch.-9 omnilex-key=us-me-regs-official--dept-inland-fisheries-and-wildlife--09-137 Ch. 9}
9.01 Dealer Plates
(REPEALED)
9.02 The Form and Manner for Displaying Registration Number and Validation Stickers
Resident Snowmobile
The resident registration number and suffix letter (when applicable) shall be painted or firmly attached to both sides of the cowling of each snowmobile in a color that is in marked and distinct contrast to the background to which the number is applied. The registration number and suffix letter (when applicable) which appears after the number must read from left to right with block character Arabic numbers and capital letter not less than one inch in height.
Validation stickers issued by the Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife shall be placed within 3 inches of the assigned registration number on both sides of the cowling of the snowmobile. The letters ME before the registration number need not be displayed. Duplicates for destroyed or lost stickers may be obtained for a fee of $1.00 per set.
Non-Resident Snowmobile
The non-resident snowmobile registration number will be printed on the registration stickers issued by the Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife. 1. The registration stickers must be attached to both sides of the cowling of the snowmobile. Only the most current set of registration stickers will be displayed on the snowmobile.
9.03 Reciprocity
A. In accordance with Title 12 MRSA Section 7824, sub-section 9, nonresident snowmobile owners who possess valid snowmobile registrations from the state, province, country, or district where they reside, may operate those snowmobiles in Maine without additional registration requirements provided that the state, province, country or district where they reside offers similar snowmobiling privileges to residents of Maine.
B. A state, province, country or district is considered to offer similar snowmobiling privileges to residents of Maine under the following circumstances:
-
The state, province, country or district has a snowmobile registration system;
-
The state, province, country, or district allows Maine residents to operate Maine registered snowmobiles without further registration requirements;
-
The state, province, country or district has a public snowmobile trail system which consists of at least 2,000 miles of trail or which borders Maine and interconnects directly with the Maine public snowmobile trail system, regardless of how the trail system is funded; and
-
The state, province, country, or district allows Maine residents to access the entire portion of the public snowmobile trail system without any type of trail fee, user fee, or required memberships.
C. (REPEALED)
9.04 Noise Limitations on Snowmobiles Manufactured After February 1, 1975
Pursuant to the provisions of Title 12 MRSA Section 1978, subsection 6, no snowmobile manufactured after February 1, 1975 may be sold or offered for sale by any manufacturer, distributor or dealer in the State of Maine unless such snowmobile is constructed so as to limit total vehicle noise to not more than 78 decibels of sound pressure at 50 feet on the A scale as measured by the SAE Standards J-192a and proof of compliance with the foregoing requirement in the form of either (i) an "SSCC" label conspicuously attached showing certification by the Snowmobile Safety Certification Committee, Inc. that such snowmobile meets the State's minimum noise standards or (ii) by a letter with test results submitted to the Commissioner of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife showing an evaluation of the noise level by a competent independent testing laboratory and showing or certifying that such snowmobile meets the State's minimum noise standards.
9.05 Antique Snowmobiles Exempt from Display of Registration Numbers and Validation Stickers
Antique snowmobiles registered in accordance with Title 12, MRSA, Section 7824, are exempt from the provisions of section 9.02 of these rules regarding the display of registration numbers and validation stickers.
"Antique snowmobile" means any snowmobile more than 20 years old which is maintained solely for use in exhibitions, parades and other events of interest to the public and not used primarily for recreational or commercial purposes.
9.06 Dealer Temporary Registration
Dealers may issue temporary registrations to new owners by completing the form provided by the Commissioner. The dealer must pay a fee of $1. for each temporary registration he receives from the Commissioner. He may charge the new owner no more than $1. for issuing the temporary registration.
9.07 Snowmobile Registration
A. Each snowmobile registration issued under Title 12 will contain the following information:
-
Registration number issued to snowmobile or dealer/manufacturer
-
Expiration date of registration
-
Make of snowmobile
-
Year built
-
Serial number or engine number
-
Name and address of owner
-
Owner's legal residence
-
Owner's date of birth
-
Date of issuance
-
Validation stamp
Certificate issued to dealer need not show items 3, 4, 5 and 8
B. (REPEALED 95-206, eff. May 24, 1995)
C. Local Temporary Snowmobile Registration
Any snowmobile registration processed by a local registration agent which is not a renewal shall be a 90 day temporary registration containing the following:
-
Temporarily assigned snowmobile number which corresponds with the temporary decal assigned
-
Make of snowmobile
-
Year built
-
Serial number or engine number
-
Name and address of owner
-
Legal residence of owner
-
Owner's date of birth
-
Date of issuance
-
Validation stamp
All snowmobiles covered by a local temporary snowmobile registration shall be required to display the snowmobile temporary registration sticker on each side of the cowling until the permanent registration is issued.
9.08 Nonresident Snowmobile Agents
A. Scope of Rules
These rules have been adopted pursuant to 12 M.R.S.A., Sections 7035 and 7824, and shall be applicable to the establishment of agents for the purpose of issuing nonresident snowmobile registrations.
B. Definitions
- Nonresident snowmobile agent. "Nonresident snowmobile agent" means any person or business designated by the Commissioner through written agreement, subject to the terms and conditions of these rules, to register nonresident snowmobiles on behalf of the State of Maine for qualified nonresident applicants.
C. Selection and Operating Standards
- Nonresident snowmobile agents will be selected by the Commissioner on the basis of need as follows:
a. All snowmobile agents established as of 9/1/95 and successfully completing the responsibilities and requirements of an agent will be designated as nonresident snowmobile agents for 1996, upon entering into a written agreement with the Commissioner regarding minimum operating standards. Failure to enter into the above agreement will result in elimination of the agent.
b. A maximum of one hundred additional nonresident snowmobile agents will be established in Maine for 1996 and distributed to counties, based on land area. The Commissioner may establish additional nonresident snowmobile agents in other states as needed to service the nonresident snowmobile public.
c. Nonresident snowmobile agents will not exceed two per town or city, one of which is the agent described in paragraph C.1.a. above, unless it is determined by the Commissioner that more than two is needed to service the nonresident snowmobiling public due to:
(1) the amount of snowmobiling activity in the area and
(2) the number and location of major access routes within the city or town.
- The selection of new nonresident snowmobile agents will be made by the Commissioner to provide the most convenient and accessible locations for nonresident snowmobilers to acquire registrations. All selections will be based on the following criteria:
a. Creditworthiness;
b. Location of the applicant in relation to major access routes and accessibility to the public;
c. Relation of the business to snowmobiling;
d. Days and hours during which registrations will be issued.
e. Location of applicant in relation to other applicants;
f. Capability of the applicant to issue registrations in a timely manner.
If an applicant has more than one place of business, each place of business will be evaluated separately and, if selected, count as an agent.
-
The Commissioner will enter into a written agreement with each nonresident snowmobile agent which specifies operating standards for agents. Any nonresident snowmobile agent located outside of Maine must maintain an insurance bond to cover the value of the registrations supplied to the agent.
-
Agents designated by the Commissioner for the purpose of issuing nonresident snowmobile registrations will be responsible for compliance with all pertinent laws, regulations, performance agreements and reporting requirements regarding the registration of snowmobiles.
-
All agreements with nonresident snowmobile agents will remain in effect until:
a. The agent no longer wishes to register snowmobiles at the agreed upon location and terminates the written agreement with the Commissioner;
b. The agent changes the location of the agency;
c. The agent sells or leases the agency;
d. The designation as a nonresident snowmobile agent is terminated by the Commissioner for failure to comply with pertinent laws, rules, and performance standards; or
e. The designation as a nonresident snowmobile agent is terminated by the Commissioner because of changing conditions, circumstances, or legal requirements.
f. The designation as a nonresident snowmobile agent is terminated by the Commissioner because of low volume of registrations by the agent. A review of registrations will be conducted at least once per year.
-
Agreements regarding the operation of a nonresident snowmobile agency are not transferable to another individual, location, business, or corporation.
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Any person or business desiring to become a nonresident snowmobile agent must make application to the Department on forms provided for that purpose. After the initial selection of agents described in paragraph C.1.b. for 1996, applicants will only be considered if an agency is available in the county and the Commissioner determines the need exists for an additional nonresident snowmobile agent.
D. Termination of Services
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Whenever the Commissioner determines that a nonresident snowmobile agent has violated any provisions of these rules, the Commissioner may immediately terminate the services of that agent.
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Whenever the services of a nonresident snowmobile agent are terminated, the Commissioner will notify the agent in writing as to the circumstances surrounding the action and shall arrange to collect, from the agent, all state-owned registration related materials, records, and funds. The Commissioner's notice shall explain the reason for the termination of services, and shall give the specific factual basis, if applicable. If the agent wishes to contest the termination, the agent must appeal to the Commissioner in writing within 10 days, specifying all areas of disagreement with the notice. The agent may supplement the appeal with written statements of witnesses. After reviewing the appeal, the Commissioner may decide to take no further action, maintaining the original termination, or the Commissioner may modify the termination in any manner determined to be appropriate. Pending this determination, the original termination will remain in effect.
*11. ATV Plates
ATV registration plates shall be displayed on the rear of the vehicle so that it is clearly visible to a person directly behind the vehicle.
12. Registration certificate
The operator of an ATV shall carry his registration certificate with him at all times unless operating on his own land. He shall display the registration certificate upon the request of any landowner who is authorized to stop him as well as to any law enforcement officer.
13. Dealers
Dealers may apply for ATV dealer plates separately, or along with their application for a dealer's permit. Dealers may obtain up to 2 plates if they sold fewer than 10 vehicle in the previous 12 months, up to three plates if they sold 10 or more but less than 20, or up to 4 plates if they sold more than 20.
14. Temporary registrations
Dealers may issue temporary registrations to new owners by completing the form provided by the commissioner. The dealer must pay a fee of $1 for each temporary registration he receives from the commissioner. He may charge the new owner no more than $1 for issuing the temporary registration.
*** (APA Office Note: Amendment of 84-261 (filed 7-27-84) added Sections 11 - 14. There is no record that it was officially repealed. Amendment of 87-281 (filed 8-7-87) adopted chapters 12 and 13 but did not state that sections 11-14 were repealed.)**
History
- STATUTORY AUTHORITY: 12 MRSA Section 7035, 7824
- EFFECTIVE DATE: June 1, 1979
- AMENDED: August 1, 1984 - Sec. 1,4, 11-14
- AMENDED: September 21, 1986 - Sec. 5
- AMENDED: August 12, 1987 - Sec. 6 & 7
- AMENDED: July 10, 1990 - Sec. 2
- AMENDED: February 25, 1992 - Sec. 3
- AMENDED: February 8, 1993 -Sec. 1
- REPEALED: May 24, 1995 - Sec. 7 (B)
- AMENDED: May 24, 1995 - Sec. 7 (C)
- AMENDED: November 8, 1995 - Sec. 8
- AMENDED: January 1, 1996 - Sec. 2
- AMENDED: May 26, 1996 - Sec. 1
- NON-SUBSTANTIVE CHANGES: February 2, 1999 - converted to Microsoft Word.
- NON-SUBSTANTIVE CHANGES: APAO WORD VERSION CONVERSION (IF NEEDED) AND ACCESSIBILITY CHECK: July 17, 2025
Chapter 10 Significant Wildlife Habitat
Code Me. R. 09-137 Ch. 10 Significant Wildlife Habitat {#sec-09-137-ch.-10 omnilex-key=us-me-regs-official--dept-inland-fisheries-and-wildlife--09-137 Ch. 10}
10.01 Scope of Rules
These rules are applicable only to "significant wildlife habitat" as described in 38 M.R.S.A. §480‑B (10) and are adopted pursuant to the law that these habitats be defined by the Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife and protected by the Department of Environmental Protection.
10.02 Definitions
When used to define and map significant wildlife habitat, the following words and terms will have the following meanings:
- Habitat for state endangered and state threatened species. State endangered and state threatened species are listed in Title 12, section 12803, subsection 3. Species are proposed for addition or removal from Maine’s endangered and threatened species list following review by IF&W biologists using scientific criteria for assessing statewide vulnerability and risk of extirpation.
The Department will, over time and based on verified evidence, map the habitat of certain state endangered and state threatened species. As mapped data becomes available for each species, they will be posted on the Department’s website or webmap viewer.
Definitions
Habitat for state endangered and state threatened species. Habitat that is mapped in a publicly available GIS layer or web-based data viewer by the Department for species that are listed as state endangered or state threatened under Title 12, section 12803, subsection 3. Habitat includes areas for feeding, resting, reproduction, and rearing, as well as other areas that are important for the species’ recovery and/or local population viability.
Criteria for identification of state endangered and state threatened species habitat
Habitat designated under section 10.02 (1) shall be based on records that were collected or reconfirmed after January 1, 1995, and have been verified by DIFW. Evidence of the presence of the species is required for designating habitat. The types of evidence of the presence of the species that will be accepted for the purpose of designating habitat will vary by species and may include, but are not limited to:
Documented sighting or photo of the species;
Genetic evidence of the species;
Nests, burrows, or similar structures that are characteristic of the species;
Physical signs such as tracks, scat, eggs, feathers or fur that are characteristic of the species; and
Vocalization.
(2) In addition to evidence of species presence, suitable and characteristic habitat must also be present. Appropriate evidence for this determination includes scientifically accepted descriptions of the key characteristics of habitat for each species.
NOTE: DIFW maintains guidance documents that describe the criteria and procedures for mapping habitat for state endangered and state threatened species. As additional species data are added over time, the guidance documents will be expanded to include all species for which maps are available. Mapped habitat for state endangered and state threatened species and the associated guidance documents can be accessed through https://www.maine.gov/ifw/ or https://www.maine.gov/dep/
- High and moderate value deer wintering area. An area used by deer when snow depth exceeds 12 inches in the open and hardwoods, deer sinking depth exceeds 8 inches in the open and hardwoods, and mean daily temperature is below 32 degrees Fahrenheit, provided that:
a. Using Department Deer Wintering Area and Travel Corridor procedure dated 12/22/93, deer use is documented during a minimum of two years in the most recent 10 year period at the time of designation, with one being a ground survey;
b. Using Department Deer Wintering Area and Travel Corridor mapping criteria dated 12/22/93, the area excludes nonforested wetlands, agriculture, development, clearcuts, hardwood forest types, and forest stands dominated by Eastern larch; and
c. Using the Department Deer Wintering Area and Travel Corridor rating procedure dated 12/22/93, the area through a combination of intensity of deer use, quality of softwood shelter, and area size is rated high or moderate.
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High and moderate value travel corridors. The Department reserves this subsection for future definition.
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High and moderate value waterfowl and wading bird habitats. Waterfowl are members of the family Anatidae including but not limited to brant, wild ducks, geese, and swans. Wading birds include but are not limited to herons, glossy ibis, bitterns, rails, coots, common moorhens, and sandhill cranes. A high and moderate value waterfowl and wading bird habitat means one of the following:
a. Inland habitat identification criteria. A high to moderate value inland habitat is an inland wetland complex, and a 250 foot wide zone surrounding the wetland complex, that through combination of dominant wetland type, wetland diversity, wetland size, wetland type interspersion, and percent open water meets Department guidelines or is an inland wetland complex that has documented outstanding use by waterfowl or wading birds. Determination of high to moderate value inland habitat is based on the following.
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Wetland type. Dominant wetland type is rated by the assigned score for the wetland type of greatest area in the wetland. Wetland type is determined using the classification system published by the Department based on McCall, 1972, for waterfowl and wading bird habitat rating. A score for the value to waterfowl and wading birds is assigned to each type using the Department’s rating procedure.
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Wetland diversity. Wetland diversity is rated by assigning the wetland to one of the diversity categories based on the number of wetland types present in the wetland using the Department’s rating procedure.
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Wetland size. Wetland size is rated by assigning the wetland to one of three size categories based on the total area of the wetland using the Department’s rating procedure.
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Interspersion. Wetland type interspersion is rated by assigning the wetland to one of three interspersion categories using the Golet (1974) system, as modified for Maine in the Department’s rating procedure.
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Open water. Percent open water is rated by assigning the wetland to one of four categories, based on the percent of the wetland in open water using the Department’s rating procedure.
NOTE: The following are literature citations as referenced above:
McCall, C.A. 1972. Manual for Maine Wetlands Inventory . Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Game, Augusta, Maine. 38pp.
Golet, F.C., and J.S. Larson. 1974. Classification of Freshwater Wetlands in the Glaciated Northeast . Resource Publication 116. U.S. Department of the Interior, Washington, D.C. 56pp.
NOTE: Regardless of its identification on maps as a high or moderate value waterfowl and wading bird habitat, an upland area adjacent to a great pond is not considered high or moderate value waterfowl and wading bird habitat unless the upland area is within 250 feet of one or more freshwater wetlands that are high or moderate value waterfowl and wading bird habitat. [38 M.R.S.A. §480-EE]
b. Tidal habitat identification criteria. A high or moderate value tidal habitat is as defined in the Department’s rating procedure or is a tidal habitat that has documented outstanding use by waterfowl or wading birds or use by a rare species of waterfowl or wading birds. Habitat type is determined using the classification system published by Cowardin et al . (1979) and defined in the Department’s rating procedure. Four habitat types considered as potential high or moderate value tidal habitat are described below.
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Aquatic bed habitat. The extent of aquatic bed habitat for the delineation of high value tidal waterfowl and wading bird habitat will be defined by the eelgrass (Zostera marina) beds currently mapped by Maine Department of Marine Resources. Eelgrass beds greater than 25 acres in size are high value. Eel grass beds greater than or equal to 2.5 acres but less than 25 acres are moderate value.
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Reefs. Reefs included in tidal waterfowl and wading bird habitat in Maine are limited to mussel bars or beds. All mussel bars or beds are high value tidal waterfowl and wading bird habitat.
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Emergent wetlands. Emergent wetlands equal to or greater than 25 acres in size are high value. Emergent wetlands greater than or equal to 2.5 acres but less than 25 acres are moderate value.
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Mudflats. Mudflats equal to or greater than 25 acres are high value tidal waterfowl and wading bird habitat. Mudflats greater than or equal to 12.5 acres but less than 25 acres are moderate value. Mudflat immediately adjacent to one of the above habitats will result in the combined habitats being rated high if the total area is greater than 25 acres in size or moderate if the combination is greater than or equal to 2.5 acres but less than 25 acres.
NOTE: The following literature citation as referenced above: Cowardin, L.W., V. Carter, F.C. Golet, and E.T. LaRoe. 1979. Classification of wetlands and deepwater habitats of the United States. U.S. Department of the Interior, Washington, D.C. 103 pp.
- Shorebird nesting, feeding, and staging areas. Shorebird nesting, feeding, and staging areas, and a zone surrounding those areas, are significant wildlife habitats. The zone surrounding a shorebird feeding area is 100 feet wide, and is referred to as “the feeding buffer.” The zone surrounding a shorebird roosting area is 250 feet wide and is referred to as “the roosting buffer.” Shorebird species include the members of the families Scolopacidae, Charadriidae, and Haematopodidae, including, but not limited to, sandpipers and plovers. A complete list of species is provided in the Department’s procedures for classifying significant shorebird habitat. [The Department has not adopted a definition of shorebird nesting area habitat, and reserves this subsection for future definition.]
a. Definitions
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Shorebird feeding area. A shorebird feeding or staging area that is not a roosting area. The shorebird feeding area includes a 100-foot-wide surrounding buffer referred to as “the feeding buffer.”
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Shorebird roosting area. A shorebird feeding or staging area that is also a roosting area. The shorebird roosting area includes a 250-foot-wide buffer referred to as “the roosting buffer.”
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Staging. Staging areas include areas used for feeding, roosting, and loafing during spring and fall migration and post-breeding dispersal.
b. Shorebird nesting , feeding, and staging area identification criteria. A feeding or staging site qualifies as significant shorebird habitat if either of the following criteria is met, as determined by an individual with experience or training in wildlife ecology.
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Number of observations. The mean number of shorebird observations since 1987 for a site is 10% or more of the total mean number of shorebirds surveyed in a particular shorebird survey unit as defined in Department procedures.
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Number of shorebirds. The mean number of shorebirds for a single species since 1987 at a site is 10% or more of the overall or total mean number observed of that species in the encompassing shorebird survey unit.
NOTE: Shorebird occurrence data is from the current Department database as described in procedure created December 22, 1993, and updated September 1, 2005. As new data is entered the mean of the observations is recalculated.
- Seabird nesting island. Seabird nesting islands are significant wildlife habitats.
a. Definitions. As used in this section, unless the context otherwise indicates, the following terms have the following meanings.
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Seabird . Colonial nesting waterbirds including Leach's Storm-petrel, Great Cormorant, Double-crested Cormorant, Laughing Gull, Herring Gull, Great Black-backed Gull, Common Tern, Arctic Tern, Roseate Tern, Razorbill, Black Guillemot, Atlantic Puffin, and Common Eider.
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Seabird nesting island . (a) An island, ledge, or portion thereof in tidal waters that has documentation of 25 or more: nests or seabirds, adult seabirds displaced from nests, or in combination (single species or aggregate of different species) in any nesting season during, or since, 1976; provided that the island, ledge, or portion thereof continues to have suitable nesting habitat. (b) An island, ledge, or portion thereof in tidal waters that has documentation of one or more nests of a seabird that is a Maine endangered or threatened species in any year during, or since, 1976 provided that the island, ledge, or portion thereof, continues to have suitable nesting habitat.
b. Maps. Seabird nesting islands are delineated on 7.5 minute U.S. Coast and Geodetic Survey maps developed by the Department. The maps are identified as Significant Wildlife Habitat Seabird Nesting Island Maps #1-55, January 1998.
- Significant vernal pool habitat. A vernal pool, also referred to as a seasonal forest pool, is a natural, temporary to semi-permanent body of water occurring in a shallow depression that typically fills during the spring or fall and may dry during the summer. Vernal pools have no permanent inlet or outlet and no viable populations of predatory fish. A vernal pool may provide the primary breeding habitat for wood frogs (Rana sylvatica), spotted salamanders (Ambystoma maculatum), blue-spotted salamanders (Ambystoma laterale), and fairy shrimp (Eubranchipus sp.), as well as valuable habitat for other plants and wildlife, including several rare, threatened, and endangered species. A vernal pool intentionally created for the purposes of compensatory mitigation is included in this definition.
Whether a vernal pool is a significant vernal pool is determined by the number and type of pool-breeding amphibian egg masses in a pool, the presence of fairy shrimp, use by rare, threatened or endangered species, or other criteria as specified in Section 7.b. Significant vernal pool habitat consists of a significant vernal pool and that portion of the critical terrestrial habitat within 250 feet of the spring or fall high water mark of the vernal pool depression.
NOTE: The term vernal (vernal = spring) pool is used in the Natural Resources Protection Act [38 M.R.S.A., §480-B(10)], and has typically been used to discuss the types of pools described in Section 7. However, because some pools are wet in both spring and fall, and others are never dry, they have also been referred to as “seasonal forest pools.” Vernal pool is still a common term, and will continue to be used in this section.
a. Definitions. As used in this section, unless the context otherwise indicates, the following terms have the following meanings.
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Critical terrestrial habitat. Uplands and wetlands associated with significant vernal pools used by pool breeding amphibians for migration, feeding, and hibernation, in particular, forested wetlands and forested uplands that provide deep organic litter, coarse woody debris and canopy shade.
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Egg mass. Three or more individual eggs clumped in a gelatinous matrix constitute an egg mass. Egg masses often occur in clusters, but each mass within a cluster must be counted as an individual egg mass.
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Natural. A natural vernal pool includes pools of natural origin that have been modified or excavated. A natural vernal pool does not include other natural wetland types (wet meadows, marshes, etc.) that have been altered and currently function as vernal pools.
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Pool-breeding amphibians. Animals that, as part of their life cycle, reproduce in vernal pools. Most pool-breeding amphibians return to reproduce in the pool where they originated. Most adult pool-breeding amphibians spend less than one month in breeding pools; the rest of their annual cycle is spent in critical terrestrial habitat.
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Potential significant vernal pool habitat. A vernal pool depression and the area within 250 feet of the spring or fall high-water mark of the vernal pool depression, if the department has required an assessment of significance by a qualified individual during the identification period in accordance with Section 7(B) of this chapter and the assessment has not yet occurred or the assessment is inconclusive.
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Qualified individual. An individual who has experience and training in either wetland ecology or wildlife ecology and therefore has qualifications sufficient to identify and document a significant vernal pool.
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Significant vernal pool. The vernal pool depression within a significant vernal pool habitat.
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Significant vernal pool habitat. A significant vernal pool and that portion of the critical terrestrial habitat within 250 feet of the spring or fall high water mark of the vernal pool depression.
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Significant vernal pool protection zone. That portion of the critical terrestrial habitat within 100 feet of the spring or fall high-water mark of a significant vernal pool depression.
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Vernal pool depression or vernal pool. This area includes the vernal pool depression up to the spring or fall high water mark, and includes any vegetation growing within the depression.
b. Significant vernal pool habitat identification criteria. Vernal pool habitat significance must be determined and documented by a qualified individual.
- Abundance. Any one of or combination of the following species abundance levels, documented in any given year, determine the significance of a vernal pool habitat.
Species
Abundance Criteria
Fairy shrimp
Presence in any life stage.
Blue spotted salamanders
Presence of 10 or more egg masses.
Spotted salamanders
Presence of 20 or more egg masses.
Wood frogs
Presence of 40 or more egg masses.
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Rarity. A pool that has documented use in any given year by a rare species, or state-listed endangered or threatened species that commonly requires a vernal pool to complete a critical portion of its life-history is part of a significant vernal pool habitat. Examples of vernal pool dependent state-listed endangered or threatened species include, but are not limited to, Blanding’s turtles, Spotted turtles, and Ringed Boghaunter dragonflies. The rare species that must be considered are limited to: Ribbon Snakes, Wood Turtles, Swamp Darner Dragonflies and Comet Darner Dragonflies.
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Identification period. Egg masses must be counted just past the peak breeding period of pool-breeding amphibians. Abundance of pool-breeding amphibians can only be used to determine the presence of a significant vernal pool during the identification period. The presence of fairy shrimp, rare species [listed in 7.b.2.], or a state-listed endangered or threatened species may be used to determine the presence of a significant vernal pool at times of the year other than the identification period.
NOTE: Optimal times for counting egg masses of pool-breeding amphibians vary according to geographic location and weather. For instance, during cold springs, breeding can begin as much as 2 weeks later than it does in warm, wet springs. The optimal time to count masses is just past the peak breeding period. For wood frogs, this occurs approximately 2 weeks after they start full choruses. Wood frog egg masses hatch very quickly and are difficult to count much past peak breeding. Salamanders have a more extended breeding period and their eggs do not hatch as quickly as those of wood frogs. Therefore, surveys to count salamander egg masses should be conducted slightly later in the breeding season, generally 2-3 weeks following wood frog egg mass counts. The following are rough guidelines for optimal times for counting egg masses:
Geographic Region
Wood Frogs
Spotted & Blue Spotted Salamanders
Northern Maine
May 5 – May 20
May 15 – June 5
Central Maine
April 25 – May 10
May 5 - May 25
Southern Maine
April 10 – April 25
April 20 – May 10
Note that optimal egg mass counting dates for high elevation localities are likely to be delayed by up to one or two weeks from the suggested dates provided within each geographic region above.
- Geographic regions
a. The three geographic regions used in Section 7.b.3. are as follows.
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The Northern Maine region is approximately that part of the state north of a line extending from Rangeley to Dover-Foxcroft to Howland to Calais.
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The Central Maine region is approximately that part of the state south of that same line and north of a line extending from Fryeburg to Augusta to Belfast.
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The Southern Maine region is approximately that part of the state south of the line extending from Fryeburg to Augusta to Belfast.
b. The two geographic regions used in Section 7.b.5. are as follows.
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The Northern Maine region is approximately that part of the state north of a line extending from Rangeley to Dover-Foxcroft to Howland to Calais.
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The Southern Maine region is approximately that part of the state south of the line described immediately above.
- Drying. When a vernal pool habitat has not previously been determined to be significant, and the Department of Inland Fisheries & Wildlife or the Department of Environmental Protection makes a determination concerning whether the vernal pool habitat is significant, either department may determine that the vernal pool habitat is not significant if:
a. The vernal pool is located in northern Maine and dries out after spring filling and before July 15th based on winter, spring and early summer precipitation; or
b. The vernal pool is located in southern Maine and dries out after spring filling and before July 1st based on winter, spring and early summer precipitation.
NOTE: Pool drying criteria allow the DEP and DIFW to make out-of-season vernal pool significance determinations at their discretion under normal climatic conditions. Pool drying is not generally considered a suitable substitute for a comprehensive field assessment completed by a qualified individual during the identification period.
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Lack of permanent flowing inlet or outlet. In order to be identified as part of a significant vernal pool habitat, the vernal pool may not have a permanent flowing inlet or outlet.
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Seasonality. The Department of Environmental Protection may require an assessment of significance by a qualified individual during the identification period. In any season, indicators of a potentially significant vernal pool habitat may include flat topography with depressions or pit-and-mound topography, wetland flora, fingernail clams, caddisfly cases, and evidence of temporary flooding.
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Voluntary identification. A landowner may voluntarily submit documentation to the Department of Inland Fisheries & Wildlife or the Department of Environmental Protection regarding the significance of a vernal pool on that individual’s property. Documentation must be completed by a qualified individual, or field-verified by either department prior to its inclusion on a Geographic Information System (GIS) data layer maintained by either the Department of Inland Fisheries & Wildlife or the Department of Environmental Protection. A landowner will receive written confirmation of such documentation from the Department of Environmental Protection.
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Verification of significance. A significant vernal pool documented on a Geographic Information System (GIS) data layer maintained by either the Department of Inland Fisheries & Wildlife or the Department of Environmental Protection is eligible for removal from that data layer following Department verification of three consecutive years of data demonstrating that a vernal pool no longer meets the criteria in Sections 7.a.1. or 7.b.2. A written request to remove a significant vernal pool from the data layer must be submitted to both the Department of Inland Fisheries & Wildlife and the Department of Environmental Protection and include documentation made during the identification period by a qualified individual. A written determination by the Department of Environmental Protection that a vernal pool is not significant remains valid regardless of timeframe.
History
- STATUTORY AUTHORITY: 12 M.R.S.A. §10104; 38 M.R.S.A. §480-BB
- EFFECTIVE DATE: April 3, 1994
- NON-SUBSTANTIVE CHANGES: February 2, 1999 - converted to Microsoft Word
- AMENDED: June 17, 2006 – filing 2006-208
- AMENDED: February 10, 2026 – filing 2026-
- REPEALED AND REPLACED: October 21, 2009 – filing 2009-549
- REPEALED AND REPLACED: APAO WORD VERSION CONVERSION (IF NEEDED) AND ACCESSIBILITY CHECK: July 17, 2025
- APAO ACCESSIBILITY CHECK (Word): April 28, 2026
- AMENDED: April 28, 2026 – filing 2026-104
Chapter 11 Protection and Safety of Spectators at Snowmobile Races
Code Me. R. 09-137 Ch. 11 Protection and Safety of Spectators at Snowmobile Races {#sec-09-137-ch.-11 omnilex-key=us-me-regs-official--dept-inland-fisheries-and-wildlife--09-137 Ch. 11}
11.01 Definitions
When used in these regulations, unless otherwise specifically provided, the following words and terms shall have the following meanings:
A. Commissioner. "Commissioner" means the Commissioner of the Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife.
B. Bleacher. "Bleacher" means an uncovered structure of tiered planks providing seating space for spectators.
C. Stadium. "Stadium" means a permanent unroofed structure with tiers of seats for spectators.
D. Grandstand. "Grandstand" means a permanent roofed structure with tiers of seats for spectators.
E. Race or Racing. "Race" or "racing" means an organized competitive race of speed and skill or endurance and includes all types of snowmobile racing, whether or not the race is held on snow.
11.02 Authority
No person shall conduct any type of snowmobile racing unless the applicable provisions of these regulations have been complied with and unless the person conducting the snowmobile racing has filed with the Commissioner a certificate signed by an architect registered under the provisions of Chapter 3 of Title 32 or by a professional engineer registered under the provisions of Chapter 19 of Title 32 certifying that all applicable provisions of these regulations have been complied with.
11.03 Construction of Grandstands and Stadiums
Grandstands and stadiums shall be erected upon and attached to concrete or masonry foundations extended below the maximum depth of frost in the area where the structure is located and at least 6 inches above natural grade. They shall be designed to support, in addition to their own weight, a uniformly-distributed live load of not less than 100 pounds per square foot of gross horizontal projection of the grandstand. All seats and footboard members shall be designed for live loads of not less than 120 pounds per linear foot. They shall be designed to resist, without live load, a horizontal wind load of 30 pounds per square foot of all vertical projections of the structure, and with full live load, one-half of such wind load. They shall be designed to resist a horizontal swaying force applied to the seats in a direction parallel to the length of the seats, of 24 pounds per linear foot of seats, and in a direction perpendicular to the length of the seats of 10 pounds per linear foot of seats.
11.04 Bleachers
Bleachers shall be provided with wood sleepers or mud sills of at least 2 inch planks, or shall be supported on masonry footings. If the Commissioner so directs, sills shall be placed both parallel and at right angles to seating platforms. All bearing surfaces shall make contact as the Commissioner shall direct. Mud sills or sleepers shall be adequate area to support superimposed loads without settlement and shall be secured against lateral movement. The toe of each stringer shall be secured to the mud sills or sleeper, all horses or posts shall be secured against movement, and adequate sway bracing shall be provided as directed by the Commissioner. No more than one cantilever seat shall be permitted.
11.05 Aisles
Grandstands, bleachers and stadiums shall be provided with aisles which shall be located as directed by the Commissioner. Aisles shall be not less than 3 feet 6 inches in width, provided, that where an aisle is divided into two parts, each part shall be 2 feet in width. Where an aisle commences more than one foot above ground level, it shall be provided with a stairway or ramp not less than the width of the aisle. Aisles shall not be required in the case of bleachers with less than 15 rows of seats.
11.06 Seats and Seating Platforms
Seats of grandstands, bleachers, stadiums and other similar structures shall be securely fastened to their support in such a manner that they cannot accidentally be displaced. Foot rests shall be similarly fastened. Where seats are not divided or marked off, a width of 18 inches shall be considered one seat.
11.07 Exits
Grandstands, bleachers with 15 or more rows of seats and stadiums shall be provided with exits, calculated on the basis of 1 foot in width for each 300 persons, or fraction thereof served. Exits shall not be less than 3 feet 6 inches in width, nor less than 7 feet clear height and shall be located as directed by the Commissioner. Each exit shall be designated by a sign bearing the word EXIT in letters not less than 5 inches in height and one-half inch in width, having red letters on a white background, or white letters on a red background, located as directed by the Commissioner, and each change in direction of a way of egress shall be designated by a directional sign to be located as directed by the Commissioner.
11.08 Illumination of Exits and Aisles
Spectator areas, including grandstands, bleachers and stadiums, shall be properly illuminated at all times when the area is in use, during the period of from one-half after sunset to one-half hour before sunrise and during any period of time when by reason of atmospheric conditions, visibility is such as to require artificial illumination.
11.09 Protective Railings
Rails at least 18 inches in height shall be provided along the back of grandstands, bleachers, stadiums and other like structures if the rear seat is more than 4 feet above the ground; along the portions of the ends of the structures where the seat are more than 4 feet above the ground and along the front of the structures if the foot rest is more than 2 feet above the ground.
11.10 Fire Extinguishers
Fire extinguishers shall be available in pit areas, spectator areas and track areas at all times in a number and location to be determined by the Commissioner.
11.11 Spectator Protection
There shall be areas designated by appropriate signs as spectator areas at all snowmobile races in which spectators shall at all times be confined. The spectator areas shall include, but not be limited to, grandstands, bleachers, and stadiums. The pit areas, practice areas, those areas specified in Figures 1 and 2, infield areas, and corner areas of race tracks are not spectator areas. At snowmobile drag races, only one side of the track may be designated as spectator area. Spectator areas shall be protected by utilizing safety barrier construction of either Option 1 or Option 2, contained herein.
If Option 1 is used, spectators shall not be allowed beyond the spectator protection fence and shall not be allowed access to the trackside fence or to the area between the spectator protection fence and the trackside fence; if Option 2 is used, spectators may be allowed access to the trackside fence. The snowmobile race track surface must be maintained in a manner that does not permit any snow build-up against the trackside fence.
11.12 Safety Barrier Construction
Safety barrier construction of snowmobile race tracks of any type shall conform to one of the following options and shall be constructed in a manner described herein and Figures 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6 as appropriate. Figures 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6 and the specifications contained therein are incorporated herein and made a part hereof.
OPTION 1 - WOVEN WIRE or SNOW FENCE
A.
- General
When this option is utilized, spectators shall be protected by using parallel fence construction to consist of two separate fences; one fence to be located against the edge of the track, to be called the trackside fence and another located at least 6 feet or more from the trackside fence, in a direction away from the race track, to be called the spectator protection fence. The area between the fences shall be kept clear. Either woven wire or snow fence shall be used, but each separate fence shall be constructed with only one type of fencing. The woven wire or snow fence shall be attached to either metal or wood posts as specified herein. Post lengths shall be as shown in Figure 3.
- Materials
All materials used in the construction of the fences specified shall conform to the following specifications:
a. Snow fence. Pickets shall be cedar, seasoned before the fence is woven, shall be straight grained and free from large knots. They shall be 4'0" high, 1-1/2" wide and 3/8" thick. The connecting wires shall be 5 double strands of 12-1/2 American gauge galvanized wire evenly spaced. The spacing between pickets shall not exceed 2 inches.
b. Woven wire fence. Woven wire shall be standard galvanized farmfield fence, design number 1047-12-11. The wire shall be 47 inches high, having 10 horizontal wires of which the top and bottom wires shall be of 9 gauge and the intermediate wires of 11 gauge; and vertical stay wires of 11 gauge spaced at 12 inches.
c. Metal posts. End, intermediate, and corner posts shall be 2-1/2" X 2-1/2" X 1/4" angle or 2" nominal diameter galvanized steel pipe, minimum weight of 3.65 lbs. per foot. Braces shall be 1-3/4" X 1-3/4" X 1/4" angle or 1‑1/4" nominal diameter galvanized steel pipe, minimum weight of 2.27 lbs per foot. Line posts shall be standard studded "T" posts with a minimum weight of 1.33 lbs. per foot or standard lug "U" posts with minimum weight of 1.12 lbs. per foot. Posts lengths shall be as shown in Figure 3.
d. Wood posts. Wood posts shall be cedar, white oak or tamarack. They shall be seasoned stock, straight and sound, and shall have been cut from live growing trees. They shall have all knots trimmed flush with the surface. Post diameters shall conform to the following: End, intermediate and corner posts shall have a minimum diameter of 4 1/2" at the small end. Braces shall have a minimum diameter of 3" at the small end. Line posts shall have a minimum diameter of 3".
- Installation
a. General. The fence shall be installed as shown in Figure 3, in conformity with these specifications, except that only the front (trackside) fence shall be required to have end, corner, or intermediate posts set in Portland cement concrete. At the time of racing the top of the fence shall be at least 3'6" above the track surface.
b. Posts. Holes for wood posts shall be dug to full depth as appears in Figure 3. Metal posts shall be set by means of a hand or mechanically operated post driver. An intermediate post shall be installed at least every 100 feet. Posts shall be set on 10 foot centers.
c. Bracing. Bracing shall be installed at all end, corner and intermediate posts as shown in Figure 3.
d. Erection of snow or woven wire fabric. Fencing shall be stretched taut. For snow fence all strands of wire shall be attached to each post. For woven wire fence the top and bottom strands of wire shall be attached to each post and the alternate interior strands of wire shall be attached to alternate posts. Splicing of the wire shall be permitted at posts only and each horizontal strand of wire shall be wrapped completely around the post. The wire strand shall be securely fastened by winding the end of the wire about the same strand where it leads up to the post. This type of fastening shall be used at each end and the corner post. Staples for wood posts shall be fully driven into corner, end or bracing posts but at line posts they shall be driven so as not to restrict the horizontal movement of the wire.
e. Baled hay. The trackside fence shall be buffered by at least two parallel layers of baled hay at least 3'0" high as shown in Figure 4. The baled hay shall be laid lengthwise along and directly against the fence. The baled hay shall be tightly baled and shall be replaced when damaged or when its condition is such that in the judgment of the Commissioner it will not accomplish the purpose of buffering the trackside fence.
f. Rub-rails. As an alternative to buffering by baled hay, rub-rails may be installed on the trackside fence as specified in Figure 6. Rub-rails and splice plates shall be of dry and well seasoned Number 2 common grade stock of northern white pine, Norway pine, or Number 1 construction grade of eastern spruce, eastern hemlock, or tamarack, and shall be dressed on all sides. The dressed dimensions shall be 1 5/8" X 9 1/2" and of a length indicated in Figure 6.
OPTION 2 - 60 INCH CHAIN LINK FENCE
B. 1. General
When this option is utilized, spectators shall be protected by using a single chain link fence to be located against the edge of the track and called the trackside fence. The fence shall be attached to metal posts as specified herein and installed as specified in Figure 5.
- Materials
All materials used in the construction of the fence specified shall conform to the following specifications:
a. Chain link fabric. Chain link fabric shall be standard zinc or aluminum coated steel. It shall be 2" mesh, fabricated from number 9 gauge wire. The fence shall be 60" high.
b. Posts. End or corner posts shall be 2" nominal diameter galvanized steel pipe, minimum weight of 3.65 lbs. per foot or 2‑1/4" X 2" steel "H" section, minimum weight of 4.10 lbs. per foot. Line posts shall be nominal 1-1/2" diameter galvanized steel pipe, minimum weight of 2.72 lbs. per foot or 1‑7/8" X 1-7/8" x 1-5/8" steel "H: section, minimum weight per linear foot = 2.70. Brace tubes shall be nominal 1-1/4" diameter galvanized sheet pipe, minimum weight of 2.27 lbs,per foot. Post lengths shall be as shown in Figure 5. Posts shall be set on 10 foot centers.
c. Erection of chain link fabric. The top rail shall pass through the post caps and shall be securely fastened to end, corner and brace posts. Joints in the top rails shall be made with expansion sleeve couplings. The fabric shall be pulled taut and the ends attached to the posts with stretcher bars and bands. When required, rolls of wire fabric shall be joined by weaving a single strand of mesh wire into the ends of the rolls to form a continuous mesh.
11.13 Location of Safety Barriers and Fencing
All safety and fencing shall extend the entire length of and not less than 25 feet beyond each side of all grandstands, bleachers, stadiums, other similar structures and any other designated spectator area. In addition, the safety barriers and fencing shall extend toward the rear of any such structures or designated spectator areas, at right angles to the race track a distance of at least 50 feet, as in Figure 1 or 2 as appropriate.
11.14 Law Enforcement Officers
Persons conducting any type of snowmobile racing shall make arrangements to have law enforcement officers present at all times when snowmobile racing is in progress.
11.15 Waiver
The Commissioner may waive, in writing, prior to a snowmobile race, any or all of the requirements of these regulations to cover any special circumstances, conditions or locality.
EFFECTIVE DATE: January 12, 1970 (Filed 6-1-79)
NON-SUBSTANTIVE CHANGES:
February 2, 1999 - converted to Microsoft Word.
APAO WORD VERSION CONVERSION (IF NEEDED) AND ACCESSIBILITY CHECK: July 17, 2025
Chapter 12 All-Terrain Vehicle Regulations
Code Me. R. 09-137 Ch. 12 All-Terrain Vehicle Regulations {#sec-09-137-ch.-12 omnilex-key=us-me-regs-official--dept-inland-fisheries-and-wildlife--09-137 Ch. 12}
12.01 Displaying All-Terrain Vehicle Plates and Renewal Stickers
All-terrain vehicle registration plates shall be displayed on the front and rear of the vehicle so that it is clearly visible to persons directly in front or behind the vehicle.
Plate validation stickers issued by the Commissioner shall be centered below the registration number on both registration plates. Only one year's stickers can be displayed at a time.
Duplicates of lost or stolen validation stickers may be obtained for a fee of $1. per set.
12.02 Registration Certificate
The operator of an all-terrain vehicle shall carry his registration certificate with him at all times unless operating on his own land. He shall display the registration certificate upon the request of any landowner who is authorized to stop him as well as to any law enforcement officer.
12.03 Dealers
Dealers may apply to all-terrain vehicle dealers plates separately, or along with their applications or a dealer's permit. Dealers may obtain up to two plates if they sold fewer than ten vehicles in the previous 12 months, up to three plates if they sold ten or more but less then 20, or up to four plates if they sold more than 20.
12.04 Dealer Temporary Registration
Dealers may issue temporary registration to new owners by completing the form provided by the commissioner. The dealer must pay a fee of $1 for each temporary registration he received from the commissioner. He may charge the new owner no more than $1 for issuing the temporary registration.
12.05 All-Terrain Vehicle Registration
A. Each all-terrain vehicle registration issued under Title 12 will contain the following information.
-
Registration number issued to the all-terrain vehicle or dealer/manufacturer
-
Expiration date of registration
-
Make of all-terrain vehicle
-
Year built
-
Serial number or engine number
-
Name and address of owner
-
Owner's legal residence
-
Owner's date of birth
-
Date of issuance
-
Validation stamp
Certificates issued to dealers need not show items 3, 4, 5, 6 and 9.
B. (REPEALED by 95-206, eff. May 24, 1995)
C. Local Temporary All-Terrain Vehicle Registration
Any all-terrain vehicle registration processed by a local agent which is not a renewal shall be a 90 day temporary registration containing the following:
-
Temporarily assigned all-terrain vehicle number which corresponds with the local temporary plate assigned.
-
Make of all-terrain vehicle
-
Year built
-
Serial number or engine number
-
Name and address of owner
-
Legal residence of owner
-
Owner's date of birth
-
Date of issuance
-
Validation stamp
All all-terrain vehicles covered by local temporary all-terrain vehicle registration shall be required to display the all-terrain vehicle temporary registration plates on the front and rear of the machine in a clearly visible manner until the permanent registration is issued.
EFFECTIVE DATE:
August 12, 1987
AMENDED:
May 24, 1995 - Sec. 5 (B) repealed
May 24, 1995 - Sec. 5 (C)
May 21, 1996 - Sec. 5 (A)
NON-SUBSTANTIVE CHANGES:
February 2, 1999 - converted to Microsoft Word.
09-137 Chapter 12 page 1
Chapter 13 Watercraft Rules
Code Me. R. 09-137 Ch. 13 Watercraft Rules {#sec-09-137-ch.-13 omnilex-key=us-me-regs-official--dept-inland-fisheries-and-wildlife--09-137 Ch. 13}
13.01 Table of Contents
13.02 Definitions
13.03 Contents of Applications and Certificates
13.04 Reporting Requirements for Watercraft Related Accidents or Casualties
13.05 Safety Equipment on Motorboats and Other Watercraft
13.06 Water Sports
13.07 Motor Size Restrictions on Certain Internal Waters
13.08 Rules of Operation for Watercraft on Internal Waters
13.09 Sound Level Testing for Marine Engines
13.10 Motorboat race event
13.11 Boat regatta, parade, non-motorized boat race, boat exhibition or water-ski exhibition
13.12 Event conditions and restrictions for all boat events described within 13.10 and 13.11 of this rule
13.02 Definitions
Within these rules the terms listed below have the following meanings. The words and phrases used within these watercraft rules which are not listed below, but are defined within 12 M.R.S. §13001, shall also be a part of these watercraft rules.
Aft: means the rear half of the watercraft or boat as contrasted to the bow which is the forward half of the boat.
All-Round Light: means a white light showing an unbroken light over an arc of the horizon of 360 degrees.
Boat Exhibition Event: means an organized display of boats on the water for public viewing.
Bow: means the front half of a boat or watercraft.
Fore: means the direction towards the front of the boat or watercraft.
Hull Length: means the distance measured from end to end over the deck, excluding sheer. It is the straight-line measurement of the overall length, stated in feet and inches, from the foremost part of the watercraft to the aftermost part measured parallel to the centerline, excluding outboard motors, brackets, bowsprits, rudders and similar attachments.
Marine Engine: An engine for marine use, installed on a boat or ship.
Masthead Light: means a white light placed over the fore and aft center line of the watercraft showing an unbroken light over an arc of the horizon of 225 degrees and so fixed as to show the light from right ahead 22.5 degrees abaft the beam on either side of the watercraft, except that on a watercraft of less than 40 feet in length the masthead light shall be placed as nearly practical to the fore and aft center line of the watercraft.
Motorboat Race Event: means an organized race of motorboats on inland waters of the state.
Nonmotorized Boat Race Event: means an organized race of nonmotorized boats on inland waters of the state.
Personal Flotation Device. Personal Flotation Device (PFD) means a life saving device approved by the United States Coast Guard (USCG) and includes:
A. A wearable PFD that is intended to be worn or otherwise attached to the body, also known as a life jacket.
B. A throwable PFD that is intended to be thrown to a person in the water. (A PFD marked as a wearable is not legally considered a throwable PFD.)
Parade Event: means an organized event on the water where the use of motorboats or watercraft are displayed and operated at headway speeds in an orderly fashion.
Regatta (generally known as a sailboat race): means an organized water event of limited duration using sailboats propelled by sail or rowing.
Sidelights: means a green light on the starboard side and red light on the port side each showing an unbroken light over an arc of the horizon of 112.5 degrees and so fixed as to show the light from right ahead to 22.5 degrees abaft the beam on its respective side. On a watercraft of less than 65 feet in length the side lights may be combined in one lantern carried on the fore and aft centerline of the watercraft, except that on a watercraft of less than 40 feet in length the sidelights when combined in one lantern shall be placed as nearly as practicable to the fore and aft centerline of the watercraft.
Stern: means the back part of the watercraft.
Stern Light: means a white light placed as nearly as practicable at the stern, showing an unbroken light over an arc of the horizon of 135 degrees and so fixed as to show the light 67.5 degrees from right aft on each side of the watercraft.
Underway: means a moving, floating watercraft that is not moored, anchored or docked.
Visual Distress Signals “VDS”: (VDS) A visual device, approved by the USCG, in good and serviceable condition, for daytime or nighttime use as applicable and intended to be seen when deployed by a watercraft in distress.
Vessel: means every description of watercraft, other than a seaplane on the water, used or capable of being used as a means of transportation on the water and can be used interchangeably with the word watercraft.
Watersports: means activities that involve being towed by, or riding in the wake of, a watercraft such as, but not limited to, water skiing, wake boarding, wake surfing, and tubing.
Water-ski Exhibition Event: means an organized event on the water designed to display or demonstrate water-skiing skills.
13.03 Contents of Applications and Certificates
1 . Applications or Watercraft Registration
Each application to secure a Maine Certificate of Boat number (commonly referred to as a registration) as the state of principal use must contain the following information, to be submitted on forms provided by the Division:
A. Make of watercraft
B. Year built
C. Length
D. Hull material
E. Type of watercraft (open, cabin, sail, canoe, houseboat or other)
F. Type of propulsion
G. Horsepower of engine
H. Fuel
I. Type of application
J. Hull serial number, if any
K. Use of watercraft
L. Name and address of owner, including zip code
M. Owner's birth date
N. Owner's citizenship
O. Town of legal residence (Maine residents)
P. Present number on boat which was previously issued (if any)
Q. Waters chiefly used on
R. Name and address of person from whom watercraft was purchased
Applications filed by a dealer or manufacturer need only contain information for items K, L, and R above.
2 . Certificate of Watercraft Number
Each Maine certificate of watercraft number issued by the Division will contain the following information:
A. Number issued to watercraft and/or dealer or manufacturer
B. Expiration date of certificate
C. Make of watercraft
D. Owner's birth date
E. Hull serial number, if any
F. Year built
G. Length
H. Name and address of owner
I. Type of watercraft
J. Hull material
K. Fuel
L. Propulsion
M. Use of watercraft
N. Validation showing official issuance by the Division
A certificate of number issued to a dealer or manufacturer will show only items A, B, C, H, M, and N; for item C, the word "Dealer" will be listed.
- Local Temporary Watercraft Registration
Any watercraft registration processed by a local watercraft registration agent, which is not a renewal, shall be a 60 day temporary registration containing the following:
A. Temporarily assigned watercraft number which corresponds with the temporary decal assigned
B. Make of watercraft
C. Year built
D. Length
E. Propulsion
F. Horsepower
G. Fuel
H. Type of application
I. Hull serial number, if any
J. Use of watercraft
K. Name and address of owner
L. Owner's birth date
M. Owner's legal residence
All watercraft covered by a local temporary watercraft registration shall be required to display the temporary watercraft registration sticker on each side of the bow of the watercraft until the permanent certificate of number is issued.
13.04 Reporting Requirements for Watercraft Related Accidents or Casualties
- Information Required for Watercraft Accidents Involving Personal Injury, Death or Disappearance of a Person or Involving Property Damage of $2,000 or more
Each report required by Title 12, Sections 13069-A, 13069-B and 13069-C shall be provided on forms supplied by the Division, as required, by the watercraft operator or owner to the nearest law enforcement officer or the Commissioner. The Commissioner will ensure operator reports are updated in the Boating Accident Report Database (BARD) System utilizing data gathered from the investigation, including but not limited to:
A. The number and name of each watercraft involved
B. The name and address of each owner of each watercraft involved
C. The name of the nearest city or town, the county, and the body of water
D. The time and date the accident occurred
E. The location on the water body where the accident occurred
F. The visibility, weather, and water conditions at the time of the accident
G. The estimated air and water temperature
H. The name, address, age or date of birth, telephone number, operating experience, and boating safety training of the operator making the report
I. The name and address of each operator of each watercraft involved
J. The number of persons on board or towed on skis or other apparatus by each watercraft
K. The name, address, and date of birth of each person injured or killed
L. The cause of each death
M. Weather forecasts available to and/or used by the operator before and during the use of the watercraft at the time of the accident
N. The name and address of each owner of any property damaged in the accident
O. The availability and use of personal flotation devices
P. The type and amount of each fire extinguisher used, if any
Q. The nature and extent of each injury
R. A description of all property damage and watercraft damage with an estimate of the cost of all repairs
S. A description of any equipment failure that may have caused or contributed to the cause of the accident
T. A description of the watercraft accident
U. The type of watercraft operation (cruising, drifting, fishing, hunting, skiing, racing, or other) and the type of accident (capsizing, sinking, fire, explosion or other)
V. The opinion of the person making the report as to the cause of the accident
W. The make, model, type (open, cabin, house or other), beam width at widest point, length, depth from transom to keel, horsepower, propulsion (outboard, inboard, inboard outdrive, sail or other) fuel, (gas, diesel, or other) construction (wood, steel, aluminum, plastic, fiberglass, or other), and year built (model year), of the reporting operator's watercraft
X. The name, address, and telephone number of each witness
Y. The manufacturer's identification number, if any, of the reporting operator's watercraft
Z. The name, address, and telephone number of the person submitting the report
13.05 Safety Equipment on Motorboats and Other Watercraft
The operator of any watercraft on the waters of this State shall be responsible to ensure that such watercraft is equipped as specified in this rule. Nothing in this regulation rule shall be construed to permit the operation of any watercraft on the federal waters in this State unless they conform to all applicable federal laws and regulations pertaining thereto.
- Navigation Lights and Shapes
In all weather, every watercraft operating on Maine’s inland waters between sunset and sunrise shall carry and exhibit the following lights when underway; and during such time no other lights which may be mistaken for those prescribed shall be exhibited. The word visible, in this subsection, when applied to lights, shall mean visible on a dark night with clear atmosphere.
A. Motorboats less than 40 feet in length must exhibit:
(1) A masthead light showing at least two miles or an all-round light showing at least two miles, placed as nearly as practical at the stern; and
(2) Sidelights showing at least one mile.
B. Motorboats between 40 feet and 164 feet in length must exhibit:
(1) A masthead light showing at least five miles; and
(2) Sidelights showing at least two miles.
C. All sailing watercraft underway shall exhibit:
(1) Sidelights; and
(2) A stern light.
D. Sailing watercraft less than 65 feet in length
(1) In a sailing watercraft less than 65 feet in length the lights prescribed in paragraphs 3.a. and 3.b. of this Rule may be combined by carrying one lantern at or near the top of the mast where it can best be seen.
(2) Additional lights.A sailing watercraft underway, in addition to the lights prescribed in paragraph 3.a. and 3.b. of this Rule, may exhibit at or near the top of the mast where they can best be seen, two all-round lights in a vertical line, the upper being red and lower being green. These lights shall not be exhibited in conjunction with the combined lantern permitted by paragraph 4.a. of this Rule.
E. Sailing watercraft less than 23 feet in length; any watercraft under oars
(1) A sailing watercraft less than 23 feet in length shall; if practicable, exhibit the lights prescribed in paragraph 3.a. and 3.b. or 4.a. of this Rule. If the watercraft does not, it shall have ready at hand an electric torch or lighted lantern showing a white light which shall be exhibited in sufficient time to prevent collision.
(2) A watercraft under oars may exhibit the lights prescribed in this Rule for sailing watercraft. If the watercraft does not it shall have ready at hand an electric torch or lighted lantern showing a white light which shall be exhibited in sufficient time to prevent collision.
F. Watercraft under Sail and Motor
A watercraft proceeding under sail when also being propelled by machinery shall exhibit forward, where it can best be seen, a black conical shape, with the apex pointing down. A watercraft of less than 40 feet in length is not required to exhibit this shape, but may do so.
G. Watercraft at Anchor
Any watercraft anchored on solely internal waters from sunset to sunrise, may display in lieu of the above navigation lights, a single all-round white light. Exception: manually propelled watercraft shall have ready at hand a lantern or flashlight showing a white light which shall be exhibited in sufficient time to prevent collision.
H. Watercraft Manually Propelled
All watercraft not propelled by machinery or wind power, including but not limited to rowboats, canoes, rafts, kayaks and paddleboards, which are only operated by hand power, rowed, paddled or navigated by the current, shall have ready at hand a lantern or flashlight showing a white light capable of being exhibited in sufficient time to prevent a collision.
I. Enforcement Lights
Only watercraft used by a law enforcement officers authorized to enforce this rule or any of the laws of Title 12, MRSA, Chapter 935, are permitted to use or display a distinctive blue colored, pulsating or revolving light for the purposes of enforcing these laws on the water of this State in addition to any other navigational lights required.
J. Towboats
Towboats, when towing booms or rafts of wood products on solely internal waters of this State, shall display, in addition to the required lights for the watercraft, a flashing or pulsating amber light on either or both the towboat and the towed raft.
K. International Lights
Any watercraft using International Waters between sunset and sunrise must display lights required under International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (Colregs 1972). Lights under International Rules may be shown on inland waters.
2 . Personal Flotation Devices (PFD) Required Usage
A. Every watercraft, unless specifically exempted in paragraph 5 below, shall carry at least one wearable PFD for each person on board, so placed as to be readily accessible.
B. No person shall operate a watercraft 16 feet or over in length, unless there is one wearable PFD for each person on board and at least one throwable PFD on board the watercraft. Exception: a throwable PFD is not required for a canoe, kayak or standup paddleboard.
C. Each PFD must be used in accordance with any requirements of its approval label and any requirements in its owner's manual, if its approval label makes reference to such manual.
D. No person shall operate a watercraft unless each PFD required by this act is:
(1) In serviceable condition;
(2) Identified by a label bearing a description and approval number demonstrating that the device has been approved by the USCG;
(3) Of an appropriate size for the person for whom it is intended;
(4) In the case of any wearable PFD, readily accessible aboard the watercraft (readily accessible aboard the watercraft means wearable type PFDs that are easily located and retrieved without searching, delay or hindrance);
(5) In the case of any throwable PFD, immediately available for use (immediately available for use means stored in plain and open view in the area where it will be used; not obstructed, blocked, or covered in any way; and capable of being quickly deployed);
(6) Out of its original packaging; and
(7) Not stowed under lock and key.
3. Exceptions
A. No person on board a watercraft of the United States operated by foreign competitors while practicing for or racing in competition, shall be required to have on board the watercraft any PFD required by this rule, provided there is on board the watercraft one of the sponsoring foreign country's acceptable flotation devices for each foreign competitor on board.
B. No person shall be required to have a PFD on board while utilizing a beach toy or a surf board within territorial waters as described by Title 12 Section 6001 48-B, while in the narrow limits of a swimming, surfing or bathing area.
C. No person shall be required to have a PFD on board while utilizing a beach toy or a surf board within inland waters as defined by Title 12 Section 10001 – 35 while in the narrow limits of a swimming area as defined by Title 12 Section 1900 – 1.
D. No persons actively engaged in competitive racing or training while in racing shells, rowing sculls, racing canoes or racing kayaks that are recognized by National Racing Associations for use in competitive racing shall be required to have on board any PFD.
E. Please see Section 13.05 for PFD wear exceptions when engaged in certain watersports.
4. Special Mandatory PFD Requirements
A. Persons engaged in watersports shall wear a USCG approved PFD. This PFD may not be an inflatable PFD. No watercraft operator shall tow a watersports participant who is not wearing such a device. Please see Section 13.05 of this rule for exceptions to PFD requirements for persons engaged in watersports.
B. The operator or owner of any watercraft being used for recreational purposes, other than a watercraft required to have a certificate of inspection issued by the USCG, shall require any child age 10 and under who is aboard such watercraft to wear a PFD while the watercraft is underway.
C. All persons on board a personal watercraft, as defined by Title 12 section 13001 – 23 shall wear a PFD and no operator of a personal watercraft shall allow any person to be on board who is not wearing such a device. No person on board a personal watercraft shall use an inflatable PFD to meet the PFD requirements of this subsection.
D. Operation or other use of a watercraft by a licensed guide while assisting or accompanying a client on any waters of this State where licensing by the USCG is not required, is considered "recreational" use for the purposes of determining PFD requirements on the following chart.
All watercraft shall carry the following types and numbers of USCG approved PFDs based on the use and length of the watercraft, and the number of occupants of the watercraft, as indicated:
PERSONAL FLOTATION DEVICES
USE OF BOAT
LENGTH
REQUIRED TYPE OF PERSONAL FLOTATION DEVICE(S)
Recreational:
Pleasure or Rental, Lease or Charter for noncommercial uses
Less than16 feet; and all canoes, kayaks and paddleboards regardless of length
A wearable PFD for each person aboard, readily available.
16 feet or longer
A wearable PFD for each person plus one throwable life saving device immediately available in watercraft.
Commercial*
Carrying a passenger for hire.
Any length
USCG approved wearable PFD with no less than 22 lbs. (100 N) of inherent buoyancy and turning capability, commonly referred to as a Type I device, of suitable size for each person aboard with at least 31 sq. in. of approved retroreflective material attached on all four sides.
Commercial Fishing and Commercial Barges
less than 40 feet
A wearable PFD of suitable size, readily available for each person aboard.
40 feet or longer
A Type 1 wearable PFD of suitable size, readily available for each person aboard.
*All Commercial Uses
26 feet or longer
In addition to the above, a throwable life saving device in the form of a ring buoy, immediately available.
5 . Fire Extinguisher
A. Every motorboat shall be provided with the appropriate number, size, and type of fire extinguishers approved by the USCG as set forth below, which are capable of promptly and effectively extinguishing burning gasoline. The extinguishers shall be kept in condition for immediate use and so placed as to be readily accessible at all times. The provisions of this section shall not apply to watercraft propelled by outboard motors while competing in any authorized race previously arranged or announced, or if such watercraft are designed and intended solely for racing, while engaged in incidental navigation while preparing the motorboats for the race.
Minimum Number of B-1 Hand Portable Fire Extinguishers Required
Watercraft length, feet
No fixed system
With approved fixed system
Under 16
1 - B-I
0
16 and over, but under 26
1 - B-I
0
26 and over, but under 40
2 - B-II
1 - B-I
40 and over, but not over 65
3 - BI or B-II
2 - B-I or B-II
*One B-2 hand portable fire extinguisher may substitute for two B-1 hand portable fire extinguishers. Toxic vaporizing type extinguishers containing carbon tetrachloride or chlorobromethane are not acceptable fire extinguishers.
Fire Extinguisher Classification
Classification
Type – Size
Foam
(Gallons)
Carbon Dioxide
(Pounds)
Dry Chemicals
(Pounds)
B-1
1 3/4
4
2
B-2
2 1/2
15
10
A. Watercraft 26 feet or less in length which are propelled by outboard motors but are not carrying passengers for hire need not carry such fire extinguishers if the construction of such motorboats will not permit the entrapment of explosive or flammable gases or vapors. The intent of this exemption is illustrated in Figure 1 below, where fire extinguishers are required if any one or more of the specified conditions exist; and in Figure 2 below, where specified conditions do not, in themselves, require that fire extinguishers be carried.
(1) Fire extinguishers are required if any one or more of the following conditions exist (numbers identifying conditions correspond to those shown in Figure 1):
(a) Closed compartment under thwarts and seats wherein portable fuel tanks may be stored.
(b) Double bottoms not sealed to the hull or which are not completely filled with flotation material.
(c) Closed living spaces.
(d) Closed stowage compartments in which combustible or flammable materials are stowed.
(e) Permanently installed fuel tanks.
(2) The following conditions do not, in themselves, require that fire extinguishers be carried (numbers identifying conditions correspond to those shown in Figure 2):
(a) Bait wells
(b) Glove compartments
(c) Buoyant flotation material.
(d) Open slatted flooring.
(e) Ice chests.
5. Sound Devices
Every watercraft shall be provided with an efficient whistle and/or other sound producing device as set forth in the table below. Watercraft propelled by outboard motors while competing in authorized races or in incidental use while preparing a watercraft for such a race need not comply with these requirements. No sirens shall be used except on emergency or enforcement watercraft or to give fog signals.
Length of watercraft
Type of device
Less than 40 feet
no bell required
Some means of making efficient sound signals
40 feet to less than 65 feet
no bell required
Whistle audible for 1/2 mile (12-dB)
65 feet to 330 feet
bell required
Gong and whistle audible for 1 mile (130 dB)
6. Ventilation
A. All motorboats, except open motorboats, for which any decking-over construction was begun after April 25, 1940, and which use fuel having a flashpoint of 110° or less, shall have at least 2 ventilator ducts, fitted with cowls or their equivalent, for the efficient removal of explosive or flammable gases from the bilges of every engine and fuel tank compartment. There shall be at least one exhaust duct installed so as to extend from the open atmosphere to the lower portion of the bilge and at least one intake duct installed so as to extend to a point at least midway to the bilge or at least below the level of the carburetor air intake. The cowls shall be located and trimmed for maximum effectiveness and in such a manner so as to prevent displaced fumes from being recirculated.
B. All motorboats built after July 31, 1978, except open motorboats, manufactured or used primarily for noncommercial use, which are rented, leased, or chartered to another for the latter’s noncommercial use; or which engage in conveying six or fewer passengers, are exempted from the requirements of paragraph 1, provided they are equipped with fuel tank compartments that:
(1) Contain a permanently installed fuel tank or tanks where each electrical component is ignition-protected as approved by the USCG; and
(2) Contain only a fuel tank or tanks that vent to the outside of the watercraft.
C. All motorboats built after July 31, 1980, except open motorboats, manufactured or used primarily for noncommercial use and which are leased, rented, or chartered to another for the latter’s noncommercial use; or which are engaged in the carriage of six or fewer passengers, are exempted from the requirements of paragraph 1 provided that such motorboats are equipped with a powered ventilation system that includes intake and exhaust ducts with cowls, and a powered blower installed on the exhaust duct, with the exhaust duct extending to the lower portion of the bilge. The requirement for the intake hose length is not applicable.
D. As used in this section, the term "open motorboats" means those motorboats with all engine and fuel tank compartments, and other spaces to which explosive or flammable gases and vapors from these compartments might flow, open to the atmosphere and so arranged as to prevent the entrapment of any such gases and vapors within the watercraft.
- Backfire Flame Control
All gasoline engines installed in a watercraft, except outboard motors, shall be equipped with a USCG-approved device to efficiently and safely arrest engine backfire on each carburetor.
- Visual Distress Signals
A. No person may use a watercraft 16 feet or more in length, or any watercraft carrying six or fewer passengers for hire on territorial waters, unless USCG-approved visual distress signals are on board. Devices suitable for daytime use and devices suitable for nighttime use, or devices suitable for both daytime and nighttime use must be carried.
B. Between sunset and sunrise, no person may use a watercraft less than 16 feet in length on territorial waters unless USCG-approved visual distress signals suitable for nighttime use are on board.
9. Exceptions to Visual Distress Signals
A. The following persons are exempt from carrying visual distress devices suitable for daytime use; however when operating between sunset and sunrise they must carry on board USCG approved visual distress signals suitable for nighttime use:
(1) A person competing in any organized marine parade, regatta, race, or similar event;
(2) A person using a manually propelled watercraft; or
(3) A person using a sailboat of completely open construction, not equipped with propulsion machinery, less than 26 feet in length.
B. Visual distress signals are not required to be carried by persons operating watercraft on territorial waters shoreward of a line where any entrance is less than 2 nautical miles between opposite shorelines, as shown below.
C. Any of the following visual distress signals when carried in the numbers shown will meet the federal requirements.
Number Marked
On Device
Device
Description
Accepted for Use
Required to
be Carried
160.021
Hand-held red flare distress signals. (These signals must have a date of manufacture of October 1, 1980 or later to be acceptable).
Day & Night
3
160.022
Floating orange smoke distress signals
(5 min.).
Day only
3
160.024
Pistol-projected parachute red flare distress signals (37mm) (these signals require use in combination with a suitable approved launching device).
Day & Night
3
160.036
Rocket propelled parachute red flare distress signals.
Day & Night
3
160.037
Hand-held orange smoke distress signals.
Day only
3
160.057
Floating orange smoke distress signals.
(15 min.)
Day only
3
060.066
Red aerial pyrotechnic flare distress signals for boats. (These devices may be either meteor or parachute type and may need an approved suitable launching device.)
Day & Night
3
161.013
Electronic distress light for boats. (Electronic Visual Distress Signal Devices, eVDSD)
Night Only
1
160.072
Orange distress flag
Day Only
1
13.06 Water Sports
No person shall operate a watercraft on the internal waters of this State for the purpose of towing a person or persons on water skis, surfboards, aquaplanes, or similar devices in a water safety zone as defined in Title 12, Section 13001, paragraph 29, nor shall any person manipulate any watercraft, tow rope or other device by which the direction or location of water skis, surfboards, aquaplanes or similar devices may be affected or controlled in such a way so as to cause these devices, or any person on them, to approach within the water safety zone.
Nothing herein shall prevent the necessary launching, or leaving the shoreline, mooring or landing of the watercraft and persons engaged in water-skiing, surfboarding, or using such similar devices, provided they enter or leave the shoreline in a reasonably direct manner and so as not to endanger any persons or property and provided they do not enter or leave directly into or from another adjoining water safety zone. The Division may, upon written application from the majority of the municipal officers of a municipality wherein said waters are located, waive these provisions along undeveloped shorelines, if after inspection of the site by the Division, it is determined that such waiver would provide a greater safety factor than would be achieved by compliance with these provisions.
No person shall operate any watercraft on any waters of this State while towing a person or persons on water skis, surfboard or other similar devices unless there is in such watercraft a person at least 12 years of age, in addition to the operator, who is in a position to continually observe the person or persons being towed unless the watercraft is equipped with a wide-angle rearview mirror and is operating in a regulation slalom course (as defined by the Bureau of State Parks and Public Lands of the Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry). This part shall not apply to those devices operated by the person being towed and so constructed as to be incapable of carrying an operator or passenger in or on the devices.
No person shall operate any watercraft for the purpose of towing a person or persons on water skis, surfboards, or similar devices nor shall any person water ski, surfboard, or use similar devices on any waters of this State between the hours of 1/2 hour after sunset and 1/2 hour before sunrise.
Persons engaged in watersports shall wear a USCG approved PFD. This PFD is not to be an inflatable PFD. No watercraft operator shall tow a watersports participant who is not wearing such a device.
Exceptions to the requirements of this subsection are permitted under the following conditions:
A skier engaged in barefoot water-skiing who wears a barefoot wetsuit designed specifically for such activity.
A skier engaged in trick water-skiing whose movements would be restricted or impeded by the bulk of a PFD. For purposes of this subsection, a trick water-skier is a person whose equipment and activities have all of the following characteristics:
(a) Type of Skis: for standard double trick skis, a length of no more than 46 inches and width of at least 8 inches, with no keels on the bottom; for single trick skis, a length of no more than 56 inches and width of at least 22 inches, with no keel on the bottom;
(b) Speed of tow no more than 25 miles per hour; and
(c) Tow rope no longer than 50 feet.
The operator of a watercraft towing a trick water-skier or barefoot water-skier shall have a PFD readily available aboard the tow watercraft for each such skier who elects not to wear such a device while skiing.
13.07 Motor Size Restrictions on Certain Internal Waters
For the purpose of determining the horsepower of machinery used to propel watercraft for compliance with this Rule the following definition shall apply:
A. "Horsepower" means the manufacturer's rated horsepower of the machinery and shall include the aggregate of all such propellant machinery on a watercraft.
No person, except officers empowered to enforce this Rule while in the line of duty, or representatives of a governmental agency while conducting authorized studies on these waters, shall operate motorboats propelled by machinery in excess of the following horsepower limitations on the water bodies listed for each respective category below.
A. No motorboats allowed:
(1) Adams Pond, Boothbay, Lincoln County.
(2) Big Brook, from Burt Garrity Road to and including Big Brook Lake, Township T13R10 WELS and Township T14R10 WELS, Aroostook County.
(3) Blood Pond, Township T2R13 WELS, Piscataquis County.
(4) Boston Pond, Denmark, Oxford County.
(5) Bradley Pond, Lovell, Oxford County.
(6) Clay Pond, also known as Clays Pond, Fryeburg, Oxford County.
(7) Cushman Pond, Lovell, Oxford County.
(8) Durgin Pond, T2R6, BKP WKR, Somerset County, Somerset County.
(9) Frypan Pond, T2R5 BKP EKR, Somerset County.
(10) Hooper Pond, also known as Little Sabattus Pond, Greene, Androscoggin County.
(11) Horseshoe Pond, Denmark, Oxford County.
(12) Levenseller Pond, Searsmont and Lincolnville, Waldo County.
(13) Little Berry Pond, T2R6 BKP WKR, Somerset County.
(14) Little Kennebago Lake, T3R4, Franklin County.
(15) Little Pond, Damariscotta, Lincoln County.
(16) Lone Jack Pond, T2R6 BKP WKR, Somerset County.
(17) Loon Lake, Dallas Plantation and Rangeley, Franklin County.
(18) Martin Pond, also known as Long Pond, The Forks Plantation, Somerset County.
(19) Moxie Long Bog, Bald Mountain Township, southern Somerset County.
(20) Round Pond, T1R6 BKP WKR, Somerset County.
(21) Saddleback Lake, Dallas Plantation, Franklin County.
(22) Sand Pond, Limington, York County.
(23) Simpson Pond, Roque Bluffs, Washington County.
(24) Thompson Lake, Casco, Cumberland County; restricted on the southernmost part known as The Heath, which is separated from the main body by a causeway.
(25) Trout Pond, T3 R5 BKP EKR, Piscataquis County.
(26) Upper Dam Pool, T4R1, Oxford County; restricted from gates of dam downstream (westerly) 150 yards.
(27) Upper Goose Pond (the northern portion of Goose Pond which is separated by a narrow thoroughfare), Shapleigh, York County.
(28) Walton's Mill Pond, Farmington, Franklin County.
(29) Watson Pond, Rome, Kennebec County.
(30) Wiley Pond, Boothbay, Lincoln County.
B. Motorboats with more than 6 horsepower prohibited:
(1) Black Lake, Fort Kent, Aroostook County.
(2) Boyd Pond, Bristol, Lincoln County
(3) Farrington Pond, Lovell, Oxford County
(4) Foss Pond, Kingsbury Plantation, Piscataquis County
(5) Granger Pond, Denmark, Oxford County
(6) Haley Pond, Dallas Plantation and Rangeley, Franklin County.
(7) Harriman Pond, Dedham, Hancock County
(8) Heald Pond, Lovell, Oxford County.
(9) Horseshoe Pond, Stoneham and Lovell, Oxford County.
(10) Little Pond, Denmark, Oxford County
(11) Little Pond, formerly known as Ell or L Pond, Sanford and Wells, York County
(12) Perley's Pond, also known as Perley Pond, Denmark, Oxford County
(13) Rich Mill Pond, Standish, Cumberland County
C. Motorboats with more than 10 horsepower prohibited:
(1) Arnold Brook Recreation Watershed in Presque Isle, Aroostook County.
(2) Barrett Pond, Holeb Township, Somerset County.
(3) Beals Pond, also known as Crystal Pond, Turner, Androscoggin County.
(4) Beaver Pond, Denmark, Oxford County.
(5) Big Fish Pond, also known as Fish Pond, Holeb Township, Somerset County.
(6) Cox Pond, South Berwick, York County.
(7) East Carry Pond, Carrying Place Township, Somerset County.
(8) Echo Lake, Mount Desert, Hancock County.
(9) Fahi Pond, Embden, Somerset County.
(10) Five Kezar Ponds: (Mud, Little Mud, Back, Middle & Jewett Ponds) located singly or jointly in Waterford, Stoneham and Lovell, Oxford County.
(11) Hobbs Pond, also known as Little Pennessawassee Pond, Norway, Oxford County.
(12) Hodgdon Pond, Tremont and Mount Desert, Hancock County.
(13) Knickerbocker Lakes, Boothbay, Lincoln County.
(14) Lard Pond, Turner, Androscoggin County.
(15) Little Turner Pond, Forsythe Township, Somerset County.
(16) Long Pond, Forsythe Township and Holeb Township, Somerset County.
(17) Lower Range Pond, Poland, Androscoggin County.
(18) Mainstream Pond, Harmony, Cambridge and Ripley, Somerset County.
(19) McKenney Pond, Holeb Township, Somerset County.
(20) Moulton Pond, Dedham and Bucksport, Hancock County.
(21) Nadeau Lake, Fort Fairfield, Aroostook County.
(22) Nequasset Lake, Woolwich, Sagadahoc County.
(23) North Pond, Buckfield and Sumner, Oxford County (see 5 d. below for additional restrictions)
(24) Notched Pond, Gray, Raymond, Cumberland County.
(25) Sand Pond, Embden, Somerset County.
(26) Sand Pond, Sanford, York County.
(27) Seal Cove Pond, Tremont, Hancock County.
(28) Spectacle Pond, Vassalboro and Augusta, Kennebec County.
(29) Stevens Pond, Liberty, Waldo County.
(30) Timoney Lake, Oakfield and Smyrna, Aroostook County.
(31) Toddy Pond, Brooks and Swanville, Waldo County.
(32) Turner Pond, Forsythe Township, Somerset County.
(33) Webber Pond, Bremen, Lincoln County.
(34) West Harbor Pond, Boothbay Harbor, Lincoln County.
D. Motorboats with more than 10 horsepower prohibited from June 1 to September 15:
(1) Little Black River, tributary to the St. John River, Aroostook County.
E. Motorboats with internal combustion engines prohibited:
(1) Beaver Pond, Bridgton, Cumberland County.
(2) Garland Pond, Sebec and Dover-Foxcroft, Piscataquis County.
(3) Mt. Blue Pond, Avon, Franklin County.
(4) North Pond, within 300 yards of the North Pond Dam, Buckfield and Sumner, Oxford County.
(5) Pinkham Pond, Alna, Lincoln County.
(6) Scituate Pond, York, York County.
(7) Sewell Pond, Arrowsic, Sagadahoc County.
(8) York Pond, Eliot, York County.
13.08 Rules of Operation for Watercraft on Internal Waters
- In order to prevent the collision of watercraft the following rules apply to the operation of all watercraft in relation to each other on the internal waters of this State.
A. When watercraft are approaching each other head on, or nearly so, each watercraft shall direct their courses to the right and pass on the port side of each other and at a distance and speed so that the wake of each will not endanger the other.
B. When a watercraft desires to pass another watercraft on either side in the same direction, the overtaking watercraft shall keep clear of the overtaken watercraft and shall not pass until it is safe to do so, and then at such speed and distance so as not to endanger the overtaken watercraft. The overtaken watercraft has the right of way until the overtaking watercraft has safely passed.
C. When watercraft approach each other at right angles or obliquely, the watercraft approaching on the right (starboard) side has the right of way and the other watercraft which has such watercraft on its right side shall keep out of the way of the other by directing her course to starboard so as to cross the stern of the other watercraft, or stop and reverse if necessary to avoid collision.
D. Watercraft under sail alone or being propelled by oars or paddles have the right of way over watercraft propelled by machinery, except when overtaking as described in No. 2.
E. In narrow channels, streams, and thoroughfares, every watercraft shall keep to the right of the middle of the channel in the direction which it is traveling when it is safe and practicable to do so.
F. It shall be the duty of every operator to abide by these rules. However, where immediate danger exists the operator shall, if necessary, depart from these rules to the extent necessary to avoid collision.
- Steering and Sailing Rules
A. Application
Rules in this section apply to any condition of visibility.
B. Lookout
Every watercraft shall at all times maintain a proper look-out by sight and hearing as well as by all available means appropriate in the prevailing circumstances and conditions so as to make a full appraisal of the situation and of the risk of collision.
C. Safe Speed
Every watercraft shall at all times proceed at a safe speed so that the operator can take proper and effective action to avoid collision and be stopped within a distance appropriate to the prevailing circumstances and conditions.
In determining a safe speed the following factors shall be among those taken into account:
(1) By all watercraft:
(a) The state of visibility;
(b) The traffic density including concentrations of any watercraft on the water.
(c) The manageability of the watercraft with special reference to stopping distance and turning ability in the prevailing conditions;
(d) At night, the presence of background light such as from shore lights or from back scatter from her own lights;
(e) The state of wind, water, weather and current, and the proximity of navigational hazards;
(f) The draft in relation to the available depth of water.
- Additionally, by watercrafts with operational radar:
(a) The characteristics, efficiency and limitations of the radar equipment;
(b) Any constraints imposed by the radar range scale in use;
(c) The effect on radar detection of the sea state, weather and other sources of interference;
(d) The possibility that small watercrafts, ice and other floating objects may not be detected by radar at an adequate range;
(e) The number, location and movement of watercrafts detected by radar;
(f) The more exact assessment of the visibility that may be possible when radar is used to determine the range of watercrafts or other objects in the vicinity.
- Risk of Collision
A. Every watercraft shall use all available means appropriate to the prevailing circumstances and conditions to determine if risk of collision exists. If there is any doubt such risk shall be deemed to exist.
B. Proper use shall be made of radar equipment if fitted and operational, including long-range scanning to obtain early warning of risk of collision and radar plotting or equivalent systematic observation of detected objects.
C. Assumptions shall not be made on the basis of scanty information, especially scanty radar information.
D. In determining if risk of collision exists the following considerations shall be among those taken into account:
(1) Such risk shall be deemed to exist if the course or compass bearing of an approaching watercraft does not appreciably change.
(2) Such risk may sometimes exist even when an appreciable course or bearing change is evident, particularly when approaching a very large watercraft or a tow or when approaching a watercraft at close range.
- Action to Avoid Collision
A. Any action shall be taken in accordance with the Rules of this Part and, if the circumstances of the case admit, be positive, made in ample time and with due regard to the observance of good seamanship.
B. Any alteration of course and/or speed to avoid collision shall, if the circumstances of the case admit, be large enough to be readily apparent to another watercraft observing visually or by radar; a succession of small alterations of course and/or speed should be avoided.
C. If there is sufficient space, alteration of course alone may be the most effective action to avoid a close-quarters situation provided that it is made in good time, is substantial and does not result in another close-quarters situation.
D. Action taken to avoid collision with another watercraft shall be such as to result in passing at a safe distance. The effectiveness of the action shall be carefully checked until the other watercraft is finally past and clear.
13.09 Sound Level Testing for Marine Engines
***** The SAE International “Stationary Sound Level Measurement Procedure for Recreational Motorboats” has been incorporated within section 13.09 of this rule [SAE J2005- JUN2018]. A copy of the SAE standards may be purchased at the following website: https://www.sae.org/standards/content/j2005_201806/ .
** The SAE International “Exterior operational Sound Level Measurement Procedure for Recreational Motorboats” has been incorporated within section 13.09 of this rule [SAE J34-JUN2018]. A copy of the SAE standards may be purchased at the following website:
https://www.sae.org/standards/content/j34_201806/ .
- Scope: This section shall set forth the testing procedures used to measure marine engine noise levels pursuant to 12 M.R.S. §13068-A, subsection 10. This section does not apply to motorboats that are operating in a regatta or race approved by the Commissioner as prescribed within 12 M.R.S. §13068-A subsection 10-C.
A. The Commissioner or a law enforcement office may order the operator or owner of any boat which he or she has articulable suspicion to believe is being operated in a manner which exceeds the decibel limits contained in this section to subject the boat to one or more noise level testing procedures as provided in this section or to inspection of the engine and mechanical systems for violations of this section.
B. A motorboat owner or operator shall allow a motorboat to be inspected and/or subjected to noise level testing procedures if ordered to do so by the Commissioner or the law enforcement officer. This is pursuant to noise level testing authorized by the Commissioner immediately or at the time and location designated by the Commissioner or a law enforcement officer. No person shall operate the motorboat after the time designated until it is subjected to such noise level testing or engine and mechanical system inspection.
C. The Commissioner or a law enforcement officer may prohibit the operator or owner of any motorboat which fails a noise level testing procedure from operating the motorboat until the motorboat successfully passes the procedure. No person shall operate a motorboat contrary to such an order of the Commissioner.
- Calibration for both Stationary and Operational Testing shall be as follows:
The sound level meter used shall be calibrated using an external field test;
Field calibration of the sound level meter shall be made immediately before and after each test sequence;
The person performing the field calibration shall record successful completion of the calibration on a noise test report form;
An external standard calibration test shall be conducted annually on the sound level meter and the external field test; and
A copy of the external standard calibration test form, completed by the person(s) who performed the last external standard calibration, shall be evidence that the sound level meter and the external field test were properly calibrated at the time of the noise level test.
- Required Information for Log Sheets Recorded By The Law Enforcement Officer For Both Stationary and Operational Noise Level Testing
(1) Name, address and date of birth of owner of the motorboat;
(2) Documentation showing proof of identification of the motorboat operator;
(3) Names of officers conducting the test;
(4) Date and time of test;
(5) Location of test site;
(6) Weather conditions;
(7) Water conditions;
(8) Make, model number and color of the motorboat being tested;
(9) Length of the motorboat;
(10) Registration number of the motorboat;
(11) The result of the external field test of the sound level meter; and
(15) Results of each test.
- Stationary Sound Level Testing Authorization
A. The Commissioner or a law enforcement officer may use stationary sound level testing to determine marine engine noise levels for motorboats. Such testing shall be conducted while motorboats are stationary on the water according to ***** Stationary Sound Level Measurement Procedure for Recreational Motorboats [SAE J2005-JUN2018].
B. Noise levels in decibels for stationary sound level testing shall be established for a specific distance between the motorboat tested and the testing device, at levels which correlate with noise levels in decibels, as set forth in 12 M.R.S. §13068, subsection 10.
C. The following instruments shall be used to measure decibel levels of marine engines and motors:
(1) A precision sound level meter that conforms to the specifications of ANSI S1.4, as referred to within ***** SAE J2005-JUN2018; and
(2) An external field test, such as a sound level calibrator.
- Testing Procedure for Stationary Testing
A. The ambient sound level, including wind effects, due to noise sources other than the motorboat being tested, shall be measured immediately prior to the test sequence. The value shall be recorded;
B. The temperature, humidity and wind speed shall be recorded, using the current values available and reported by the National Weather Service at the nearest observation station to the site;
C. The law enforcement officer conducting the noise level test, shall record, on a log sheet the information listed within section 13.03, subsection 3.
- Operational Noise Level Testing Procedure Authorization:
A. The Commissioner or a law enforcement officer may use operational sound level testing to determine marine engine noise levels for motorboats being operated. Such testing shall be conducted while motorboats are being operated on the water according to ****** Exterior Sound Level Measurement Procedure for Recreational Motorboats [SAE J34-JUN2018].
B. This section shall set forth the testing procedures used to measure marine engine noise levels, under an operational noise level testing procedure pursuant to 12 M.R.S. §13068, subsection 10.
C. The following instruments shall be used to measure decibel levels of marine engines and motors:
A precision sound level meter that conforms to the specifications of ANSI S1.4 as referred to within ****** SAE J2005-JUN2018; and
An external field test, such as a sound level calibrator.
- Testing Procedure for Operational Testing
The test site shall be located on a calm body of water that is large enough to allow the motorboat to pass-by at full speed, as designated by the division;
The area around the test site shall be free of large obstructions, such as buildings, boats, hills, large piers and breakwater walls, for a minimum distance of 100 feet;
The test course shall consist of 3 small buoys, in a straight line;
The test motorboat shall be positioned parallel to the test course, at a distance of 50 feet from the center buoy of the course;
The bow and stern of a test boat shall be secured to moorings;
A law enforcement officer shall stay on board each motorboat tested to verify that the boat was operated at maximum speed, pursuant I. below, for 2 of the pass-bys;
The ambient sound level, including wind effects, due to noise sources other than the motorboat being tested, shall be measured immediately prior to the test sequence. The value shall be recorded;
The temperature, humidity and wind speed shall be recorded, using the current values available and reported by the National Weather Service at the nearest observation station to the site;
The test shall consist of 4 passes along the test course of 3 buoys, at a distance of 1 to 3 feet from the buoys. The direction of travel shall be reversed between each run. The first 2 runs shall be at the motorboat's half throttle cruising speed, and the other 2 runs shall be at full throttle;
During each test, all radio equipment shall be switched off. A law enforcement officer shall hold the sound level meter 5 to 6 feet above the water with the microphone inclined approximately 70 degrees off horizontal, facing the center buoy of the test course. The results of each run shall be recorded by a law enforcement officer in the test motorboat;
Each meter reading shall be obtained while the motorboat is within the boundaries of the test course, at the highest sound level for each speed;
All values obtained pursuant to (k) above shall be recorded, however, the sound level shall be the average of the 2 readings, rounded down to the nearest whole number; and
The law enforcement officer conducting the noise level test shall record, on a log sheet the information listed within section 13.03.
13.10 Motorboat race event
Permit application requirements to hold a motorboat race. In accordance with 12 M.R.S. §13061 a complete application must be submitted to the Department for review and an approved permit must be received prior to the event taking place. The permit application requires the following information be provided:
- A description of the proposed course, which shall be appropriately sized and mapped in a location so as not to impede other boating access to the waterbody. The course must be a minimum distance of 300 feet from shore and any loon nesting site locations;
- A map of the course showing any possible safety hazards and loon nesting sites (safety hazards may include docks, sunken logs, ledges or other objects) within or adjacent to the course area shall be submitted along with the application. The map shall be evaluated for consistency with the intent of this chapter to protect public safety, biological resources, damage to property, environment and wildlife and prevent navigational interference. The application shall include resources for the applicant to research loon nesting locations. The Department will review the map and accept, modify or reject the proposed course consistent with the objectives of this rule to protect public safety and wildlife;
- A minimum of two spotters, at least 18 years of age whose names must be provided within the application and assigned for human and wildlife safety;
- Names of at least one certified aquatic plant inspector endorsed by MDEP within the last five years who shall be present and conducting inspections during the event. Aquatic inspection reports shall be completed during the event and provided to the department within 30 days after the event;
- The name of at least one trained emergency responder who must be on scene for the duration of the event to respond to any possible emergencies;
- The name(s) and phone number(s) of a designated representative(s) who will serve as the event overseer and be present on site during the entire event; and
- The person in charge of a proposed motorboat race event shall give notice of the intent to apply for a permit to municipal officers of the municipality or municipalities in which the race will occur, in writing at least 60 days prior to the event.
Requirements to hold a motorboat race. A person conducting or participating in a motorboat race event under the authority of a permit provided in accordance with 12 M.R.S. §13061 shall take reasonable measures to safeguard persons, property, the environment, and wildlife which include:
- All event officials and participants must have successfully completed a National Association of Safe Boating Law Administrators (NASBLA) approved boating safety course and must have proof available for inspection by any agent of the Commissioner upon request;
- During any motorboat race event permitted in accordance with these rules the officials conducting it shall conspicuously display one or more orange warning flags of a size not less than 4 feet by 4 feet while the event is in progress. The officials shall remove the warning flag or flags for reasonable periods of time during the event to allow nonparticipating watercraft to pass through the area;
- A roster of all event participants must be available during the event and kept at the event location for inspection by any agent of the Commissioner upon request;
- A copy of the event permit and event rules shall be made available to all participants in advance and posted conspicuously at the event site;
- A minimum of one trained aquatic plant inspector, that have participated in aquatic plant inspection training endorsed by MDEP within the last five years shall conduct aquatic plant inspections of each boat immediately before an event participant launches prior to the event and for a second time after the boat is retrieved from the water immediately after the conclusion of the event for that participant;
- The spotters must be on the lookout during the entirety of the race for intrusions into the course area from boats, people, wildlife or other hazards. The spotter will have the ability to communicate to race participants and officials and is expected to halt the race until the risk to the participants, bystanders or wildlife (including but not limited to loons) is eliminated;
- The participant roster, aquatic inspection report and human or wildlife safety report (noting incidents related to human or wildlife safety) must be submitted within 30 days after the event, to the Department; and
- All participant boats must be specifically identified in a plainly visible manner.
13.11 Boat regatta, non-motorized boat race, boat exhibition or water-ski exhibition
Permit application requirements to hold a boat regatta, non-motorized boat race, boat exhibition or water-ski exhibition. In accordance with 12 M.R.S. §13061 a complete application must be submitted to the Department for review and an approved permit must be received prior to the event taking place. The permit application requires the following information be provided:
A description of the proposed course, which shall be appropriately sized and mapped in a location so as not to impede other boating access to the waterbody. A map of the course shall be submitted along with the application; and
The name(s) and phone number(s) of a designated representative(s) who will serve as the event overseer and who must be present on site during the entire event.
Requirements to hold a boat regatta, non-motorized boat race, boat exhibition or water-ski exhibition. A person conducting or participating in a boat regatta, non-motorized boat race, boat exhibition or water-ski exhibition event under the authority of a permit provided in accordance with 12 M.R.S. §13061 shall take reasonable measures to safeguard persons, property, and wildlife which include:
At a minimum, names of one trained aquatic plant inspector that have participated in an aquatic plant inspection training endorsed by MDEP within the last five years who shall be present and conducting inspections during the event. Aquatic inspection reports shall be completed during the event and provided to the department within 30 days after the event;
A minimum of two spotters, at least 18 years of age whose names must be provided within the application and assigned for human and wildlife safety. The spotters must be on the lookout during the entirety of the race for intrusions into the course area from boats, people, wildlife or other hazards. The spotter will have the ability to communicate to race participants and officials and is expected to halt the race until the risk to the participants, bystanders or wildlife (including but not limited to loons) is eliminated.
The aquatic inspection report must be submitted within 30 days after the event, to the Department;
A copy of the event permit and event rules shall be made available to all participants in advance and posted conspicuously at the event launch site; and
e. The name(s) and phone number(s) of a designated representative(s) who will serve as the event overseer and be present on site during the entire event.
Exemption: Water-ski exhibitions held in association with a youth camp conducted for instructional purposes and not for public viewing, shall be exempt from the requirements within this section.
- Event Conditions and restrictions (for all boat events described within 13.10 and 13.11 of this rule)
a. The Commissioner has the authority to place reasonable conditions on any event to assure that appropriate measures are taken to protect public safety, biological resources, protect against damage to property, the environment and wildlife and to prevent navigational interference.
b. The Commissioner may deny a permit to prevent conflict with other uses.
c. The Commissioner may revoke a permit issued or refuse to issue a permit to a person or group that violates a condition or restriction placed on a permit or may disallow the participation of an individual who violates a condition or restriction placed on a permit issued.
d. The department will notify the person or group of any denial, revocation, or suspension in writing, which shall inform that person or group of the reasons for the department’s decision.
e. Any person or group whose application for an event or individual participation in an event has been denied, suspended or revoked, may request an appeal hearing before the department. The request for a hearing under this paragraph must be submitted to the department, in writing within 30 days of receipt of the notice of denial, revocation or suspension.
The effective date of this rule chapter is May 1, 2022.
History
- STATUTORY AUTHORITY: 12 MRS §13051
- EFFECTIVE DATE: June 1, 1977 (filed June 1, 1979)
- AMENDED: September 5, 1979 - Section 08(B)(1)(x)
- REPEALED: January 1, 1980 - Section 05(B) & 9
- AMENDED: January 1, 1980 - Section 08(B)(3)
- AMENDED: January 1, 1981 - Section 08(B)(1)(y)
- AMENDED: January 1, 1981 - Section 08(B)(3)(m)
- AMENDED: January 1, 1982 - Section 05(A) & (H)
- AMENDED: July 25, 1984 - Section 08(B)(5)(a)
- AMENDED: September 21, 1985 - Section 01, 03, 04, 05 & 06
- AMENDED: January 7, 1985 - Section 08(B)(1)
- AMENDED: August 10, 1985 - Section 08(B)(3)
- AMENDED: November 3, 1985 - Section 05(C) & (E)
- AMENDED: July 30, 1986 - Section 08(B)(2)
- AMENDED: August 12, 1987 - Section 02(D)
- AMENDED: November 25, 1987 - Section 08(B)(1)(3)(5)
- AMENDED: August 2, 1988 - Section 08(B)(3)
- AMENDED: August 13, 1989
- AMENDED: October 30, 1990 - Section 08(B)
- AMENDED: September 29, 1992 - Section 08(B)
- AMENDED: July 12, 1994 - Section 08(B)
- AMENDED: January 11, 1995 - Section 08(B)(3)
- AMENDED: March 22, 1995
- AMENDED: July 5, 1995 - Section 08(3)(5)
- REPEALED: May 24, 1995 - Section 02(B)
- AMENDED: May 24, 1995 - Section 02(D)
- AMENDED: May 26, 1996 - Section 08
- AMENDED: August 13, 1996 - Section 08(B)(3)
- AMENDED: September 8, 1998 - Section 08(B)(3) - (z) added; converted to MS Word.
- AMENDED: December 14, 1998 - Section 08(B)(2)(l), 8(B)(5)(g, h)
- AMENDED: July 3, 2000 - Section 05(C)
- AMENDED: October 7, 2000 - Section 08(B)(3)(aa, bb)
- AMENDED: October 14, 2001 - Section 08(B)(cc)
- AMENDED: March 11, 2002 - Section 06(C)
- AMENDED: April 11, 2004 - Section 08(B)(3)(dd, ee), filing 2004-114
- AMENDED: June 9, 2004 - Section 08(B)(1)(dd), filing 2004-196
- AMENDED: March 19, 2007 – Section 08(B)(3)(ff), filing 2007-97
- AMENDED: April 28, 2007 – Section 08(B)(2)(m), filing 2007-148
- AMENDED: March 23, 2009 – Section 08(B)(3)(gg), filing 2009-119
- REPEALED AND REPLACED: March 14, 2015 - 2015-028 (titled “Watercraft Rules”
- AMENDED: May 2, 2017 – Section 07 (New), filing 2017-067
- MINOR CORRECTION: June 7, 2018 – “Wiley Pond” spelling (page 18)
- AMENDED: July 31, 2019 – filing 2019-138
- AMENDED: July 26, 2019 – filing 2019-139 (EMERGENCY)
- AMENDED: October 12, 2019 – filing 2019-177
- AMENDED: MINOR CORRECTION
- AMENDED: August 25, 2020 – Section 13.09(5)(C), section reference corrected
- AMENDED: May 26, 2021 – Section 13.07(C)(24) added, filing 2021-108
- AMENDED: May 1, 2022 – filing 2022-025
- AMENDED: March 19, 2026 – Section 13.05(9.C.), filing 2026-081
- APAO ACCESSIBILITY CHECK (Word): April 2, 2026
- AMENDED: April 2, 2026 – filing 2026-081
Chapter 14 Commercial Whitewater Rafting
Code Me. R. 09-137 Ch. 14 Commercial Whitewater Rafting {#sec-09-137-ch.-14 omnilex-key=us-me-regs-official--dept-inland-fisheries-and-wildlife--09-137 Ch. 14}
14.01 Scope of Rules
These rules shall be applicable only to commercial whitewater rafting, dory or bateau trips as described in 12 MRSA, Chapter 929, Subpart 5. Nothing in these rules shall in any way restrict or regulate the use of Maine’s inland waters by groups or individuals which are not associated with a commercial whitewater trip.
14.02 Definitions
When used in these rules, unless otherwise specifically provided, the following words and terms shall have the following meanings:
A. Allocation. “Allocation” means the privilege of taking a specified number of passengers per day on whitewater trips on a particular river (as set forth in 12 MRSA, §12913, paragraphs 2-A and 3).
B-1. Allocation review period. "Allocation review period" means the five-year period the Department reviews to determine whether an outfitter has made use of the allocations they have held .
B-2. Commercial. “Commercial” means for financial compensation or other remuneration.
B-3. Commercial passenger. A commercial passenger means any person paying a licensed whitewater outfitter a fee for a whitewater trip, excluding persons paying an outfitter a fee for providing whitewater guide training as described in 14.03.
B-4. Multiple trip. A multiple trip means any whitewater trip, other than the first trip of the calendar day, over the same section of a rapidly flowing river by the same commercial passenger.
C. Rapidly flowing river. “Rapidly flowing river” means the following stretches of river: the Kennebec River between Harris Station and The Forks; the West Branch of the Penobscot River between McKay Station and Pockwockamus Falls; the Dead River from its confluence with Spencer Stream to its confluence with the Kennebec River at a flow level of 2400 cfs or higher; the Rapid River from the outlet of Lower Richardson Lake to 3/4 miles upstream from Umbagog Lake at a flow level of 1200 cfs or higher, and the Magalloway River from Aziscohos Lake to the first Route 16 bridge west of Aziscohos Lake at a flow level of 800 cfs or higher. The South Branch of the Penobscot River from Canada Falls Dam to the bridge on the Northern Road just prior to Pittston Farm at a flow level of 500 CFS or higher.
D. Trip leader. “Trip leader” means a person who is licensed as a whitewater guide and has been designated by the whitewater outfitter to supervise activities on a whitewater trip.
E. Trip vehicle. “Trip vehicle” means a motor vehicle which transports equipment necessary to a whitewater trip and which accompanies the trip to the extent allowed by existing road systems.
F. Whitewater craft. “Whitewater craft” means any raft, dory, bateau or similar watercraft that is used to transport passengers along rapidly flowing rivers or streams but does not include canoes or kayaks.
G. Whitewater guide. “Whitewater guide” means a person who has met the criteria established by the Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife to qualify as a whitewater guide and who holds a current whitewater guide’s license.
H. Whitewater outfitter. “Whitewater outfitter” means a person (or corporation) who conducts commercial whitewater rafting, dory, or bateau trips on rapidly flowing rivers or streams and who holds a current license, issued by the Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife, to engage in commercial whitewater activities.
I. Whitewater trip. “Whitewater trip” means any commercial effort to transport passengers by means of a whitewater craft on rapidly flowing rivers or streams.
14.03 Whitewater Personnel Requirements
A. Prerequisites for Applicant to be Examined for a Whitewater Guide’s License
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[Repealed]
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Each whitewater guide applicant and licensed whitewater guide must be currently certified in American Red Cross, National Safety Council Standard First Aid or equivalent. Proof of current certification is required.
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Each whitewater guide applicant and licensed whitewater guide must be certified in American Red Cross, American Heart Association or National Safety Council C.P.R.
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Each whitewater guide applicant must enroll in and successfully complete a whitewater guide training course consisting of the following:
For a Level One License (allows the holder to guide whitewater trips on any Maine river except that portion of the Penobscot River between McKay Station and the Big Eddy and that portion of the South Branch of the Penobscot River from Canada Falls Dam to the bridge on the Northern Road just prior to Pittston Farm at a flow level of 500 cfs or higher):
a. A minimum of 7 days of instruction in river etiquette, whitewater safety, general local geography, and characteristics of whitewater rivers, and
b. Guide training, to occur on at least two of the following rivers: Kennebec River, Dead River, Penobscot River, Magalloway River, or the Rapid River, and
c. Five of the seven days of guide training must be on river training on the Kennebec River between Harris Dam, Indian Stream Twp., and The Forks, or on the Penobscot River between Little Eddy and Nevers Corner.
d. Guide training shall include at least fifteen training runs of the rivers identified in 4(b); from Spencer Stream to the Gravel Pit access point on the Dead River; from the Gravel Pit to the take-out on the Dead River; from Harris Dam to Carry Brook access point on the Kennebec River; from Little Eddy to the Big Eddy on the Penobscot River (three runs of Big Ambejackmockamus Falls on the Penobscot River is equivalent to one training run, and two runs from Abol Pines to Nevers Corner on the Penobscot River is equivalent to one training run).
e. A minimum of five guided training runs on the Kennebec River from Harris Dam to Carry Brook, and/or The West Branch of the Penobscot River between Little Eddy and Nevers Corner. A guided training run must be conducted on every section of the Kennebec and Penobscot Rivers for which a guide is licensed to guide, prior to the guide actually guiding a commercial trip on the given river section of those rivers.
f. When used in this context, guided training run means the applicant conducts a simulated whitewater trip utilizing other guide applicants or guides as passengers. Training runs conducted as part of a guide training course must be made in whitewater craft used to carry passengers as part of a whitewater trip. (Craft capable of carrying only 1 person may not be used.)
g. Each whitewater guide applicant, while participating in guide training, must comply with current whitewater guide PFD Type requirements.
h. The minimum number of watercraft on any guide training run shall be two.
i. The minimum number of licensed whitewater guides on any guide training run shall be two.
j. Safety Equipment Requirements listed in Chapter 14.04 shall apply to all guide training runs.
For a Level Two License (allows the holder to guide whitewater trips on any Maine river where a whitewater guide license is required):
a. Must possess a Level One License, and
b. The applicant must have made ten training runs on the Penobscot River; two of the ten training runs must include the major rapids between the Big Eddy and Never’s Corner; and
c. The applicant must have made five guided training runs from Little Eddy to Big Eddy. Once access is restored at McKay Station, an applicant must have made five guided training runs from McKay Station to Liddle Eddy, in order to guide this section of river, and
d. The applicant must have made at least 6 commercial whitewater trips, as a paid guide.
Applicants must provide the Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife with a form, signed by the applicant’s trainer, stating that the applicant has taken and successfully completed the above outlined training; and signed by the outfitter, attesting that the candidate is qualified to be a licensed whitewater guide in the state of Maine. Upon receipt of this documentation, a written test will be administered. Applicants failing the written test must wait 14 days before reapplying.
B. Guides
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Each craft involved in a whitewater trip shall carry a minimum of one licensed whitewater guide and each guide, while guiding a whitewater trip, shall keep their current guide’s license and current first-aid/CPR credentials or true copies at the base of operations for the outfitter by whom they are employed for that day.
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The minimum number of licensed whitewater guides on any whitewater trip shall be two. Each guide, while guiding a whitewater trip, must whenever reasonably possible, have continuous visual contact with at least one other guide from that whitewater trip.
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Each whitewater guide shall carry on their person a knife having a 3" minimum length with a fixed blade and a whistle, both of which are in good, serviceable condition and readily accessible at all times.
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Each whitewater guide shall wear a securely fastened, non-inflatable, Coast Guard approved personal flotation device that is the appropriate size and in good and serviceable condition with a design buoyancy of at least 16 lbs., of one of the following classifications: Type III or Type V intended use for whitewater paddling or river rescue.
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Life jackets worn by guides shall contrast in color with those worn by other passengers to such a degree that guides are easily recognized as such by all trip participants. The color contrast between solid red and solid orange is not significant and the two colors do not provide a legal contrast.
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Whitewater guides shall ensure that each passenger participating on a whitewater trip wears a securely fastened serviceable U.S. Coast Guard approved Type V personal flotation device for whitewater rafting.
C. Trip leader
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One licensed whitewater guide who has been designated by the outfitter as a “trip leader” shall supervise each whitewater trip.
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Each trip leader shall be currently certified in American Red Cross Emergency Response or equivalent. Proof of current certification is required.
14.04 Safety Equipment Requirements
A. First Aid
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One major medical first aid kit shall be carried, securely attached to one of the craft, on each whitewater trip.
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One additional major medical first aid kit shall be carried on all whitewater trips involving more than 5 watercraft.
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Major medical first aid kits must be in serviceable condition and include the following items:
• Inflatable, ladder or padded board splints • Finger splint
• Emergency space blanket or equivalent • 4 triangular bandages
• Ace bandages • Quick cold packs
• Hot packs • Roller gauze 2" - up
• Band-aids 3/4" – up • Butterfly band-aids
• Sanitary napkin pad • Safety pins
• Knife • Adhesive tape
• Sun screen • Matches or equivalent
• Sting swabs • Scissors
• Tweezers • 2 CPR pocket shields
• Gauze compresses at least 2x2 or larger • Antiseptic solutions for cleaning
• 5 Pair of exam gloves
• 2 Buckle straps with minimum length of 9 feet and a minimum width of 1 inch.
- A serviceable backboard shall be carried in the trip vehicle on each whitewater trip.
B. Additional items and provisions
- The following items shall be carried on all whitewater trips:
a. At least one throw line, not less than 50 feet long, securely attached to each whitewater craft; and
b. Unless a whitewater craft is self-bailing, at least one bail bucket in each whitewater craft. Bail buckets, when not in use, shall be safely secured against loss.
- All rafts used in connection with whitewater trips shall be equipped with:
a. An inside safety line, at least 1/2 inch in diameter or webbing of the equivalent strength or handhold lines 1/2 inch in diameter, 15 inches in length securely attached around the inside of the raft. Handholds shall be positioned so that one shall be readily accessible to each passenger.
b. An outside safety line, at least 1/2 inch in diameter, securely attached around the outside of the raft; and
c. A carabiner.
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Each whitewater craft used by a licensed outfitter for a whitewater trip shall be plainly marked with a number, as assigned by the Department, followed by a company fleet number issued only to that craft. Lettering must be at least 6 inches high and easily readable from the river bank.
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Outfitters shall ensure that each passenger participating in a whitewater trip is provided a serviceable U.S. Coast Guard approved Type V personal flotation device for whitewater rafting.
14.05 Whitewater Craft Specifications
A. Minimum number per trip
The minimum number of watercraft on any whitewater trip shall be two, one of which may be a kayak.
B. Size and Capacity
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Any watercraft carrying passengers on a whitewater trip shall be at least 13 feet in length.
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The maximum number of passengers allowed in a whitewater craft, not including the guide, shall be as follows:
a. Craft at least 13 feet but under 15 feet in length - 7 passengers.
b. Craft at least 15 feet but under 20 feet in length - 10 passengers.
c. Craft 20 feet and over in length - 12 passengers.
14.06 Additional Requirements and Restrictions
A. Liability Insurance
A person who applies for a Commercial Whitewater Outfitter License shall file proof with the Department of current general liability insurance protection in the amount of at least five hundred thousand dollars covering the operation of whitewater trips and current automobile liability insurance protection in the amount of at least five hundred thousand dollars covering the operation of motor vehicles carrying passengers.
B. Age Restriction
All persons 12 years of age or under must be accompanied during any whitewater trip, by a parent or guardian or by an adult, at least 18 years of age, approved in writing by a parent or guardian.
C. Record Keeping
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Each whitewater outfitter shall keep current and accurate records of all whitewater trips conducted at that outfitter’s base of operation.
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The records shall be maintained in a legible manner and shall include the following information for each trip:
a. Trip date(s);
b. Waters involved;
c. Names of licensed guides who accompanied the trip; and
d. Names and addresses of all passengers who participated in the trip.
e. True copies of guide licenses and credentials (first aid, CPR) for all guides .
f. Daily numbers of commercial passengers that participate in multiple trips.
- Such records shall be retained by the outfitter for a period of two years and shall be made available to any law enforcement officer upon request.
D. Safety Practice Runs
In the interest of safety, the Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife may require that whitewater outfitters and guides conduct practice runs on dangerous sections of river or stream prior to carrying passengers.
E. License fee, nonrenewal, suspension or revocation
The annual fee for a commercial whitewater outfitters license is $350. A commercial whitewater outfitter’s license is subject to nonrenewal, suspension or revocation if an outfitter has failed to pay the outfitter license fee, the quarterly allocation fee, the use fees from prior periods, or if knowingly failed to file a safety report.
F. Safety Reports
Each commercial whitewater outfitter shall submit safety reports on forms provided by the commissioner for any accident occurring in connection with a commercial whitewater trip or whitewater guide training that results in the death of a person, a person losing consciousness or receiving professional medical treatment, a person becoming disabled for more than 24 hours, a person’s disappearance from a watercraft under circumstances indicating death or injury or damage to the watercraft or other property of more than $1,000.00.
14.07 Allocation System
A. Goals
This regulation establishes a schedule for reviewing outfitters who hold allocations; sets forth the criteria for maintaining allocations; and establishes the process for awarding allocations that have been forfeited or returned to the Department.
B. Review of Allocations
At any time, the Department may review an outfitter’s allocation for the purposes of determining whether the outfitter continues to maintain the conditions of its license, continues using its allocations productively, and continues to maintain a quality of service consistent with the public interest.
Beginning January 1, 2019, the Department will review outfitters who hold allocations according to the criteria described in (1) below. The review will be based upon the performance in meeting past allocations for each year of the preceding five-year period, except when allocations are returned to the Department, which is addressed in (C) below.
Information on the use of allocations over the preceding five-year period must be submitted by October 1 of the last year of the preceding allocation review period.
Allocation review criteria will be based on the industry average use for the five-year period in the review. The review will be based on the outfitter’s best four out of five calendar year average for allocated days for the allocated river. If the industry average is 70% or greater, the review criteria percentage to maintain 100% allocations will be 70%. If the industry average falls below 70% use for the review, the criteria for the review will be the actual industry average.
If an outfitter has had allocations for less than five years, the following criteria will apply;
-An outfitter has had allocations for less than 2 years, the outfitter is exempt from the review.
-An outfitter has had allocations for 2 years, the outfitter would use the average of the best 1 year.
-An outfitter has had allocations for 3 years, the outfitter would use the average of the best 2 years.
-An outfitter has had allocations for 4 years, the outfitter would use the average of the best 3 years.
-An outfitter has had allocations for 5 years, the outfitter would use the average of the best 4 years.
- The Department shall evaluate information submitted by outfitters according to the following criteria based on holding allocations for at least 5 years:
a. An outfitter that averages at least 70% of their previous allocation during the best 4 years of the five-year review period shall retain 100% of that allocation;
b. An outfitter that averages at least 60% of their previous allocation during the best 4 years of the five-year review period shall retain 90% of that allocation;
c. An outfitter that averages at least 50% of their previous allocation during the best 4 years of the five-year review period shall retain 80% of that allocation;
d. An outfitter that averages at least 40% of their previous allocation during the best 4 years of the five-year review period shall retain 70% of that allocation;
e. An outfitter averaging below 40% shall have their allocations reduced to the amount used, or the statutory minimum, except in situations where the commissioner has determined that extenuating circumstances resulted in the loss of the ability to meet minimum standards.
f. The commissioner may suspend taking administrative action on an outfitter based on low industry use during any five-year review of allocations determined by the Department.
Example: The average industry use during the five-year review period for allocated days on the Penobscot River Saturdays was 70% for the review period. Under Chapter 14.07 (B) (1) (a), the percentage requirement is 49% fulfillment to maintain 100% of that allocation (70% of 70% is 49%).
C. Reissuing of Allocations
Upon application and payment of all license and allocation fees, allocations which are returned to the Department as a result of the sale of a business or part thereof are transferred to the new purchaser, and will be reviewed at the end of the current five-year review period.
D. Public auction of allocations
Whenever allocations are forfeited or when new allocations become available, these allocations will be sold through a public auction process to a whitewater outfitter who is eligible by law to obtain the additional allocation and pays the appropriate fees.
E. Suspension of Allocations. The Department may temporarily suspend an outfitter’s allocation within the following guidelines:
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If an inspection of an outfitter’s equipment by a warden of the Department reveals a hazard that places the health or safety of a member of the public in immediate jeopardy of serious injury, the warden may order a halt to the trip until such time as the equipment is brought into compliance with applicable regulations.
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An outfitter has failed to pay the outfitter license fee, the quarterly allocation fees, or the use fees from prior periods.
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An outfitter is convicted of filing a false accident report or of knowingly failing to file an accident report.
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An outfitter is convicted of a violation of false swearing of information submitted to the Department regarding use of allocations.
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Notwithstanding the allocation review period described above, allocations may be revoked, suspended of reduced pursuant to 12 MRSA Section 12913, Subsection 4.
F. Additional Allocated Days (repealed effective August 25, 2014)
14.08 Commercial Outfitter Order of Launch
A. The department shall maintain and update as necessary an “Commercial Outfitter launch schedule” to protect public health and safety for the Kennebec River and West Branch of the Penobscot River, to be made readily available to the public on the Department’s website or through the Whitewater Boating Office in Augusta.
Commercial trips started at other than designated launch sites shall yield to trips started at designated sites. The order of launch for trips starting at Nesowadnehunk will apply when the second part of the trip is started in the afternoon at McKay Station.
The launch order on the Kennebec River assumes a water release at Harris Station beginning by 10:00 a.m. Any release other than 10:00 a.m. will result in the launch times being rescheduled from the time the release actually occurs. This rule in no way obligates Brookfield Renewable to release water if system conditions dictate otherwise.
B. The Commissioner will designate a launch director for certain days who will have authority to supervise the order of launch and authorize changes in the order of launch when a company is absent, unable to launch in the appointed order, or fails to launch in a timely manner or the launch is delayed or disrupted by timing and level of releases, accidents, or other related factors. The launch director may establish a starting location where trips must wait fully prepared for their launch.
C. The order of launch shall apply on allocated days, and at all other times when two or more outfitters contest the order in which to launch. Nothing in the launch order is intended to prohibit outfitters with later launch positions from utilizing an earlier position not used on a particular day. The filling of a vacant launch position shall be based upon the existing order of launch, allowing the next available company in the launch order to utilize the vacant position.
D. No company may be at the launch site on the Kennebec River with passengers more than 25 minutes before their assigned launch time.
E. Companies must be completely away from the launch site and vicinity of Harris Dam on the Kennebec River by the start of the next launch time.
F. Companies assigned to a launch time may exchange positions by mutual consent but any company missing their launch time must wait until the next unused launch position.
G. It shall be unlawful for any commercial outfitter, guide, or designated trip leader to fail to follow the instructions on launching provided by the launch director.
H. It shall be unlawful to make multiple runs of a rapid or rapids which interferes with or postpones the order of launch.
I. Non-commercial trips have priority and may launch before any commercial trip which has not begun to launch.
J. Licensed Commercial Whitewater Outfitters renting commercial rafts to non-commercial users must cover up the outfitter’s assigned raft display number and fleet number issued by the department.
History
- STATUTORY AUTHORITY: Title 12 M.R.S. Sections 7035, 7366, 7367, 7369.
- EFFECTIVE DATE: May 11, 1982
- AMENDED: August 10, 1983 - Sec. 7 (added)
- AMENDED: August 10, 1983 - Sec. 8 (added)
- AMENDED: September 4, 1983 - Section 8
- AMENDED: September 18, 1983 - Sec. 8
- AMENDED: January 1, 1984 - Sec. 8
- AMENDED: May 16, 1984 - Sec. 3(B)(5) (EMERGENCY)
- AMENDED: June 26, 1984 - Sec. 3(B)(2) & 4(B)(2a)
- AMENDED: September 18, 1984 - Sec. 3(B)(5)
- AMENDED: May 11, 1985 - Sec. 3, 4 & 7
- AMENDED: June 18, 1985 - Sec. 1, 2, 3, 7 & 8
- AMENDED: September 21, 1985 - Sec. 2(G)
- AMENDED: January 11, 1989 - Sec. 7(B)(C)(D)(G) & (I)
- AMENDED: August 13, 1989 - Sec. 2(D) and (A) & (B)
- AMENDED: March 4, 1990 - Sec. 8
- AMENDED: May 30, 1990
- AMENDED: July 4, 1990 - Sec. 7(D)(5)
- AMENDED: September 20, 1990 -
- AMENDED: June 16, 1991 - Sec. 8
- AMENDED: March 4, 1992
- AMENDED: May 25, 1992 - Sec. 8
- AMENDED: June 16, 1993 - Sec. 8
- AMENDED: April 6, 1994 - Sec. 6, 7(C)(D)(E)(I), & 8
- AMENDED: October 24, 1994 - Sec. 3
- AMENDED: February 11, 1995 - Sec. 8 (A)
- AMENDED: March 22, 1995 - Sec. 7 (D)(7)
- AMENDED: June 23, 1996 - 3 & 7
- EFFECTIVE DATE (ELECTRONIC CONVERSION): April 4, 1996
- AMENDED: May 28, 1997 - Sec. 7 (D) (7), 8 (A) (1, 2, 3)
- AMENDED: May 25, 1998 - Sec. 6 (E), 7 (D) (7), 8 (A) (1, 2, 3)
- CORRECTION: June 29, 1998 - inserted unrepealed 2nd paragraph of 14.07(D)(5).
- REPEALED AND REPLACED: July 28, 1999
- AMENDED: July 15, 2000
- AMENDED: July 8, 2001 - Sec. 7(F), 8(A)
- AMENDED: July 6, 2002 - Sec. 3(A)(1, 4), Sec. 4(3), Sec. 7(F), Sec. 8(A)(1, 2, 3)
- AMENDED: August 14, 2004 - Sec. 7(F), 9(A)(1, 2, 3), filing 2004-338
- AMENDED: June 12, 2005 – filing 2005-198
- AMENDED: April 28, 2007 – Section 14.08(A), filing 2007-149
- AMENDED: April 16, 2008 – filing 2008-168
- AMENDED: March 23, 2009 – filing 2009-120
- AMENDED: April 13, 2010 – filing 2010-126
- AMENDED: May 17, 2011 – filing 2011-155
- AMENDED: August 25, 2014 – Section 14.03(4)(C) amended, Section 14.07(F) repealed, filing 2014-200
- AMENDED: April 2, 2019 – filing 2019-058
- AMENDED: June 18, 2020 – Section 14.03(A), filing 2020-141 (EMERGENCY)
- APAO ACCESSIBILITY CHECK: July 21, 2025
- AMENDED: July 26, 2025 – filing 2025-151
Chapter 15 Interstate Wildlife Violations Compact
Code Me. R. 09-137 Ch. 15 Interstate Wildlife Violators Compact {#sec-09-137-ch.-15 omnilex-key=us-me-regs-official--dept-inland-fisheries-and-wildlife--09-137 Ch. 15}
15.00 Scope of Rules
These rules have been adopted pursuant to Title 12 MRS §10103(2). The commissioner is authorized to enter into an interstate wildlife violator compact to promote compliance with the laws, regulations and rules that relate to the management of wildlife resources in the respective member states and may adopt rules necessary to implement certain provisions of the compact. Pursuant to this rule, the commissioner exercises this statutory authority and enters into theWildlife Violators Compact on behalf of the State of Maine with any and all states legally joining therein in accordance with its terms. This rule also implements and adopts the terms of the Compact.
15.01 Definitions
The following definitions apply for the purposes of the implementation of the compact:
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"Citation" means any summons, complaint, ticket, penalty assessment, or other official document issued by a wildlife officer or other law enforcement officer for a wildlife violation containing an order which requires the person to respond.
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"Collateral" means any cash or other security deposited to secure an appearance for trial in connection with the issuance by a wildlife officer or other law enforcement officer of a citation for a wildlife violation.
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"Compliance" with respect to a citation means the act of answering the citation through appearance at a court, a tribunal, or payment of fines, costs, and surcharges, if any, or both such appearance and payment.
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"Conviction" means a conviction or adjudication, including any court conviction, of any offense related to the preservation, protection, management, or restoration of wildlife which is prohibited by state statute, rule, or other relevant law, or a forfeiture of bail, bond, or other security deposited to secure the appearance by a person charged with having committed any such offense, or payment of a penalty assessment, or a plea of nolo contendere, or the imposition of a deferred or suspended sentence by the court.
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"Court" means a court of law.
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"Home state" means the state of primary residence of a person.
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"Issuing state" means the party state which issues a wildlife citation to the violator.
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"License" means any license, permit, or other public document that conveys to the person to whom it was issued the privilege of pursuing, possessing, or taking any wildlife regulated by statute, rule, or other relevant law of a party state.
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"Licensing authority" means the department within each party state authorized by law to issue or approve licenses or permits to hunt, fish, trap, or possess wildlife.
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"Party state" means any state which enacts legislation to become a member of the wildlife compact.
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"Personal recognizance" means an agreement by a person made at the time of issuance of the wildlife citation that the person will comply with the terms of that citation.
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"State" means any state, territory, or possession of the United States, the District of Columbia, the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, provinces of Canada, or other countries.
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"Suspension" means any revocation, denial, or withdrawal of any or all license privileges or rights, including the privilege or right to apply for, purchase, or exercise the benefits conferred by any license.
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"Terms of the citation" means those conditions and options expressly stated upon the citation.
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"Wildlife" means all species of animals, including but not necessarily limited to mammals, birds, fish, reptiles, amphibians, mollusks, and crustaceans, which are defined as "wildlife" and are protected or otherwise regulated by statute, rule, or other relevant law in a party state. "Wildlife" also means food fish and shellfish as defined by statute, rule, or other relevant law in a party state. Species included in the definition of "wildlife" vary from state to state and determination of whether a species is "wildlife" for the purposes of this compact shall be based on state law.
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"Wildlife law" means any statute, law, regulation, ordinance, or administrative rule developed and enacted to manage wildlife resources and the use thereof.
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"Wildlife officer" means any individual authorized by a party state to issue a citation for a wildlife violation.
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"Wildlife violation" means any cited violation of a statute, rule, or other relevant law developed and enacted to manage wildlife resources and the use thereof.
15.02 Findings, Declaration of Policy and Purpose
A. The party states find that:
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Wildlife resources are managed in trust by the respective states for the benefit of all residents and visitors.
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The protection of their respective wildlife resources can be materially affected by the degree of compliance with state statute or rule relating to the management of those resources.
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The preservation, protection, management, and restoration of wildlife contribute immeasurably to the aesthetic, recreational, and economic aspects of these natural resources.
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Wildlife resources are valuable without regard to political boundaries; therefore, all persons should be required to comply with wildlife preservation, protection, management, and restoration statutes, rules and other laws of all party states as a condition precedent to the continuance or issuance of any license to hunt, fish, trap, or possess wildlife.
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Violation of wildlife laws interferes with the management of wildlife resources and may endanger the safety of persons and property.
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The mobility of many wildlife law violators necessitates the maintenance of channels of communications among the various states.
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A person who is cited for a wildlife violation in a state other than the person's home state:
a. may be required to post collateral or bond to secure appearance for a trial at a later date;
b. if unable to post collateral or bond, may be taken into custody until the collateral or bond is posted; or
c. may be taken directly to court for an immediate appearance
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The purpose of the enforcement practices described in §15.02(A) (7) of this rule is to ensure compliance with the terms of a wildlife citation by the person who, if permitted to continue on the person's way after receiving the citation, could return to the person's home state and disregard the person's duty under the terms of the citation.
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A person receiving a wildlife citation in the person's home state is permitted to accept the citation from the officer at the scene of the violation and to continue immediately on the person's way after agreeing or being instructed to comply with the terms of the citation.
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The practice described §15.02(A) (7) of this rule causes unnecessary inconvenience and, at times, a hardship for the person who is unable at the time to post collateral, furnish a bond, stand trial, or pay the fine, and thus is compelled to remain in custody until some alternative arrangement can be made.
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The enforcement practices described in §15.02(A) (7) of this rule consume an undue amount of law enforcement time.
B. It is the policy of the party states to:
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Promote compliance with the statutes, rules, and other applicable laws relating to management of wildlife resources in their respective states.
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Recognize the suspension of wildlife license privileges or rights of any person whose license privileges or rights have been suspended by a party state and treat this suspension as if it had occurred in the person's home state.
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Allow violators to accept a wildlife citation, except as provided in §15.03( B) of this rule, and be released without delay whether or not the person is a resident in the state in which the citation was issued, provided that the violator's home state is party to this compact.
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Report to the appropriate party state any conviction that would subject a person to suspension and that is recorded against any person whose home state was not the issuing state.
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Allow the home state to recognize and treat a conviction that would subject a person to suspension and that is recorded for their residents and which occurred in another party state as if the conviction had occurred in the home state.
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Extend cooperation to its fullest extent among the party states for obtaining compliance with the terms of a wildlife citation issued in one party state to a resident of another party state.
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Maximize effective use of law enforcement personnel and information.
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Assist court systems in the efficient disposition of wildlife violations.
C. The purpose of the compact is to:
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Provide a means through which the party states may participate in a reciprocal program to effectuate policies enumerated in §15.02 in a uniform and orderly manner.
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Provide for the fair and impartial treatment of wildlife violators operating within party states in recognition of the person's right of due process and the sovereign status of a party state.
15.03 Procedures for Issuing State
A. When issuing a citation for a wildlife violation, a wildlife officer shall issue a citation to any person whose primary residence is in a party state in the same manner as if the person were a resident of the home state and shall not require the person to post collateral to secure appearance, subject to the exceptions contained in §15.03 (B) , if the officer receives the person's personal recognizance that the person will comply with the terms of the citation.
B. Personal recognizance is acceptable:
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If not prohibited by local law or the rules of the Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife; and
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If the violator provides adequate proof of the violator's identification to the wildlife officer.
C. Upon conviction of a wildlife violation subject to suspension or upon failure of a person to comply with the terms of a wildlife citation, the appropriate official shall report the conviction or failure to comply to the licensing authority of the party state in which the wildlife citation was issued. The report shall be made in accordance with procedures specified by the issuing state.
D. Upon receipt of the report of conviction or noncompliance required by §15.03(C), the licensing authority of the issuing state shall transmit to the licensing authority in the home state of the violator the information in a form and content specified by the Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife’s rule.
15.04 Procedures for Home State
A. Upon receipt of a report of a failure to comply with the terms of a citation from the licensing authority of the issuing state, the licensing authority of the home state shall notify the violator, shall initiate a suspension action in accordance with the home state's enforcement procedures, and shall suspend the violator's license privileges or rights until satisfactory evidence of compliance with the terms of the wildlife citation has been furnished by the issuing state to the home state licensing authority. Due process safeguards will be accorded.
B. Upon receipt of a report of conviction of a wildlife violation subject to suspension from the licensing authority of the issuing state, the licensing authority of the home state shall enter such conviction in its records according to current procedure and shall treat such conviction as if it occurred in the home state for the purposes of the suspension of license privileges and for the purposes of the term of the suspension of privileges.
C. The licensing authority of the home state shall maintain a record of actions taken and make reports to issuing states as provided in rules adopted by the Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife.
15.05 Reciprocal Recognition of Suspension
A. All party states shall recognize the suspension of license privileges or rights of any person by any party state as if the violation on which the suspension is based had in fact occurred in the person's home state and would have been the basis for suspension of license privileges or rights in his or her home state.
15.06 Applicability of Other Laws
A. Except as expressly required by provisions of the compact, nothing herein shall be construed to affect the right of any party state to apply any of its laws relating to license privileges to any person or circumstance, or to invalidate or prevent any agreement or other cooperative arrangements between a party state and a nonparty state concerning wildlife law enforcement.
15.07 Compact Administrator Procedures
A. For the purpose of administering the provisions of the compact and to serve as a governing body for the resolution of all matters relating to the operation of the compact, a board of compact administrators is established. The board of compact administrators shall be composed of one representative from each of the party states to be known as the compact administrator. The compact administrator shall be appointed by the head of the licensing authority of each party state, except that in Maine the compact administrator shall be appointed by the Commissioner according to Title 12 §10103(2), and will serve and be subject to removal in accordance with the laws of the state the administrator represents. A compact administrator may provide for the discharge of the administrator's duties and the performance of the administrator's functions as a board of compact administrators' member by an alternate. An alternate may not be entitled to serve unless written notification of the alternate's identity has been given to the board of compact administrators.
B. Each member of the board of compact administrators shall be entitled to one vote. No action of the board of compact administrators shall be binding unless taken at a meeting at which a majority of the total number of votes on the board of compact administrators are cast in favor thereof. Action by the board of compact administrators shall be only at a meeting at which a majority of the party states are represented.
C. The board of compact administrators shall elect annually, from its membership, a chairperson and vice chairperson.
D. The board of compact administrators shall adopt bylaws, not inconsistent with the provisions of this compact or the laws of a party state, for the conduct of its business and shall have the power to amend and rescind its bylaws.
E. The board of compact administrators may accept for any of its purposes and functions under this compact all donations and grants of money, equipment, supplies, materials, and services, conditional or otherwise, from any state, the United States, or any governmental agency, and may receive, utilize, and dispose of the same.
F. The board of compact administrators may contract with or accept services or personnel from any governmental or intergovernmental agency, individual, firm, corporation, or any private nonprofit organization or institution.
G. The board of compact administrators shall formulate all necessary procedures and develop uniform forms and documents for administering the provisions of this compact. All procedures and forms adopted pursuant to board of compact administrators' action shall be contained in the rules adopted by the Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife.
15.08 Entry into Compact and Withdrawal
A. The compact shall become effective when it has been adopted by at least two states.
B. Entry into the compact shall be made by an act or resolution of ratification executed by the authorized officials of the applying state and submitted to the chairperson of the board of compact administrators.
- The act or resolution shall include statements that in substance are as follows:
a. A citation of the authority by which the state is empowered to become a party to this compact;
b. Agreement to comply with the terms and provisions of the compact; and
c. That compact entry is with all states then party to the compact and with any state that legally becomes a party to the compact.
- The effective date of entry shall be specified by the applying state, but shall not be less than 60 days after notice has been given by the chairperson of the board of compact administrators or by the secretariat of the board of compact administrators to each party state that has received the resolution from the applying state.
C. A party state may withdraw from this compact by official written notice to the other party states, but a withdrawal shall not take effect until 90 days after notice of withdrawal is given. The notice shall be directed to the compact administrator of each member state. No withdrawal shall affect the validity of this compact as to the remaining party states.
15.09 Amendments to the Compact
A. The compact may be amended from time to time. Amendments shall be presented in resolution form to the chairperson of the board of compact administrators and may be initiated by one or more party states.
B. Adoption of an amendment shall require endorsement by all party states and shall become effective 30 days after the date of the last endorsement.
C. Failure of a party state to respond to the compact chairperson within 120 days after receipt of the proposed amendment shall constitute endorsement.
15.10 Construction and Severability
A. This rule, implementing the terms of the compact shall be liberally construed so as to effectuate the purposes stated herein. The provisions of the compact shall be severable, and if any phrase, clause, sentence, or provision of this compact is declared to be contrary to the constitution of any party state or of the United States, or the applicability thereof to any government, agency, individual, or circumstance is held invalid, the compact shall not be affected thereby. If the compact and these rules implementing it, shall be held contrary to the constitution of any party state thereto, the compact shall remain in full force and effect as to the remaining states and in full force and effect as to the state affected as to all severable matters.
15.11 Compact Title
A. The compact shall be known as the wildlife violator compact.
15.12 Compact Administrator
A. The compact administrator for Maine shall be a designated representative of the Commissioner. The duties of the compact administrator shall be deemed a regular part of the duties and responsibilities of the Game Warden Major within the Bureau of Warden Service.
15.13 Penalties
A. To the extent allowable under Maine law in accordance with its authorization to enter into the compact, the commissioner shall suspend a Maine hunting, fishing, or trapping license and privileges to obtain such licenses of a person convicted of a wildlife violation in a state party to the compact, provided that the wildlife violation would have been the basis for suspension of license privileges in Maine.
B. No person whose license, privilege, or right to hunt, fish, trap, possess, or transport wildlife, having been suspended or revoked pursuant to this rule, shall be permitted to obtain a license to hunt, fish, or trap in Maine.
C. A person shall be subject to the financial penalties as set forth within chapter 913 of Title 12 if he or she:
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Hunts, fishes, traps, possesses, or transports wildlife in Maine in violation of a suspension or revocation of a license under chapter 913 of Title 12; or
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Purchases or possesses a license to hunt, fish, trap, possess, or transport wildlife in Maine in violation of a suspension of revocation of a license under chapter 913 of Title 12.
D.
- Prior to suspending a Maine hunting, fishing, or trapping license of a resident of this state under §15.13(A) of this subchapter, the commissioner shall notify the person in writing. A suspension shall be deemed effective:
a. When given if notice is made in person; or
b. Three days after the deposit of notice in the United States mails, if notice is made in writing.
- A person receiving notice under §15.13(A) may, within 20 days of the date notice is given; request a hearing before the commissioner on whether the requirements for suspension or penalty have been met. The requesting person may present evidence and arguments at the hearing only regarding whether:
a. A participating state suspended the person's privileges;
b. There was a conviction in the participating state;
c. The person failed to comply with the terms of a citation issued for a wildlife violation in a participating state; or
d. A conviction in a participating state could have led to a license suspension or penalty in Maine.
- At the hearing, the commissioner or a hearing officer designated by the commissioner may:
a. Administer oaths;
b. Issue subpoenas for the attendance of witnesses; and
c. Admit all relevant evidence and documents, including notifications from participating states.
- Following a hearing under this subsection, the commissioner or a designated hearing officer may, based on the evidence, affirm, modify, or rescind the suspension of a license.
History
- STATUTORY AUTHORITY: 12 MRSA §10103-2
- EFFECTIVE DATE: May 21, 2014 – filing 2014-096
- EFFECTIVE DATE: APAO WORD VERSION CONVERSION (IF NEEDED) AND ACCESSIBILITY CHECK: July 17, 2025
Chapter 16 Hunting
Code Me. R. 09-137 Ch. 16 Hunting {#sec-09-137-ch.-16 omnilex-key=us-me-regs-official--dept-inland-fisheries-and-wildlife--09-137 Ch. 16}
16.01 Scope of Rules
These rules shall apply to the hunting, taking, possession, transportation and registration of wild animals and wild birds that can be legally hunted in Maine, except for those areas closed to hunting described in Title 12 M.R.S. Chapter 925, subchapter 1.
16.02 Table of Contents
16.03 Legal Hunting Hours for Wild Birds and Wild Animals
16.04 Hunter Orange Requirements for Hunting of Wild Birds and Wild Animals
16.05 Possession, Transport and Labeling of Big Game
16.06 Registration, Data Collection and Tagging of Big Game and Furbearing Animals
16.07 Deer Hunting
16.08 Moose Hunting
16.09 Bear Hunting
16.10 Wild Turkey Hunting
16.11 Migratory Game Bird Hunting
16.12 Upland Game and Furbearing Animal Hunting
16.13 Protocol for Big Game Registration Station & Furbearer Tagging Agents
16.14 Snapping Turtles
16.15 Wildlife Management Districts
- Legal Hunting Hours for Wilds Birds and Wild Animals
In accordance with 12 M.R.S. §11206 legal hunting times for all wild birds and wild animals are from ½ hour before sunrise to ½ hour after sunset.
Exceptions
Migratory game birds. A person may hunt migratory game birds from ½ hour before sunrise to sunset.
Coyote. A person may night hunt coyote in accordance with 12 M.R.S. §12001.
Raccoon. A person may night hunt raccoon in accordance with12 M.R.S. §11901 and section 16.12-7. of this rule chapter.
- Hunter Orange Requirements for Hunting of Wild Birds and Wild Animals
Open Firearms Season on Deer: Any person who is utilizing a firearm or crossbow during the open firearms season on deer (including the muzzle-loading season) must wear two articles of hunter orange clothing in accordance with Title 12 M.R.S. §10001-32. and §11203, this includes persons hunting for moose during the open firearms season on deer.
Moose Hunting: Any person who hunts with a firearm or crossbow within any WMD open to moose hunting during the open season on moose shall wear one article of solid-colored hunter orange clothing, as defined in Title 12 M.R.S. §10001-32., which is in good and serviceable condition and which is visible from all sides, except two articles of hunter orange clothing must be worn when hunting moose during the open firearms season on deer in accordance with paragraph 1.
Exceptions
Religious Opposition to Hunter Orange Clothing: Persons who have a religious opposition as defined within 12 M.R.S. §11203 1-A may substitute articles of bright red clothing in place of hunter orange clothing.
Waterfowl Hunting: Persons hunting waterfowl from a boat or blind or in conjunction with waterfowl decoys are not required to wear hunter orange clothing as provided within 12 M.R.S. §11203.
- Possession, Transport and Labeling of Big Game
Tags for Possession and Transportation
Deer Transportation Tag: To meet the requirements of 12 M.R.S. §11502, the tag for possessing a deer prior to registration must be a tag provided by the hunter or by the department bearing the full name, address, and hunting license number of the person killing the deer; or the hunter may use their hunting license.
When a hunter possesses an antlerless deer harvested under the authority of a permit allowing for the harvest of an antlerless deer, the permit number must also be included on the tag.
Moose Transportation Tag: To meet the requirements of 12 M.R.S. §11653, the tag for possessing a moose prior to registration must be a tag provided by the hunter or by the department bearing the full name, address, hunting license number and moose permit number of the person killing the moose; or they may use the hunting license. Whenever moose are dismembered for ease of transportation, at least one piece shall have the moose transportation tag attached which shall have the name and address of the person who harvested the moose.
Bear Transportation Tag: To meet the requirements of 12 M.R.S. §11352, the tag for possessing a bear prior to registration must be a tag provided by the hunter or by the department bearing the full name, address, and hunting license number of the person killing the bear; or the hunter may use their hunting license.
Turkey Transportation Tag: To meet the requirements of 12 M.R.S. §11752, the tag for possessing a turkey prior to registration must be a tag provided by the hunter or by the department bearing the full name, address, and hunting license number of the person killing the turkey; or the hunter may use their hunting license.
Transportation of Cervid Carcasses and Parts into Maine from Outside of the State
Transportation of cervid carcasses and parts into Maine from other states, provinces, and countries: Pursuant to 12 M.R.S., Chapter 903, Subchapter 2, §10103 sub-§2 and §10104 sub-§1, and in an attempt to eliminate or minimize the risk of introducing chronic wasting disease [CWD] into Maine, it is illegal for individuals to bring into Maine cervid carcasses or parts except that the following carcass parts may be imported and possessed:
boned-out meat;
hardened antlers;
skull caps with or without antlers attached that have been cleaned free of brain and other tissues;
capes and hides with no skull attached;
teeth; and
finished taxidermy mounts.
Exemptions for Certain States: Cervid carcasses or parts from the State of New Hampshire are exempt from this transportation restriction unless CWD has been detected in New Hampshire.
Commissioner’s Permitting Authority to Import Cervid Carcass Parts Into Maine: The Commissioner may, pursuant to the statutory authority above, issue a permit to a person or institution for the purpose of importing other cervid carcass parts into Maine for possession in Maine. The Commissioner may set special conditions on the permit to mitigate potential disease-related impacts.
Wild Cervids and Captive Cervids Taken from Commercial Shooting Areas: This transportation restriction applies to both any cervid wild by nature and to any cervid killed in any commercial hunting preserves, that are taken in any state, province, or country outside of Maine.
Chronic Wasting Disease Testing and Test Result Notification: Any person who imports into Maine any cervid carcass or parts described above and is notified that the animal has tested positive for CWD must report the test results to the department within 72 hours of receiving the notification. In order to facilitate the proper disposal of any infected material, the department may take into possession any imported carcass or carcass part of an animal if the animal has tested positively for CWD.
Labeling of Gifted Big Game Meat: In accordance with Title 12 Sections 11354, 11503, 11654, 11753 gift meat from moose, deer, bear and wild turkey must be plainly labeled with the name of the person who registered the animal and the year it was harvested.
- Registration, Data Collection and Tagging of Big Game and Furbearing Animals
Data Collection; Mandatory Submission of Radio Transmitters, Collars, Ear or Wing Tags & Tooth Submission
Deer: Mandatory Submission of Radio Collars and Ear Tags
All radio collars and ear tags found on harvested deer must be submitted to the department at the time the animal is presented for registration.
Moose: Mandatory Submission of Radio Collars, Ear Tags, Teeth or Lower Jaw and Ovaries or Reproductive Tract
All radio collars and ear tags found on harvested moose must be submitted along with a canine tooth or lower jaw to the department at the time the animal is presented for registration. In any WMD in which a moose hunter harvests a female moose the hunter must present the ovaries and/or reproductive tract at the first open registration station. The milk sack (udder) shall be left attached to the carcass. The reproductive tract includes the ovaries and uterus.
Bear: Mandatory Submission of Teeth
Whenever a bear is presented for registration a premolar tooth shall be removed from the bear and submitted to the department by the person presenting the bear for registration.
Turkey: Mandatory Submission of Radio Transmitters, Leg Bands, and Wing Tags
All radio transmitters, leg bands, and wing tags must be reported to the Department at the time the wild turkey is presented for registration or registered electronically. All radio transmitters must be submitted, or arranged for submission, to the Department within 5 days. Any leg bands or wing tags can be retained by the hunter after reporting and following approval by the Department.
Bobcat: Mandatory Submission of Teeth
Whenever a bobcat is presented for registration, a lower lateral incisor, a lower canine or the lower jaw shall be submitted to the department by the person presenting the bobcat for registration. There shall be a tissue sample provided (from either the tongue or a muscle) and the tissue and tooth sample shall be labeled. The label shall include the following information:
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Species
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Sex
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Seal number
Registration of Animals Taken by Hunting
Moose, deer, and bear: In accordance with 12 M.R.S. §12302-A all moose, deer, and bear must be presented for registration at the first open registration station for that species of big game on the route taken by the person who killed the big game animal, with exceptions as stated in statute.
Wild Turkey: In accordance with 12 M.R.S. §12301-B and §12302-A, all wild turkey must be presented for registration at the first open registration station for that species of big game on the route taken by the person who killed the big game animal, or registered electronically.
(1) If a wild turkey is registered electronically, upon registration the hunter must immediately attach a tag bearing the seal number issued by the electronic registration system. This tag must remain attached to the turkey until it is processed and packaged for consumption, pursuant to 12 M.R.S. §12302-A.
Note: See Department of Inland Fisheries & Wildlife rules contained in Chapter 17, FURBEARERS AND TRAPPING , for requirements related to the possession, transportation, and registration of furbearers taken by hunting and trapping.
- Deer Hunting
1. Deer Hunting Seasons/Days
2. Antlerless Deer Hunting Restrictions
3. Application Process for Antlerless Deer Permits
4. Antlerless Deer Permit Allocations by WMD or portion of WMD
5. Application and Allocation Process for Landowner Antlerless Deer Permits
6. Deer Management Assistance Program (DMAP) Permits
7. Expanded Archery Areas Open to Hunting of Deer
8. Deer Hunting Special Regulations and Closures
Deer Hunting Seasons/Days
A. Expanded Archery Season: There shall be an expanded archery deer hunting season as established under 12 M.R.S. §11401 from the first Saturday following Labor Day until the last day of the extended Muzzleloading Season. A person may not kill and register a deer as an expanded archery season kill during the expanded archery season in an expanded archery area unless that person uses archery equipment and in accordance with 12 M.R.S. §11214, subsection 1, paragraph P and Q. Any person who possesses an archery license under 12 M.R.S. §11403 is eligible to purchase expanded archery permits as provided in 12 M.R.S. §11153. Only 1 expanded archery either-sex permit may be purchased which authorizes the take of either an antlered deer or an antlerless deer; multiple expanded archery antlerless deer permits may be purchased. A person must use expanded archery permit(s) to kill and register a deer as an expanded archery season kill during the expanded archery season in an expanded archery area. A person may not kill and register an antlered deer as an expanded archery antlered deer kill except under the authority of the expanded archery either-sex permit. See Section 16.07-6. for areas open to expanded archery.
B. Regular Archery Deer Hunting Season: There shall be an open season for the purpose of hunting deer with archery equipment prior to the regular firearm deer season as provided within 12 M.R.S. §11403, starting on the Saturday 30 days prior to the opening day of the regular firearms deer season (including Sundays). The season shall end on the Friday preceding the opening day of the regular firearms deer season.
C. “Youth Deer Hunt”: This hunt is established in accordance with 12 M.R.S. §11402.
When the hunt occurs: The youth deer hunt occurs on the Friday and Saturday preceding the residents-only Saturday of the regular deer season.
Who may participate and with what methods: During the designated youth deer hunt, holders of a valid junior hunting license may hunt deer with either a firearm, or archery equipment, and must be in the presence of and under the effective control of an adult supervisor as defined by Title 12 §11108-C.
Supervision of a youth hunter: The parent, guardian or qualified adult shall not possess a firearm, or archery equipment, while accompanying a youth hunter during the youth deer hunt except that the supervisor may carry a handgun pursuant to 25 M.R.S. §2001-A, sub-§2, ¶A-1 but it may not be carried for the purpose of hunting.
Deer that may be taken on this day: Only one antlered deer may be taken except that on designated days and in designated WMDs, junior hunters may take an antlerless or antlered deer. Junior hunters may take additional deer if they possess antlerless deer permits. If only a portion of a WMD is designated in accordance with 12 M.R.S. §11152 2-A, junior hunters may take an antlerless or antlered deer but only on designated days and in the designated area of the WMD.
Laws that apply on this day: Except as otherwise provided, all laws pertaining to the regular firearm deer season apply on this day.
D. Regular Firearms Deer Hunting Season: The regular firearms deer hunting season shall be from the 4th Monday preceding Thanksgiving to the Saturday following Thanksgiving statewide, as provided within 12 M.R.S. §11401.
E. “Resident’s Only Deer Hunting Day”: This day is established in accordance with 12 M.R.S. §11401 and allows Maine residents to hunt deer on the Saturday preceding the regular firearm deer season with the following exception:
“Nonresident Exception to Resident’s Only Deer Hunting Day”: Any nonresident hunter who meets the requirements established in 12 M.R.S. §11401, sub-§1, ¶E must also be able to verify that they meet the qualifications when hunting on the Saturday preceding the first day of the open season on deer. The hunter must carry on their person, verification that the hunter is the lawful owner of 25 acres or more of land in the state and be prepared to provide such proof for inspection by the Commissioner or the Commissioner’s agent upon request. This verification, at a minimum, shall include the name of the hunter, the town, number of acres and may include additional information such as the Map, Plan and Lot number. The department shall provide a form that is available to these landowners and the form must have the necessary information provided and be signed by the landowner. The Commissioner or Commissioner’s agent may inspect the property to confirm legality. This verification shall also be used when registering a deer killed on this day.
F. Muzzleloading Deer Hunting Season: There shall be an open season on deer statewide on the first six hunting days after the regular deer hunting season for the purpose of hunting with a muzzleloading firearm, as provided within 12 M.R.S. §11404. In Wildlife Management Districts (WMDs) 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28 and 29 the season extends for an additional 6 hunting days.
Antlerless Deer Hunting Restrictions
Definition of Antlerless Deer: For the purpose of these rules, the term "antlerless deer" means any deer which does not have antlers or any deer which has antlers less than three inches in length measured from the skull.
B. Definition of Antlerless Deer Permit: This permit authorizes a hunter to take an antlerless deer in addition to the statewide annual bag limit of 1 deer as provided within 12 M.R.S. §11501 sub-§1. Persons who receive this permit may use the permit to take only an antlerless deer in the WMD or deer management subunit for which the permit was authorized. A permit holder may take an antlerless deer under the authority of this permit during any open deer season except expanded archery under the provisions that apply during that open season. A hunter must also possess a valid hunting license for the season in which they hunt. Antlerless deer taken under the authority of an antlerless deer permit may be taken before or after any other deer that may legally be taken.
C. When antlerless deer cannot be taken: In the following circumstances a person may not take an antlerless deer:
It shall be unlawful for any person to possess an antlerless deer taken by hunting during the regular and muzzleloading seasons on deer, except as provided within paragraph D.
(2) It shall be unlawful to take or attempt to take antlerless deer without a permit in any WMD or deer management subunit that has not been designated as open to antlerless deer hunting without a permit during that season and on that day by the Commissioner.
(3) It shall be unlawful for a person who has been selected for an antlerless deer permit to take or attempt to take antlerless deer with their permit outside the WMD or deer management subunit designated on the antlerless deer permit they are assigned.
D. When antlerless deer can be taken: In the following circumstances a person may take an antlerless deer:
Within an expanded archery area with the appropriate expanded archery permits and as provided in the areas described within 16.07 (7.);
When a person has an antlerless deer permit they may take an antlerless deer with their permit only in the WMD or deer management subunit for which the permit is authorized;
(3) During the regular archery season a hunter may take an antlerless deer without an antlerless deer permit but only in a WMD that has been designated as open to antlerless deer hunting without a permit during this season;
(4) During the regular archery season a hunter may take an antlerless deer without an antlerless deer permit in the portion of a WMD that has been designated as open to antlerless deer hunting without a permit during this season.
(5) When a person has an antlerless deer permit, they may take an antlerless deer during the regular archery season, regular firearms deer season and muzzleloading deer hunting season, only in the WMD or deer management subunit for which the antlerless deer permit is authorized;
(6) During the youth deer hunt a youth hunter may take an antlerless deer without an antlerless deer permit only in WMDs that are designated as open to antlerless deer hunting without a permit during this season and on that day; or
(7) During the youth deer hunt a youth hunter may take an antlerless deer without an antlerless deer permit in the portion of a WMD that has been designated as open to antlerless deer hunting without a permit during this season and on that day.
(8) Any qualifying landowner as described within section 16.07-4. & 5. who receives a landowner antlerless deer permit may take an antlerless deer only on land on which they are legally entitled to hunt within the WMD or deer management subunit for which the antlerless deer permit is authorized.
(9) During all deer hunting seasons (not including expanded archery), a hunter may take an antlerless deer without an antlerless deer permit but only in a WMD that has been designated as open to antlerless deer hunting without a permit;
(10) During all deer hunting seasons (not including expanded archery), a hunter may take an antlerless deer without an antlerless deer permit in the portion of a WMD that has been designated as open to antlerless deer hunting without a permit during this season.
(11) Antlerless deer harvested without a permit in accordance with 16.07-2 (D), 3, 4, 6, 7, 9 and 10 are not additional to the statewide annual bag limit of 1 deer.
Application Process for Antlerless Deer Permits
WMD Selection and Assignment
Applicants may apply for an antlerless deer permit in up to two preferred WMDs or deer management subunits but may only receive one permit for one WMD or deer management subunit to hunt within.
Selection of permit holders will be done by WMD or deer management subunit. Permittees will be chosen through chance drawings and will be assigned to a WMD or deer management subunit using their preferences as indicated on their application.
No person may file more than one application for an antlerless deer permit. Any person who submits more than one application shall be disqualified from the selection of permittees.
Except as otherwise provided in Subsection F. each applicant must:
Possess a valid Maine hunting license to hunt deer to apply for an antlerless deer hunting permit, and
Accurately and completely record the number of his or her valid Maine hunting license on the application. For the purposes of this section, the number of the valid Maine hunting license, is the number of the license originally issued to the individual and not the number of a duplicate license subsequently issued.
Each permittee will be assigned to hunt antlerless deer within one of the WMDs for which they applied or a portion of an WMD for which they applied.
All WMD or deer management subunit assignments made as a result of the chance drawing will be final.
Resident Landowner: Any resident landowner and any member of his immediate family who may hunt without a license, as provided in Title 12, M.R.S. §11108, may apply for a permit to hunt antlerless deer without benefit of a hunting license provided that:
They complete a special landowner affidavit provided by the Commissioner, and meet the requirements as established within Title 12, M.R.S. §11108.
Antlerless Deer Permit Allocations by WMD or portion of WMD
Number of Permits in each WMD and Exceptions Allowing for Antlerless Harvest without a Permit: Except as otherwise provided in Sections 16.07- 1 and 6 (expanded archery area antlerless deer permits), the number of antlerless deer hunting permits to be allocated in 2026 for each WMD or deer management subunit shall not exceed the numbers listed in section B below.
B.
WMD or Subunit
# of Permits
1
0
2
25
3
100
4
0
5
25
6
460
7
1,565
8
890
9
210
10
150
11
185
12
900
13
1,230
14
860
15
9,480
16
13,045
17
19,710
18
525
19
25
20
8,940
21
Unlimited
22
Unlimited
23
Unlimited
24
Unlimited
25
Unlimited
26
7,030
27
405
28
45
29
Unlimited
26a
510
(1) Antlerless harvest without a permit will be permitted in the following WMDs during all seasons (not including expanded archery): 21-25 and 29.
(2) Antlerless harvest without a permit will be permitted in All WMDs during the Youth Hunt and the Regular Archery Season.
C. Selection of Permits: Selection of permit holders will be done by WMD or deer management subunit. Permittees will be chosen through one round of chance drawings from among all applicants who have applied for an antlerless deer permit in that WMD or deer management subunit. Permits not distributed through this chance drawing and any permits issued through the lottery that are not purchased by a date specified by the Department will be available for sale in accordance with 12 M.R.S. §11152, sub-§3.
D. Percentage for Residents: Eighty-five percent (85%) of the total number of permits allocated to each WMD or deer management subunit shall be issued to residents if sufficient residents apply.
E. Percentage for Non-Residents: In accordance with 12 M.R.S. §11152 no more than fifteen percent (15%) of the total number of permits allocated to each WMD or deer management subunit shall be issued to non-residents if sufficient non-residents apply.
F. Insufficient Applicants: Once all permits that may be allocated through the lottery system have been allocated, remaining permits will be made available for purchase in accordance with 12 M.R.S. §11152, sub-§3.
G. Disqualification: No person may file more than one application for an antlerless deer permit. Any person who submits more than one application shall be disqualified from the selection of permittees.
H. Deer Management Subunits
(1) Subunit 26a:
Beginning on the eastern shore of the Penobscot River at the I-395 bridge in Brewer; east on I-395 to US-1A; east on US-1A to the intersection of US-1A and ME-46 in Holden; south on ME-46 to ME‑15(US-1) in Orland; east and then southeast on ME-15 to the intersection of ME-15 and ME-199 in Penobscot; south on ME-199 to the intersection of ME‑199 and ME-166 in Castine; north on ME-166 to the crossing of Clements Brook in Penobscot; along Clements Brook west to the eastern shore of the Penobscot River in Penobscot; following the eastern shore of the Penobscot River north to the first upstream bridge (ME-175) across the Orland River in Orland; crossing the Orland River and following the western shore of the Orland River south around Gross Point in Orland; following the eastern shore of the Eastern Channel north to the US-1 bridge (Verona Bridge) in Bucksport; following the eastern shore of the Penobscot River north to the I-395 bridge in Brewer.
Verona Island is considered part of subunit 26a. However, islands surrounding Verona Island that are considered part of WMD 29 are not considered part of subunit 26a.
5. Application and Allocation Process for Landowner Antlerless Deer Permits
Requirements to apply for Landowner Antlerless Deer Permit Drawing: Any resident landowner and any dependent living in a landowner’s household who may hunt without a license, as provided in Title 12, M.R.S. §11108, may apply for an antlerless deer permit to hunt antlerless deer without benefit of a hunting license provided that:
They complete the special landowner antlerless deer permit portion of the antlerless deer permit application; and
They attest that the information provided is true and accurate.
The antlerless deer permit number assigned to such landowner or member of their immediate family shall only be valid for land on which they are legally entitled to hunt.
Percentage of Landowner Antlerless Deer Permits: Up to 25% of the antlerless deer permits in each WMD or deer management subunit will be available to qualifying landowners in a special drawing in accordance with Title 12, M.R.S. §11152 – 4.
Any resident landowner and any dependent living in a landowner’s household is eligible for the landowner antlerless deer permit drawing if the person owns a particular piece of land that is:
25 or more contiguous acres in size;
is agricultural, forested or undeveloped land; and
open to hunting including hunting by permission.
Any shareholder in a corporation which qualifies under the Internal Revenue Service Code as a Chapter S corporation is eligible for the landowner antlerless deer permit drawing if that land is:
25 or more contiguous acres in size;
is agricultural, forested or undeveloped land; open to hunting including hunting by permission; and
the principle business of the corporation is forestry or agriculture.
Dependents of shareholders are not eligible.
A landowner applicant must provide the information requested on the special landowner application in addition to completing the standard application.
Landowner Antlerless Deer Permit Drawing: Landowner antlerless deer permits will be randomly drawn prior to the general drawing. When an insufficient number of landowner applicants apply in a WMD or deer management subunit for the amount of antlerless deer permits available, all landowner applicants will receive an antlerless deer permit and the remaining permits will be returned to the general drawing. Any landowner applicant who is not drawn in the special landowner drawing will be returned to the pool of applicants for the general permit drawing.
Any landowner antlerless deer permit applicant who receives a permit as a result of this drawing and is found to have not met the eligibility requirements will have the permit immediately revoked and will be prohibited from applying for an antlerless deer permit for two years.
6. Deer Management Assistance Program (DMAP) Permits
Eligibility for DMAP permits will be evaluated by Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife (MDIFW) staff and will be limited to landowners with properties that are at least 10 acres and that can demonstrate significant deer damage to crops, orchards, or nursery trees intended for market resulting in financial losses. Preference will be given to landowners that allow public access to their property for deer hunting and that have worked with MDIFW previously to address deer problems using other lethal or nonlethal methods.
DMAP permits will be issued at no cost to eligible landowners, and landowners must use the DMAP permits themselves or re-issue them at no cost to other hunters.
DMAP permits must be used during the regular deer hunting seasons excluding the expanded archery season. DMAP permits must be used in accordance with all rules and statutes pertaining to the regular deer hunting season during which the permit is used. DMAP permits must be used to harvest deer on the property for which they are issued.
Each DMAP permit must be used to harvest one additional antlerless deer only.
Deer killed under the authority of a DMAP permit must be registered as outlined in Chapter 16.06-2 and in accordance with 12 M.R.S., Chapter 919, Subchapter 1, Registration. Hunters registering deer killed under the authority of a DMAP permit must register the deer using the provided DMAP permit number.
7. Expanded Archery Areas Open to Hunting of Deer
The expanded archery deer hunting season will be open only in the following areas:
A. Coastal Islands of WMD 27
Coastal islands that are part of WMD 27 and not connected to the mainland part of WMD 27 at low tide or by man-made structures are considered part of the Coastal Islands of WMD 27 expanded archery area.
B. WMD 29
Refer to 16.15- WMD 29.
C. South Coastal Maine Expanded Archery Area
Beginning where the Interstate Highway #95 bridge crosses the Piscataqua River in Kittery; then following the coast of Maine northwesterly and northerly to the State Route #101 (Dover-Eliot Road) bridge in Eliot; then following State Route #101 southeasterly to the junction of Interstate Highway #95; then following the southern edge of the northbound lane of Interstate Highway #95 northeasterly to State Route #91 (Cider Hill Road) in York; then following State Route #91 southeasterly to U.S. Route #1; then following U.S. Route #1 northerly to the railroad tracks in Arundel; then following the railroad tracks northerly to the Biddeford Turnpike Access Road (Precourt Street); then following the access road northwesterly to State Route #111; then following State Route #111 westerly to Interstate Highway #95; then following the southern edge of the northbound lane of Interstate Highway #95 northeasterly to the junction of Interstate Highway #95 and Broadturn Road in Scarborough; then following Broadturn Road northwesterly to Holmes Road; then following Holmes Road northeasterly to Beech Ridge Road; then following Beech Ridge Road northerly to where it becomes Saco Street; then following Saco Street northerly to Main Street in Westbrook; then following Main Street easterly to Bridge Street; then following Bridge Street northerly to Cumberland Street; then following Cumberland Street northwesterly to where it becomes River Road; then following River Road northwesterly to Anderson Road; then following Anderson Road northeasterly to where it becomes Hardy Road in Falmouth; then following Hardy Road northeasterly to where it becomes Duck Pond Road; then following Duck Pond Road easterly to Mast Road; then following Mast Road northerly to Blackstrap Road; then following Blackstrap Road northerly to where it becomes Skillin Road in Cumberland; then following Skillin Road northeasterly to Blanchard Road; then following Blanchard Road northwesterly to Orchard Road; then following Orchard Road northeasterly to where it becomes Haskell Road; then following Haskell Road northeasterly to State Route #115 (Gray Road) in North Yarmouth; then following State Route #115 southeasterly to the power line corridor; then following the southern edge of the power line corridor northeasterly to the intersection with North Road; then following North Road easterly to Milliken Road; then following Milliken Road northeasterly to West Pownal Road; then following West Pownal Road southerly to Hallowell Road (State Route #9); then following Hallowell Road northeasterly to Royal Road; then following Royal Road southeasterly to Hodsdon Road; then following Hodsdon Road southeasterly to where it becomes Granite Street; then following Granite Street southeasterly to the railroad tracks in Yarmouth; then following the railroad tracks northeasterly to Interstate Highway #295 in Freeport; then following the southern edge of the northbound lane of Interstate Highway #295 northeasterly to the Androscoggin River bridge in Brunswick; then following the western shore of the Androscoggin River easterly to the western shore of the Kennebec River in Bath and the U.S. Route #1 bridge over the Kennebec River; then following U.S. Route #1 easterly to the junction of U.S. Route #1 and Dexter Street in Thomaston; then following Dexter Street northerly to Old County Road; then following Old County Road northeasterly to Thompson Meadow Road in Rockland; then following Thompson Meadow Road northwesterly to West Meadow Road; then following West Meadow Road northerly to Mountain Road; then following Mountain Road northerly to Bog Road; then following Bog Road northerly to Gurney Street; then following Gurney Street easterly to Old Rockland Road in Rockport; then following Old Rockland Road northerly to Rockville Street; then following Rockville Street easterly to Rockland Street; then following Rockland Street southerly to Porter Street; then following Porter Street easterly to South Street; then following South Street southeasterly to the junction of South Street and U.S. Route #1 (Commercial Street); then following U.S. Route #1 northerly to the junction of U.S. Route #1 and John Street in Camden; then following John Street northwesterly to Mechanic Street; then following Mechanic Street westerly to Melvin Heights Road; then following Melvin Heights Road northwesterly to Molyneaux Road; then following Molyneaux Road northeasterly to Beaucaire Avenue; then following Beaucaire Avenue northerly to Canaan Lane; then following Canaan Lane northeasterly to Woodland Road; then following Woodland Road southeasterly to Beaucaire Avenue; then following Beaucaire Avenue easterly to the junction of Beaucaire Avenue and State Route #52 (Turnpike Drive, which turns into Mountain Street); then following State Route #52 southerly to the junction of State Route #52 and U.S. Route #1; then following U.S. Route #1 northerly to where the U.S. Route #1 bridge crosses the western shore of Verona Island; then following the northwestern shore of Verona Island to the U.S. Route #1 bridge into Bucksport; then following U.S. Route #1 to Hinks Street in Bucksport; then following Hincks Street northerly to Pond Street; then following Pond Street easterly to Wenbelle Drive; then following Wenbelle Drive northerly to Broadway; then following Broadway easterly to a point where the southeastern corner of property owned by the town and referred to as the Miles Lane Property intersects Broadway; then following the eastern line of the Miles Lane Property northerly to the CMP right of way; then following the CMP right of way easterly to a point where the southeastern corner of land owned by the town and referred to as the New Middle School Property intersects the CMP right of way; then following the eastern line of the New Middle School property northerly to the northeastern corner of the New Middle School Property; then following the northern line of the New Middle School Property westerly to the northwestern corner of the New Middle School Property; then following the western line of the New Middle School Property southerly to the CMP right of way; then following the CMP right of way westerly to a point where Forest Hill Street intersects the CMP right of way; then following Forest Hill Street southerly to Broadway; then following Broadway westerly to Central Street; then following Central Street southerly to School Street; then following School Street northwesterly to MacDonald Street; then following MacDonald Street southerly to Scott’s Lane; then following Scott’s Lane westerly to a point where Scott’s Lane intersects the eastern line of the property owned by Webber Tanks; then following the eastern line of the property owned by Webber Tanks southerly to the southeastern corner of the land owned by Webber Tanks; then following the southern line of the property owned by Webber Tanks westerly to State Route #15/River Road; then following State Route #15 northwesterly to the point of origin at a point on the eastern side of State Route #15/River Road where the Central Maine Power line right of way intersects State Route #15; then following the right of way northeasterly to a point where it intersects a second CMP right of way extending generally in an east to west direction; then following the second CMP right of way easterly until it intersects Silver Lake Road; then following Silver Lake Road northerly to a point where the road right of way intersects the southern shore of Silver Lake; then following the southern shore of Silver Lake northeasterly and then southeasterly to a point where the shore intersects the access road leading from Central Street to the Silver Lake dam; then following the access road easterly to Central Street; then following Central Street northeasterly to Race Course Road; then following Race Course Road easterly to where it becomes Donovan Road and then easterly beyond its eastern terminus to the northeastern corner of the land of the Penobscot Nursing Home; then following the eastern line of the property of the Penobscot Nursing Home southerly to the CMP right of way; then following the right of way easterly to State Route #46; then following State Route #46 southwesterly to U.S. Route #1; then following U.S. Route #1 approximately 250 meters westerly to the Bucksport/Orland town line; then following the Bucksport/Orland town line southwesterly to the northern shore of the Penobscot River; then following the northern shore of the Penobscot River westerly to a point where the eastern line of the property owned by Hannaford Brothers intersects the northern shore of the Penobscot River; then following the eastern line of the property owned by Hannaford Brothers northerly to U.S. Route #1; then following U.S. Route #1 westerly to where the U.S. Route #1 bridge crosses the northern shore of Verona Island; then following the shore of Verona Island starting easterly around the perimeter of the island to where the U.S. Route #1 bridge crosses the western shore of Verona Island; then following U.S. Route #1 westerly to where it crosses the eastern shore of Prospect; then following the shoreline and remaining southerly of U.S. Route #1 along the coast of Maine to where the U.S. Route #1 bridge crosses the Piscataqua River in Kittery; then following the coast of Maine to the point of origin where the Interstate Highway #95 bridge crosses the Piscataqua River in Kittery, except that where U.S. Route #1 crosses the Maine coast, then U.S. Route #1 serves as the southerly boundary.
Note: Islands that are part of WMDs 24, 25, and WMD 26 west of the Orland River and connected to the mainland part of the South Coastal Maine Expanded Archery Area at low tide or by man-made structures are considered part of the South Coastal Maine Expanded Archery Area. The Portsmouth Navy Shipyard at Seavey Island is not included in this expanded archery area.
D. Towns of Auburn, Hebron, Lewiston, Lisbon, Minot, and Sabattus
Beginning at the junction of Interstate Highway #495 and the Androscoggin River in Lewiston; then following the Androscoggin River southerly approximately five miles to a point directly south of the southern terminus of Hatch Road in Lisbon; then overland northerly to the southern terminus of Hatch Road; then following Hatch Road northerly to Ferry Road; then following Ferry Road westerly to Pinewoods Road; then following Pinewoods Road northeasterly to Cotton Road; then following Cotton Road northwesterly and beyond its terminus to the crossing with Salmon Brook; then following Salmon Brook northeasterly to the crossing of Moody Road; then following Moody Road easterly to State Route #196 (Lisbon Street); then following State Route #196 northerly to Littlefield Road; then following Littlefield Road northerly to Lisbon Road in Sabattus; then following Lisbon Road northerly to State Route #126; then following State Route #126 southwesterly to the double Central Maine Power line in Lewiston; then following the power line northwesterly and then westerly to the southwest corner of Gulf Island Pond on the Androscoggin River; then following the power line northwesterly and then westerly to Brighton Hill Road; then following Brighton Hill Road southeasterly to Death Valley Road; then following Death Valley Road southerly to Marstons Hill Road; then following Marstons Hill Road southerly to Center Minot Hill Road; then following Center Minot Hill Road southerly to Garfield Road; then following Garfield Road southeasterly to Minot Avenue; then following Minot Avenue westerly to Merrow Road; then following Merrow Road southeasterly to Hotel Road; then following Hotel Road southerly to Kitty Hawk Avenue; then following Kitty Hawk Avenue southeasterly to Interstate Highway #495; then following Interstate Highway #495 northeasterly to the point of origin at the junction of Interstate Highway #495 and the Androscoggin River in Lewiston.
E. Towns of Augusta, Chelsea, Farmingdale, Gardiner, Hallowell, and West
Gardiner
Beginning at the intersection of State Route #105 and Church Hill Road in Augusta; then following Church Hill Road northerly to Stevens Road; then following Stevens Road westerly to Riverside Drive (U.S. Route #201/State Route #100); then following Riverside Drive southerly to the Central Maine Power lines (south of Sherwood Drive); then following the CMP lines westerly across the Kennebec River and Interstate Highway #95 to the intersection with Old Belgrade Road (State Route #3); then following Old Belgrade Road northwesterly to Civic Center Drive (State Route #8); then following Civic Center Drive southerly to Leighton Road; then following Leighton Road southerly to Old Winthrop Road; then following Old Winthrop Road easterly to Interstate Highway #95; then following Interstate Highway #95 southerly to State Route #126 in West Gardiner; then following State Route #126 easterly to U.S. Route #201; then following U.S. Route #201 southerly to Marston Road; then following Marston Road southerly to Capen Road; then following Capen Road easterly to River Avenue (State Route #24) and easterly to the western shore of the Kennebec River; then following the western shore of the Kennebec River northerly to a point directly west of the Ferry Road boat landing in Chelsea; then crossing the Kennebec River easterly to the Ferry Road boat landing; then following Ferry Road easterly to Hallowell Road; then following Hallowell Road easterly to Cony Road; then following Cony Road northerly until it crosses State Route #105 (South Belfast Avenue) and becomes Church Hill Road at the point of origin at the intersection of State Route #105 and Church Hill Road in Augusta.
F. Towns of Benton, Fairfield, Oakland, Sidney, Waterville, and Winslow
Beginning at the intersection of the Kennebec River and Interstate Highway #95 in Fairfield; then following Interstate Highway #95 southerly to the intersection with Messalonskee Stream; then following Messalonskee Stream upstream to the intersection with State Route #23/Middle Road in Oakland; then following Middle Road southerly to Trafton Road; then following Trafton Road easterly to State Route #104 in Waterville; then following State Route #104 southerly to the intersection with the Sidney/Waterville town line; then following the town line easterly to the eastern shore of the Kennebec River; then following the eastern shore of the Kennebec River northerly to the intersection with Chaffee Brook in Winslow; then following Chaffee Brook easterly to the intersection with U.S. Route #201; then following U.S. Route #201 northerly to Carter Memorial Drive; then following Carter Memorial Drive easterly to State Route #137; then following State Route #137 easterly to the intersection with Outlet Stream to the Sebasticook River; then following the western shore of Outlet Stream northerly to the Sebasticook River; then crossing the Sebasticook River to the western shore of the Sebasticook River; then following the western shore of the Sebasticook River northerly to a point directly east of the eastern terminus of Heywood Road; then overland westerly to the eastern terminus of Heywood Road; then following Heywood Road westerly to Benton Avenue; then following Benton Avenue northerly to Interstate Highway #95 in Benton; then following Interstate Highway #95 westerly to the point of origin at the intersection of the Kennebec River and Interstate Highway #95 in Fairfield.
G. Towns of Bangor, Brewer, Hampden, Hermon, Old Town, Orono, and Veazie
Beginning at a point on the western shore of the Penobscot River directly east of the eastern terminus of Kincaid Road in Hampden; then overland westerly to the eastern terminus of Kincaid Road; then following Kincaid Road westerly to U.S. Route #1A; then following U.S. Route #1A northerly to Kennebec Road; then following Kennebec Road westerly to the intersection with the Bangor and Aroostook Railroad tracks; then following the railroad tracks northerly to the intersection with State Route #15 in Bangor; then following State Route #15 easterly to Pushaw Road; then following Pushaw Road northerly to Church Road; then following Church Road northeasterly to Essex Street; then following Essex Street northerly to Forest Avenue in Orono; then following Forest Avenue easterly to Stillwater Avenue; then following Stillwater Avenue northerly to Interstate Highway #95; then following Interstate Highway #95 northerly to State Route #43 in Old Town; then following State Route #43 easterly to the intersection with the Stillwater River and the shore of Marsh Island; then following the shore of Marsh Island and the Stillwater River northerly and easterly to the Penobscot River; then following the shore of Marsh Island and the Penobscot River southerly to a point at the confluence of the Penobscot River and Eaton Brook in Brewer; then following Eaton Brook southerly to the intersection of State Route #9; then following State Route #9 westerly to Day Road; then following Day Road southerly to Lambert Road; then following Lambert Road westerly to the intersection with the Bangor Hydro transmission line; then following the transmission line southwesterly to Wilson Street; then following Wilson Street southeasterly to the eastbound lane of Interstate Highway #395; then following the eastbound lane of Interstate Highway #395 westerly to the Maine Electric Power Company transmission line; then following the transmission line southwesterly to the intersection with the railroad tracks; then following the railroad tracks westerly to the intersection with Green Point Road; then following Green Point Road southerly to Wiswell Road; then following Wiswell Road westerly to Elm Street; then following Elm Street westerly to the intersection with Sedgeunkedunk Stream; then following Sedgeunkedunk Stream westerly to the eastern shore of the Penobscot River; then following the eastern shore of the Penobscot River southerly to a point on the eastern shore of the Penobscot River directly east of the eastern terminus of Kincaid Road in Hampden; then crossing the Penobscot River westerly to the point of origin at a point on the western shore of the Penobscot River directly east of the eastern terminus of Kincaid Road in Hampden.
H. Town of Castine
That portion of Castine that is south of Wadsworth Cove, the British Canal, and Hatch Cove, referred to locally as Castine “on-neck.”
I. Towns of Deer Isle and Stonington
Those portions of Deer Isle and Stonington that are connected to the mainland by low tide or man-made structure.
J. Town of Eastport
Those portions of Eastport that are connected to the mainland by low tide or man-made structure except that the following portion of Eastport is not included within the Town of Eastport expanded archery area: beginning at the intersection of County Road and Washington Street (State Route 190) in Eastport; then following Washington Street easterly to High Street; then following High Street northerly to Clark Street; then following Clark Street easterly beyond its eastern terminus to the coast of Maine; then following the coast of Maine southerly to a point directly south of the southern terminus of County Road; then following northerly to the southern terminus of County Road; then following County Road northerly to the point of origin at the intersection of County Road and Washington Street (State Route 190) in Eastport.
8. Deer Hunting Special Regulations and Closures
The following special regulations and closures are provided in accordance with the commissioner’s authority under Title 12, M.R.S. §11402.
Cumberland County: The area within Prout's Neck including: Richmond's Island, Cape Elizabeth Sanctuary described below shall be open to deer hunting with bow and arrow only during any open hunting season that allows archery hunting of deer and during the regular firearms deer season in Cumberland County. The area open to hunting shall be the land comprising 1,600 acres, more or less, situated in said Town of Cape Elizabeth, and bounded as follows: Southeasterly and southerly by the low watermark of the Atlantic Ocean, westerly by the low watermark of the Spurwink River, northerly by the Spurwink road, so‑called, leading from Spurwink Bridge to Bowery Beach, easterly by a certain private road or way which runs in a southerly direction from the aforesaid Spurwink Road to said Bowery Beach, being the road which runs in front of the dwelling house of one Charles L. Jordan, and along the easterly boundary of land of said Charles L. Jordan, and along the westerly boundary of land of the Great Pond Club, but not including any portion of said Bowery Beach.
Hancock County:
The whole of Cranberry Isles: shall be open to the hunting of deer with a shotgun or archery equipment during any open hunting season that allows a shotgun or archery equipment to be used to hunt deer.
Mount Desert Island: shall have acontinual closed season on deer.
Swans Island in the Town of Swans Island: is open to the hunting of deer during any open deer hunting season. All other laws and rules relating to deer hunting shall apply.
Knox County:
The area within the Beauchamp Sanctuary situated in Rockport and Camden: shall be open to archery hunting of deer during any open hunting season that allows archery equipment to be used to hunt deer.
The Town of Isle au Haut and the islands within the confines of the Town of Isle au Haut: shall have acontinual closed season on deer.
The whole of Long Island in Long Island Plantation shall have acontinual closed season on deer.
Penobscot County: Marsh Island, situated in City of Old Town: shall be open to the hunting of deer with a handheld bow and arrow only. All other laws and rules relating to deer hunting shall apply.
Waldo County: The Town of Islesboro, except that a person may hunt deer in that town with bow and arrow from the first day of the special archery season on deer, established in accordance with section 11403, subsection 2, to the end of the regular firearms season on deer of each calendar year.
Washington County:
- Cross Island shall have acontinual closed season on deer.
- Scotch Island shall have acontinual closed season on deer.
York County: The area within Drake’s Island and Wells Sanctuaries, situated in the Town of Wells in the County of York: shall be open to the hunting of antlerless deer with a hand‑held bow and arrow by permit only during a specified period between November 1 and January 30; permits may be issued by the department to licensed archery hunters authorized by a landowner. Each permit will specify the number and sex of the deer to be taken; eligible persons may obtain more than 1 permit. Deer taken under these permits are in addition to the statewide bag limit. The permit shall designate the timing and any other special conditions deemed necessary. All other laws and rules relating to deer hunting shall apply.
16.08 Moose Hunting
Moose Hunting Season and Districts
Areas Closed to Moose Hunting
3. Moose Permits
4. Restrictions
5. Moose Permit Auction
6. Moose Permit Auction by Conservation Organizations
7. Moose Permit Point System
8. Depredation Moose Hunt
Moose Hunting Season and Districts
There shall be an open season for the hunting of moose within Wildlife Management Districts (WMDs) 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 10, 11, 12, 13, 15, 18, 19, 27 and 28 beginning on the Monday following the close of the bear baiting season and remaining open for 6 days. In addition, within WMDs 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 17, 18, 19, 27 and 28, there shall be an open season for the hunting of moose beginning on the third Monday following the close of the bear baiting season and remaining open for 6 days.
There shall be an open season in WMDs 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, and 19 to begin on the Monday preceding the opening day of the regular firearm deer season and remaining open for 6 days with antlerless only permits being allocated.
There shall be an open season for the hunting of moose within WMDs 16, 22, 23, 25 and 26, from the 4th Monday preceding Thanksgiving to the Saturday following Thanksgiving; and the Saturday preceding the first day of this season is an open day for the hunting of moose for residents of the state only.
Hunters drawn in the following WMDs may hunt in either WMD during the open season in those WMDs.
a. WMDs 7 and 13
b. WMDs 12 and 15
c. WMDs 14 and 17
d. WMDs 27 and 28.
Areas Closed to Moose Hunting
The following areas located within unorganized townships of Piscataquis County, WELS, shall be closed to moose hunting:
That portion of Township 2, Range 9, located within the boundary of Baxter State Park;
That portion of Township 6, Range 9, which is not designated as a wildlife sanctuary by Title 12, M.R.S. §12706; and
Township 6, Range 10.
Any area closed to hunting by rule of the Department of Conservation, Bureau of Parks and Lands.
Moose Permits
For the purposes of this rule, the following terms have the following meanings:
Antlerless moose: means a moose without antlers;
Antlered moose: means a moose with antlers; and
Any-moose: means a moose of either sex.
The number of moose hunting permits to be issued for each WMD shall be as follows:
2026 Moose Permit Allocations
WMD
# of Permits
WMD 1
450 antlered/175 antlerless
WMD 2
350 antlered/175 antlerless
WMD 3
200 antlered/125 antlerless
WMD 4
400 antlered/100 antlerless
WMD 5
250 antlered/125 antlerless
WMD 6
200 antlered/60 antlerless
WMD 7 & 13 (combined)
140 antlered
WMD 8
200 antlered/150 antlerless
WMD 9
125 antlered
WMD 10
60 antlered
WMD 11
50 antlered
WMD 12 & 15 (combined)
40 antlered
WMD 14 & 17 (combined)
40 antlered
WMD 16
0 permits
WMD 18
40 antlered
WMD 19
60 antlered
WMD 27 & 28 (combined)
40 antlered
TOTAL: 2,645 antlered / 1,060 antlerless
Percentage to Nonresidents: Eight percent of the total number of permits allocated to each WMD shall be issued to nonresidents.
Exemption to the Assigned WMD: Each successful applicant will be assigned to hunt within the WMD of their choice except when the permit quota for that zone has already been filled. In cases where the applicant's first choice of zones has been filled, the applicant will be assigned to hunt in the next unfilled zone of his choice as indicated on his application.
All WMD assignments made as the result of the public drawing will be final except as provided within 12 M.R.S. §11110 or within 12 M.R.S. §11154.15.
Restrictions
Except as provided in Section 16.08-8, it shall be unlawful for any person to hunt moose after having killed or registered a moose during the open season of that calendar year.
It shall be unlawful for the holder of a moose hunting permit, or his subpermittee, to hunt moose outside the WMD designated on the permit.
It shall be unlawful for any permit holder or their subpermittee to hunt, take or possess a moose in violation of the specifications designated on the permit.
Moose Permit Auction
A moose permit bid for a department auction permit must be in the form and manner prescribed by the Commissioner.
An applicant must be at least 10 years of age to submit a bid as provided within 12 M.R.S. §11154.5.
The deadline for accepting a moose permit bid is 5:00 p.m. on February 15th which is not a Saturday, Sunday or holiday at the department office at 284 State Street, Augusta, Maine.
If more than one bid is submitted by an applicant, the highest bid is the only official bid.
Within 30 days of being awarded the permit, successful applicants must select a hunting zone and make payment to the department for the total bid amount or the permit will be offered to the unsuccessful applicant with the highest bid.
The zone assignment made by the department as a result of the successful bidder's choice is final.
The moose permit fee will be taken from the bid amount of successful applicants.
If two or more individuals bid the same amount in the auction and it is necessary to break the tie in order to award the permit, the following procedure will be used to determine the winner:
First, a Maine resident will receive preference over an individual not a resident of Maine.
Second, if a tie remains after residence is considered, the winner will be determined by a drawing of lots.
If an individual is awarded a permit as a result of the auction and then is drawn
in the general permit drawing, the permit will be awarded as a result of the general permit drawing and the bid fee and bid amount will be returned, except that a person may choose to refuse the permit from the general permit drawing and retain the permit issued as a result of the auction. No individual may receive more than one permit as a result of the auction and general permit drawing.
Moose Permit Auction by Conservation Organizations
This section is written in accordance with 12 M.R.S. §11154.11.
Moose auction permits may be made available to nonprofit conservation organizations, or chapters thereof, for auction.
Organizations to auction the permits will be selected by competitive bid.
The participant will conduct the auction/sale event prior to March 31st.
The auction/sale event will be conducted under standards of good faith and commercial reasonableness, and the participant will use its best effort to obtain maximum return.
E. All revenue generated by the auction/sale of the fund-raising permits by a conservation organization will be transferred to the department within 60 calendar days of the event or by June 15th of the permit year, whichever comes first. When permits are sold by auction, auctioneers shall accept only a full bid amount consistent with commercial auction practices.
F. Within 30 days of being awarded the permit, successful applicants must select a hunting zone. The zone assignment made by the department as a result of the successful bidder's choice is final.
G. The moose permit fee will be taken from the bid amount of successful applicants.
H. No individual may receive more than one permit as a result of the auctions and general permit drawing.
Moose Permit Point System
A. Bonus points are awarded if a person is unsuccessful in obtaining a moose permit through the drawing after having completed all requirements as listed in rule and law.
One point shall be awarded for each consecutive year the applicant applies and is not selected for a moose permit.
Each bonus point accumulated gives the individual an additional chance in the drawing for which they have legally applied.
(3) Bonus points are awarded for the moose drawing only.
(4) Bonus points are not transferable.
B. Bonus points are tracked by a person’s name and date of birth. To receive bonus points the applicant must apply using the same name and date of birth each year that they apply.
C. Each applicant is entered in the drawing and receives a random number for each chance purchased in the current year and one for each bonus point collected.
D. Bonus Points are forfeited if:
A person skips 2 consecutive years in applying for the moose drawing by failing to purchase a chance.
A person obtains a permit through the drawing for moose, including any permit obtained as an alternate.
A person is selected for a permit and later declines and/or fails to meet the criteria for legally possessing that permit.
A person is found to have not legally applied in the current year.
A person fails to apply using the same name and date of birth each year that they apply.
E. Bonus points are NOT forfeited if:
An applicant has completed all requirements as listed in rule and law but the application is rejected due to an error by the department or an agent of the department. A bonus point awarded under this criteria is treated like any point earned in section 7-A above.
- Depredation Moose Hunt
Locations: Designated areas within Wildlife Management Districts 3 and 6, situated in the County of Aroostook, will be open to the hunting of moose bypermit only during a specified period between August 15th and December 31st,annually. The Commissioner will determine the moose hunting season dates and thenumber of moose hunting permits to be issued. Each permit will specify the number and sex of moose to be taken, the timing of the hunt, and any other special conditions deemed necessary.
Persons eligible to participate in the hunt: Thirty (30) moose hunting permits are allocated to disabled veterans to participate in controlled moose hunts under 12 M.R.S. §12402. Each selected disabled veteran will receive an any-moose permit.
At least twenty (20) of these permits must be issued to residents who possess a valid disabled veteran hunting license.
No more than ten (10) permits must be issued to nonresident disabled veterans who possess a valid big game hunting license.
A "disabled veteran" means a person who is a veteran and has a service connected disability evaluated at 50% or more.
These permits will be issued in cooperation with the Department of Defense, Veterans and Emergency Management, Maine Veteran's Services to provide logistical support to the selected disabled veterans during their moose hunt.
All selections are final: permits may not be transferred or "swapped."
Training for eligible participants:
Each veteran selected must attend a training session conducted by the department before being issued their moose hunting permit. A selected veteran who fails to attend the required training session will forfeit their permit; forfeited permits will be issued in turn to veterans selected by Department of Defense, Veterans and Emergency Management, Maine Veteran's Services.
Other Parameters for the Depredation Moose Hunt:
The Commissioner will not issue depredation moose hunting permits referred to in this section during the regular moose hunting season.
Moose taken under these permits are in addition to the statewide bag limit. Moose hunting permits issued under this section are exempt from the provisions of Section 7. Moose Permit Point System.
All other laws, and rules relating to moose hunting shall apply.
16.09 Bear Hunting
1. General Season
2. Youth Bear Hunting Days
3. Bear Baiting Season
4. Bear Hunting Season with the use of Dogs
5. Bear Bag and Possession Limit
General Bear Hunting Season: There shall be an open season on hunting bear annually from the first Monday preceding September 1st to the last day of the regular firearms season on deer, but no later than November 30th.
“Youth Bear Hunting Days”: There shall be a youth bear hunting day on the Saturday prior to the opening day of the bear hunting season established under Title 12 §11251 subsection 1, paragraph A. During 2026 and 2027, there shall be an additional youth bear hunting day on the Friday prior to the opening day of the bear hunting season established under Title 12 §11251 subsection 1, paragraph A., and an additional youth bear hunting day on the Saturday prior to the opening day of the bear hunting season established under Title 12 §11251, subsection 1, paragraph B.
Who may participate and methods allowed: On the designated youth bear hunting days, holders of a junior hunting license may hunt bear with either a firearm or archery equipment and must be in the presence of and under the effective control of a junior hunter supervisor as defined by Title 12 §11108-C.
Supervision of a youth hunter: A junior hunter supervisor accompanying a youth on youth bear hunting days may not possess a firearm or archery equipment while the youth is participating in the bear hunt except that the supervisor may carry a handgun pursuant to 25 M.R.S.§2001-A, sub-§2, ¶A-1 but it may not be for the purpose of hunting.
C. The use of dogs is prohibited, except that during 2026 and 2027, the use of dogs is permitted by youth hunters on the Saturday that proceeds the opening day of the bear hunting season that allows the use of dogs.
D. Laws that apply on these days: Except as otherwise provided, all laws pertaining to the general bear hunting season established within these rules apply on these days.
Bear Baiting Season: There shall be an open season during which bait may be used to hunt bear annually from the first Monday preceding September 1st running for 4 weeks. For the purposes of this rule, hunting bear with the use of bait includes hunting from an observation stand, blind or other location which overlooks any bait or food; except standing crops and foods that have been left as a result of normal agricultural operations or natural occurrence.
Bear Hunting Season with the Use of Dogs: There shall be an open season on using a dog or dogs in conjunction with bear hunting starting on the 3rd Monday of the open bear hunting season and running through the Friday preceding the regular deer hunting season.
- Bear Bag and Possession Limit: The bag limit on bears taken by hunting is one bear per year. A person may not hunt bear after that person has killed or registered a bear by hunting during that calendar year. A person may not possess more than 2 bears in any calendar year, except a person may keep more than two legally obtained bear in that person’s home or as otherwise provided in law.
16.10 Wild Turkey Hunting
Spring Season
WMDs Open to Hunting
Season/WMD Restrictions
Permits
Bag Limits
Legal Weapons / Methods
Youth Spring Wild Turkey Hunting Days
WMDs Open to Hunting
WMDs 1-29 as described within section 16.15 are open for spring wild turkey hunting.
Season
There shall be an open spring season beginning on the Monday closest to May 1stand continuing for five consecutive weeks for the hunting of wild turkey.
Permits
Any person who possesses a big game, small game, or an archery license as provided in 12 M.R.S. §11109 may purchase a wild turkey hunting permit that allows the hunting of turkeys in both the spring and fall seasons.
Bag Limits
The bag limit for wild turkey during the spring season is two bearded wild turkeys per permit holder. A hunter may take up to two bearded wild turkeys but cannot exceed an individual WMD bag limit, the order in which they are taken does not matter. Bag limits in specific WMD’s will be as follows:
One bearded wild turkey in WMDs 1-6 and 8.
Two bearded wild turkeys in WMDs 7 and 9-29.
Legal Weapons / Methods
Weapons
Shotgun gauges 10 through 20 using shot sizes 4 through 6 inclusive, or mixed loads that include shot sizes 4 through 7. In addition, shotgun gauges 10 through 28, including .410, may be used with shot sizes 7 through 9 in Tungsten Super Shot (TSS).
Archery equipment.
Methods
A person may not take a turkey while the turkey is in a tree.
See other prohibitions on turkey hunting as provided within Title 12 §11801.
Youth Spring Wild Turkey Hunting Days
On the designated youth spring wild turkey hunting days, only holders of a valid junior hunting license may hunt wild turkey with either a firearm or archery equipment and must be in the presence of and under the effective control of a junior hunter supervisor as defined by Title 12 M.R.S. §11108-C. The junior hunter supervisor shall not possess a firearm or archery equipment while accompanying a youth hunter on youth hunting day except that the supervisor may carry a handgun pursuant to 25 M.R.S. §2001-A, sub-§2, ¶A-1 but it may not be for the purpose of hunting.
The youth spring wild turkey hunting day occurs on the Saturday preceding the opening day of the spring wild turkey hunting season. During 2026 and 2027, there shall be an additional youth spring wild turkey hunting day on the Friday preceding the opening day of the spring wild turkey hunting season.
Except as otherwise provided, all laws pertaining to hunting during the open spring season on wild turkey apply on these days.
Fall Season
WMDs Open to Hunting
Season
Permits
Bag Limit
Legal Weapons / Methods
Requirements for Landowner Privilege
Additional Landowner Provisions
Youth Fall Wild Turkey Hunting Day
- WMDs Open to Hunting
WMDs 3, 6, 7, 8, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14 and 15 – 29 as described within section 16.15 are open for fall wild turkey hunting.
- Season
There shall be an open fall season from the Monday closest to the 17th of September to November 7th for wild turkey hunting in WMD’s open to fall wild turkey hunting, except WMD’s listed as closed to fall turkey hunting as described within 16.10-7.
- Permits
Any person who possesses a hunting license, small game hunting license or an archery license as provided in 12 M.R.S. §11109 may purchase a wild turkey hunting permit that allows the hunting of turkeys in both the spring and fall seasons.
- Bag Limit
The bag limit for wild turkey during the fall season is five wild turkeys of either sex and any age per permit holder. A hunter may take up to five wild turkeys but cannot exceed an individual WMD bag limit, the order in which they are taken does not matter. No more than two wild turkeys may be harvested per permit holder per day. Bag limits in specific WMD’s will be as follows:
FALL WILD TURKEY SEASON
WMD’s
FALL SEASON LIMIT
15, 16, 17, 20, 21, 22,
23, 24 & 25
Five (5) Wild Turkeys
(either sex & any age per permit holder)
26
Three (3) Wild Turkeys
(either sex & any age per permit holder)
28
Two (2) Wild Turkeys
(either sex & any age per a permit holder)
3, 6, 7, 8, 10-14, 18, 19,
27 & 29
One (1) Wild Turkey
(either sex & any age per a permit holder)
1, 2, 4, 5 & 9
Closed to taking of Wild Turkeys
- Legal Weapons / Methods
Weapons:
Shotgun gauges 10 through 20 using shot sizes 4 through 6 inclusive; or using mixed loads that include shot sizes 4 through 7. In addition, shotgun gauges 10 through 28, including .410, may be used with shot sizes 7 through 9 in Tungsten Super Shot (TSS); or
Archery equipment.
Methods
A person may not take a turkey while the turkey is in a tree.
See other prohibitions on turkey hunting as provided within Title 12 §11801.
- Requirements for Landowner Privilege: Any private landowner is eligible to hunt wild turkeys on their own land without a turkey hunting permit if:
That person owns a particular piece of land that is 25 or more contiguous acres in size and is located within a WMD open to turkey hunting and designated for the season that they wish to hunt;
That person is permanently domiciled on that land;
The land is managed for the raising and selling of dairy, dairy products, or beef cattle; and
The land is open to hunting including hunting by permission.
- Additional Landowner Provisions
Any family member permanently domiciled on that land is also eligible to hunt wild turkeys on that land without a permit.
All other laws and rules of that open season including bag limits, weapon restrictions and tagging and reporting requirements will apply.
A landowner must provide proof of eligibility if requested by an agent of the commissioner.
Landowners and eligible family members may hunt any and all open days of the open wild turkey hunting seasons, this also allows youth hunters who are eligible family members of the landowner to participate on the youth wild turkey hunt day.
- Youth Fall Wild Turkey Hunting Day
On the designated youth fall wild turkey hunting day, only holders of a valid junior hunting license may hunt wild turkey with either a firearm or archery equipment and must be in the presence of and under the effective control of junior hunter supervisor as defined by Title 12 M.R.S. §11108-C. The junior hunter supervisor shall not possess a firearm or archery equipment while accompanying a youth hunter on youth hunting day except that the supervisor may carry a handgun pursuant to 25 M.R.S. §2001-A, sub-§2, ¶A-1 but it may not be for the purpose of hunting.
The youth fall wild turkey hunting day occurs on the Saturday preceding the opening day of the fall wild turkey hunting season.
Except as otherwise provided, all laws pertaining to hunting during the open fall season on wild turkey apply on this day.
16.11 Migratory Game Bird Hunting
1. Scope and General Prohibition
2. Hunting Methods
3. Transportation
4. Possession for the Purpose of Processing, Transportation or Storage
5. Termination of Possession
6. Wounded Live Migratory Game Birds
7. Possession of Plumage
8. Wanton Waste of Migratory Game Birds
9. Seasons, Daily Bag Limits, and Possession Limits for Migratory Game Birds
10. Youth Waterfowl Hunt
11. Special Falconry Season
12. North, South and Coastal Waterfowl Zone Lines and Sea Duck Hunting Area Defined
13. Duck Stamp Required
14. Nontoxic Shot Requirements
Scope and General Prohibition
For the purpose of this section, migratory game birds include and are limited to the following species: rails, gallinules, woodcock, snipe, geese, brant, wild ducks, and sea ducks (eider, scoter, and long-tailed duck).
Except as expressly provided in these regulations or by statute or other regulation, it shall be unlawful to hunt, capture, kill, take, possess, transport, buy, or sell any migratory game bird or part thereof.
Hunting Methods
It shall be lawful to hunt migratory game birds by the aid of:
dogs;
artificial decoys;
manually or mouth-operated bird calls;
with bow and arrow;
crossbow;
by the practice of falconry; or
with shotgun (not larger than No. 10 gauge and incapable of holding more than three shells) fired from the shoulder.
every other method is unlawful.
It shall be lawful to hunt migratory game birds from floating craft (except a sinkbox), including those capable of being propelled by motor, sail and wind, or both, only when:
the motor of such craft has been completely shut off and/or the sails furled, as the case may be; and
(2) the progress or motion of the craft in the water has ceased and the craft is drifting, beached, moored, resting at anchor, or is being propelled solely by paddle, oars, or pole.
It shall be lawful to use a motor or sail on a craft as a means of retrieving or picking up dead or injured birds.
All migratory game birds, including waterfowl, may be taken on or over standing crops (including aquatics), flooded standing crops, flooded harvested crop lands, grain crops properly shucked on the field where grown, or grains found scattered solely as a result of normal agricultural planting or harvesting and in addition, all migratory game birds, except waterfowl, may be taken on or over lands where shelled, shucked, or unshucked corn, wheat or other grain, salt or other feed has been distributed or scattered solely as a result of valid agricultural operations or procedures.
Transportation
Any person, without a permit, may transport lawfully killed and possessed migratory game birds into, within, or out of any state, or export such birds to a foreign country during and after the open seasons in the State where taken, subject to the conditions and restrictions specified in this part.
If such birds are dressed, one fully feathered wing must remain attached to each bird so as to permit species identification while being transported between the place where taken and the personal abode of the possessor or between the place where taken and a commercial preservation facility. Any package or container in which such birds are transported shall have the name and address of the shipper and of the consignee and an accurate statement of the numbers and kinds of birds contained therein clearly and conspicuously marked on the outside thereof.
Possession for the Purpose of Processing, Transportation, or Storage
No hunter who legally takes and possesses any migratory game birds shall place or leave any such birds in the custody of any other person for picking, cleaning, processing, shipping, transportation, or storage (including temporary storage) unless such birds have a tag attached signed by the hunter stating his address, the total number and kinds of birds, and the date such birds were killed.
No person may receive or have in custody any migratory game birds belonging to another person unless such birds are tagged as provided above.
No hunter who legally takes and possesses any migratory game birds shall place or leave such birds at any place for storage (including temporary storage) other than at his personal abode unless such birds are tagged as provided above. Legally possessed migratory game birds being transported in any vehicle as the personal baggage of the possessor shall not be deemed to be in storage or temporary storage.
Any commercial picking establishment or cold-storage or locker plant receiving, possessing, or having in custody any migratory game birds shall maintain accurate records showing the numbers and kinds of such birds, the dates received and disposed of, and the names and addresses of the persons from whom such birds were received and to whom such birds were delivered. The records required to be maintained shall be retained by the person or persons responsible for their preparation and maintenance for a period of 1 year following the close of the open season on migratory game birds prescribed for the state in which such picking establishment or cold-storage or locker plant is located.
Termination of Possession
For the purposes of this part, the possession of birds legally taken by any hunter shall be deemed to have ceased when such birds have been delivered by the hunter to a post office, a common carrier, or a commercial cold-storage or locker plant for transportation by the postal service or a common carrier to some person other than the hunter.
Wounded Live Migratory Game Birds
Every migratory game bird wounded by hunting and reduced to possession by the hunter shall be immediately killed and become a part of the daily bag limit.
Possession of Plumage
Any person, without a permit, may possess and transport for his own use the plumage and skins of lawfully taken migratory game birds.
Wanton Waste of Migratory Game Birds
No person shall kill or cripple any migratory game bird pursuant to this regulation without any visible means to retrieve and without making a reasonable effort to retrieve the bird and include it in his daily bag limit. The shooting of crippled waterfowl from a motorboat under power will be permitted on those coastal waters and all waters of rivers and streams lying seaward from the first upstream bridge.
9. Seasons, Daily Bag Limits, and Possession Limits for Migratory Game Birds
A. Webless Migratory Birds
WEBLESS MIGRATORY BIRD SEASONS
SPECIES
OPEN SEASON
DAILY LIMIT
POSSESSION LIMIT
Woodcock
Sept. 26 – Nov. 17, 2026
3
9
Common (Wilson’s Snipe)
Sept. 1, 2026 – Jan. 2, 2027
8
24
Rails (Sora and Virginia)
Sept. 1 – Nov. 20, 2026
25
(single or in the aggregate)
25
(single or in the aggregate)
Gallinules
(Common Moorhens)
Closed Season
B. Ducks (including all duck species unless otherwise noted in Section F, Mergansers and American Coots)
DUCK SEASONS
ZONE
OPEN SEASON
DAILY LIMIT
POSSESSION LIMIT
North Zone
Sept. 28 – Dec. 5, 2026
6
(no more than 4 of any one
species*)
18
(no more than 12 of
any one species*)
South Zone
Oct. 1 – Oct. 10, 2026
Oct. 29 – Dec. 26, 2026
6
(no more than 4 of any one
species*)
18
(no more than 12 of
any one species*)
Coastal Zone
Oct. 3 – Oct. 10, 2026
Nov. 5, 2026 – Jan. 5, 2027
6
(no more than 4 of any one
species*)
18
(no more than 12 of
any one species*)
*EXCEPT AS NOTED BELOW SEE (F. - Exceptions) *
C. Brant
BRANT SEASONS
ZONE
OPEN SEASON
DAILY LIMIT
POSSESSION LIMIT
North Zone
Sept. 28 – Oct. 31, 2026
1
3
South Zone
Oct. 1 – Oct. 10, 2026
Oct. 29 – Nov. 21, 2026
1
1
3
3
Coastal Zone
Oct. 3 – Oct. 10, 2026
Dec. 10, 2026 – Jan. 5, 2027
1
1
3
3
D. Crows
2026 CROW SEASON
WMDs
OPEN SEASON
BAG LIMITS
Wildlife Management Districts 1-6
Feb. 2 – Apr. 15
August 1 – Sept. 19
No daily bag or possession limit
Wildlife Management Districts 7-29
Jan. 17 – March 31
August 1 – Sept. 19
No daily bag or possession limit
2027 CROW SEASON
WMDs
OPEN SEASON
BAG LIMITS
Wildlife Management Districts 1-6
Jan. 30 – Apr. 15
August 2 – Sept. 18
No daily bag or possession limit
Wildlife Management Districts 7-29
Jan. 15 – March 31
August 2 – Sept. 18
No daily bag or possession limit
E. Geese
GOOSE SEASONS
SPECIES
OPEN SEASON
DAILY LIMIT
POSSESSION LIMIT
Canada Geese
Early Season
(NORTH)
Sept. 1 – Sept. 25, 2026
8
24
Canada Geese
Early Season
(SOUTH)
Sept. 1 – Sept. 25, 2026
10
30
Canada Geese
Early Season
(COASTAL)
Sept. 1 – Sept. 25, 2026
10
30
Canada Geese
Regular Season
(including greater and lesser
white-fronted geese)
(NORTH)
Oct. 1 – Dec. 9, 2026
2
6
Canada Geese
Regular Season
(including greater and lesser
white-fronted geese)
(SOUTH)
Oct. 1 – Oct. 10, 2026
Oct. 29 – Dec. 26, 2026
2
6
Canada Geese
Regular Season
(including greater and lesser
white-fronted geese)
(COASTAL)
Oct. 3 – Oct. 10, 2026
Oct. 24, 2026 – Jan. 5, 2027
3
9
Snow Geese
(including blue geese)
Oct. 1, 2026 – Jan. 30, 2027
25
No Possession Limit
F. Exceptions
*EXCEPTIONS TO 2026 - 2027 DUCK and COOT SEASON BAG & POSSESSION LIMITS
SPECIES
DAILY LIMIT
POSSESSION LIMIT
American Coots
5
15
Mergansers
(in addition to limits on other regular ducks)
5
15
Mallards
4
12
Hen Mallards, Black Duck, Redhead and
Canvasback, Eiders
2
6
Scaup, Hen Eiders
Mottled ducks and Fulvous Whistling Ducks
1
3
Northern Pintails and Wood Ducks
3
9
Scoters in the aggregate (Black, White-winged, Surf)
and Long-tailed Ducks
(Sea Ducks which include eiders)
3
(4 total sea ducks)
9
(12 total sea ducks)
Harlequin Ducks and Barrow’s Goldeneye
NO OPEN SEASON
No Open Season
No Open Season
10. Youth Waterfowl Hunt
YOUTH WATERFOWL HUNT
NORTH ZONE
Sept. 19, 2026
Dec. 12, 2026
SOUTH ZONE
Sept. 19, 2026
Oct. 17, 2026
COASTAL ZONE
Sept. 26, 2026
Oct. 17, 2026
Special Regulations for Youth Waterfowl Hunt Days: On the designated youth waterfowl hunt days, holders of a valid junior hunting license may hunt waterfowl with a shotgun in accordance with 12 M.R.S. §11214 §1. F. and §1. N., bow and arrow or crossbow and must be in the presence of and under the effective control of a junior hunter supervisor as defined by Title 12 §11108-C. State and Federal migratory bird hunting stamps are not required for youth hunters who hunt migratory game birds.
Exceptions
If a hunter is 16 years of age and possesses a junior hunting license, they must possess a valid Federal migratory bird hunting stamp.
If a hunter is 16 years of age and possess an adult hunting license, they must obtain both the Federal migratory bird hunting stamp and a state migratory waterfowl permit.
The junior hunter supervisor shall not possess a firearm or archery equipment while accompanying a youth hunter on youth hunting days except that the supervisor may carry a handgun pursuant to 25 M.R.S. §2001-A, sub-§2, ¶A-1 but it may not be carried for the purpose of hunting.
When a youth hunt day occurs during the early Canada Goose season, the junior hunter supervisor may hunt for Canada Geese only.
Bag Limits for Youth Hunt Day
All laws pertaining to the waterfowl hunting season apply including the species specific bag limits as outlined above.
Youth day hunters may not take more than 6 ducks. No more than 3 scoters, 2 eiders, or 3 long-tailed ducks or 4 in the aggregate may be taken as part of the 6-bird daily limit and will count towards the 6 ducks. In addition to the 6-bird daily bag limit youth can also take up to 5 mergansers and 5 American coots.
11. Special Falconry Season
In addition to the regular migratory bird season there shall be a special falconry season on ducks, mergansers and American coots:
NORTH ZONE: Dec. 15, 2026 through Feb. 4, 2027
COASTAL and SOUTH ZONE: Jan. 7, 2027 through Feb. 27, 2027
Falconry season daily bag and possession limits for all permitted migratory game birds shall not exceed 3* and 9* birds respectively, singly or in the aggregate.
*all species restrictions apply.
12. North, South and Coastal Waterfowl Zone Lines and Sea Duck Hunting Area Defined
North/South Waterfowl Zone Line: Starting at the Maine-New Brunswick border in Baileyville, Maine west along Stony Brook to Route 9 in Baileyville. West along Route 9 to Route 9B in Eddington. West along Route 9B to Route 178 in Brewer. Southwest along Route 178 to Route 15B in Brewer. South along Route 15B to I-395 in Brewer. West along I-395 to I-95 in Bangor. Southwest along I-95 to Route 202 (Exit 109A) in Augusta. Southwest along Route 202 to Route 11 in Auburn. Southwest along Route 11 to Route 110 in Newfield. West along Route 110 to Maine-New Hampshire border.
Coastal Zone Line: Maine-New Brunswick border in Calais at the Route 1 bridge, south along Route 1 to the Maine – New Hampshire border in Kittery.
Sea Duck Hunting Area: All coastal waters and all waters of rivers and streams seaward from the first upstream bridge. In all other cases, sea ducks may be taken only during the regular duck season dates and are part of the regular duck bag limits.
13. Duck Stamp Required
State and federal law requires that persons 16 years of age or older shall have on his/her person; an unexpired federal migratory bird hunting stamp (validated by his/her signature written across the face of the stamp in ink) and a valid state migratory waterfowl permit to hunt any migratory waterfowl (wild ducks, geese or brant); except that no such stamp shall be required for the taking of migratory waterfowl by Federal or state institutions or official agencies, or for propagation, or by the resident owner, tenant, or share cropper of the property or officially designated agencies of the Department of the Interior for the killing, under such restrictions as the Secretary of the Interior may by regulation prescribe, of such waterfowl when found injuring crops or other property. Any person to whom a stamp has been sold shall upon request exhibit such stamp for inspection to any officer or employee authorized to enforce the provisions of this paragraph.
14. Nontoxic Shot Requirements
The hunting of wild ducks, geese, brant, rails, and American coots with firearms shall be restricted to the use of ammunition loaded with nontoxic shot.
The use or possession of ammunition loaded with other than nontoxic shot while hunting wild ducks, geese, brant, rails, or American coots shall be prima facie evidence of hunting in violation of this rule.
Nontoxic shot means any shot type that does not cause sickness and death when ingested by these birds and is approved for use by the Director, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service list of approved shot is located at https://www.fws.gov/le/pdf/50_CFR_20.pdf.
16.12 Upland Game and Furbearing Animal Hunting
General Prohibition on Possession of Wild Birds and Animals
Limits
Keeping Upland Game and Furbearing Animals Alive
Hunting Seasons, Daily Bag and Possession Limits for Upland Game
Gray Squirrels
Open Seasons for the Hunting of Furbearing Animals
Raccoon Hunting
Raccoon Dog Field Trials
General Prohibition on Possession of Wild Birds and Animals
It shall be unlawful for any person to have in possession, at any time, any wild bird or wild animal, or part thereof, taken in violation of these regulations. There shall be a closed season for the hunting or trapping of any wild bird or wild animal for which an open season is not herein specifically provided or is provided by law.
- Limits
No person shall hunt, trap or have in their possession at any time more than the numerical limits of any given species of upland game or furbearing animal which are specifically set forth in these regulations.
- Keeping Upland Game and Furbearing Animals Alive
No person shall keep alive any upland game or furbearing animal which such person has taken, whether by hunting or trapping, except in accordance with the provisions of 12 M.R.S. §12152 and §12763, as amended, providing, among other things, for the issuance of permits for such purposes by the Commissioner of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife.
- Hunting Seasons, Daily Bag and Possession Limits for Upland Game
Species
Open Hunting Season
Daily Bag Limit
Possession Limit
Snowshoe Hare
Last Sat. in Sept. – March 31
(Last Sat. in Sept. - Feb. 28
on Vinalhaven Island
Knox County)
4
8
Gray Squirrel
Last Sat. in Sept. – Jan. 31
4
8
Falconry Gray
Squirrel Season
Last Sat. in Sept. – Feb. 28
4
8
Woodchuck
No Closed Season
No Bag Limit
No Possession Limit
Porcupine
No Closed Season
No Bag Limit
No Possession Limit
Ring Necked Pheasant
Last Sat. in Sept. - Dec. 31
2
4
Ruffed Grouse
(Partridge)
Last Sat. in Sept. - Dec. 31
4
8
Bobwhite Quail
Last Sat. in Sept. – Dec. 31
4
8
Spruce Grouse
No Open Season
Gray Squirrels
No person shall hunt gray squirrels on any land which have been dedicated as a public or private park or which are within the limits of compact or built-up portions of any city or town.
Statewide Seasons for the Hunting of Furbearing Animals
Furbearer Animal
Season Dates
Bobcat
December 1 through February 21
Coyote
January 1 through December 31 (day hunting only permitted)
December 16 through August 31
(day & night hunting permitted with appropriate permit)
Fox
Monday after the opening of the Special Fox & Coyote Trapping Season through February 28
Raccoon
October 1 through December 31
Red Squirrel
January 1 through December 31
Skunk and Opossum
Monday after the opening of the Special Fox & Coyote Trapping Season through December 31
NO BAG LIMIT FOR THESE SPECIES
Raccoon Hunting
Raccoons may be hunted at night in accordance with 12 M.R.S. §11901 during the open season only when the hunter:
Is accompanied by a dog,
Uses a flashlight to locate raccoons that are treed, or held at bay, by a dog(s), and
Is in possession of, and uses a rifle, pistol, or revolver of no greater power or caliber than one which uses .22 caliber long rifle ammunition; the firearm is to be loaded only when being used to dispatch a raccoon that is treed or held at bay by a dog(s).
Raccoon Dog Field Trials
Scope of Rules
These rules shall be applicable only to raccoon dog field trials as authorized in Title 12, M.R.S., Sections 12051 and 12054. Nothing in these rules shall in any way restrict or regulate the use of dogs by licensed hunters in taking raccoons during the open raccoon hunting season.
Definition
The term "raccoon dog field trial" means any organized competition designed primarily to measure the performance of hounds which have been bred and/or trained for the purpose of trailing and treeing raccoons.
Field Trial Events
Raccoon dog field trials may include, and shall be limited to, the following events:
Night hunts
Water races
Drag races
Treeing contests
Written Notification Requirements
No organization shall conduct a raccoon dog field trial without first filing written notice of intent with the Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife.
Each notice of intent to conduct a raccoon dog field trial shall be filed with the department at least 10 days prior to the field trials.
Each notice of intent shall include the name of the organization which will be conducting the field trial; the name of at least one of the officers of the organization; the date, time and location of the field trial; and the types of events which will be run during the field trial.
Night Hunt Restrictions
A night hunt may be included as part of a raccoon dog field trial only if the hunt is licensed by UKC (United Kennel Club), AKC (American Kennel Club), NKC (National Kennel Club), ACHA (American Coon Hound Association) or PCA (Professional Coonhunters Association), and is conducted in strict accordance with UKC, AKC, NKC, ACHA, or PCA rules.
16.13 Protocol for Big Game Registration Station & Furbearer Registration Agents
1. Scope
2. Establishment of Big Game Registration Agents and Operation of Stations
3. Establishment of Fur Registration Agents and Operations of Stations
4. How to Apply to Become a Big Game or Fur Registration Agent
5. Approval
6. Operating Agreement
7. Operating Standards for Stations
8. Performance Standards for Agents
9. Termination of Agent Services
10. Furbearing Animal Possession, Transportation and Registration Requirements for Hunters
Scope: The rules in this section shall be applicable to the establishment and the operation of registration (tagging) stations for big game and furbearing animals as required by law.
Establishment of Big Game Registration Agents and Operation of Stations
Selection of Agents and Stations: Big game registration agents and their respective stations shall be selected by the Commissioner on the basis of need, and the ability to perform the function of a registration agent as outlined in the station agreement. However, only one station shall be established per city or town, except when it is determined by the Commissioner that more than one big game registration agent is required to adequately service the hunting public. The need for additional agents shall be determined upon the following considerations:
Number and location of major access routes within the city or town;
Location of existing big game registration agents;
Deer, bear, moose and wild turkey registration levels; and
(4) Areas with special deer hunting restrictions.
Establishment of Fur Registration Agents and Operations of Stations
Selection of Agents and Stations: Fur tagging registration agents shall be established by the Commissioner on the basis of need and for added support to department staff.
Location of Fur Registration Agents: Agents shall be located so as to provide registration stations at strategic locations throughout the state. All selections shall be based upon the following considerations:
Location of applicants in relation to the major access routes within the various sections of the state;
Location of applicants in relation to other fur registration agents. New fur registration agents shall be a minimum of 20 airline miles from an existing agent;
Location of applicants in relation to major fur buyers; and
Fur harvest characteristics of the various sections of the state.
Availability of personnel and facilities required to register large lots of fur in an efficient and confidential manner.
How to Apply to Become a Big Game or Fur Registration Agent
Individuals interested in becoming an agent shall contact the district game warden and regional wildlife biologist within whose district they wish to operate the station. When the need exists for a new station in a particular town, interested individuals will be given an application which must be accurately completed and returned to the Commissioner by July 1st of the year in which the applicant wishes to become established as an agent. The Commissioner may waive this deadline if the need for another agent is identified and the deadline cannot be met.
Approval
Credit Checks: Each agent applicant must demonstrate creditworthiness by allowing the department to perform credit checks with any credit organization and provide any other supplemental information deemed necessary by the Commissioner for this purpose.
District Warden and Regional Wildlife Biologist Approval: For bear, deer, moose, turkey and fur registration stations, the district game warden and the regional wildlife biologist shall approve the request prior to recommending approval for a new station. The Commissioner makes the final decision.
Operating Agreement
Businesses or individuals must enter into a written agreement using the form prescribed by the department in order to become a big game registration and/or tagging agent. The operating agreement shall include the following:
The location of the station.
Operating standards for the station and performance standards for the agents.
Minimum registration requirements.
Statement that explains the agent is prohibited from holding a trapping or hide buyers license.
Operating Standards for Stations
Big Game Registration Agents
Minimum time of operation – 8:00 A.M. to 6:00 P.M.
Minimum days of operation - Monday through Saturday
Fur Registration Agents
Dates open for operation: Agents must be available to tag fur from the start of the land (fall) trapping season to ten days following the close of the beaver trapping season. At a minimum agents must be open to tag fur by appointment and respond to requests within 48 hours.
During the 10-day timeframe after the close of the beaver trapping season the agent must be available to tag fur for at least 4 contiguous hours each day (excluding Sundays) and if necessary schedule appointments to tag fur after normal business hours and on weekends.
Performance Standards for Agents
Complying with Laws: Agents designated by the Commissioner for the purpose of operating big game and/or fur registration stations shall be responsible for complying with all pertinent laws, regulations, and performance agreements regarding the registration of big game animals as referenced within 12 M.R.S. §12301-A.
Training Requirements: Agents must ensure that staff will be properly trained to complete registration for customers according to the department requirements and that customers will be serviced in a timely, helpful and courteous manner by all staff working for the station.
Electronic Services Maintained: Agents must maintain internet connectivity and a device to enter electronic data at the station location.
Submission of Funds: Funds owed to the department must be paid according to the agreement.
No Transfer of Agreements
Agreements regarding the operation of big game or furregistration stations are not transferable to another individual, location, business or corporation.
Termination of Agreement
All agreements with big game and fur registration agents shallremain in effect until:
The agent no longer wishes to operate a registration station at the agreed upon location and terminates the agreement with the Commissioner;
The agent changes the location of the station;
The agent sells or leases the station location to another person;
The designation is terminated by the Commissioner for failure to comply with pertinent laws, regulations, and performance agreement;
The designation is terminated by the Commissioner because of changing conditions, circumstances, or legal requirements;
The agent acts in an incompetent, fraudulent or negligent manner and thereby represents the department in an unprofessional manner;
The agent fails to meet minimum training qualifications, or fails to maintain internet access and a means to access it to provide electronic tagging.
The agent fails to pay funds owed to the department in a timely manner.
Termination of Agent Services
When the Commissioner determines that an agency agreement will be terminated, the Commissioner will notify the agent in writing. Immediately upon termination of the agreement, the agent must return all materials, records and supplies provided by the department as part of the agent sales program, and shall remit any remaining balance of moneys owed to the department. In this regard, the agent shall follow any directions provided by the Commissioner. The Commissioner's notice shall explain the reason for the termination of services by providing a specific factual basis if applicable. If the agent wishes to contest the termination, the agent must appeal to the Commissioner in writing within 10 days, specifying all areas of disagreement with the notice. The agent may supplement the appeal with written statements. After reviewing the appeal, the Commissioner may decide to take no further action, maintaining the original termination; or the Commissioner may modify the termination in any manner determined to be appropriate in the Commissioner's discretion. Pending the determination, the original termination will remain in effect and the agent will be suspended from the program. The Commissioner's determination is final.
Furbearing Animal Possession, Transportation and Registration Requirements for Hunters
Note: See Department of Inland Fisheries & Wildlife rules contained in Chapter 17, FURBEARERS AND TRAPPING , for requirements related to the possession, transportation, and registration of furbearers taken by hunting and trapping.
16.14 Snapping Turtles
There is a closed season on the taking of snapping turtles for commercial purposes as referenced within 12 M.R.S. §12159.
The taking of snapping turtles from the wild in Maine is allowed without a permit for personal purposes, with a possession limit of up to 2 specimens only, and in a manner consistent with 12 M.R.S. §12152, sub-§1-B.
16.15 Wildlife Management Districts (WMDs)
WMDs are delineated, geographical sections of the State that have similarities in biological and geophysical characteristics and are utilized to manage wildlife species’ populations on a more localized scale. There shall be twenty-nine (29) WMDs:
WMD 1. [North Maine Woods – Upper St. John River Valley]
Note: Boundary description begins at the southwest corner of WMD 1, and proceeds clockwise
District 1 shall be that portion of the state located within the following bounds:
Beginning at the point where the American Realty Rd intersects the Maine Quebec border in T11R17 WELS; then following the Maine-Quebec border northerly to the Maine-New Brunswick border; then following the Maine-New Brunswick border southeasterly to the point where the St. John River and the St. Francis River and the Maine-New Brunswick border meet in St. Francis; then following the eastern shore of the St. John River southwesterly to the Allagash River in Allagash Plt; then following the eastern shore of the Allagash River and the eastern shore of the lakes formed on the Allagash River; southwesterly to the American Realty Rd bridge across the Allagash River in T11R13 WELS; then following the American Realty Rd westerly to the point of origin at the Maine-Quebec border in T11R17 WELS.
WMD 2. [North Maine Woods – Clayton Lake to St. Francis]
Note: Boundary description begins at the southwest corner of WMD 2, and proceeds clockwise
District 2 shall be that portion of the state located within the following bounds:
Beginning at the bridge where the American Realty Rd crosses the Allagash River in T11R13 WELS; then following the eastern shore of the Allagash River and the eastern shore of the lakes formed on the Allagash River northeasterly to the St. John River in Allagash Plt; then following the eastern shore of the St. John River northeasterly to the St. Francis River and the Maine-New Brunswick border in St. Francis; then following the Maine-New Brunswick border northeasterly to the International Bridge in Fort Kent; then following U.S. Route #1/State Highway #161 northeasterly to State Highway #11 in Fort Kent; then following State Highway #11 southerly to the Garfield Rd in Ashland; then following the Garfield Rd westerly to the American Realty Rd in Ashland; then following the American Realty Rd westerly to the point of origin at the bridge across the Allagash River in T11R13 WELS.
WMD 3. [Northern Aroostook County Farmland]
Note: Boundary description begins at the southwest corner of WMD 3, and proceeds clockwise
District 3 shall be that portion of the state located within the following bounds:
Beginning at the junction of the Beaver Brook Rd, and State Highway #11 in Nashville Plt; then following State Highway #11 northwesterly to State Highway #161 in Fort Kent; then following U.S. Route #1/State Highway #161 in Fort Kent; then following U.S. Route #1/ State Highway #161 westerly to the International Bridge at the Maine-New Brunswick border in Fort Kent; then following the Maine-New Brunswick border easterly and southerly to State Highway #229 in Limestone; then following State Highway #229 westerly to U.S. Route #1A in Limestone; then following U.S. Route #1A northerly to State Highway #89 in Limestone; then following State Highway #89 southwesterly and then southerly to U.S. Route #1 in Caribou; then following U.S. Route #1 southerly to State Highway #89 (High Street) in Caribou; then following State Highway #89 (High Street) westerly to Main St in Caribou; then briefly following Main St in Caribou to State Highway #161 (Herschel St);then following State Highway #161 (Herschel St) westerly to Prospect St; then following Prospect St southerly to State Highway #161 (Sweden St); then following State Highway #161 (Sweden St) westerly to State Highway #228 (Woodland Rd); then following State Highway #228 (Woodland Rd) westerly to the High Meadow Rd in Perham; then following the High Meadow Rd westerly to the Beaver Brook Rd in Perham; then following the Beaver Brook Rd southwesterly to the point of origin on State Highway #11 in Nashville Plt.
WMD 4. [North Maine Woods – Chesuncook Lake to Daaquam]
Note: Boundary description begins at the southwest corner of WMD 4, and proceeds clockwise
District 4 shall be that portion of the state located within the following bounds: Beginning at the point where the Golden Rd intersects the Maine-Quebec border in T5R20 WELS; then following the Maine-Quebec border northerly to the point where the American Realty Rd intersects the Maine-Quebec border in T11R17 WELS; then following the American Realty Rd easterly to the bridge across the Allagash River in T11R13 WELS; then following the eastern shore of the Allagash River and the eastern shore of lakes formed on the Allagash River southerly to Lock Dam on Chamberlain Lake in T7R13 WELS; then following the northern shore of Chamberlain Lake, the northern shore of Round Pond and the northern shore of Telos Lake southeasterly to Telos Dam in T6R11 WELS; then following the northern shore of Webster Stream and the northern shore of Webster Lake easterly to the boundary of Baxter State Park; then following the western boundary of Baxter State Park southerly to the northern shore of the West Branch of the Penobscot River in T3R11 WELS; then following the northern shore of the West Branch of the Penobscot River westerly to the Telos Rd in T3R11 WELS; then following the Telos Rd southerly to the Golden Rd in T3R11 WELS; then following the Golden Rd westerly to the point of origin at the Maine-Quebec border in T5R20 WELS.
WMD 5. [North Maine Woods – Matagamon to Big Machias River]
Note: Boundary description begins at the southwest corner of WMD 5, and proceeds clockwise
District 5 shall be that portion of the state located within the following bounds: Beginning at the point where the T6R10 WELS southern boundary line intersects the western boundary of Baxter State Park (T6R10 WELS western boundary line); then following the western boundary of Baxter State Park northerly to the northern shore of Webster Lake in T6R10 WELS; then following the northern shores of Webster Lake and Webster Stream westerly to Telos Dam in T6R11 WELS; then following the northern shore of Telos Lake, the northern shore of Round Pond, and the northern shore of Chamberlain Lake northwesterly to Lock Dam on Chamberlain Lake in T7R13 WELS; then following the eastern shore of the Allagash River and the eastern shore of lakes formed on the Allagash River northerly to the American Realty Rd bridge across the Allagash River in T11R13 WELS; then following the American Realty Rd easterly to the Garfield Rd in Ashland; then following the Garfield Rd easterly to State Highway #11 in Ashland; then following State Highway #11 southerly to State Highway #159 in Patten; then following State Highway #159 northwesterly to the Grand Lake Road in T6 R7 WELS; then following the Grand Lake Road westerly the (Matagamon Rd) westerly to the Baxter State Park Tote Rd at Matagamon Gate on the eastern boundary of Baxter State Park; then following the Baxter State Park Tote Rd to the Trout Brook Crossing Picnic Area bridge in T6R9 WELS; then following the northern shore of Trout Brook westerly to Wadleigh Brook in T6R9 WELS; then following the western shore of Wadleigh Brook northerly to the Baxter State Park Tote Road bridge in T6R9 WELS; then following the Baxter State Park Tote Rd southwesterly to the T6R9 WELS southern boundary line; then following the T6R9 WELS southern boundary line westerly to the T6R10 WELS southern boundary line; then following the T6R10 WELS southern boundary line westerly to the point of origin on the western boundary of Baxter State Park in T6R10 WELS.
WMD 6. [Central Aroostook County Farmland]
Note: Boundary description begins at the southwest corner of WMD 6, and proceeds clockwise
District 6 shall be that portion of the state located within the following bounds: Beginning at the point at Knowles Corner in Moro Plt where State Highway #212 intersects State Highway #11; then following State Highway #11 northerly to the Beaver Brook Rd in Nashville Plt; then following the Beaver Brook Rd northeasterly to the High Meadow Rd in Perham; then following the High Meadow Rd easterly to State Highway #228 in Perham; then following State Highway #228 easterly to State Highway #161 (Sweden St) in Caribou; then following State Highway #161 (Sweden St) easterly to Prospect St; then following Prospect St northerly to State Highway #161 (Herschel St); then following State Highway #161 (Herschel St) easterly to Main St in Caribou; then briefly following Main St southerly to State Highway #89; then following State Highway #89 easterly to U.S. Route #1 in Caribou; then following U.S. Route #1 northerly to State Highway #89 in Caribou; then following State Highway #89 northeasterly to U.S. Route #1A in Limestone; then following U.S. Route #1A southerly to State Highway #229 in Limestone; then following State Highway #229 easterly to the Maine-New Brunswick border in Limestone; then following the Maine-New Brunswick border southerly to the Interstate Highway #95 terminus at the Maine-New Brunswick border in Houlton; then following Interstate Highway #95 westerly to U.S. Route #2 in Smyrna; then following U.S. Route #2 westerly to State Highway #212 in Smyrna; then following State Highway #212 northwesterly to the point of origin on State Highway #11 at Knowles Corner in Moro Plt.
WMD 7. [Western Maine Mountains – Rangeley Area]
Note: Boundary description begins at the southwest corner of WMD 7, and proceeds clockwise
District 7 shall be that portion of the state located within the following bounds: Beginning at the point where State Highway #26 intersects the Maine-New Hampshire border in Upton; then following the Maine-New Hampshire border northerly to Maine-Quebec border; then following the Maine-Quebec border northerly to the point where State Highway #27 intersects the Maine-Quebec border in Coburn Gore; then following State Highway #27 (Arnold Trail) southeasterly to State Highway #16 in the village of Stratton within Eustis; then following State Highway#16/#27 to State Highway #142 in Kingfield; then following State Highway #142 southwesterly to the intersection of State Highway #4 in Phillips, then following State Highway #4 westerly to State Highway #142, then following State Highway #142 southwesterly to the Byron Rd at Weld Corner, in Weld; then following the Byron Road westerly to where it becomes the Weld-to-Byron Rd in Twp 6 north of Weld; then continue to where it becomes the Weld Road in Byron; then following the Weld Rd westerly to the Dingle Hill Road; then following the Dingle Hill Road southwesterly to the Byron Village Road; then following the Byron Village Road southwesterly to State Highway #17; then following State Highway #17 northerly to the Garland Pond Road in Byron; then following the Garland Pond Road southwesterly to the Lohnes Farm Road; then following the Lohnes Farm Road to S. Arm Road; then following S. Arm Road to State Highway #120; then following State Highway #120 to Andover Village and Newton Street; then following Newton Street westerly to Upton Road; then following Upton Road westerly to East B Hill Road; then following East B Hill Road westerly to State Highway #26 in Upton; then following State Highway #26 to the point of origin at the Maine-New Hampshire border in Upton.
WMD 8. [Western Maine Mountains – Eustis to Jackman Area]
Note: Boundary description begins at the southwest corner of WMD 8, and proceeds clockwise
District 8 shall be that portion of the state located within the following
bounds: Beginning at the point where State Highway #27 intersects the Maine- Quebec border in Coburn Gore; then following the Maine Quebec border northerly to the point where the Golden Rd intersects the Maine-Quebec border in T5R20 WELS; then following the Golden Rd southeasterly to the Seboomook Dam Road; then following the Seboomook Dam Road southeasterly to Seboomook Road; then following the Seboomook Road southeasterly to the western shore of Moosehead Lake at Seboomook Campground in in Seboomook Twp; then following the western shore of Moosehead Lake southerly to where the railroad trestle intersects in Greenville Junction with State Highway #6/15; then following State Highway #6/15 in town Greenville southerly to the Upper Shirley Corner Rd in Shirley; then following the Upper Shirley Corner Rd westerly to the West Road and then to the CC Rd in Shirley; then following the CC Rd westerly to the Shirley Tote Road; then following the Shirley Tote Road westerly to the Indian Pond Road; then following the Indian Pond Road southwesterly to Lake Moxie Road; then following Lake Moxie Road westerly to U.S. Route #201 in The Forks Plt; then following U.S. Route #201 northerly to the bridge across the Kennebec River in The Forks Plt; then following the western shore of the Kennebec River southerly to Central Maine Power transmission line in Pleasant Ridge Plt; then following the Central Maine Power transmission line northwesterly to the Carriage Rd in Carrabasset Valley; then following the Carriage Rd southwesterly to State Highway #16/#27 in Carrabasset Valley; then following State Highway #16/#27 northwesterly to Eustis, then to State Highway #27 (Arnold Trail) to the point of origin at the Maine-Quebec Border in Coburn Gore.
WMD 9. [Western Maine Mountains – East of Moosehead Lake]
Note: Boundary description begins at the southwest corner of WMD 9, and proceeds clockwise
District 9 shall be that portion of the state located within the following bounds: Beginning at the point where the railroad trestle intersects in Greenville Junction with State Highway #6/15; then following the western shore of Moosehead Lake northerly to the Seboomook Rd; then following the Seboomook Rd northwesterly to the Seboomook Dam Road; then following the Seboomook Dam Road northerly to the Golden Road; then following the Golden Rd southeasterly to the Telos Rd in T3R11 WELS; then following the Telos Rd northerly to the West Branch of the Penobscot River in T3R11 WELS; then following the northern shore of the West Branch Penobscot River and the northern shore of the lakes formed along the West Branch of the Penobscot River to the State Highway #11 bridge in T3 Indian Purchase; then following State Highway #11 southwesterly to the Katahdin Iron Works Rd in Brownville; then following the Katahdin Iron Works Rd westerly to the KI Rd in Bowdoin College Grant West; then following the KI Rd westerly to the East Rd in Greenville; then following the East Rd westerly to Pleasant St in Greenville then following Pleasant Street westerly to Lily Bay Rd (a.k.a. North Main St) in Greenville; then following Lily Bay Rd southerly one block to State Highway #6/15 in Greenville; then following State Highway #6/15 westerly to the point where the railroad trestle intersects in Greenville Junction with State Highway #6/15.
WMD 10. [Western Maine Mountains – Foothills East of Baxter Park]
Note: Boundary description begins at the southwest corner of WMD 10, and proceeds clockwise
District 10 shall be that portion of the state located within the following bounds: Beginning at the point where the railway tracks intersects State Highway #11 in Brownville; then following State Highway #11 northeasterly to the bridge at Elbow Lake (West Branch Penobscot River) in T3 Indian Purchase; then following the northern shore of the West Branch Penobscot River and the northern shores of the lakes formed by the West Branch Penobscot River northwesterly to the T3R10 WELS southern boundary line; then following the T3R10 WELS southern boundary line easterly to the Western boundary line of T3R8 WELS; then following the Western boundary lines of T3R8 WELS, T4R8 WELS, and T5R8 WELS northerly to the southern boundary of T6R8 WELS; then following the southern boundary of T6R8 WELS easterly to the eastern boundary of Baxter State Park; then following the eastern boundary of Baxter State Park northerly to the Grand Lake Rd (Matagamon Rd) in T6R8 WELS; then following the Grand Lake Road (Matagamon Rd) easterly to State Highway #159 in T6 R7 WELS; then following State Highway #159 southeasterly to State Highway #11 in Patten; then following State Highway #11 southerly to State Highway #158 in Sherman; then following State Highway #158 easterly to Interstate Highway #95 in Sherman; then following Interstate Highway #95 southerly to the railroad tracks in T2R8 NWP; then following the railroad tracks westerly to the point of origin where the railroad tracks intersects State Highway #11 in Brownville.
WMD 11. [S. Aroostook, N. Penobscot, N. Washington County Farm-Woodlands]
Note: Boundary description begins at the southwest corner of WMD 11, and proceeds clockwise
District 11 shall be that portion of the state located within the following bounds: Beginning at the point where State Highway #157 intersects Interstate Highway #95 in Medway; then following Interstate Highway #95 northerly to State Highway #158 in Sherman; then following State Highway #158 westerly to State Highway #11 in Sherman; then following State Highway #11 northerly to State Highway #212 at Knowles Corner in Moro Plt; then following State Highway #212 southeasterly to U.S. Route #2 in Smyrna; then following U.S. Route #2 southerly to Interstate Highway #95 in Dyer Brook; then following Interstate Highway #95 easterly to the Maine-New Brunswick border in Houlton; then following the Maine-New Brunswick border southerly to State Highway #6 in Vanceboro; then following State Highway #6 westerly to State Highway #168 in Lee; then following State Highway #168 northerly to U.S. Route #2 in Winn; then following U.S. Route #2 northerly to State Highway #157 in Mattawamkeag; then following State Highway #157 northeasterly to the point of origin at Interstate Highway #95 in Medway.
WMD 12. [Western Mountain Foothills – Upper Androscoggin Valley]
Note: Boundary description begins at the southwest corner of WMD 12, and proceeds clockwise
District 12 shall be that portion of the state located within the following bounds: Beginning at the point where the Deer Hill Rd intersects the Maine-New Hampshire border in Stow; then following the Maine-New Hampshire border northerly to State Highway #26 in Upton; then following State Highway #26 southeasterly to the East B Hill Rd in Upton; then following the East B Hill Rd to the Upton Rd in Andover; then following the Upton Rd thence to Newton St; then following Newton St easterly to Andover Village then to State Highway #120 in Andover; then following State Highway #120 easterly to the South Arm Rd in Andover; then following the South Arm Rd northerly to the Lohnes Farm Rd in Andover; then following Lohnes Farm Rd northeasterly to the Lohnes Farm Rd in Byron; then following the Lohnes Farm Rd northerly to Garland Pond Rd; then following Garland Pond Rd northeasterly to State Highway #17 in Byron; then following State Highway #17 southerly to Byron Village Road; then following Byron Village Rd northerly to Dingle Hill Road; then following Dingle Hill Rd to the Weld Rd; then following the Weld Road in Byron until it becomes the Weld-to-Byron Road in Twp 6; then continue to where it becomes the Byron Rd in Weld then following the Byron Road easterly to State Highway #142 at Weld Corner in Weld; then following State Highway #142 southeasterly to State Highway #156 in Weld; then following State Highway #156 southeasterly to State Highway #4 in Wilton; then following State Highway #4 southerly to State Highway #17; then following State Highway #17 southeasterly to State Highway #140 in Jay; then following State Highway #140 southerly to State Highway #108 in Canton; then following State Highway #108 southeasterly to State Highway #4 in Livermore; then following State Highway #4 southerly to State Highway #219 in Turner; then following State Highway #219 westerly to the Greenwood Rd in Greenwood; then following the Greenwood Rd southerly to State Highway #118 in Norway; then following State Highway #118 westerly to State Highway #35 in Waterford; then following State Highway #35 to State Highway #5 in Albany Twp; then following State Highway #5 westerly to the West Stoneham Rd in Lovell; then following the West Stoneham Rd westerly to Adams Road; then following the Adams Road to Shell Pond Road; then following Shell Pond Road to Evergreen Valley Road in Stow; then following the Evergreen Valley Road to Deer Hill Road; then following the Deer Hill Rd westerly to the point of origin at the Maine-New Hampshire border in Stow.
WMD 13. [Western Mountain Foothills – Franklin and Somerset County Areas]
Note: Boundary description begins at the southwest corner of WMD 13, and proceeds clockwise.
District 13 shall be that portion of the state located within the following bounds: Beginning at the point where State Highway #156 intersects State Highway #142 in Weld; then following State Highway #142 northeasterly to State Highway #27 in Kingfield; then following State Highway #27 northerly to the Rd in Carrabasset Valley; then following the Carriage Rd northeasterly to the Central Maine Power Co. transmission line; then following the Central Maine Power Co. transmission line southeasterly to the western shore of the Kennebec River in Pleasant Ridge Plt; then following the western shore of the Kennebec River southerly to the State Highway #148 bridge in Anson; then following State Highway #148 southwesterly to State Highway #43 in Industry; then following State Highway #43 to State Highway #4 in Farmington; then following State Highway #4 southwesterly to State Highway #156 in Wilton; then following State Highway #156 to the point of origin at the intersection with State Highway #142 in Weld.
WMD 14. [Western Mountain Foothills – South and East of Moosehead Lake]
Note: Boundary description begins at the southwest corner of WMD 14, and proceeds clockwise
District 14 shall be that portion of the state located within the following bounds: Beginning at the bridge where State Highway #16 crosses the Kennebec River in Concord Twp; then following the western shore of the Kennebec River northerly to the U.S. Route #201 bridge in The Forks Plt; then following U.S. Route #201 southerly to the Lake Moxie Rd in The Forks Twp; then following the Lake Moxie Rd easterly to the Indian Pond Road; then following Indian Pond Road northeasterly to Shirley Tote Road; then following Shirley Tote Road easterly to the CC Rd in Shirley and then to the West Road; then following the West Rd easterly to the Upper Shirley Corner Rd; then following the Upper Shirley Corner Rd easterly to State Highway #6/15; then following State Highway #6/15 northerly to Lily Bay Rd (a.k.a. North Main St) in Greenville; then following Lily Bay Rd one block northerly to Pleasant Street; then following Pleasant Street easterly to East Road in Greenville; then following the East Road to the KI Road then following the KI Rd easterly to the Katahdin Iron Works Rd in Bowdoin College Grant West; then following the Katahdin Iron Works Rd easterly to State Highway #11 in Brownville; then following State Highway #11 southerly to State Highway #16 in Milo; then following State Highway #16 westerly to the point of origin at the Kennebec River bridge in Concord Twp.
WMD 15. [Oxford County Foothills]
Note: Boundary description begins at the southwest corner of WMD 15, and proceeds clockwise
District 15 shall be that portion of the state located within the following bounds: Beginning at the point where State Highway #110 intersects the Maine-New Hampshire border in Newfield; then following the Maine-New Hampshire border northerly to the Deer Hill Rd in Stow; then following the Deer Hill Rd easterly to the Evergreen Valley Rd; then following the Evergreen Valley Rd easterly to Shell Pond Road in Stoneham; then following Shell Pond Road easterly to Adams Road; then following Adams Road easterly to W. Stoneham Road; then following W. Stoneham Road to State Highway #5 in North Lovell; then following State Highway #5 easterly to State Highway #35 in Albany Twp; then following State Highway #35 to State Highway #118 in Waterford; then following State Highway #118 easterly to the Greenwood Rd in Norway; then following the Greenwood Rd northerly to State Highway #219 in Greenwood; the following State Highway #219 easterly to State Highway #4 in Turner; then following State Highway #4 southerly to State Highway #11 in Auburn; then following State Highway #11 southwesterly to State Highway #110 in Newfield; then following State Highway #110 westerly to the point of origin on the Maine-New Hampshire border in Newfield.
WMD 16. [Belgrade Lakes Area]
Note: Boundary description begins at the southwest corner of WMD 16, and proceeds clockwise
District 16 shall be that portion of the state located within the following bounds: Beginning at the point where the U.S. Route #202 bridge crosses the Androscoggin River in Auburn; then following U.S. Route #202 westerly to State Highway #4 in Auburn; then following State Highway #4 northerly to State Highway #108 in Livermore; then following State Highway #108 northwesterly to State Highway #140 in Canton; then following State Highway #140 northeasterly to State Highway #4 in Jay; then following State Highway #4 northerly to State Highway #43 in Farmington; then following State Highway #43 northeasterly to State Highway #148 in Industry at Goodrich Corner; then following State Highway #148 northeasterly to the State Highway #148 bridge in Anson; then following the western shore of the Kennebec River southerly to the Interstate Highway #95 bridge in Fairfield; then following Interstate Highway #95 southerly to U.S. Route #202 in Augusta; then following State Highway #202 westerly to the point of origin at the Androscoggin River bridge in Auburn.
WMD 17. [North-Central Maine Farm – Woodlands]
Note: Boundary description begins at the southwest corner of WMD 17, and proceeds clockwise
District 17 shall be that portion of the state located within the following bounds: Beginning at the bridge where Interstate Highway #95 crosses the Kennebec River in Fairfield; then following the western shore of the Kennebec River, northerly to the State Highway #16 bridge in Concord Twp; then following State Highway #16 easterly to the railway tracks in Milo; then following the railway tracks southerly to Interstate Highway #95 in Hampden; then following Interstate Highway #95 southerly and westerly to the point of origin where Interstate #95 crosses the Kennebec River in Fairfield.
WMD 18. [Mid-Penobscot River Valley]
Note: Boundary description begins at the southwest corner of WMD 18, and proceeds clockwise
District 18 shall be that portion of the state located within the following bounds: Beginning at the point where State Highway #9 crosses Sibley Brook in Clifton; then following the northern shore of Sibley Brook westerly to the shore of Chemo Pond; then following the northern shore of Chemo Pond westerly to Blackman Stream in Bradley; then following the northern shore of Blackman Stream westerly to where the outlet (with the fish ladder) flows into the Penobscot River in Bradley; then following the eastern shore of the Penobscot River northerly to the U.S. Route #2 bridge in Milford; then following U.S. Route #2 southwesterly to State Highway #43 in Old Town; then following State Highway #43 northwesterly to the railway tracks in Hudson; then following the railway tracks northerly to State Highway #6/#16 in Milo; then following State Highway #6/#16 easterly to State Highway #11; then following State Highway #11 northerly to the railway tracks in Brownville; then following the railway tracks easterly to Interstate Highway #95 in T2R8 NWP; then following Interstate Highway #95 northerly to State Highway #157 in Medway; then following State Highway #157 southeasterly to U.S. Route #2 in Mattawamkeag; then following U.S. Route #2 southerly to State Highway #168 in Winn; then following State Highway #168 southerly to State Highway #6 in Lee; then following State Highway #6 easterly to the Skunk Hill Rd; then following the Skunk Hill Rd southerly to the Weir Pond Rd; then following the Weir Pond Rd thence to Upper Dobsis Rd southerly to the East Branch Passadumkeag River bridge in T3R1 NBPP; then following the eastern shore of the East Branch Passadumkeag River southerly to the Passadumkeag River; then following the eastern shore of the Passadumkeag River to Nicatous Stream in T3 ND; then following the eastern shore of Nicatous Stream to Nicatous Lake; then following the northern and eastern shores of Nicatous Lake to Coombs Brook in T41 MD; then following the eastern shore of Coombs Brook southerly to the Haycock Pond Rd (Deer Lake Rd); (32-00-00 Rd); then following the Haycock Pond Rd (Deer Lake Rd); (32-00-00 Rd) southerly to the Stud Mill Rd in T34 MD; then following the Stud Mill Rd westerly to Middle Branch Rd (Alligator Lake Rd); (27-00-00 Rd) in T34 MD;; then following the Middle Branch Rd (29-00-00 Rd) southerly to State Highway #9 in T28 MD; then following State Highway #9 westerly to the point of origin at Sibley Brook in Clifton.
WMD 19. [Eastern Maine Woodlands – North of the Airline]
Note: Boundary description begins at the southwest corner of WMD 19, and proceeds clockwise
District 19 shall be that portion of the state located within the following bounds: Beginning at the point where the Middle Branch Rd (29-00-00 Rd) intersects State Highway #9 in T28 MD; then following the Middle Branch Rd (29-00-00 Rd) northerly to the Stud Mill Rd in T34 MD; then following the Stud Mill Rd easterly to the Haycock Pond Rd (Deer Lake Rd); (32-00-00 Rd); then following the Haycock Pond Rd (Deer Lake Rd); (32-00- 00 Rd) northerly to Coombs Brook; then following the eastern shore of Coombs Brook to Nicatous Lake in T41 MD; then following the eastern and northern shores of Nicatous Lake to Nicatous Stream in T3 ND; then following the eastern shore of Nicatous Stream to the Passadumkeag River; then following the eastern shore of the Passadumkeag river northerly to the East Branch Passadumkeag River in T3R1 NBPP; then following the eastern shore of the East Branch Passadumkeag River northerly to Upper Dobsis Rd; then following Upper Dobsis Rd thence to the Weir Pond Rd then following the Weir Pond Rd northerly to the Skunk Hill Rd in Lee; then following the Skunk Hill Rd northerly to State Highway #6; then following State Highway #6 easterly to the Maine-New Brunswick border in Vanceboro; then following the Maine-New Brunswick border southerly to Stony Brook in Baileyville; then following the western shore of Stony Brook southerly to State Highway #9 in Baileyville; then following State Highway #9 westerly to the point of origin at the intersection with the Middle Branch Rd (29-00-00 Rd) in T28 MD.
WMD 20. [Southwestern Maine Interior – York County]
Note: Boundary description begins at the southwest corner of WMD 20, and proceeds clockwise
District 20 shall be that portion of the state located within the following bounds: Beginning at the Interstate Highway #95 bridge at the Maine-New Hampshire border in Kittery; then following the Maine-New Hampshire border northerly to State Highway #110 in Newfield; then following State Highway #110 easterly to State Highway #11 in West Newfield; then following State Highway #11 northeasterly to the Saco River bridge in Limington; then following the western shore of the Saco River southerly to the Interstate Highway #95 bridge in Biddeford; then following Interstate Highway #95 southwesterly to the point of origin on the Interstate Highway #95 bridge at the Maine-New Hampshire border in Kittery.
WMD 21. [Southwestern Maine Interior – Cumberland County]
Note: Boundary description begins at the southwest corner of WMD 21, and proceeds clockwise
District 21 shall be that portion of the state located within the following bounds: Beginning at the Interstate Highway #95 bridge across the Saco River in Biddeford; then following the western shore of the Saco River northerly to the State Highway #11 bridge in Limington; then following State Highway #11 northeasterly to U.S. Route #202 in Auburn; then following U.S. Route #202 easterly to the bridge across the Androscoggin River in Auburn; then following the western shore of the Androscoggin River to the Interstate Highway #295 bridge in Brunswick; then following Interstate Highway #295 southwesterly to the railway tracks in Freeport; then following the railway southwesterly to the Maine Turnpike “Falmouth Spur”; then following the Maine Turnpike “Falmouth Spur” westerly to Interstate #95; then following Interstate #95 southerly to the point of origin at the Saco River bridge in Biddeford.
WMD 22. [Lower Androscoggin and Kennebec River Valleys]
Note: Boundary description begins at the southwest corner of WMD 22, and proceeds clockwise
District 22 shall be that portion of the state located within the following bounds: Beginning at the west side of the Interstate Highway #295 bridge across the Androscoggin River in Brunswick; then following the western shore of the Androscoggin River northwesterly to the U.S. Route #202 bridge in Auburn; then following U.S. Route #202 northeasterly to State Highway #917/U.S. #201 in Augusta; then following State Highway #917/U.S. #201 to State Highway #9/#17; then followingly State Highway #9/#17 southerly to State Highway #17; then following State Highway #17 easterly to State Highway #218 in Whitefield; then following State Highway #218 southerly to U.S. Route #1 in Wiscasset; then following U.S. Route #1 southwesterly to the bridge across the Kennebec River in Bath; then following the western shore of the Kennebec River northerly to the western shore of the Androscoggin River in Bath; then following the western shore of the Androscoggin River southerly and northwesterly to the point of origin at the Interstate Highway #295 bridge across the Androscoggin River in Brunswick.
WMD 23. [South-Central Maine Farm-Woodland]
Note: Boundary description begins at the southwest corner of WMD 23, and proceeds clockwise
District 23 shall be that portion of the state located within the following bounds: Beginning at the point where U.S. Route #202 intersects Interstate Highway #95 in Augusta; then following Interstate Highway #95 northeasterly to State Highway #69 in Newburgh; then following State Highway #69 southerly to the Monroe Rd in Winterport at Ellingwood Corner; then following the Monroe Rd southwesterly to State Highway #139 in Monroe; then following State Highway #139 westerly to State Highway #141; in Monroe; then following State Highway #141 southerly to U.S. Route #1 in Belfast; then following U.S. Route #1 westerly to State Highway #3 in Belfast; then following State Highway #3 westerly to the Turner Ridge Rd in Palermo; then following the Turner Ridge Rd southerly to State Highway #105 in Somerville; then crossing State Highway #105 to the Cooper’s Mills / Somerville Rd in Somerville; then following the Cooper’s Mills / Somerville Rd southerly to State Highway #17 in Whitefield; then following State Highway #17 westerly to State Highway #9 in Augusta; then following State Highway #9 northerly to U.S. Route #202 in Augusta; then following U.S. Route #202 westerly to the point of origin at the intersection with Interstate Highway #95 in Augusta.
WMD 24. [South Coastal Strip]
Note: Boundary description begins at the northwest corner of WMD 24, and proceeds clockwise
District 24 shall be that portion of the state located within the following bounds: Beginning at the Interstate Highway #95 bridge at the Maine-New Hampshire border in Kittery; then following Interstate Highway #95 northeasterly to Exit #52 Maine Turnpike “Falmouth Spur”; then following the Maine Turnpike “Falmouth Spur” to the railway tracks; then following the railway tracks northeasterly to Interstate Highway #295 in Freeport; then following Interstate Highway #295 northeasterly to the Androscoggin River bridge in Brunswick; then following the western shore of the Androscoggin River easterly to the western shore of the Kennebec River in Bath; then following the western shore of the Kennebec River southerly to the Atlantic Ocean at Popham Beach in Phippsburg; then following the coast of Maine southwesterly to the Maine-New Hampshire border in Kittery; then following the Maine-New Hampshire border northerly to the point of origin at the Interstate Highway #95 bridge across the Maine-New Hampshire border in Kittery.
WMD 25. [Mid-Coastal Strip]
Note: Boundary description begins at the northwest corner of WMD 25, and proceeds clockwise
District 25 shall be that portion of the state located within the following bounds: Beginning at the U.S. Route #1 bridge across the Kennebec River in Bath; then following U.S. Route #1 northeasterly to State Highway #218 in Wiscasset; then following State Highway #218 northerly to State Highway #17 in Whitefield; then crossing State Highway #17 to the Cooper’s Mills / Somerville Rd in Whitefield; then following the Cooper’s Mills / Somerville Rd northerly to State Highway #105 in Somerville; then crossing State Highway #105 to the Turner Ridge Rd in Somerville; then following the Turner Ridge Rd northerly to State Highway #3 in Palermo; then following State Highway #3 easterly to U.S. Route #1 in Belfast, then following U.S. Route #1 northerly to the bridge crossing the Passagassawakeag River in Belfast; then following the western shore of the Passagassawakeag River south to the Atlantic Ocean: then following the coast of Maine southwesterly to the Kennebec River in Phippsburg; then following the western shore of the Kennebec River northerly to the point of origin at the U.S. Route #1 bridge across the Kennebec River in Bath.
WMD 26. [Penobscot Bay Area]
Note: Boundary description begins at the southwest corner of WMD 26, and proceeds clockwise
District 26 shall be that portion of the state located within the following bounds: Beginning at the U.S. Route #1 bridge across the Passagassawakeag River in Belfast; then following U.S. Route #1 northerly to State Highway #141 in Belfast; then following State Highway #141 northerly to State Highway #139 in Monroe; then following State Highway #139 easterly to the Monroe Rd in Monroe; then following the Monroe Rd northeasterly to State Highway #69 in Winterport; then following State Highway #69 northerly to Interstate Highway #95 in Newburgh; then following Interstate Highway #95 easterly to the Railway tracks in Hampden; then following the Railway tracks northerly to State Highway #43 in Hudson; then following State Highway #43 southeasterly to U.S. Route #2 in Old Town; then following U.S. Route #2 easterly to the bridge across the Penobscot River in Milford; then following the eastern shore of the Penobscot River southerly to the outlet of Blackman Stream in Bradley (that has the fish ladder); then following the northern shore of Blackman Stream easterly to Chemo Pond in Bradley; then following the northern shore of Chemo Pond easterly to the junction with Sibley Brook in Clifton; then following the northern shore of Sibley Brook easterly to State Highway #9 in Clifton; then following State Highway #9 westerly to State Highway #180 in Clifton; then following State Highway #180 southeasterly to the Patriot Road in Ellsworth; then following east on the Patriot Road to Route 179; then following south on Route 179 to the railroad right-of-way in Ellsworth; then following the railroad right-of-way easterly to the Downeast Sunrise Trail; then following the Downeast Sunrise Trail easterly to the crossing on the main branch of Egypt Stream in Franklin; then following the western shore of the main branch of Egypt Stream southerly to its outlet in tidal waters of Egypt Bay in Hancock; then following the western shore of Egypt Bay. to the western shore of Sullivan Harbor south to the Atlantic Ocean; then southwesterly to the point of origin at the U.S. Route #1 bridge across the Passagassawakeag River in Belfast. ;including mainland peninsulas, all islands connected to the mainland at low tide or by man-made structures, and islands inside of the first upstream bridge.
Note: Islands that are served by an automobile causeway, including Verona, Deer Isle/Stonington, and Mount Desert Island are considered part of WMD 26. However, islands surrounding these are considered part of WMD 29. Islands located in the WMD-bordering towns of Franklin, Gouldsboro, Sorrento, Sullivan, and Winter Harbor are part of WMD 27.
WMD 27. [Eastern Coastal Plain]
Note: Boundary description begins at the northwest corner of WMD 27, and proceeds clockwise
WMD 27. District 27 shall be that portion of the State located within the following bounds: Beginning at the point where Egypt Stream enters Egypt Bay in Hancock then following the western shore of the main stem of Egypt Stream northerly to the Downeast Sunrise Trail in Franklin; then following the Downeast Sunrise Trail easterly and northerly to State highway #214 in Pembroke; then Crossing State Highway #214 and following the railroad right-of-way northerly to its crossing of US Route 1 in Calais; then continuing north following the railroad to the crossing at Magurrewock Stream; then following the south shore of Magurrewock Stream westerly to the Maine-New Brunswick border: then following the Maine-New Brunswick border easterly and southerly to Grand Manan Channel in the Atlantic Ocean; then following the Atlantic Ocean southerly and westerly to the west shore of Sullivan Harbor; then continuing north along the west shore of Egypt Bay to the point of origin where the main stem of Egypt Stream enters Egypt Bay in the Town of Hancock. District 27 includes all coastal islands in Washington County, as well as those coastal islands located in the towns of Franklin, Sullivan, Sorrento, Gouldsboro, and Winter Harbor in Hancock County.
WMD 28. [Eastern Maine Woodlands – South of the Route 9 (the Airline)]
Note: Boundary description begins at the northwest corner of WMD 28, and proceeds clockwise
WMD 28. District 28 shall be that portion of the State located within the following bounds: Beginning at the junction of State Highway #180 and State Highway #9 in Clifton: then following State Highway #9 easterly to Stony Brook in Baileyville: then following the western shore of Stony Brook northerly to the Maine-New Brunswick border: then following the Maine-New Brunswick border easterly to the outlet of Magurrewock Stream in Calais: then following the south shore of Magurrewock Stream easterly to the railroad crossing: then following the railroad tracks south to the former Maine Central Railway right-of-way that turns southeasterly and crosses US Route 1, then continuing south along the railroad to State Highway #214 in Pembroke; then crossing State Highway #214 onto the Downeast Sunrise Trail; then following the Downeast Sunrise Trail southerly and westerly to its junction with the railroad tracks int eh Town of Hancock; then following the railroad tracks southwesterly to its junction with State Highway #180 in Ellsworth: then following State Highway #180 northerly to the point of origin at State Highway #9 in Clifton.
WMD 29. [Maine’s Coastal Islands]
Note: Boundary description begins at the northeast corner of WMD 29, and proceeds clockwise
District 29 shall be that portion of the state located within the following bounds: Beginning at the point where Egypt Stream enters into Egypt Bay in the Town of Hancock: then following the western shore of Egypt Bay and Sullivan Harbor in Hancock southerly through Frenchman’s Bay to the Atlantic Ocean: then following the coast of Maine southwesterly to the Maine-New Hampshire border in Kittery. District 29 consists of all coastal islands seaward of the first upstream bridge, which are not connected to the mainland at low tide, or by man-made structures.
Note: Islands located in the towns of Franklin, Gouldsboro, Sorrento, Sullivan, and Winter Harbor are not included in WMD 29, but are part of WMD 27.
Islands that are served by an automobile causeway, including Verona, Deer Isle/Stonington, and Mount Desert Island are not considered part of WMD 29. However, islands surrounding these are considered part of WMD 29.
History
- STATUTORY AUTHORITY: 12 M.R.S. §10104
- EFFECTIVE DATE: February 12, 2019 – filing 2019-035 (formerly part of Ch. 4)
- AMENDED: May 12, 2019 – Section 16.11, filing 2019-073
- AMENDED: June 3, 2019 – Section 16.08, filing 2019-088
- AMENDED: June 3, 2019 – Section 16.10, filing 2019-089
- AMENDED: July 23, 2019 – Sections 16.06, 16.12, 16.13, filing 2019-128
- AMENDED: July 24, 2019 – Section 16.07(4),(6), filing 2019-135
- AMENDED: November 7, 2019 – minor corrections in numbering and paragraph spacing
- AMENDED: April 12, 2020 – Section 16.11, filing 2020-090
- AMENDED: June 2, 2020 – Section 16.08, filing 2020-129
- AMENDED: July 25, 2020 – Section 16.07(7), filing 2020-162
- AMENDED: July 25, 2020 – Section 16.10, filing 2020-163
- AMENDED: August 24, 2020 – various sections, filing 2020-180
- AMENDED: August 24, 2020 – Section 16.07(4.A)(6), filing 2020-181
- CORRECTION: December 29, 2020 – Section 16.07-7(1)(A) last line corrected
- AMENDED: April 13, 2021 – Section 16.11(9),(10),(11), filing 2021-071
- AMENDED: May 26, 2021 – Section 16.08(3)(B), filing 2021-109
- AMENDED: May 26, 2021 – Section 16.08(9), filing 2021-110
- AMENDED: July 18, 2021 – Section 16.07(4),(6), filing 2021-145
- AMENDED: August 10, 2021 – Section 16.07(7), filing 2021-157
- AMENDED: August 10, 2021 – Section 16.13(10), filing 2021-158
- AMENDED: April 18, 2022 – Section 16.09, filing 2022-053
- AMENDED: May 25, 2022 – Section 16.08(3),(9), filing 2022-093
- AMENDED: June 5, 2022 – Section 16.10, filing 2022-102
- AMENDED: June 5, 2022 – Section 16.11, filing 2022-103
- AMENDED: August 8, 2022 – Sections 16.05, 16.07, filing 2022-116
- AMENDED: August 8, 2022 – Section 16.07, filing 2022-127
- AMENDED: July 16, 2022 – Section 16.06(1.E.), filing 2022-128
- AMENDED: November 22, 2022 – Section 16.06 (1.D,(2), filing 2022-225
- AMENDED: April 10, 2023 – Section 16.11, filing 2023-054
- AMENDED: May 21, 2023 – Section 16.08, filing 2023-073
- AMENDED: July 12, 2023 – Section 16.07, filing 2023-106
- AMENDED: April 30, 2024 – Section 16.08 (3.B.) (9.), filing 2024-101
- AMENDED: May 7, 2024 – Section 16.11(9.) (10.) (11.), filing 2024-105
- AMENDED: May 14, 2024 – Section 16.04, 16.07, 16.09, 16.10, 16.11, filing 2024-116
- AMENDED: June 10, 2024 – Section 16.08, filing 2024-141
- AMENDED: July 15, 2024 – Section 16.07, filing 2024-161
- AMENDED: Oct. 22, 2024 – Sections 16.01, 16.06, 16.13, filing 2024-250
- AMENDED: March 18, 2025 – Section 16.11, filing 2025 – 083
- AMENDED: March 18, 2025 – Section 16.12, filing 2025- 084
- AMENDED: April 29, 2025 – Section 16.08 (3.B) (9.) – 2025-114
- AMENDED: June 26, 2025 – Section 16.07(6.) – filing 2025 – 146
- AMENDED: June 26, 2025 – Section 16.10 – filing 2025-147
- AMENDED: June 26, 2025 – Section 16.07 (2.)(4.) – filing 2025-149
- AMENDED: February 10, 2026 – Section 16.08 (3.)(9.) – filing 2026-060
- AMENDED: March 19, 2026 – Section 16.08 (1.A.) – filing 2026-083
- AMENDED: March 19, 2026 – Section 16.09 (2.), 16.10 (6.) – filing 2026-082
- AMENDED: April 28, 2026 – Section 16.11 (9. A-F) (10.)(11.)(12.) – filing 2026-111
- AMENDED: June 10, 2026 – Section 16.07 (1.F.) (4.A.B.) (8.B.) – filing 2026-130
- AMENDED: July 23, 2026 – Section 16.07 (7.) – filing 2026-176
Chapter 17 Furbearers and Trapping
Code Me. R. 09-137 Ch. 17 Furbearers and Trapping {#sec-09-137-ch.-17 omnilex-key=us-me-regs-official--dept-inland-fisheries-and-wildlife--09-137 Ch. 17}
17.01 Scope of Rules:
These rules shall apply to the taking, possession, transportation, registration, hunting and trapping of furbearing animals in Maine, except for those areas closed to trapping described in Title 12 M.R.S. Chapter 925, subchapter 1. These rules also apply to the trapping of bears in Maine.
17.02 Table of Contents:
17.03 - Definitions
17.04 - General Information for Trapping of Upland Game and Furbearing Animals
17.05 - Statewide General Trapping Season
17.06 - Seasons and Specific Information for Trapping of Furbearing Animals
17.07 - Registration of Furbearing Animals and Bears Taken by Hunting or Trapping
17.08 - Types and Size of Traps
17.09 - Location and Preparation of Traps
17.10 - Fur Registration Agents and Tagging Operations
17.03 Definitions
Bait: means animal matter including meat, skin, bones, feathers, hair or any other solid substance that used to be part of an animal or any object that mimics or replicates animal matter. This includes live or dead fish. For the purposes of this chapter bait does not include animal droppings (scat), urine or animals, dead or alive, held in a trap as the result of lawful trapping activity.
Beaver Dam: means a dam built by a beaver to provide a pond as protection against predators and to provide easy access to food during winter. For the purposes of this chapter, the remains of an inactive or breached beaver dam that is in disrepair and is no longer being maintained by beaver are not considered to be beaver dams. See section 17.06 for additional information on legal measurement of trap location from a beaver dam.
Beaver House: means any cavity in the bank which is capped by beaver with mud and sticks. For the purposes of this chapter holes in the bank not capped with mud and sticks are not considered to be beaver houses. See section 17.06 for additional information on legal measurement of trap location from a beaver house.
Blind Set: means any set designed to catch a wild animal, without the use of bait, lure or visible attractor, by intercepting the animal as it moves naturally through its habitat. Bait, lure and visible attractors do not include animal droppings (scat) or urine.
Built-up Portion of a Town: is defined within Title 12 M.R.S. §23.
Cage-Type Live Trap: means a type of restraining trap that fully encloses a captured animal within wood, wire, plastic, or metal. This includes culvert-type traps used primarily for bear (see section 17.06 for specific trap construction for bear) and suitcase-type live traps, such as Hancock traps, that may be utilized in certain circumstances for live trapping of beaver (see section 17.06 for specific use requirements in certain areas).
Catch Circle: means the area that can be circumscribed by the outer edge of a trap when the trap and trap chain or cable are fully extended and moved in a circle (360°) around the anchoring point.
Colony Trap: is an enclosure-type device (often a wire rectangular cage) that allows for the capture of one or more muskrats in a single set. The trap design functions with one or more one-way entrances that allow muskrats to push through and enter, but prevents exiting by the mechanics and/or design of the door or opening. These traps may also be called by other names, but will be referred to as colony traps for purposes of this chapter.
Covered Float: means a float completely covered on the sides and top with solid material; or hardware cloth, screen, or other similar material having a mesh size no greater than 1/2-inch square. Covered floats must be completely surrounded by water when set, placed, and tended.
Drowning Set: is defined within Title 12 M.R.S. §10001 subsection 15.
Enclosed Foothold Trap: is designed to eliminate incidental catch of non-target species. Brand examples including but not limited to Duffer, Egg, Coon Cuff and dog proof type traps. Any trap that has similar specifications is considered an Enclosed Foothold Trap, regardless of brand or source of modification.
Killer-type Trap: is a device designed to capture and kill an animal when two rotating jaws close on either side of the animal’s neck or chest. These devices are commonly known as body-gripping traps, or Conibear™ traps. There are various manufacturers, but all have a similar design and operational characteristics, two rotating jaws powered by one or two sets of springs.
Muskrat Den: A muskrat den is any cavity which is capped by muskrats with vegetative matter, including but not limited to hollow stumps and bank cavities. Holes in the bank not capped with vegetative matter are not considered to be muskrat dens. See section 17.06 for additional information on legal measurement of trap location from a muskrat den.
Pelt: means the raw, untanned skin of the animal, whether removed from or attached to the carcass.
Steel Foothold Trap: is a device with two jaws designed to capture and restrain an animal by gripping the toes or foot. Foothold traps typically have two metal jaws attached to a baseplate with a pan triggering device. When the animal steps on the pan of the trap, it triggers the springs to close the jaws. Foothold traps typically are categorized by the type of spring (e.g. coil or long spring) and are made in varying sizes appropriate for specific animals.
Wildlife Management District (WMD): WMDs are delineated, geographical sections of the State that have similarities in biological and geophysical characteristics and are utilized to manage wildlife species’ populations on a more localized scale. See Rule Chapter 16 for WMD boundary descriptions.
17. Visible Attractor: means an object hung or placed at a trap site location that serves as a visual cue to attract an animal to the trap. Visible attractor includes, but is not limited to, CD-disc, tin can cover, foil, tinsel, feathers, bones, fur, mechanical devices, or any like items. Fruits or vegetables used for muskrat trapping, urine, and animal droppings (scat) are not considered a visible attractor. Small pieces of flagging can be used to mark trap site locations.
17.04 General Information for Trapping of Upland Game and Furbearing Animals
General Prohibition
It shall be unlawful for any person to have in their possession, at any time, any wild bird or wild animal, or part thereof, taken in violation of these regulations. There shall be a closed season for the hunting or trapping of any wild bird or wild animal for which an open season is not herein specifically provided or that is provided by law.
Limits
No person shall hunt, trap or have in their possession at any time more than the numerical limits of any given species of upland game or furbearing animal which are specifically set forth in these regulations.
Keeping Upland Game and Furbearing Animals Alive
No person shall keep alive any upland game or furbearing animal which such person has taken, whether by hunting or trapping, except in accordance with the provisions of 12 M.R.S. §12152 and §12261 as amended, providing, among other things, for the issuance of permits for such purposes by the Commissioner of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife.
Incidental Catch of Lynx
Any lynx caught incidentally, whether dead or alive, during any trapping season must be reported to a game warden or biologist of the department as soon as possible and prior to removing the animal from the trap, unless a department official cannot be reached in time to prevent injury to the lynx. Any lynx released under this provision must be reported to the department within 24 hours from the time it was discovered.
Incidental Catch of Other Species
Any other furbearing animal caught incidentally during a closed season for that species must be immediately released alive, or, if found dead in the trap, must be reported to a game warden as soon as possible and prior to removal of the animal from the trap and trap site location except as otherwise provided within this chapter. Any such incidental catch found dead in the trap must be turned over to a game warden or biologist of the department within 48 hours from the time it was discovered.
- Gray Squirrel Prohibition on Trapping in Certain Areas
No person shall hunt gray squirrels on any land which have been dedicated as a public or private park or which are within the limits of compact or built-up portions of any city or town.
- Destruction of Beaver and Muskrat House, Dams or Dens
No person except agents of the Commissioner or someone authorized by the department may damage, destroy, or disturb any beaver house, beaver dam, muskrat house, or muskrat den. However, in accordance with Title 38 §480 a person may be authorized to remove a beaver dam without a permit.
17.05 Statewide General Trapping Season
Statewide General Trapping Season
Species
Date Season Opens
Location
Bobcat
Coyote
Fisher
Fox
Marten
Mink
Muskrat
Opossum
Otter
Raccoon
Red Squirrel
Skunk
Weasel
Opens the Sunday preceding the 1st
day of the regular
firearm season on
deer through
December 31st
annually.
Statewide
- Seasons and Specific Information for Trapping of Furbearing Animals
Bear Trapping
Beaver Trapping
Muskrat Trapping
Early Raccoon, Fox and Coyote Trapping Season
Fisher Trapping
Marten Trapping
- Bear Trapping*
A. Season Dates
The bear trapping season is set in accordance with M.R.S. Title 12 §12260.
B. The bag limit on bears by trapping is one bear per year. A person may not trap bear after that person has killed or registered a bear by trapping during that calendar year. A person may not possess more than 2 bears in any calendar year, except a person may keep more than two legally obtained bear in that person’s home or as otherwise provided in law.
C. Restrictions for Bear Trapping
Except as otherwise provided by state law, no person may set, place or tend any bear trap that is not in conformity with 12 M.R.S. §12260 and the following provisions:
(1) No person may have more than 1 trap set for bear at any one time.
(2) Bear may be trapped only with the use of cable traps (foothold cable restraint) or cage-type live traps (see section 17.03 for definition) in accordance with the provisions of 12 M.R.S. §12260. The Belisle style and modified conibear traps are not legal.
(3) Whenever a cage-type live trap is used to trap for bear, the trap must be enclosed and must be heavily constructed to prevent damage from bears, and also must have adequate openings for ventilation and cooling inside when the door is closed. Traps must also be constructed with no sharp intrusions to injure bears, and be large enough for bears to turn around inside the closed trap.
(4) Whenever a cable trap (foothold cable restraint) is used to trap for bear,
i. the cable must be set at or below ground level in such a manner as to catch the animal only by the foot or leg;
ii. the cable must be at least 3/16 inches in diameter;
iii. the cable must include a swivel;
iv. the cable must be securely attached to a fixed anchor point;
v. if a tree is used as an anchor, it must be at least 6 inches in diameter at 4.5 feet above ground level and must be free of limbs for at least 7 feet above the ground;
vi. the distance from the anchor to the end of the closed cable loop (e.g. the catch circle) must be no greater than 8 feet; and
vii. the area within the catch circle must be clear of woody vegetation, debris and manmade material that could cause entanglement of a trapped bear. This restriction does not include a tree used as an anchor. Sticks and rocks, and rotten/decaying woody material may be used for stepping guides, blocking, and backing for trap sets, if they are not rooted to the ground.
(5) Whenever a cable trap (foothold cable restraint) is used in conjunction with a device that is designed to capture a bear when it reaches into the device to obtain bait (e.g. bucket, tube, or pipe-style traps):
i. the opening and inside diameter of the device must be no more than 6 inches;
ii. animal-based bait and/or lure may not be placed within the device. Animal-based bait is defined as animal matter including meat, skin, bones, feathers, hair or any other solid substance that used to be part of an animal or any object that mimics or replicates animal matter. This includes live or dead fish;
iii. the trigger must be recessed at least 12 inches below the opening of the device;
iv. any bait and/or lure within the device may not be placed above the trigger, or between the trigger and the opening; and
v. the opening to the device must be covered by a weight of at least 30 pounds when set, placed, and tended to prevent access by non-target species.
(6) A bear caught in a trap must be killed or released and not moved away from the catch site. A bear caught in a trap may not be used in conjunction with a hunt or to train a dog(s) for bear hunting.
(7) The placement of bait when trapping for bear must be done in accordance with the provisions of M.R.S. Title 12 §11301, subsection 1.
*Data Collection for Bear
See section 17.07 for mandatory submission of bear teeth.
Beaver Trapping
Beaver Trapping Season:
Beaver Trapping Season Dates by WMDs
WMDs 1, 2, 3, 4
Opens on Sunday 2 weeks prior to the General Fall Trapping Season and extends through April 30th
WMDs 5, 6, 8, 9, 10, 11
Opens on Sunday 1 week prior to the General Fall Trapping Season and extends through April 30th
WMDs 7, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29
Opens on Sunday 1 week prior to the General Fall Trapping Season and extends through April 15th
Closed Areas for Beaver Trapping:
(See season dates chart for WMDs above in 2.A.)
- Closed Areas within WMDs:
WMD 5 The following town shall be closed but with the excepted part of the town open:
Trout Brook Twp., except north of Trout Brook.
WMD 6 The following towns shall be open but with the excepted part of the town closed:
Ashland, except section of Nowland Brook on land owned by Ronald Rushinal adjacent to the Nowland Road.
WMD 7 The following towns shall be open but with the excepted part of the town closed:
Twp. 6 North of Weld, except Mud Pond and outlet.
Upton, except section of B Brook from the confluence with B Pond, downstream to the first road crossing.
WMD 8 The following towns shall be open but with the excepted part of the town closed:
The following towns shall be open but with the excepted part of the town closed:
Blake Gore, except Capehorn Pond.
Forsythe Twp., except Turner Pond.
Holeb Twp., except Fish Pond and tributaries.
Johnson Mountain Twp., except Markham and outlet to Route 201.
Prentiss Twp., except Capehorn Pond.
Tomhegan Game Sanctuary, the Pittston Farm Game Sanctuary, the Moosehead Lake Game Sanctuary and Somerset Game Sanctuary shall all be open.
WMD 9 The following towns shall be open but with the excepted part of the town closed:
T2 R12 WELS, except for the property of Ben Bailey located from the intersection of the Sias Hill/Greenville Road and the western boundary of the T2 R12 WELS township line south to the T1 R12 WELS township line east along the southern boundary of T2 R12 WELS to the intersection the T2 R12 WELS southern boundary and Gulliver Brook. From this intersection the property line follows Gulliver Brook northwest to Big Fisher Pond where the property line runs west to east across the middle of the pond where it then continues along the road at the outlet of Big Fisher Pond in a south then northwest direction to the Sias Hill/Greenville Road where the property line follows the Sias Hill/Greenville road in a southwesterly line to the western T2 R12 WELS township line boundary.
WMD 12 The following towns shall be open but with the excepted part of the town closed:
Gilead, except Carlton Brook.
Hartford, except part of the west tributary to Little Bear Pond that runs through the property owned by Sylvia Mahoney. The closed beaver flowage is located on the northeast side of the Mahoney Road.
Twp. 6 North of Weld, except Mud Pond and outlet.
WMD 13 The following towns shall be open but with the excepted part of the town closed:
Concord Twp., except Owen’s Marsh and outlet to Route 16.
WMD 15 The following towns shall be open but with the excepted part of the town closed:
Brownfield, except Shuther Brook from Peary Mt. Road downstream to Shepards River.
Cornish, except that portion of “the heath”, and eastern tributary of Brown Brook, one-half mile eastward from Watson Hill Road.
Porter, except Thurston Brook from Kennard Hill Road to Bickford Pond and Mill Brook from Maine/New Hampshire border to Bickford Pond.
Waterford, except portion of Kedar Brook upstream of Route 37.
Otisfield, except Coon Swamp and tributaries.
WMD 16 The following towns shall be open but with the excepted part of the town closed:
Mercer, except the land of David P. Van Burgel and Kathy J. Scott, which is located between the Hampshire Hill Road and the Rome Road and includes a portion of Hilton Brook.
WMD 17 The following towns shall be open but with the excepted part of the town closed:
Atkinson, except the flowage located on the east side of the Dorr Road and within the Bud Leavitt Wildlife Management Area.
Charleston , except the land of Christopher Almy, which includes a portion of South Gate Brook and a tributary to Hudson Brook.
Hartland, except tributaries to Thompson Brook west and north of Route 23 that are on the property owned by John Studt.
Hermon, except the land of Herbert Bates bordered on the north by the Fuller Road, on the east by the New Boston Road, on the south by Route 2/100, and to the west by the Billings Road.
WMD 18 The following towns shall be open but with the excepted part of the town closed:
Burlington , except the land of Gerry Warren, which includes the western end of the
Clark Road and running north and including that portion of Clark Brook.
WMD 19 The following towns shall be open but with the excepted part of the town closed:
T3 ND, except Duck Lake Brook.
T4 ND, except Duck Lake Brook.
WMD 21 The following towns shall be open but with the excepted part of the town closed:
Pownal, except tributary to Chandler River between Allen Road and Chadsey Road, and Chandler River between Poland Range Road and Lawrence Road.
WMD 22 The following towns shall be completely closed with no part of the town open:
Perkins Twp. (Swan Island)
WMD 23 The following towns shall be open but with the excepted part of the town closed:
Montville, except the parcel of land owned by the Sheepscot Wellspring Land Alliance located north of the Burnham Hill Road, west of the Howard Road, south of the Penny Road, and east of the Halldale Road.
Montville, except land owned by the Sheepscot Wellspring Land Alliance located north of the Burnham Hill Road between Herb Jackson Road and the Mountain Road.
Searsmont, except the land owned by Ravenwood Collective Inc c/o Lily Fessenden located south of the Barret Road, between the town lines of Montville on the west, Morrill on the east, and encompassing Thompson Brook
Waldo, except the wetlands located on the property of Jeffrey S. Peters at 80 East Waldo Road in the town of Waldo.
WMD 25 The following towns shall be open but with the excepted part of the town closed:
Bristol, except unnamed tributary to the Pemaquid River that passes through the land owned by James Deucher, north of the Rock Schoolhouse Road (Fire Road B 31-1).
Bristol, except Johnson’s Meadow on Trout Brook, so called, to the Chamberlain Post Office.
Edgecomb, except the property of Lloyd Lawrence east of Parson’s creek, and west of Parson’s Point Toad.
Edgecomb, except Charles and Constance Schmid Land Preserve, a private land preserve that encompasses 766 acres located off of the Middle Road, Old County Road and Mount Hunger Road East, and Mount Hunger Road North.
Jefferson, except south of the Atkins Road, west of Route 215 to the town line, and west of the Egypt road to the Jefferson /Whitefield town line.
Northport, except the land of Ovid Santoro located east of State Route 52, north of the Northport/Lincolnville town line, north of Pitcher Pond, west of the thread of Sucker Brook, and south of Pitcher Road.
Rockport, except for the waterbodies known as “reflection ponds” located north of Park Street, on both the east and west side of Whitetail Drive, and on both the north and south side of Reflection Pond Road. All waterbodies within this subdivision shall be closed.
South Thomaston, except the land of C. M. Waterman, so called Towers Brook, west and north of Route 73, and south of the Grierson Road.
Whitefield, except the land owned by Lisa Tuttle, including the beaver flowage located along the west side of Weary Pond Road, just inside the boundary of the Jefferson-Whitefield Sanctuary.
Whitefield, except east of the Weary Pond Road to the Jefferson/Whitefield Town line, east of Hollywood Boulevard to the Jefferson/Whitefield Town Line, and south of the Hilton Road.
Note: Land in the Jefferson-Whitefield Sanctuary that is in the town of Whitefield will be open to beaver trapping except for the areas described above.
Woolwich , except the flowage located on the property of Yvonne Stanton east of Hockomock Road and South of Murphy’s Corner Road.
WMD 26 The following towns shall be open but with the excepted part of the town closed:
Searsport, except flowage on the property of Richard and Joyce Stevens located south and east of the junction of the Mt. Ephraim road and the Nickels Road.
Stonington, except the land of Richards Marital Trust and Richards Community Property Trust, including Ames Pond and a portion of its inlet.
WMD 29 The following towns shall be open but with the excepted part of the town closed:
Frenchboro, except Long Island.
Restrictions for Beaver Trapping
Traps set for beaver are restricted to killer-type traps and drowning sets.
(2) Cage-type traps as defined within section 17.03 also include suitcase-type live traps, such as Hancock style traps. The setting of suitcase-type traps during the beaver trapping season is prohibited except, under the direct authorization of an IFW wildlife biologist or game warden as part of the department’s animal damage control program. These traps must be set with the bottom portion of the trap in the water, and with the opening of the trap facing away from land.
(3) Measurements for dams, dens, and houses must be made from the trap itself. Sticks and poles used to construct the set are not considered part of the trap. See 17.09-2. for requirements on distances.
- Dams: must be measured from where the nearest edge of the dam meets ground, water or ice;
- Dens: must be measured from the nearest opening; and
- Houses: must be measured from where the nearest edge of the house meets water or ice. In the case of a capped cavity on the bank, the distance shall be measured from where the nearest intersection edge of the cap meets the ground, water or ice.
(4) No person shall use meat or fish as bait when trapping for beaver.
(5) Any otter, muskrat, or mink taken incidental to beaver trapping may be lawfully possessed
Destruction of Beaver and Muskrat House, Dams or Dens:
See section 17.04-6 for more information
Muskrat Trapping
Muskrat Trapping Season
Muskrat Trapping Season Dates by WMDs
WMDs 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 9, 10, 11
Early Muskrat Trapping Season
Opens on Sunday 1 week prior to the General Fall Trapping Season and extending through the day prior to the opening of the General Fall Trapping Season.
Statewide
Opens the Sunday preceding the 1stday of the regular firearm season on deer through December 31stannually.
WMDs 7, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29
Ends April 15
(coincides with late beaver trapping season)
WMDs 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 8, 9, 10, 11
Ends April 30
(coincides with late beaver trapping season)
*See 17.06 – 3. B. for Muskrat Trapping Restrictions after February 28.
Muskrat Trapping After the Close of the General Trapping Season: After the close of the general trapping season a person may trap muskrat in any WMD open to beaver trapping.
Restrictions for Muskrat Trapping
Early Muskrat Season: For WMDs that are open to muskrat trapping prior to the general trapping season the following restrictions apply:
All traps must be set at or below ground or water level;
The use of exposed bait or visible attractor at any trap site location is prohibited;
Killer-type traps may be used for muskrat trapping and must have a jaw spread no greater than 5 inches;
Foothold traps shall be limited to an inside jaw spread between 3 11/16 inches and 5 3/8 inches (measured at the dog when set, see section 17.08 1-A for specific measuring instructions) for muskrat sets during this special season; and
Colony traps can be used but must meet restrictions defined in Section 17.08-3.
After February 28th: in those (WMDs) open to beaver trapping the following restrictions apply:
Only killer-type traps, foothold traps, and colony traps may be used and must be set, placed, and tended to remain underwater; or
Foothold traps may be used when on “covered floats” with the following restrictions: (See the definition of “Covered Floats” within 17.03 definitions section).
i. Access to the float will be limited to openings at the extreme ends of the float and the openings will not exceed 7 inches in height, or 14 inches in width;
ii. The use of exposed bait or visible attractor on covered floats is prohibited;
iii. Only one trap may be placed per float;
iv. The trap must be recessed 3 inches or greater from any opening in the cover;
v. The trap chain or wire must be at least 3 feet long; and
vi. The maximum foothold trap size for covered floats sets shall be limited to a No.1 ½, or equivalent (maximum inside jaw spread no greater than 5 3/8 inches, when set) for muskrat sets during this special season.
Measurements for dams, dens, and houses must be made from the trap itself. Sticks and poles used to construct the set are not considered part of the trap.
Dens: must be measured from the nearest opening; and
Exemption to Incidental Catch Requirements When Trapping for Muskrat
Any otter, raccoon or mink taken incidental to muskrat trapping may be lawfully possessed.
Destruction of Beaver and Muskrat House, Dams or Dens
See section 17.04-6. For more information
Early Raccoon, Fox and Coyote Statewide Trapping Season Dates
Season Dates
There shall be an early racoon, fox and coyote trapping season statewide from the Sunday two weeks before the opening of the general fall trapping season through the day before the opening of the general fall trapping season.
Exemption to Incidental Catch Requirements for Early Raccoon, Fox and Coyote Trapping
Any skunk or opossum taken incidental to raccoon, fox and coyote trapping may be lawfully possessed. During this early trapping season, except as provided in this section, it is unlawful to take or possess any furbearing animal other than fox, coyote, raccoon, skunk and opossum.
Additional Restrictions for Early Raccoon, Fox and Coyote Trapping Season
In addition to department rules and state laws which affect trapping in general, the following restrictions also apply when trapping during the early raccoon, fox and coyote trapping season:
The use of exposed bait or visible attractor at any trap site location is prohibited;
Killer-type traps are prohibited except as authorized within section 17.06-3-C. when trapping for muskrat; and
Foothold traps may not be set in the water except as authorized within section 17.06-3-C when trapping for muskrat.
Fisher Trapping
Bag Limit
The harvest of fisher is limited to 25 fisher per trapper each year statewide.
Incidental Catch of Fisher
All fisher caught in excess of the annual limit (25) or outside of the fisher season must be immediately released alive, or if found dead in the trap, must be reported to a game warden as soon as possible and prior to removal of the animal from the trap and trap site location. Any such incidental catch found dead in the trap must be turned over to a game warden or biologist of the department within 48 hours from the time it was discovered. See section 17.04 for lynx specific information when incidental catch occurs.
Data Collection for Fisher
See section 17.07 for mandatory submission of fisher teeth.
Marten Trapping
Bag Limit
The harvest of marten is limited to 25 marten per trapper each year statewide.
Incidental Catch of Marten
Any marten caught in excess of the annual limit (25) must be immediately released alive, or, if found dead in the trap, must be reported to a game warden as soon as possible and prior to removal of the animal from the trap and trap site location. Any such incidental catch found dead in the trap must be turned over to a game warden or biologist of the department within 48 hours from the time it was discovered. See section 17.04 for lynx specific information when incidental catch occurs.
Data Collection for Marten
See section 17.07 for mandatory submission of marten teeth.
17.07 Registration of Furbearing Animals and Bears Taken by Hunting or Trapping
Data Collection; Mandatory Submission of Teeth
A. Bear - Whenever a bear is presented for registration a premolar tooth must be removed from the bear and submitted to the department by the person presenting the bear for registration.
B. Bobcat - Whenever a bobcat is presented for registration, a lower lateral incisor, lower canine, or the lower jaw must be submitted to the department by the person presenting the bobcat for registration. There shall be a tissue sample provided (from either the tongue or a muscle) and the tissue and tooth sample shall be labeled. The label shall include the following information:
Species
Sex
Seal number
C. Fisher, Marten or River Otter - Whenever fisher, marten, or otter are presented for registration, the entire lower jaw or the lower canine must be submitted to the department by the person presenting the fisher, marten, or otter for registration. The tooth samples shall be labeled with the following information:
Month and Year
Sex
Species
Town of kill
- Bear Transportation Tag
To meet the requirements of 12 M.R.S. §11352, the tag for transporting a bear must be a tag provided by the hunter, trapper or the department bearing the full name, address, and hunting or trapping license number of the person harvesting the bear.
- Mandatory Submission of Annual Trapper Survey
Trappers ages 16 years old and older must complete and submit surveys provided by the department to be eligible to renew their trapping license.
Trappers must complete a survey by January 31st for any fur taken (in the previous calendar year) during the time that the fall trapping season begins through December 31st.
Trappers must complete a survey by May 31st for any fur taken from January 1st through April 30th of the same calendar year.
- Possession of Pelts Without Fur Registration Tag
It shall be unlawful for any person to possess, sell, give away, buy, accept as a gift, offer for transportation or transport out of the State of Maine the pelt of any fox, bobcat, marten, fisher, beaver, mink or otter unless each pelt receives a permanent fur tag. The tag utilized for otter and bobcat will be a CITES tag which must be affixed by a game warden or a biologist.
Coyote: The pelts ofcoyotes taken from trapping must be tagged and registered in order to possess, sell, buy, trade, or transport the pelts out of the state.Coyotes taken by hunting must be tagged and registered prior to being bought, sold, traded, or transported out of the state. Coyotes can be gifted without a permanent fur tag, if a tag is attached to coyote with the following information: the person’s name who harvested the coyote, hunting or trapping license number of the person who harvested the animal, harvest method (hunt or trap), harvest date, and town of harvest. This information must be presented accurately to the tagging agent when the animal is registered.
- Possession and Transportation of Pelts Within the State
Notwithstanding this regulation, any person who lawfully possesses the untagged pelt of any fox, bobcat, marten, fisher, coyote, beaver, mink or otter may transport that pelt within the jurisdiction of the state for purposes of pelt preparation and tagging.
- Presenting for Registration and Fee
The pelts of all fox, bobcat, marten, fisher, coyote, beaver, mink and otter must be presented by the person who harvested the animal to a warden, or other agent of the Commissioner in order to be legally tagged. All information requested relating to the taking of each pelt shall be accurately and truthfully reported. A fee of 25¢ may be charged for each pelt that is tagged.
- Time Limits to Register Pelts
The pelts of all fox, bobcat, marten, fisher, coyote, beaver, mink and otter taken by trapping must be presented for tagging within 30 days after the trapping season closes for that species. If there is an extended trapping season for that species, tagging is required 30 days after the close of the extended season. The exceptions include:
All otter taken by trapping between January 1 through April 30 must be tagged within 10 calendar days of harvesting the animal.
All bobcat taken by hunting must be tagged within 10 calendar days of harvesting the animal.
All fox taken by hunting must be tagged within 10 calendar days after the fox hunting season closes.
There is no closed day time hunting season for coyotes, so there is no deadline to tag coyotes taken by hunting.
- Pelts Brought to Maine from Another State, Country or Province
The pelts, either raw or processed of any fox, bobcat, marten, fisher, coyote, beaver, mink and otter that come into Maine from any other state, country, or province must bear the official stamp, tag, or seal of such other state, country, or province; or
Any such pelt that comes into this state from any other state, country, or province which does not require an official stamp, tag, or seal must be tagged in accordance with this chapter by the person possessing the pelt; and
The fee as established within 17.07 – 6. for tagging such imported pelts may be 25¢ for each pelt.
- Types and Sizes of Traps
In WMDs 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 8, 9, 10, and 11, animals may be trapped with:
- Any common ordinary steel trap except no foothold trap may be used that has an inside jaw spread of more than 5 3/8 inches, except a foothold trap with an inside jaw spread of more than 5 3/8 inches may be used if it is set so as to be fully or partially covered by water at all times. Inside jaw spread is the distance, with the trap in the set position, from the inside center of one jaw (at the dog) to the inside center of the opposite jaw when measured directly across the center of the pan and perpendicular to the base plate.
- Only killer-type traps with a jaw spread not to exceed 8 inches may be used, as provided within section 17.09 paragraph 5 and 6. However, during the open season on beaver it shall be lawful to use a killer-type trap with a jaw spread larger than 8 inches if, when set, placed and tended, the trap is completely under water. Killer-type traps shall include Conibear traps and all other traps of that type. It shall be unlawful to use any trap with teeth on the jaws unless when set, placed and tended, the trap is completely covered with water.
It is lawful to trap furbearing animals with a cage-type trap, except suitcase-style traps used for beaver (see section 17.06-C.) and cage-style traps in WMDs 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 8, 9, 10, and 11, must have an opening less than 13 inches in width or less than 13 inches in height, unless the cage trap is being used:
- For official wildlife research and survey activities that have been permitted by the department;
- For the removal of animals that are causing damage to property; or
- To capture bear.
Furbearing animals may be trapped with colony traps having outside dimensions no greater than 7 inches high by 7 inches wide by 40 inches long, only if set, placed, and tended so as to remain completely under water.
Furbearing animals may be trapped with dog-proof traps also known as enclosed foothold traps (as defined within section 17.03) and all other traps of that type that are designed primarily to capture raccoons and avoid incidental catches of other animals.
Wooden, plastic, or similar solid material-base rat traps may be set on land for weasel and red squirrel trapping if recessed in a wooden box with a hole no larger than 2 inches in diameter.
17.09 Location and Preparation of Traps
Prohibitions
No person shall stake, hook, fasten or position a trap at any trap site location in the fields, forests or waters of the state prior to the opening day of the trapping season.
No person shall make any advance preparation on the trapping grounds for the taking of beaver or muskrat previous to the open season on these animals.
No person shall use meat or fish as bait when trapping for beaver.
Placement of traps near beaver or muskrat dams, dens or houses
See section 17.06-2.C. (3) for additional information on how to measure while beaver trapping
Except as provided herein, no person, except an agent of the Commissioner, shall place, set or tend any traps.
within 5 feet of a beaver house, muskrat den or house;
within 5 feet of a beaver dam; or
within 5 feet of a beaver trap that has been set by another trapper.
Exceptions:
In WMDs 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 8, 9, 10, 11, 18 and 19 there is no required setback distance from an active beaver dam or beaver house.
Placement of Steel Foothold or Killer-type Traps
Steel foothold or killer-type traps must not be set within 50 yards of bait that is visible from above except if the bait is completely covered to prevent it from being seen from above, and it must be covered in such a way as to withstand wind action and other normal environmental conditions. Bait is defined as animal matter including meat, skin, bones, feathers, hair or any other solid substance that used to be part of an animal or any object that mimics or replicates animal matter. This includes live or dead fish. For the purposes of this paragraph, bait does not include animal droppings (scat), urine or animals, dead or alive, held in a trap as the result of lawful trapping activity.
Steel foothold traps must be set at or below ground, ice, or snow level.
Steel foothold traps must have a chain that is mounted within the central portion of the base of the trap, and must have three swiveling points, with one swiveling point at the base of the trap, one midway in the chain, and one at the trap’s anchoring point. These restrictions do not apply to foothold traps that when set, placed, or tended are fully or partially covered by water, those that are set on a muskrat “float”, or dog-proof traps also known as enclosed foothold traps (as defined within section 17.03).
Placement of Foothold Traps in WMD’s 1-11, 14, 18, and 19
Foothold traps must be securely anchored to the ground.
The use of drags is prohibited in these WMD’s.
Foothold traps must have the catch circle (as defined within section 17.03) cleared of woody vegetation, debris and manmade material that could cause entanglement of a trapped animal.
Small sticks and rocks, and rotten/decaying woody material may be used for stepping guides, blocking, and backing for trap sets, if they are not rooted to the ground.
These restrictions do not apply to foothold traps that when set, placed, or tended are fully or partially covered by water, those that are set on a muskrat “float”, or dog-proof traps also known as enclosed foothold traps (as defined within section 17.03).
Placement of Killer-type Traps
No person may set, place, or tend any killer-type trap unless:
Set completely underwater at all times or
The trap has an inside jaw spread less than or equal to 5 inches and the trap when set meets the following conditions:
When set so as to be partially covered by water at all times, or
When set under overhanging stream banks, or
When used in a blind set, as defined within section 17.03.
Placement of Killer-type Traps with a Jaw Spread Not to Exceed 8 inches
Notwithstanding 5. A. and 5 B. above, in all WMDs, killer-type traps with a jaw spread not to exceed 8 inches may be used on or above ground level if the trap is placed within a lynx exclusion device. The trap jaws must be completely within the device, the trap springs can be outside of the device.
Exclusion Devices
Exclusion devices will have the following designs:
Traps with Jaw Spread Less Than or Equal to 5 Inches
For traps with a jaw spread less than or equal to 5 inches (primarily used for marten trapping), the device must have an opening of 4 inches x 4 inches or less. The entrance hole may be placed on the end or on the side of the device, and the set trap must be a minimum of 18 inches from the closest edge of the entrance hole.
Traps with Jaw Spread Greater Than 5 Inches but Less Than 8 Inches
For traps with a jaw spread greater than 5 inches but less than 8 inches, two designs may be constructed. For both devices, the trap must be placed no closer than 18 inches from the closest edge of the entrance hole. An example design is included in the annual Trapper Information Booklet.
The first design has an entrance hole on the end of the device that cannot exceed 5 inches x 6 inches. A baffle must be placed no more than 6 inches back from the entrance hole and the baffle opening must not exceed 5 inches x 6 inches. With the baffle in place, the entrance hole and interior opening may not overlap to create an unobstructed view to the interior of the exclusion device.
For the second design the entrance hole must not exceed 6 inches x 7 inches and must be placed on the side of the device. A baffle must be placed at the edge of the entrance with the baffle opening opposite of the entrance hole, and the baffle opening must not exceed 6 inches x 6 inches.
Requirements for Exclusion Devices
(1) The exclusion device can be constructed of wood, plastic, or wire mesh.
If using wire mesh, the mesh cannot exceed 1 ½ inches by 1 ½ inches, or
1 inch by 2-inch openings, (side to side).
(2) The wire or mesh used on an exclusion device must be 16 gauge or less
(wire diameter of 0.05 or greater).
(3) The opening slot in the exclusion device that allows the trap springs to
extend outside the device can be no more than 7 ½ inches wide and a
height of no more than 1 ½ inches.
(4) The back of the device must be secured to withstand heavy pulling; if
using wire mesh with a wood or plastic box, the wire mesh must wrap
around two opposite sides of the box and be secured.
(5) When there is a joint, there must be a secure attachment point on two
opposite sides of the device to ensure the device does not separate when
set.
(6) The trap must be securely anchored independent of the exclusion device.
(7) Bait must not be visible from above.
(8) When enclosed in an exclusion device, killer-type traps can be set directly
on the ground, or elevated in trees or on poles, with no specific
requirements as to the height above ground or diameter of the tree or pole.
17.10 Fur Registration Agents and Tagging Operations
Note: All information related to becoming a fur registration agent and the operation of a station is located within Department of Inland Fisheries & Wildlife Rule Chapter 16, Hunting .
History
- STATUTORY AUTHORITY: 12 M.R.S. §10104
- EFFECTIVE DATE: February 12, 2019 – filing 2019-036 (formerly part of Ch. 4, Hunting and Trapping)
- AMENDED: May 12, 2019 – 17.03(7) and 17.06(1), filing 2019-074
- AMENDED: July 23, 2019 – 17.03(9), 17.06(2),(3), 17.07(1),(3),(6), filing 2019-129
- AMENDED: August 24, 2020 – 17.03(17), 17.06, 17.07, 17.08, filing 2020-182
- AMENDED: August 10, 2021 – filing 2021-159
- AMENDED: April 18, 2022 – 17.06, filing 2022-054
- AMENDED: July 16, 2022 – filing 2022-129
- AMENDED: July 12, 2023 – closed areas in 17.06 within WMDs 17 and 23, filing 2023-107
- AMENDED: Oct. 22, 2024 – 17.01, .02, .07, filing 2024-251
- AMENDED: June 29, 2025 – 17.06, .07, .09 – filing 2025-145
- AMENDED: July 1, 2026 – 17.03, .06, .08, .09 – filing 2026-154
Chapter 18 State Game Farm
Code Me. R. 09-137 Ch. 18 State Game Farm {#sec-09-137-ch.-18 omnilex-key=us-me-regs-official--dept-inland-fisheries-and-wildlife--09-137 Ch. 18}
18.01 Scope
The term "game farm" shall include the Game Farm and the Dry Mills hatchery and the land which they occupy.
*Operating season, hours, and admission fees: to be established by policy decision of the Commissioner, which may be modified as conditions warrant.
*(APA Office note: Was this section repealed?)
18.02 Restrictions concerning use of the area
A. No fires are permitted except in authorized areas.
B. All waste and trash must be placed in containers provided.
C. No dogs or other pets will be allowed at the game farm.
D. Firearms; fireworks: The use of possession of firearms, fireworks, air arms, explosives, and/or weapons within the boundaries of the area is prohibited. The trapping, removal, molesting, injury, or damage to any animal or bird, or anything natural or physical, without proper authority, is strictly prohibited. This restriction does not apply to Department personnel on official business.
E. Liquor: No intoxicating beverages or drugs may be brought into, sold, or consumed upon game farm property.
F. Motor vehicles: It is prohibited to operate any motor driven vehicle within the boundaries of the game farm except on designated roads and in parking lots; some roads may be posted as closed. This restriction does not apply to Department, fire, rescue, or other emergency and service personnel on official business.
History
- STATUTORY AUTHORITY: 12 MRSA, Section 7035 and 7735
- EFFECTIVE DATE: August 17, 1980
- AMENDED: May 26, 1996
- NON-SUBSTANTIVE CHANGES: February 2, 1999 - converted to Microsoft Word.
- NON-SUBSTANTIVE CHANGES: 09-137 Chapter 18 page 1
Chapter 19 Operation of Motor Vehicles on a Public Water Supply
Code Me. R. 09-137 Ch. 19 Operation of Motor Vehicles on a Public Water Supply {#sec-09-137-ch.-19 omnilex-key=us-me-regs-official--dept-inland-fisheries-and-wildlife--09-137 Ch. 19}
19.01 No motor vehicle, as defined in Title 29, MRSA, Section 1, sub-section 7 (does not include snowmobiles and all-terrain vehicles), permitted on ice on the following waters:
A. Nequasset Lake, Woolwich, Sagadahoc County
B. Auburn Lake, Auburn, Androscoggin County
C. Sebago Lake, Standish, Cumberland County (limited to posted area within two miles of the intake pipe of the Portland Water District).
D. Hall's Pond, Paris, Oxford County
History
- STATUTORY AUTHORITY: 12 M.R.S.A., Section 7035 and 2649
- EFFECTIVE DATE: August 17, 1980 (EMERGENCY)
- EFFECTIVE DATE OF PERMANENT RULE: December 20, 1987
- AMENDED: January 3, 1989
- AMENDED: December 2, 1991
- NON-SUBSTANTIVE CHANGES: February 2, 1999 - converted to Microsoft Word.
- AMENDED: October 11, 2004 - added 19.01.D., filing 2004-447
Chapter 20 Taxidermy License
Code Me. R. 09-137 Ch. 20 Taxidermy License {#sec-09-137-ch.-20 omnilex-key=us-me-regs-official--dept-inland-fisheries-and-wildlife--09-137 Ch. 20}
-
SCOPE
-
No person may commercially engage in the art of taxidermy without first obtaining a valid and current taxidermist license from the Commissioner as authorized in 12 M.R.S. §12953. A valid and current taxidermist license authorizes the licensee to receive and temporarily possess, for taxidermy purposes only, properly tagged fish and wildlife.
20.02 DEFINITIONS
-
Taxidermy: the art of preparing, stuffing and/or mounting the skins of fish, wildlife, or parts thereof, to make them appear lifelike.
-
Raw Skins: the unprocessed skins of fish or wildlife in their natural condition and not processed by any form of tanning.
-
Skull Mount: the preservation of bones, skulls and antlers to be free of tissue, oils and odor.
20.03 CLASSIFICATION OF TAXIDERMY LICENSING
-
General Classification: a person who has met the qualifications to perform taxidermy on fish and wildlife, which include the Classifications within this section, 2 through 5.
-
Mammals Classification: a person who has met the qualifications to perform taxidermy on all mammals.
-
Heads Classification: a person who has met the qualifications to perform taxidermy on all heads of mammals.
-
Bird Classification: a person who has met the qualifications to perform taxidermy on birds.
-
Fish Classification: a person who has met the qualifications to perform taxidermy on fish.
-
Reptile and Amphibian Classification: a person who has met the qualifications to perform taxidermy on reptiles and amphibians.
-
Skull Mount, Bone, Antler Classification: a person who has met the qualifications to prepare skulls for mounting including skeletal articulation.
-
Freeze-Dried Classification: a person who has met the qualifications to prepare fish, wildlife or parts thereof for preservation by utilizing the freeze-drying process.
20.04 ELIGIBILITY
A person who has been convicted of violating the conditions or authorizations of any state or federal fish and wildlife taxidermy permit or who has failed to submit the reports required by any previous taxidermy license is not eligible to apply for or renew a taxidermy license.
20.05 EXAMINATION
-
Written: Applicants must satisfactorily complete a written examination for each license classification for which they apply. A passing score on the written examination must be 70% or higher in each section of the examination. Applicants will be notified the day of the written exam(s) as to the results. Unsuccessful applicants must wait a minimum of 14 days before retesting. There are no written exams for the Skull and Bone, Reptile and Amphibian or the Freeze-Dried Classifications.
-
Oral: Applicants who successfully pass the written exam(s), will have an oral exam for each classification for which they apply. Unsuccessful applicants must wait a minimum of 30 days before retesting for that classification. The following species mounted by the applicant within the last three years must be presented for inspection at the oral examination:
A. Bird applicant: one native bird mount with feet and legs visible.
B. Fish applicant: one native fish mount.
C. Head applicant: one native antlered whitetail deer head mount
D. Mammal applicant: one native small mammal no bigger than a fox.
E. General applicant: all of the above.
F. Reptile and Amphibian: one native reptile or amphibian.
G. Skull and Bone applicant: one skull.
H. Freeze-Dried applicant: any two native specimens from the following list: a small mammal, bird, fish, reptile or amphibian.
- Judging criteria for license applicants and competency standards for current license holders: Each mount presented will be judged by the board members using the criteria listed below. Additionally, current license holders shall adhere to the following competency standards or may be found incompetent or negligent in the practice of taxidermy, which could result in the suspension or revocation of their license. License applicants and current license holders shall:
A. Provide specimens that are professional in quality, lifelike and realistic in appearance, including but not limited to the following:
i. Workmanship: This will include proportion, muscle structure, setting of the eyes and antlers, proper placement of ears, wings, feet and legs, workmanship around lips, nose, durability of work and lifelike articulation.
ii. Sewing: Seams must not be visible and must be completely closed. Patching of skin must be of the same color and texture. Pins, staples or wires cannot be visible.
iii. Ears: Paper or plastic liners or other media should be used in whitetail deer head ears. All ears must be tight with no drumming or bridging.
iv. Restoration of color: Any color used must give a natural appearance. Overpainting and over-filling is not acceptable.
v. Preservation: Any part subject to deterioration must be adequately preserved. All specimens especially fish will be checked for objectionable odors.
vi. Cleanliness of specimen: Evidence of grease, blood, dirt, glue, borax, sawdust, etc., on specimen is not acceptable. Skull mounts should be clean and free of tissue, odor, and oils and should be whitened and sealed.
vii. Support strength: Wires or rods used for support in legs, necks, wings, etc., must be of sufficient strength for their intended use.
viii. Miscellaneous: To pass the examination, all mounts must be acceptable and satisfactory. Novelties are not acceptable. All specimens must be found in the wild in Maine. Excuses for poor quality work such as not being able to secure proper or decent specimens will not be accepted.
20.06 RECORD KEEPING AND COMPLETION REQUIREMENTS FOR CURRENT LICENSE HOLDERS
In accordance with 12 M.R.S. 12952 a current taxidermy license holder shall adhere to general record keeping requirements. Additionally, the license holder shall complete in their entirety, Department log books that contain specific information requirements. A taxidermist who fails to follow these requirements may be found incompetent or negligent in the practice of taxidermy and as a result may have their license suspended or revoked.
Complete work in a timely manner: based upon written agreement between the license holder and a customer, a taxidermist shall complete the final product in the time period agreed upon.
20.07 ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS AND RESTRICTIONS AFTER A TAXIDERMIST IS NO LONGER LICENSED
- It shall be unlawful for a person who was previously licensed as a taxidermist to keep fish and wildlife specimens belonging to customers who hired the taxidermist to complete a mount. The taxidermist is responsible for keeping adequate contact information for customers. The specimens must be returned to the rightful owner immediately if:
A. A person fails to renew their taxidermy license or
B. A person’s taxidermy license is suspended or revoked.
History
- STATUTORY AUTHORITY: 12 M.R.S. §§ 10104, 12952, 12953
- EFFECTIVE DATE: August 2, 1988 – filing 88-251
- AMENDED: January 11, 1995 – filing 95-15
- NON-SUBSTANTIVE CHANGES: February 2, 1999 - converted to Microsoft Word
- AMENDED: February 18, 2014 – filing 2014-019
- AMENDED: April 18, 2016 – filing 2016-067
- AMENDED: June 3, 2019 – filing 2019-090
- APAO ACCESSIBILITY CHECK: July 21, 2025
- AMENDED: July 26, 2025 – filing 2025-148
Chapter 21 Licensing and Registration Agents
Code Me. R. 09-137 Ch. 21 Licensing and Registration Agents {#sec-09-137-ch.-21 omnilex-key=us-me-regs-official--dept-inland-fisheries-and-wildlife--09-137 Ch. 21}
21.01 Scope of Rules
These rules have been adopted pursuant to Title 12 MRSA, 7035, 7072, and 7074 and are applicable to the establishment and requirements of licensing and registration agents for the purpose of issuing hunting, fishing, and trapping licenses and permits and issuing boat, ATV, and snowmobile registrations on behalf of the Commissioner.
21.02 Agent Types and Authorities
There are two basic types of agents: MOSES agents and manual agents.
MOSES agents will sell licenses through an Internet connection to a centralized database using a PC and printer at the agent location. MOSES is the acronym for Maine Online Sportsman's Electronic System, which is the Departments electronic licensing, registration, and permitting system. MOSES agents are eligible to issue hunting, fishing, and trapping licenses and permits, and new and renewal boat, ATV, and snowmobile registrations.
Manual agents may issue licenses and registrations using preprinted paper forms. Manual agents are eligible to issue only hunting and fishing licenses and boat, ATV, and snowmobile renewal registrations.
21.03 Selection and Operation Standards
Existing Agents
Existing agents with license or registration sales that total 500 or more per year based on the 1999 year will be established as MOSES agents unless the agent presents sufficient evidence to persuade the Commissioner, in his sole discretion, that there are compelling business reasons why being a MOSES agent at this time is not reasonable. The commissioner encourages all agents with access to a permanent phone service and Internet connectivity to become MOSES agents as soon as possible. All existing agents must file an agent enrollment form and sign a new agent agreement form with the Commissioner between July 1, 2001, and December 1, 2001 to continue to serve as a license and/or registration agent. All existing agents must attend a training program conducted by the Department before the commencement of the 2002 license or registration year.
New Agents
All new agent applicants must submit an agent application form and the agent agreement form before being considered as an agent for the commissioner. All new applicants must become MOSES agents unless the commissioner determines that the Department needs in the area affected require additional manual agents. For this purpose, the Commissioner may require supplemental information from any applicant requesting to be a manual agent.
Each agent applicant must demonstrate creditworthiness by allowing the Department to perform credit checks with any credit organization and provide any other supplemental information deemed necessary by the Commissioner for this purpose.
All new agents must complete training as required in the agent agreement form.
Standards for All Agents
Any agent located outside of the State of Maine must provide and maintain a $10,000 minimum bond that guarantees payment to the Department in the event of Agent default and is otherwise in a form and issued by a surety satisfactory to the Commissioner.
All agents must guarantee that license and registration customers will be serviced in a timely, helpful, courteous manner by all clerks within the agency and all clerks will be properly trained to complete sales transaction according to the Department requirements.
All agents must accept the responsibility for compliance with all pertinent laws, regulations, Department policies, performance standards, and reporting and payment requirements regarding the sale or issuance of licenses and/or registrations.
All agents must acknowledge receipt of inventory items received and accept the financial responsibility for all licenses, stickers, and plates held in their inventory.
All agents must be responsible for payment of bank charges and Department costs to process a returned check and any other special fees or charges incurred by the Department due to the agent's activities.
21.04 Agent Reporting & Payment Requirements
- MOSES Agents
MOSES agents will ordinarily be electronically billed on a weekly basis for sales completed during the previous seven days. This seven‑day period will be considered the reporting period. All agents other than municipalities will be required to provide the Department with access to a bank account where the Department monies covering sales will be deposited. The Department recommends that agents establish a bank account to be used exclusively for Department money. The weekly electronic invoice will indicate the amount to be electronically withdrawn from the bank account. The agent will have 4 business days after the bill is initiated to review the invoice and dispute any charges. If the charges are not disputed during those 4 days, the Department will initiate an electronic transaction to remove the amount of money owed the Department from the agent's bank account. If the agent disputes the amount of the bill and the dispute cannot be resolved during the 4 days, the Department will set aside the transaction in dispute and electronically withdraw for the remainder of the funds. The Department and the Agent will continue to work to resolve the disputed transaction, subject to final determination by the commissioner. Upon resolution, any appropriate transaction amount will be included in the next electronic invoice and withdrawal. If the electronic withdrawal of funds is rejected by the banks for insufficient funds, the agency will be considered delinquent. If the agent does not provide the proper account numbers and the withdrawal is rejected, the agency will be considered delinquent,
Municipalities will ordinarily be billed weekly. Municipalities that sell over 500 licenses or registrations in a year (based on 1999 sales) will be encouraged to pay on a weekly basis, but will be allowed to establish a payment schedule based on the municipality's approval process for warrants. Lower volume municipalities will be allowed to pay weekly, bi‑weekly, or monthly as stated in the agreement with the department. Municipalities will pay with an electronic funds transfer initiated by the agent or by submitting a check with the payment stub(s) that will be generated as part of the weekly bill. The Department will provide each municipality with the record layout required for the funds transfer to be properly credited to the department's account and then to the agent's outstanding liability with the department. If the record layout required for transfer is not properly prepared and the account is not credited on schedule, the agent will be considered delinquent. Municipalities that submit payment by check will be considered delinquent if the check is not received by the due date that is established at the time of their enrollment in the MOSES system.
- Manual Agents
Manual Agents with sales of 500 or more licenses or registrations per year (based on 1999 sales) will report license and registration transactions on the 5th and the 20th of each month using report forms provided by the commissioner. The report due on the 5th will include sales from the 16th through the end of the previous month. The report due on the 20th will include sales from the 1st through the 15th of the current month. Manual agents with sales of less than 500 licenses or registrations per year (based on 1999 sales) will report license and registration transactions for the previous month on the 5th of each month on report forms provided by the commissioner from January through August. Sales transactions occurring from September through December must be reported twice a month as described above for agents with sales exceeding 500 licenses or registrations.
Agent reports submitted to the Department must contain a copy of each sales transaction along with all fees in the form of a check, collected for those sales as well as all supplemental supporting documents. Sales reported outside of the proper reporting period will cause the agent to be delinquent for the reporting period when the sales occurred. If no sales occur during a reporting period, the agent must declare that by submitting a No‑Sales Report.
If the Department, within 5 days after the required submission date, does not receive a report the agent will be considered delinquent. If an agent's check is not submitted for the appropriate amount or is returned for insufficient funds or any other reason, the agent will be considered delinquent. In any municipality where municipal procedures preclude compliance with the reporting and payment requirement as stated herein, the municipality may submit a written request and the Commissioner may extend the payment deadline for up to 10 days.
21.05 Agent Agreement Periods and Termination of Agent Services
Each agent must enter into an agreement with the Department on a form prescribed by the Department. The location where sales of licenses and registrations are allowed shall be stated in the Agreement. At the commissioner's discretion, the commissioner may suspend an agent's MOSES capabilities for violations of 3 (a‑c) below with only e‑mail notification of the suspension. Agent agreements will be terminated in any of the following events:
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The agent no longer wishes to act as a sales agent at the designated sales location, in which case the agent must notify the Department and immediately return all materials and supplies provided by the Department as part of the agent sales program and transfer all monies owed to the Department.
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The agent sells or leases the business to another party or otherwise attempts to transfer or assign the agreement.
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The commissioner terminates the agency agreement because of one of the following:
a. Failure to comply with pertinent laws, rules, policies, or performance standards as determined by the commissioner;
b. Delinquencies or failure by the agent in making payments, filing reports, or otherwise complying with the terms of this rule or of the agent agreement, as determined by the commissioner;
c. Changing conditions, circumstances, or legal requirements as determined by the commissioner;
d. Low volume of sales by the agent as determined by the commissioner.
Agent agreements are not transferable or assignable to another person, location, business, or corporation.
21.06 Termination of Agent Services
When the commissioner determines that an agency agreement will be terminated, the commissioner will notify the agent in writing. Immediately upon termination of the agreement, the agent must return all materials, records and supplies provided by the Department as part of the agent sales program, and shall remit any remaining balance of moneys owed to the Department. In this regard, the agent shall follow any directions provided by the commissioner. The commissioner's notice shall explain the reason for the termination of services. If the agent wishes to contest the termination, the agent must appeal to the commissioner in writing within 10 days, specifying all areas of disagreement with the notice. The agent may supplement the appeal with written statements. After reviewing the appeal, the commissioner may decide to take no further action, maintaining the original termination; or the commissioner may modify the termination in any manner determined to be appropriate in the commissioner's discretion. Pending the determination, the original termination will remain in effect and the agent will be suspended from the program. The commissioner's determination is final.
History
- STATUTORY AUTHORITY: 12 MRSA §§ 7035, 7072, 7074
- EFFECTIVE DATE: July 10, 1990
- AMENDED: November 8, 1995 - Section 2
- EFFECTIVE DATE (ELECTRONIC CONVERSION): April 4, 1996
- AMENDED: June 19, 1997 - Section 21.03(B)(5), added (B)(7).
- NON-SUBSTANTIVE CHANGES: February 2, 1999 - converted to Microsoft Word.
- REPEALED AND REPLACED: August 26, 2001
- REPEALED AND REPLACED: APAO WORD VERSION CONVERSION (IF NEEDED) AND ACCESSIBILITY CHECK: July 17, 2025
Chapter 23 Youth Camp Trip Leader Permits and Junior Maine Guide Program
Code Me. R. 09-137 Ch. 23 Youth Camp Trip Leader Permits and Junior Maine Guide Program {#sec-09-137-ch.-23 omnilex-key=us-me-regs-official--dept-inland-fisheries-and-wildlife--09-137 Ch. 23}
23.01 YOUTH CAMP TRIP LEADER PERMITS
A. Definition
Youth camp: A youth camp licensed by the Department of Health and Human Services under Title 22, section 2495 or located in another state and licensed in a similar manner, if the laws of the other state so require
Trip camping or trip: A youth camp program with a duration of 2 or more consecutive nights in which groups of individuals who are mobile, moving under their own power or by transportation which permits individual guidance of the vehicle or animal (e.g. bicycle, canoe, horse, sailboat), travel from one site to another.
B. Camp Trip Leader Permit
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The person in charge of the trip shall hold a valid Camp Trip Leader Permit.
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Upon application, a Permit shall be issued to persons who:
a. Meet the qualifications of Section C, successfully complete a Camp Trip Leader Safety Course and pass the written examination,
b. Meet the qualifications of Section E.1., obtain a waiver of such Course using the Special Application Procedure and pass the written examination, or
c. Meet the qualifications of Section E.2.
- The Permit shall expire on December 31 in the year it was issued.
C. Qualifications of applicant for Camp Trip Leader Safety Course
To obtain a Permit by taking the Safety Course, an applicant must be at least 18 years old and have the following qualifications:
- Background experience and knowledge:
a. Documentation of having participated in a leadership role, in at least 2 experiences each of at least two consecutive nights duration in a wilderness context, and
b. Familiarity with the Trip Camping rules established by the Department of Health and Human Services, Chapter 208, Section 7.F.
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First Aid Training. The applicant shall have a current Wilderness First Aid Certificate.
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Water Safety Training:
a. To be qualified to lead trips on inland waters, the applicant shall have successfully completed a Smallcraft Safety Course or equivalent training specific to the watercraft used for the trip; and
b. To be qualified to lead trips on coastal waters, the applicant shall have coastal water safety training or equivalent experience specific to the watercraft used for trip.
D. Camp Trip Leader Safety Course Application Form
The application form for the Camp Trip Leader Safety Course must provide the following:
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Name and legal residence of applicant.
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Date of birth of applicant.
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Name and address of applicants sponsoring youth camp.
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Signature of the applicant attesting that all information provided is true and correct.
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Signature of applicant’s sponsoring camp director certifying that the applicant has met the qualifications listed in Section C.
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Name and address of Safety Course location.
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Signature of Course Instructor stating that the applicant has completed the Course and passed the written examination.
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The applicant’s written examination score.
E. Qualifications of applicant for Special Application Procedure
- To obtain a Permit by taking the written examination without taking the Safety Course, an applicant must be at least 21 years of age and meet the following qualifications:
a. Documentation of having participated as an adult in a leadership role, in at least 4 experiences, each of at least two consecutive nights duration in a wilderness context, and
b. Meet the requirements of Section C, 1. b, 2 and 3.
- To obtain a Permit without taking either the written examination or the Safety Course, an applicant must be at least 21 years of age and meet the following qualifications:
a. Hold a current Registered Maine Guide license; and
b. Meet the requirements of Section C, 1. b, 2 and 3.
F. Special Application Procedure Form
Special Application Procedure Forms are available from the department, Division of Licensing and Registration.
- For Section E.1. applicants, the Special Application Procedure Form must provide the following:
a. Name and legal residence of applicant.
b. Date of birth of applicant.
c. Name and address of applicants sponsoring youth camp.
d. Signature of applicant attesting that all information provided is true and correct.
e. Signature of the applicant’s sponsoring camp director certifying that the applicant meets all the qualifications listed in Section E.1.
f. Name and address of the person administering the written examination. The written examination must be administered by a Camp Trip Leader Safety Course Instructor.
g. Signature of the person administering the written examination stating that the applicant has passed the written examination.
h. The applicant’s written examination score.
- For Section E.2. applicants, the Special Application Procedure Form must provide the following:
a. Name and legal residence of applicant.
b. Date of birth of applicant.
c. Name and address of applicants sponsoring youth camp.
d. Signature of applicant attesting that all information provided is true and correct.
e. Signature of the applicant’s sponsoring camp director certifying that the applicant meets all the qualifications listed in Section E.2.
f. The Registered Maine Guide license number.
G. Failure of Camp Trip Leader Written Examination
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Applicants who fail the written exam must retake a Camp Trip Leader Safety Course.
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Special Application Procedure applicants who fail the written exam must take a Camp Trip Leader Safety Course.
H. Renewal of Camp Trip Leader Permit
Camp Trip Leader Permits may be renewed by a renewal application and payment of the renewal fee to the department, EXCEPT:
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Permits which have not been renewed within two (2) consecutive years after the Permit expiration date will not be renewable without the applicant re-taking the written examination using the Special Application Procedure.
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Permits which the commissioner refuses to reissue based on previous violations pursuant to Title 12 section 12860 (7).
I. Camp Trip Leader Safety Course Instructor Qualifications
Only Camp Trip Leader Safety Course Instructors may give the Course and the written examination. To be eligible to be a Camp Trip Leader Safety Course Instructor, an applicant must be at least 21 years old and have the following qualifications:
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Holder of a current Camp Trip Leader Permit; and
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Documentation of teaching experience in a youth camp, school or other similar setting.
J. Safety Course Instructor Application Form
An application form is to be filled out by the applicant and the applicant’s sponsoring youth camp director. The following information is required:
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Name and legal address of applicant.
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Date of birth of applicant.
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Current Camp Trip Leader Permit number.
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Signature of applicant attesting all information is true and correct.
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Signature of applicant’s sponsoring youth camp director certifying that the applicant meets all the qualifications listed in Section I.
K. Camp Trip Leader Permit Fee Schedule
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Initial application - $20.00
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Renewal application - $15.00
For persons meeting the requirements of Section E.2. there is no initial or renewal application fee.
L. Safety Course Curriculum and Written Examination
The Course curriculum and written examination shall be those adopted by the commissioner.
M. Camp Trip Leader Permit Committee
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Advisory Committee for Camp Trip Leader Permits is established, referred to in this Section as “the Committee”.
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The Committee shall consist of the following 8 members designated by the commissioner:
a. Two employees of the department; one of which shall be from the Division of Licensing and Registration.
b. One warden of the department.
c. One Registered Maine Guide with youth camp trip leadership experience.
d. Two Camp Trip Leader Safety Course Instructors.
e. Two Maine youth camp representatives.
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The Committee shall elect a chair and secretary from among its members.
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The Committee shall provide advice to the commissioner regarding Camp Trip Leader Permits including qualifications for Camp Trip Leaders and Safety Course Instructors; Camp Trip Leader Safety Course curriculum, the written examination, standards for what is considered an unsafe trip and criteria for refusing to renew a Permit based on previous violations of Title 12 section 12860 (7).
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Five members of the Committee constitute a quorum.
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The Committee shall meet at least twice each year, once in the spring and once in the fall.
23.02 JUNIOR MAINE GUIDE
A. Junior Maine Guide Program
The Junior Maine Guide Program, referred to in section as the “Program” carries out the requirements of Title 12 section 12859.
B. Eligibility
To be a Junior Maine Guide a person must be at least 14 years of age and under 18 years of age and pass a written and practical examination as adopted by the commissioner.
C. Restriction
A Junior Maine Guide is not authorized to provide guiding services.
D. Junior Maine Guide Committee
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Advisory Committee is established for the Program, referred to in this Section as “the Committee”.
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The Committee shall consist of the following 5 members designated by the commissioner:
a. One employee of the department.
b. Two Junior Maine Guide Program Instructors.
c. Two Maine youth camp representatives.
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The Committee shall provide advice to the commissioner regarding and oversight of, the Program.
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Three members of the Committee constitute a quorum.
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The Committee shall meet at least once a year in the fall.
E. Program Operation
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The Program is operated by Maine Summer Camps, a statewide non-profit organization whose members are Maine youth camps and individuals who support the youth camping.
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In operation of the Program, the Maine Summer Camps shall;
a. Write and revise, as necessary the;
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Curriculum for the Program,
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Requirements for the practical examination, and
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Written examination.
b. Devise the “patch” and certificate awarded to the successful Program participants.
c. Take any other action necessary to operate the Program.
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The curriculum, requirements for the practical examination and the written examination shall be reviewed by the Committee and adopted by the commissioner.
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The commissioner shall sign the certificates to be awarded to each successful Junior Maine Guide candidate.
History
- STATUTORY AUTHORITY: 12 MRSA §7035
- STATUTORY AUTHORITY: (Note: this statute seems to have been repealed in 2003: 2003, c. 414, §A1 (RP). The 2013 filing which formally transfers the rule chapter to 09-137 shows the statutory authority to be 12 MRSA §§ 10104, 12859, and 12860. According to the note below, the chapter was renumbered from Ch. 1 to Ch. 23 in 1996.)
- EFFECTIVE DATE: April 19, 1980 - filing 80-159 under the title “Rules and Regulations Pertaining to the Application for, and Issuance of, Camp Trip Leader Permits”
- AMENDED: July 25, 1984 - filing 84-309 under the title “Rules and Regulations Pertaining to the Application for, and Issuance of, Camp Trip Leader Permits and Course Instructor Certification”
- AMENDED: June 16, 1991 (§1.05) – filing 91-215
- AMENDED: May 26, 1996 - changed from Chapter 1 to Chapter 23
- EFFECTIVE DATE (ELECTRONIC CONVERSION): May 4, 1996
- NON-SUBSTANTIVE CHANGES: February 1, 1999 - converted to Microsoft Word
- AMENDED: September 1, 2013 – filing 2013-121 under the title “Youth Camp Trip Leader Permits and Junior Maine Guide Program”, with the chapter formally moved from 09-143 to 09-137
- AMENDED: 09-137 Chapter 23 page 7
Chapter 24 Licensed Guides
Code Me. R. 09-137 Ch. 24 Licensed Guides {#sec-09-137-ch.-24 omnilex-key=us-me-regs-official--dept-inland-fisheries-and-wildlife--09-137 Ch. 24}
24.01 Scope of Rules
These rules shall be applicable only to guides and guiding as described in Title 12 M.R.S. §10001, subsection 28. Nothing in these rules shall in any way restrict or regulate the use of Maine's fields, forests, inland waters or ice by groups or individuals not associated with a guide.
24.02 Definitions
A. Guide. “Guide” as defined in Title 12 M.R.S. §10001 subsection 28, means a person who receives any form of remuneration for that person’s services in accompanying or assisting a person in the fields or forests or on the waters or ice within the jurisdiction of the State while hunting, fishing, trapping, boating, snowmobiling, using an all-terrain vehicle or camping at a primitive camping area.
B. Inland Waters. “Inland Waters” as defined in Title 12 M.R.S. §10001, subsection 35, means all waters within the State above the rise and fall of the tide and wholly or partially within the territorial limits of the State, except private ponds as defined in Title 12 M.R.S. §10001, subsection 51.
C. Licensed Guide. "Licensed Guide" means a person who has satisfactorily completed a written and oral examination, has satisfied the safety standards established by the Commissioner, and holds a Maine license to guide in any classification.
D. Paddlesports. “Paddlesports” means all competitive and recreational activities utilizing watercraft propelled by paddles.
E. Territorial Waters: “Territorial Waters” as defined in Title 12 M.R.S. §6001 subsection 48-B, means all waters of the State within the rise and fall of the tide seaward to the 3‑nautical-mile line as shown on the most recently published Federal Government nautical chart, but does not include areas above any fishway or dam when that fishway or dam is the dividing line between tidewater and fresh water.
24.03 Eligibility Requirements to Apply for a Guide's License
A. A guide applicant may be denied a license to guide if that person:
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Fails to meet the qualifications as provided within Title 12 M.R.S. §12853;
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Fails to meet eligibility requirements as found within Chapter 24.03;
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Fails to satisfactorily complete the application including any false statements or misrepresentation;
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Fails to pass the written or oral examination;
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Fails to pass the background check; or
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Has a revoked or suspended license to engage in any of the activities for which classification is being sought.
B. First-time guide applicants must be currently certified in first-aid. Proof of certification may be established by submitting:
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A current certification of American Red Cross Standard First Aid. (Current certifications beyond standard first-aid will also be recognized and accepted: Basic EMT, EMT, Paramedic, or equivalent course approved by the Department) or:
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Written certification from an individual with a current instructor certification that the applicant has received training and demonstrated proficiency in the following areas:
a. Emergency action principles;
b. Primary and secondary surveys of the victim;
c. Procedures for clearing airway obstructions;
d. Shock;
e. Internal and external bleeding;
f. Burns, including heat, electrical and chemical burns;
g. Injuries to bones, muscles and joints, including open and closed fractures, dislocations, strains and sprains;
h. Medical emergencies, including heart attack, stroke, poisoning, insulin shock, diabetic coma and seizures;
i. Injuries from exposure to extreme heat and cold including heat stroke, heat exhaustion, hypothermia and frostbite;
j. Animal and human bites, insect bites and stings, and snakebites;
k. Specific injuries to the eyes and nose;
l. Bandaging and splinting techniques; and
m. Emergency rescues
C. First-time guide applicants must document field experience related to the license classification in which they are applying. This will be done by submitting a written summary on the application provided, that verifies a minimum of 100 hours within the past 4 years of field experience, training, job shadowing and/or apprenticeship for the discipline related to the classification in which they are applying.
D. New and renewal applicants must comply with a criminal history background check in accordance with Title 12 M.R.S. §12853 and provide verification that they have not been convicted of committing a crime as described within 12 M.R.S. §10908 (1)(D).
24.04 First-time Applicant and Renewal Applicants for a Guide's License
A. First-time applicants
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After submitting to the background check as described within section 24.03-B, the applicant must completely and satisfactorily fill out a Guide's License application on forms provided by the Commissioner and must submit the application to the Department with the examination fee of $100 for each classification as required by 12 M.R.S. §12855 sub-section 5.
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The examination fee is nonrefundable and covers the testing process for one classification.
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Beginning January 1, 2021, if a person is applying for the Specialized Hunting or Fishing classification they may pay an additional $100 for the Specialized Recreational classification.
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This allows the applicant to take an oral and written test that combines two classifications;
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The testing process will be longer than if testing for one classification; and
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Once the applicant has passed the exam they will be certified as a recreational guide in addition to the other classification(s) for which they tested.
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If the applicant fails the exam he or she fails both license classifications and must retest.
B. Renewal Applicants
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After submitting to the background check, renewal applicants must completely and satisfactorily fill out a Guide's License application on forms provided by the Commissioner and must submit the application to the Department together with the renewal license fee.
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Recreational Classification Upgrade for Hunting and Fishing Guides: Beginning January 1, 2021, if a person is currently licensed with a Specialized Hunting or Fishing classification, or both, they may request to upgrade to obtain the Specialized Recreational classification. The upgrade requires that the applicant:
a. Schedule to take the modified written recreational test;
b. Pay the $100 test fee;
c. If this takes place at the time the guide is renewing their other Guide classification(s) they must submit to the background check before scheduling the exam;
d. If request to take the test does not occur at the time of renewal, they will only be required to submit to the background check upon renewal of the other classification(s) they currently hold;
e. This allows the applicant to take written test only that focuses on recreational guiding questions;
f. Once the applicant has passed the written exam they will be certified as a recreational guide in addition to the other classification(s) for which they hold;
g. The new recreational classification will expire the same year as any other classifications that are already held.
C. Guide Failing to Provide Services as Agreed Upon: Applicants who have previously been licensed as a guide must certify that they have never received and retained a fee from a client and then failed to meet that client as agreed or failed to provide the services agreed to as provided within 12 M.R.S. §12851 (2). Failure to provide services to a client shall be grounds for denial of license renewal.
24.05 Classification of Guides
Guides shall be licensed in one or more specialized classifications.
A. Specialized classification means that a person has met the qualifications to guide one or more specific types of activities as follows and allows that person holding a Specialized Fishing, Hunting, Sea Kayaking, Recreational or Tide-water Fishing license to conduct overnight camping trips while engaged in activities specific to that person’s specialized classification:
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Specialized Hunting classifications means that a person has met the qualifications to guide hunting and trapping activities, including overnight camping trips in conjunction with those hunting and trapping activities. Beginning January 1, 2021, a person who has met the application qualifications to take the Specialized Hunting classification exam may choose to take a combined exam and purchase the Specialized Recreational classification endorsement.
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Specialized Fishing classification means that a person has met the qualifications to guide fishing activities , includingovernight camping trips in conjunction with those fishing activities on inland waters. Beginning January 1, 2021, a person who has met the application qualifications for the Specialized Fishing classification exam may choose to take a combined exam and purchase the Specialized Recreational classification endorsement.
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Specialized Recreational classification means that a person has met the qualifications to guide watercraft, all-terrain vehicles, snowmobiling and camping activities. This classification also qualifies a person to guide watercraft including paddlesports on inland waters as defined in 24.02 (B). A person wishing to guide paddlesports on the ocean as defined within this Chapter must have a current Specialized Sea-Kayaking classification.
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Specialized Sea-Kayaking classification means that a person has met the qualifications to guide sea-kayaking activities to include paddlesports on the State's territorial seas and tributaries of the State up to the head of tide and out to the three-mile limit.
Beginning on March 31, 2015 a person wishing to guide paddlesports on the ocean as defined within this Chapter must have a current Specialized Sea-Kayaking classification.
- Specialized Tide-Water Fishing classification means that a person has met the qualifications to guide sport fishing activities on the State's territorial waters as defined within section 24.02 E. of this rule and tributaries of the State up to the head of tide and out to the three-mile limit. This license shall apply to any person engaged in guiding fishing activity for any species of fish, except those species harvested under the authority of a Department of Marine Resources license. This rule does not apply to activity occurring on board a vessel holding a valid and current certificate of inspection issued by the United States Coast Guard.
NOTE/U.S. COAST GUARD LICENSE: Any person operating a motorboat on the State’s Territorial Seas and Tributaries for the purpose of guiding hunting and fishing activities must obtain a U.S. Coast Guard License authorizing the carriage of passengers for hire.
B. Master certification means that a person has acquired experience in a Specialized classification that exceeds the minimum requirements necessary to be licensed as a guide in that classification.
- Persons licensed in one or more specialized classifications may apply for certification as a Master Guide in such classification(s) by filing an affidavit with the Department showing that the applicant has met the necessary qualifications and experience requirements outlined in Chapter 24.05(A) (1), (2), and (3) above. The necessary qualifications and experience requirements are as follows:
a. The applicant must have been licensed as a Maine Guide in the specialized classification(s) for which Master Guide certification is sought each year during the ten-year period preceding the submission of the affidavit for certification; and
b. A minimum of five years professional experiencein the specialized classification(s)must be documented within that ten-year period. One year of professional experience shall be credited for every 240 hours worked in a calendar year. Only actual time guiding will be credited. A description of guide’s specific duties and responsibilities and the amount of time spent guiding must be included with the affidavit. The applicant may estimate the amount of time devoted specifically to guiding activity. Experience shall be credited on an hour-for-hour basis.
- Upon receipt of an affidavit showing that the applicant has met the necessary qualifications and experience requirements outlined in Chapter 24.05(A) (1), (2), and (3) above, the Department will validate the applicant’s license with the certification that the applicant is eligible to work as a Master Guide. The applicant may not work as a Master Guide until the license certification has been validated by the Department.
a. The certification will remain in effect as long as the guide’s license is renewed within three years ofexpiration.
b. A determination, at any time, that any of the information contained in the affidavit is false, shall be grounds for revocation of the Master Guide certification.
24.06 Written Examination
A. Written: Applicants must satisfactorily complete a written examination in each license classification for which that person applies. A passing score on the written examination is 70% or higher on each section of the examination. An applicant may schedule to take both the oral and written exam in the same day or on separate days.
B. Applicants who fail the written examination, will be notified the same day and must wait a minimum of 14 days before retaking.
24.07 Oral Examination
A. Oral: Applicants must satisfactorily complete an oral examination in each license classification. Unsuccessful applicants must wait a minimum of 30 days before retesting on the section or sections of the oral examination they failed. A person who fails any portion of the exam only has to retake the portion of the exam failed, not the entire exam. Each classification exam has 3 parts:
- a map and compass or navigation portion,
- a catastrophic eventportion and
- a portion of questions pertinent to the specific classification for which the test is being taken.
B. For specialized classification in hunting, fishing or recreation applicants must pass the map and compass and catastrophic event scenario portions of the oral examination in addition to questions specific to the classification for which they are testing.
C. For specialized classification in tidewater fishing applicants must pass the navigation and catastrophic event portions of the oral examination in addition to questions specific to the classification for which they are testing.
D. For specialized classification in sea kayaking applicants must pass the navigation and catastrophic event portions of the oral examination in addition to questions specific to the classification for which they are testing.
E. Failure to show without notice: Applicants who fail to appear for a scheduled oral examination without notifying the board of examiners in writing or telecommunication 24 hours prior to the scheduled examination will be ineligible for rescheduling for at least one year.
24.08 Standards of Competency/Ethics
The following standards of competency are established accordance with Title 12 M.R.S. §12851(3) The privilege to conduct a guiding business requires a level of field experience that enables the Guide to lead a person or group safely and legally in the outdoors, with professional conduct and the highest standards of ethics. Failure to comply with these standards of competency and ethics shall be grounds for license revocation, suspension or denial.
A. Guides must:
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Be honest and trustworthy in business practices;
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Have technical, safety and organizational skills in outdoor leadership to provide adequate accommodations and lead outdoor trips that are legal and safe;
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Have experience based judgment that helps prevent unsafe situations;
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Have problem solving skills to be creative, resourceful and analytical in order to recognize problems, anticipate outcomes and choose the safest direction possible;
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Fully understand and abide by all state and federal laws and rules involving the activities in the classification(s) for which the Guide is licensed and report all fish and wildlife related or other violations that a client engages in, in accordance with 12 M.R.S. §12858 to the appropriate law enforcement dispatch center; and
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Notify the Department of any conviction which is grounds for a license revocation under 12 M.R.S. §10908(1)(D) within 30 days of the date of the conviction.
History
- STATUTORY AUTHORITY: 12 MRS §§ 10104, 12851
- EFFECTIVE DATE: April 22, 1986 - as 09-143 Chapter 2, "Licensed Guides," filing 86-111
- AMENDED: June 17, 1987 - filing 87-216
- AMENDED: August 13, 1989 - filing 89-326
- AMENDED: September 25, 1990 - filing 90-413
- EFFECTIVE DATE (ELECTRONIC CONVERSION): May 4, 1996 - filing 96-167
- AMENDED: May 26, 1996 - among other changes, the chapter number was changed from Ch. 2 to Ch. 24, filing 96-240.
- NON-SUBSTANTIVE CHANGES: February 1, 1999 - converted to Microsoft Word
- AMENDED: September 29, 2002 - filing 2002-365
- NON-SUBSTANTIVE CORRECTIONS: November 19, 2002 - the chapter was moved to 09-137 at the request of the agency.
- AMENDED: March 14, 2015 – filing 2015-029
- MINOR NON-SUBSTANTIVE CORRECTIONS: October 20, 2016 – 24.08(C), 24.09(B and C)
- AMENDED: July 25, 2020 – filing 2020-164
- AMENDED: April 13, 2021 – 24.04(B), filing 2021-072
- APAO ACCESSIBILITY CHECK: July 30, 2025
Chapter 25 Leashed Dog Tracking Permit Rules
Code Me. R. 09-137 Ch. 25 Leashed Dog Tracking Permit Rules {#sec-09-137-ch.-25 omnilex-key=us-me-regs-official--dept-inland-fisheries-and-wildlife--09-137 Ch. 25}
25.01 SCOPE
These rules shall be applicable to the use of one leashed dog to track wounded deer, moose or bear under the provisions of 12 M.R.S. §11111. Bear may be hunted with dogs pursuant to 12 M.R.S. §11251. These rules do not apply to the hunting of bears using dogs in accordance with 12 M.R.S. §11251, or the use of a dog by a licensed hunting guide to retrieve a wounded or killed bear, deer or moose after hours in accordance with 12 M.R.S. §12862.
25.02 DEFINITIONS
For the purposes of this rule, the following terms have the indicated meanings:
Leashed Tracking Dog: is a dog which is used to track and find wounded or dead deer, moose or bear pursuant to a permit issued as provided by this rule.
Department: for purposes of this rule chapter is the Department of Inland Fisheries & Wildlife.
Dispatch: to humanely kill.
Permit: a leashed tracking dog permit issued pursuant to 12 M.R.S. §11111, authorizing the use of a leashed tracking dog as specified in this rule.
Permittee: a person who is the holder of a leashed tracking dog permit.
Physically Incapacitated: incapable of participating in the act of tracking the wounded deer, moose or bear due to lack of physical capabilities.
25.03 PERMIT
A leashed tracking dog permit issued by the department entitles the permittee to:
Use one leashed tracking dog, at any time, with or without the aid of an artificial light, to track and find lawfully wounded or dead deer, moose or bear from the opening day of any season on deer, moose or bear through the 24 hour period immediately following the last day of any open season on deer, moose or bear.
Dispatch lawfully wounded deer, moose or bear that have been tracked and found in accordance with and pursuant to the conditions of this permit.
Temporarily possess a deer, moose or bear that has been dispatched by the permittee pursuant to the conditions of this permit.
25.04 QUALIFICATIONS; LEASHED TRACKING DOG PERMIT
Any person whose hunting license has been revoked within the last 5 years is not eligible to obtain this permit. Applicants for a permit must:
Possess a valid Maine hunting license that allows the hunting of all legal species;
Submit a completed application with a non‑refundable application fee of $25.00 (applicants applying to renew their permit are not required to pay the application fee). The application fee is separate from and in addition to the permit fee required under Chapter 25.05(1) below; and
Receive a grade of 80 percent or higher on a written examination administered by the department. The examination will be offered at least once a year and will test the applicant's knowledge of the department’s laws and rules, and other areas of knowledge as deemed necessary by the department. The examination will be waived for those individuals who possess a valid hunting guide license.
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ISSUANCE; LEASHED TRACKING DOG PERMIT
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Applicants who meet the qualifications for a permit must submit a permit fee to the department in accordance with 12 M.R.S. §11111. The fee must be paid before the issuance of the permit.
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The permit entitles a person to use a leashed tracking dog through December 31st of the 2nd complete year following the year of issuance.
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The permit is valid only for the individual identified on the permit and is not transferable.
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CONDITIONS; LEASHED TRACKING DOG PERMIT
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A person who has lawfully wounded or killed, or reasonably believes he or she has lawfully wounded or killed a deer, moose or bear during any applicable open season on that animal may engage a permittee to track and recover the animal. That person must, unless physically incapacitated, accompany the permittee when tracking the animal. If that person is physically incapacitated, the permittee may track and dispatch the animal if the permittee is in possession of a written signed statement from that person listing: (a) the date; (b) the hunter's name, address, telephone number and license number, and (c) a certification that that person has engaged the permittee to track the animal that that person has wounded or killed, and that they are unable to accompany the permittee because of physical incapacitation.
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No person other than the permittee or, during legal hunting periods, the person who has engaged the permittee, may carry a firearm, archery or crossbow equipment while tracking wounded or dead deer, moose or bear pursuant to this rule.
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During legal hunting periods, the person who has engaged the permittee must dispatch the wounded deer, moose or bear by methods that are lawful during the season in which it was wounded (and in a lawful manner reduce the animal to legal possession). However, the permittee must dispatch the wounded animal if the legal hunting period has ended, when the hunter is not present, or, when in the judgment of the permittee it is unsafe or otherwise inappropriate for the hunter to do so.
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The permittee may use a handgun legal for hunting deer, moose or bear in Maine to dispatch a wounded animal, at any time, during the open season on that animal, and during the 24 hour period immediately following the last day of any open season on deer, moose or bear provided that the permittee complies with all other provisions of federal, state and local laws and regulations concerning possession and discharge of firearms and the conditions of this permit.
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Before tracking a wounded or dead animal, the permittee must notify, by telephone or in person, the nearest available game warden assigned to the area where the deer, moose or bear was killed or wounded. Notification must include:
A. The name of the permittee,
B. The name, address, telephone number, and big game license number of the person engaging the permittee,
C. The general location of the wounded animal.
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The permittee must maintain physical control of the leashed tracking dog at all times while conducting activities pursuant to such permit by means of a lead attached to the dog's collar or harness. This lead must be at least twelve (12) feet in length.
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The permittee may charge a fee for these dog tracking services without possessing a valid guide license pursuant to 12 M.R.S. §11111(3).
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After a deer, moose or bear has been dispatched, the licensed hunter must immediately fill out the appropriate transportation tag in accordance with 12 M.R.S. §§ 11502, 11653 and 11352, respectively. If that person has not accompanied the permittee because of physical incapacitation, the permittee must immediately deliver the deer, moose or bear to that person and that person must immediately fill out the appropriate transportation tag. The permittee must sign the hunter's transportation tag and include their license number. If that person is unavailable the permittee must report the incident to a game warden and deliver the animal to the officer.
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The permittee must personally carry a valid hunting license that allows the hunting of all legal species and a valid leashed tracking dog permit when conducting activities pursuant to this rule.
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The permittee must notify the department, in writing, of any change of address within 30 days of that change of address.
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The permittee must submit to the department a written request for permit renewal.
History
- STATUTORY AUTHORITY: 12 M.R.S. §§ 10104, 11111
- EFFECTIVE DATE: May 21, 2000 – filing 2000-192 (Final adoption, major substantive), as “Leashed Tracking Dog License Rules”
- AMENDED: September 12, 2004 - filing 2004-387
- AMENDED: April 17, 2016 – filing 2016-066, as “Leashed Dog Tracking Permit Rules”
- TECHNICAL CORRECTIONS: September 10, 2024 (formatting changes made to section 25.02, subsection 4)
Chapter 26 Commercial Wildlife Permit for Amphibians or Nonmarine Invertebrates
Code Me. R. 09-137 Ch. 26 Commercial Wildlife Permit for Amphibians or Nonmarine Invertebrates {#sec-09-137-ch.-26 omnilex-key=us-me-regs-official--dept-inland-fisheries-and-wildlife--09-137 Ch. 26}
26.01 Permit Required
A commercial wildlife permit is required by any persons harvesting amphibians (Class Amphibia), freshwater mussels (Class Bivalvia), butterflies or moths (Class Insecta, Order Lepidoptera), dragonflies (Class Insecta, Order: Odonata), or beetles (Class Insecta, Order: Coleoptera) collected from the wild for export, sale, or commercial purposes.
This rule is not intended to apply to licensed Maine guides and anglers harvesting or collecting species other than endangered, threatened and special concern for use in the activity they are licensed for by the Department.
26.02 Application and Fee
Applications for a commercial wildlife permit must be submitted on a standard application form provided by the Commissioner; incomplete applications will be returned to the applicant. All applications will be reviewed by a Department biologist authorized by the Commissioner.
The fee for a commercial wildlife permit is defined in statute pursuant to M.R.S. §12161.
26.03: Age
Applicants must be 16 years of age or older.
26.04 Restrictions and Conditions
The Department shall maintain a list of restricted amphibian and invertebrate species ineligible for commercial harvest. Restricted species will include those listed as State Endangered or Threatened under Title 12, Section 12803, or listed by the Department as species of Special Concern and available on the Department’s website or at any of the regional offices.
Among nonrestricted species, the Department may establish harvest limits by species and geographic location and seasonal restrictions for harvest.
Other restrictions or conditions may be specified by the Commissioner to ensure appropriate and sustainable use of a commercial wildlife permit.
26.05 Grounds for Permit Denial
Upon receipt of a properly executed permit application, the Commissioner may issue a permit unless:
The applicant has been assessed a civil penalty or convicted of any criminal statute or regulation relating to the activity for which the application is filed if such conviction or assessment evidences a lack of responsibility.
The applicant has failed to disclose information required in the application or has made false statements as to any material fact in connection with the application.
The applicant has failed to demonstrate a valid justification for the permit.
The authorization requested potentially threatens a wildlife population.
26.06 Records; Reports
The person to whom the permit is issued shall maintain complete and accurate records of any activity conducted pursuant to such permit. A report of these activities shall be submitted to the Commissioner within 30 days following permit expiration or with request for renewal. Report forms shall be provided by the Commissioner.
26.07 Renewal Requirements
Permits are renewable and may be renewed:
If a satisfactory report of activities during the preceding year is submitted.
If the restrictions and conditions of the preceding year’s permit are accurately met.
26.08 Penalty
Any violation of these rules and regulations or the conditions of any permit may subject the permittee to the following:
Upon conviction, punishment as provided by Section 12159 and 12161, Title 12.
Revocation of the permit. When revoked, permits must be surrendered to the Commissioner on demand.
History
- STATUTORY AUTHORITY: 12 MRSA §§ 12159, 12161
- EFFECTIVE DATE: April 7, 2013 – filing 2013-077. (APA Office Note: statutory citation added to 26.02(B) on August 4, 2017 at the request of the agency.)
- EFFECTIVE DATE: 09-137 Chapter 26 page 2
Chapter 27 Animal Damage Control Agent Certificate
Code Me. R. 09-137 Ch. 27 Animal Damage Control Agent Certificate {#sec-09-137-ch.-27 omnilex-key=us-me-regs-official--dept-inland-fisheries-and-wildlife--09-137 Ch. 27}
- SCOPE
This Chapter applies to the application, examination and certification process as well as the training, operating standards, and activities conducted by Animal Damage Control Agents (ADC or ADC Agent). Certified agents are authorized by the Department of Inland Fisheries & Wildlife (the Department) to act as an agent of the Commissioner while engaging in the take or relocation of any wildlife as authorized in 12 M.R.S. §10105 subsection 1.
27.03 Definitions
27.04 Classifications of ADC Certifications
27.05 Demonstration of Need
27.06 Eligibility
27.07 Application
27.08 Examination
27.09 Operating Standards
27.10 Term of Certification
27.11 Denial, Suspension or Revocation of Certificate
27.12Re-Instatement Procedures and Provisional Requirements
27.13 Transition and Grandfathering Provisions
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DEFINITIONS
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Animal Damage Control: Authorized taking or relocation of wildlife to mitigate human-wildlife conflict.
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Animal Damage Control Agent: A person certified by the Department who acts as an Agent of the Commissioner and works to mitigate human – wildlife conflict and is authorized under 12 M.R.S. §10105 to take or relocate wildlife as necessary when responding to complaints of animal damage.
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CLASSIFICATIONS OF ADC CERTIFICATIONS
ADC Agents may be certified under one or more of the following classifications:
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Class 1 (Home and Garden): a person who has met the qualifications to perform ADC work to mitigate nuisance wildlife issues related to home and garden species listed within the Department policy;
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Class 2 (All Other) : A person who has met the qualifications to perform ADC work to mitigate issues related to all other species that are not contained in another certification;
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Bats: a person who has met the qualifications to perform ADC work to mitigate human-bat conflicts; and
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Hazing with dogs: a person who has met the qualifications to perform ADC work to mitigate issues related to nuisance wildlife whose behavior can be modified by the use of dogs; and
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Commercial Pest Management Companies: a business employing multiple staff members specializing in, but not limited to, the management of common pest species associated with commercial buildings and environments.
27.05 DEMONSTRATION OF NEED:
Agent certifications shall be issued by the Commissioner based on Department need, geographic location, and an individual’s ability to perform functions and services that address wildlife-conflict needs for a given area. The need for additional ADC Agents shall be determined by the Commissioner after taking into consideration factors including, but not limited to:
Demonstrated experience resolving human-wildlife conflicts, which may include experience trapping, implementing prevention, site modification, or habitat modification techniques;
Number and location of other ADC Agents in an area or a region;
Human-wildlife conflict levels;
Local human population density;
Ability to provide unique services or specific resolution types;
Preference will be given to applicants who are physically located in the state year-round to ensure consistent and quick responses; and
27.06 ELIGIBILITY
If the demonstration of need is met, an applicant must meet the following eligibility requirements to become certified as an ADC Agent in one or more classifications:
A. Disclose any criminal convictions, civil violations, and felonies listed below, and submit to a background check. Any of the following convictions or adjudications may disqualify the applicant from certification upon review by the Department.
(1) Class A, B, C or D convictions within the previous 3 years (except the disqualification period for convictions may be longer where provided for by law);
(2) Any conviction or adjudication for a violation of any provision of 12 M.R.S. Part 13 within the previous 5 years.
Possess a current and valid trapping license that must be maintained throughout the term of the certification. Certain species require additional trapping experience. See; “Specific Eligibility by Classification and Certification” below. Exception: those who hold only a classification for bat exclusion or hazing with dogs are exempt from this requirement;
Review required instructional and advisory materials; including a video that demonstrates techniques for reducing incidental lynx captures and injuries;
Confirm, through signature, that the applicant has completed a review of all required training and policy materials prior to submission of the application;
Obtain signed endorsements of both the District Game Warden and Regional Wildlife Biologist confirming completion and approval of Part A and Part B of applications, and sufficient demonstration of effective communication with the applicant during application process; and
Once all of the above has been completed, the applicant must pass the required course and examination; (see section 27.09).
Specific Eligibility by Classification and Certification
A. ADC Agents who are approved to relocate bears are required to take MDIFW’s Bear Trapper Education Course. Agents who are approved to handle bear conflicts must also seek permission from MDIFW staff prior to implementing live trapping or lethal removal. See MDIFW Administrative Policy Regarding Human & Wildlife Conflicts (J1.6; Section XI); and
B. ADC Agents providing services for resolving bat conflicts must receive additional bat specific training. See MDIFW Administrative Policy Regarding Human & Wildlife Conflicts (J1.6; Section XI);
Eligibility for Commercial Pest Management Companies
Commercial pest management companies that seek to perform wildlife conflict services must be certified as an ADC Company with MDIFW. The company is responsible for maintaining their certification, adhering to reporting requirements, and abiding by the expectations outlined in this chapter and the MDIFW Administrative Policy Regarding Human & Wildlife Conflicts (J1.6).
A company certified to conduct wildlife conflict resolution through MDIFW is required to adequately train a new employee to the MDIFW certification standards prior to independent deployment into the field as an operating agent.
If the company or its employees violate operating standards, found to no longer be eligible for certification, submit false information, or have not satisfactorily represented themselves as Agents of the Commissioner they will be subject to disciplinary action, which may include temporary suspension of the company’s certification, or permanently revocation of the company’s certification to perform ADC activities in Maine.
Individual employees activities are covered under the Companies’ certification, but are based on employment, if an employee leaves the company or is terminated, they no longer have the ability to operate as an ADC Agent without seeking separate certification from the Department.
27.07 APPLICATION
- The application shall include the following, but is not limited to:
A. A requirement that any criminal convictions and/or civil violation adjudications be disclosed;
B. Training and policy materials provided within the application packet to be reviewed prior to submitting application;
C. A requirement that any experience relevant to ADC work be listed;
D. Confirmation from the applicant signifying willingness and capacity to humanely dispatch wildlife according to MDIFW Administrative Policy Regarding Human & Wildlife Conflicts (J1.6; Section IX General Operating Standards; and
E. A requirement that applicants obtain signatures on the application form from a Regional Wildlife Biologist and a District Game Warden endorsing the applicant as suitable for approval by the Department as an ADC Agent.
27.08 EXAMINATION
1.Once an application has been submitted, reviewed, and endorsed by a Regional Wildlife Biologist and District Game Warden, any person seeking to become a certified ADC Agent must take and pass (with an 80% or greater) the required course and examination. See Section VII. Step-Down Application Procedure outlined in the ADC Policy.
ADC Agents who conduct any bat conflict work, including but not limited to prevention, exclusion or removal, may be required to take additional Department approved course and examination on bat specific conflict resolution.
27.09 OPERATING STANDARDS
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Agents must abide by all applicable State and Federal laws;
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Failure to comply with Department Administrative Policy Regarding Human & Wildlife Conflicts (J1.6) may result in revocation or suspension of the agent certificate;
Demonstrate the ability to appropriately represent the Department to the Commissioner’s satisfaction as an Agent of the Commissioner;
Demonstrate the ability to effectively communicate to the Commissioner’s satisfaction with the public, other ADC agents, wildlife rehabilitators, and Department staff;
Agents must abide by advice and directives provided by District Game Wardens and Department Biologists and convey Departmental messages to the public in a manner that is consistent with Department policies, mission, and values;
Agents must follow accepted standard humane wildlife handling and dispatch procedures and acceptable disposal methods outlined in the See MDIFW Administrative Policy Regarding Human & Wildlife Conflicts (J1.6; Section IX General Operating Standards); including prevention via exclusion as proactive measures to stop re-occurring conflict;
Agents must demonstrate the utmost respect for the animals and human customers. Wildlife should never be placed in stressful situations (i.e., hauled around in catch pole, etc.,) or portrayed in household settings (i.e., playing with pets, snuggling with humans, etc.);
Human-wildlife conflict resolution involves strategies that are outside of the regulated hunting or trapping seasons and methods. Agents must provide services with discretion and in a manner that best represents the Department’s policies, mission, and values;
Agents may not move any rabies vector species (RVS) further than the specified distance according to MDIFW Administrative Policy Regarding Human & Wildlife Conflicts (J1.6; Section IX General Operating Procedures), unless specifically authorized as a condition of their certification;
Transportation of sick or injured wildlife (including RVS) for wildlife rehabilitation must be done according to MDIFW Administrative Policy Regarding Human & Wildlife Conflicts (J1.6; Section IX General Operating Procedures), and must be done through direct coordination and discretion of a permitted wildlife rehabilitator or as directed by Department staff; and
Species that are State or Federally Listed as Threatened, Endangered, or a Species of Special Concern cannot be possessed without appropriate permits. Any incidental capture of such species must be reported to a Regional Wildlife Biologist or District Game Warden immediately.
27.10 TERM OF CERTIFICATION
For a first-time applicant, a conditional certification will be issued for a six-month probational period if the applicant satisfies provisions under Sections 27.07, 27.08 and 27.9, which will occur at some point during the peak conflict season (April-October).
If the applicant successfully completes their six-month probation, they will continue onto through a full term of certification as described below.
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An ADC certification authorizes a person to perform the work of an ADC agent of the Commissioner from the date of issuance through June 30th of the 2nd complete year following the year of issuance.
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Renewal of ADC certifications. A renewal requires re-submission of Part B Application to ensure agent information is current. MDIFW can require a Part A (Background Check) re-submission upon request. Renewals are conditional upon the following:
Maintain compliance with basic eligibility requirements;
Timely submission of activity reports;
Demonstrated compliance with Department Policy, operating standards and eligibility standards outlined in this Chapter; and
Demonstrated record of conflict resolution activity for the public or Department.
27.11 DENIAL, SUSPENSION OR REVOCATION OF CERTIFICATION
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The Department may deny an application for certification if eligibility and application requirements are not met (see section 27.06 and 26.07);
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The Department may temporarily suspend for a determined length of time or permanently revoke a certification if it determines that:
There are violations of the operating standards (see section 27.09);
B. The Agent is found to be no longer eligible for certification (section 27.06);
C. The Agent submitted false information or failed to disclose information required by the application;
D. The Agent has had negative interactions with the public in a manner that is inconsistent with operating standards, this Chapter, Department Policy, or has not satisfactorily represented themself as an Agent of the Commissioner or
E. Failure to meet the qualifications for the certification, including but not limited to, failing to pass reexamination.
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The Department will notify the Agent of any denial, revocation or suspension in writing, which shall inform the agent of the reasons for the Department’s decision; and
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Any person whose application for certification has been denied, or whose certification has been suspended or revoked, may request reconsideration from the Department. The request for reconsideration under this paragraph must be submitted to the Department, in writing within 30 days of receipt of the notice of denial, revocation or suspension of the ADC certificate. Reconsideration will provide an opportunity for the person to explain to the Department why his or her application for certification should be approved, or why the denial or revocation of his or her certification should be reinstated. Reconsideration under this paragraph is not an adjudicatory hearing pursuant to the Maine Administrative Procedures Act, 5 M.R.S. §§ 9051-9064.
27.12 RE-INSTATEMENT PROCEDURES AND PROVISIONAL REQUIREMENTS
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Any person whose certification has been revoked for failure to meet conditions in this Chapter and procedures outlined in MDIFW Administrative Policy Regarding Human & Wildlife Conflicts (J1.6), or whose certification has been suspended and the person failed to comply with conditions of suspension, may be permanently prohibited from receiving certification by the Department as an Animal Damage Control Agent;
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Any person whose application for certification has been denied can re-apply for certification no sooner than two (2) calendar years from the date of notice of denial;
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Any person who was certified as an ADC agent but failed to recertify within three years past the
expiration date of their certificate may be required to comply with all certification requirements including
the background check, training and examination;
- Any person seeking re-instatement through application must meet eligibility requirements and must be able to comply with operational standards in this Chapter and abide by MDIFW Administrative Policy Regarding Human & Wildlife Conflicts (J1.6). If the application is deemed acceptable to the Department, the agent may be issued a provisional certification with the inclusion of restrictions and/or specific conditions which may include, but are not limited to, the following considerations:
A. The Agent’s current abilities;
B. Addressing conditions of denial or suspension;
C. Limiting work with certain species or permissible actions;
D. Limiting work in specific geographic areas; and
E. Addressing other agent deficiencies.
- Any person who is issued a provisional certification through the re-instatement process that violates conditions of their provisional status, operating standards, or Departmental Policy may be permanently prohibited from receiving certification by the Department as an ADC Agent.
27.13 Transition and Grandfathering Provisions
- Any person who is certified as an ADC agent as of July 1, 2025, may continue to perform ADC
services and upon recertification is exempt from the examination requirements but must still meet the
background and training requirements for that recertification and any future recertification.
History
- STATUTORY AUTHORITY: 12 MRS §§ 10104, 10105
- EFFECTIVE DATE: February 5, 2019 – filing 2019-028
- APAO ACCESSIBILITY CHECK: July 21, 2025
- AMENDED: July 26, 2025 – filing 2025-150
Chapter 28 Educational Trip Leader Rules
Code Me. R. 09-137 Ch. 28 Educational Trip Leader Rules {#sec-09-137-ch.-28 omnilex-key=us-me-regs-official--dept-inland-fisheries-and-wildlife--09-137 Ch. 28}
- . Scope of Rules
These rules shall apply to Educational Trip Leader (ETL) Permit holders as described within Title 12 M.R.S. §12863.
- . Table of Contents
28.01 Scope of Rules
28.02 Table of Contents
28.03 Definitions
28.04 Educational Trip Leader Advisory Committee
28.05 Educational Trip Leader Advisory Committee Responsibilities
28.06 Educational Trip Leader Administrator Responsibilities
28.07 Educational Trip Leader Instructor Eligibility and Application Process
28.08 Educational Trip Leader Permit Eligibility and Application Process
28.09 Educational Trip Leader Permit Authorization 28.10 Standards of Competency
28.11 Standards for Revocation, Suspension or Denial
28.03. Definitions
Educational Institution: means a public school or private school, as defined in Title 20-A, section 1, a School Administrative Unit (SAU) as defined in Title 20-A, section 1, or postsecondary educational institution, or a similarly defined public or private school from another state or country.
Educational Trip Leader (ETL): means an employee or student sponsored and certified by the educational institution in which they are enrolled, employed by or affiliated with, to lead outdoor recreational trips.
Educational Trip Leader Administrator: means a current registered Maine guide (RMG) recommended by the Educational Trip Leader Advisory Committee and approved by the commissioner, who has oversight of the ETL program.
Educational Trip Leader Instructor (ETL Instructor): means an RMG or ETL who is certified to train and certify persons at educational institutions to become ETLs.
Educational Trip Leader Permit: a permit that allows a person affiliated with an educational institution to lead outdoor recreational trips. These permits are issued by the department to persons affiliated with an educational institution within the State of Maine and to those in other states or countries.
Outdoor Educational Trip: has the same meaning as defined within Title 12 M.R.S. §12863.
28.04. Educational Trip Leader Advisory Committee
Committee Established: The Outdoor Educational Trip Leader Advisory Committee is established and referred to in this Section as “the ETL Advisory Committee”.
Members: The ETL Advisory Committee shall consist of 7 members designated by the commissioner:
One employee of the department;
One RMG with educational trip leader experience;
One Administrator or ETL representing public postsecondary educational institutions;
One Administrator or ETL representing private nonprofit postsecondary educational institutions;
One Administrator or ETL representing K-12 public schools;
One Administrator or ETL representing K-12 private schools; and
One Administrator or ETL who is also a member of the camp trip leader permit Committee as described within DIFW Rule Chapter 23.
Officers: The ETL Advisory Committee shall elect a chair and secretary from among its members.
Terms. Members of the ETL Advisory Committee serve for 5 years. Members continue serving until a successor is duly appointed. A member may not serve more than 2 consecutive 5-year terms. When a vacancy occurs, the commissioner shall fill the vacancy by appointing a member from the same category as the member who vacated the ETL Advisory Committee and that member shall continue to serve for the remainder of the term.
Quorum. Five members of the ETL Advisory Committee constitute a quorum.
Meetings Held. The ETL Advisory Committee shall meet at least twice each year.
28.05. ETL Advisory Committee Responsibilities
ETL Advisory Committee shall:
- Make recommendations to the commissioner, to approve or deny a request to become ETL Administrators, ETL Instructors and ETLs;
- Maintain a list of all ETL Administrators and ETL Instructors;
- Create the process for testing ETLs;
- Create and adopt the ETL training curriculum;
- Review and update ETL training curriculum every 5 years;
- Review complaints against ETL Administrators, ETL Instructors and ETL permit holders; and
- Make recommendations to the commissioner on revocation, suspension, or denial of ETL permits in accordance with Title 12 M.R.S. §12863.
ETL Curriculum Standards. The ETL training curriculum adopted by the ETL Advisory Committee shall include the following minimum standards:
a. Group management and facilitation;
b. Risk management;
c. Wilderness trip skills;
d. Campcraft skills;
e. Awareness of the Maine outdoor sporting community (such as boating, ATVing, snowmobiling, hunting, fishing and trapping); and
f. Landowner relations
28.06. ETL Administrator Responsibilities
The Administrator will ensure that the Educational Institution sponsors and educates, all ETLs and holds liability insurance for all trips.
- Coordination of the ETL program including training of ETLs and ETL Instructors and making recommendations on ETL and ETL instructor eligibility to the ETL Advisory Committee.
28.07. ETL Instructor Eligibility and Application Process
To be eligible to be an ETL instructor, an applicant:
- Must be at least 18 years old;
- Must hold a current ETL permit or be a RMG; and
- Must provide required documentation of teaching experience in the field of outdoor recreation and references (as specified by the administrator).
An ETL Instructor permit expires 5 years from date of issuance.
The application must include the following information:
a. Name, mailing address and date of birth of applicant;
b. Verification of current ETL permit held by applicant or RMG status;
c. List of relevant experience and any required qualifications as provided within Section 28.07;
d. Signature of applicant attesting all information is true and correct; and
e. Signature of ETL Administrator certifying that the applicant meets all the requirements listed in Section 28.07.
28.08. ETL Permit Eligibility and Application Process
To be eligible to obtain an ETL Permit, an applicant:
- Must be at least 18 years of age;
- Must have successfully completed the ETL training for the applicable trip(s) being led, as designated by the ETL Advisory Committee; or
- Show documentation of having participated in a leadership role, in at least 2 experiences in a wilderness context and show any additional, applicable training and testing received by the applicant;
- Must hold a current Wilderness First Aid Certificate or equivalent course certificate;
- Must hold a current CPR Certification;
- Must have successfully completed water/boating safety instruction:
i. To be qualified to lead trips on inland waters, the applicant shall have successfully completed water/boating safety instruction or equivalent training specific to the watercraft used for the trip; and
ii. To be qualified to lead trips on coastal waters, the applicant shall have coastal water/boating safety instruction or equivalent experience specific to the watercraft used for the trip.
The application must include the following information:
- Name, mailing address and date of birth of applicant;
- Name and address of applicant’s sponsoring educational institution;
- Signature of the applicant attesting all information provided is true and accurate; and
- Signature of applicant’s sponsoring ETL Administrator verifying that the applicant has met the required minimum qualifications and training.
28.09. ETL Permit Authorization
A person who possesses a current and valid ETL permit is authorized to conduct outdoor educational trips as defined within Title 12 M.R.S. §12863.
An ETL Permit entitles the permittee to:
Lead outdoor educational trips that do not exceed a maximum 1:12 ETL to student ratio; and
Lead outdoor educational trips sponsored by an educational institution which may only include students, faculty, and staff from the same educational institution, or a partnering educational institution which has a current ETL program in place.
-
The permit shall expire June 30th after the 4thfull year after issuance;
-
Renewal of Permit: The ETL must submit the renewal application (designated as a renewal application), signed by the ETL Administrator stating that the applicant has completed the ETL training requirements;
-
Exception for Renewal: ETL permits which have not been renewed within three (3) consecutive years after the permit expiration date will not be renewable without the applicant reapplying as specified by the Advisory Committee.
28.10 . Standards of Competency
Standards of Competency: The following standards of competency are established in accordance with Title 12 M.R.S. §12863 requiring a level of outdoor experience that enables an ETL to lead a group responsibly, while managing and mitigating risk in the outdoors. Failure to comply with these standards of competency shall be grounds for ETL revocation, suspension or denial.
An ETL must:
Have technical, safety and organizational skills in outdoor leadership to provide adequate accommodations and lead outdoor trips that best manage and mitigate risk;
Have experience based judgment that helps prevent unsafe situations;
Have problem solving skills to be creative, resourceful and analytical in order to recognize problems, anticipate outcomes and choose the direction that mitigates risk as much as possible; and
Fully understand and abide by all state laws and rules involving the activities led by an ETL.
28.11. Standards for Revocation, Suspension or Denial and the Appeal’s Process
After review and recommendation by the Advisory Committee the commissioner may deny an application for an ETL permit, ETL instructor permit, or an ETL Administrator authorization if eligibility and application requirements are not met (see section 27.05 and 26.06).
After review and recommendation by the Advisory Committee the commissioner may suspend, revoke or refuse to renew an ETL permit, ETL instructor permit, or an ETL Administrator authorization pursuant to this rule chapter and Title 5, section 10004:
If the ETL, ETL Instructor or ETL Administrator fails to meet the standards of competency established pursuant to section 28.10;
If the ETL, ETL Instructor or ETL Administrator fails to meet the qualifications; or
If the ETL, ETL Instructor or ETL Administrator is found to be incompetent, negligent or neglectful in the conduct of ETL activities.
A person whose application, permit or authorization is revoked, suspended or denied under this paragraph may request a hearing before the commissioner. Following the hearing, the commissioner may issue, reinstate or allow for renewal an ETL permit, ETL instructor permit or ETL Administrator authorization that has been revoked, suspended or denied if the circumstances warrant. The request for a hearing under this paragraph must be made within 30 days of receipt of the revocation, suspension or denial.
Hearings. Hearings may be conducted by the commissioner to assist with investigations, to determine whether grounds exist for suspension, revocation or denial of a license, permit or authorization, or as otherwise necessary to implement the provisions of this section and section 12863. The commissioner shall hold an adjudicatory hearing at the written request of a person who has been denied a license, permit or authorization without a hearing for any reason other than failure to pay a required fee, as long as the request for hearing is received by the commissioner within 30 days of the applicant's receipt of written notice of the denial of the application, the reasons for the denial and the right to request a hearing. Hearings must be held in accordance with the adjudicatory proceeding provisions of the Maine Administrative Procedure Act within Title 5, chapter 375, subchapter 4, to the extent applicable. The commissioner may subpoena witnesses, records and documents in any hearing the commissioner conducts.
History
- STATUTORY AUTHORITY: 12 MRS §§ 10104, 12863
- EFFECTIVE DATE: June 5, 2022 – filing 2022-104
- EFFECTIVE DATE: APAO WORD VERSION CONVERSION (IF NEEDED) AND ACCESSIBILITY CHECK: July 17, 2025
Chapter 29 Species of Special Concern
Code Me. R. 09-137 Ch. 29 Species of Special Concern {#sec-09-137-ch.-29 omnilex-key=us-me-regs-official--dept-inland-fisheries-and-wildlife--09-137 Ch. 29}
29.01 Scope of Rules
Pursuant to 12 MRSA §10105, sub-§19, the Commissioner has the authority to develop a list of species of special concern, which are any species of fish or wildlife that does not meet the criteria as Endangered or Threatened but is particularly vulnerable, and could easily become an Endangered, Threatened, or Extirpated species due to restricted distribution, low or declining numbers, specialized habitat needs or limits, or other factors. Species of special concern are defined by 12 MRSA §10001 and used by the Department for planning and informational purposes, including when providing recommendations and advice on land use activities.
29.02 Designation of Species of Special Concern
A. In determining whether a species meets one or more of the standards for designating a species of special concern, qualifications for consideration, population guidelines, and other factors will be considered. For the purposes of this chapter, "species" will mean "species" or "subspecies" and "populations" will mean all individuals of the species, statewide.
- Qualifications for Consideration
A species may only be recommended for listing as a state Special Concern species if it meets all of the following qualifications:
a. It is a species of mammal, bird, fish, amphibian, reptile, or invertebrate wild by nature as distinguished from domestic species;
b. It is an indigenous species to Maine, meaning it is not an exotic deliberately or accidentally introduced into Maine, the United States, or North America.
c. It is a species that spends some portion of its annual cycle in Maine, including breeding, migration, or wintering, but is not a vagrant or accidental visitor;
d. It is a species that has not expanded into Maine within the past 50 years as part of a general range expansion, unless it historically occurred in Maine, is threatened or declining throughout a significant portion of its total range, or other significant risk factors have been identified;
e. It is a species that has not been reintroduced into Maine as part of an experimental wildlife management program, unless listing is part of the reintroduction plan; and
f. It is taxonomically classified no finer than a subspecies, unless federally Endangered or Threatened.
- Population Guidelines
The following population characteristics, when available, will be considered by the Commissioner when determining whether a species meets the definition of a species of special concern in accordance with 12 M.R.S.A. §10001.
a. Population vulnerability,
b. Population trend,
c. Population distribution,
d. Population fragmentation,
e. Endemism, meaning the species entirely or largely occurs only in Maine and immediate bordering jurisdictions, and
f. Regional concern
- Other Factors
In addition to population guidelines (2) above, other factors, including range or habitat loss, disease, predation, over-utilization, inadequacy of regulations, and other natural or human-related factors as measured through observation, inference, or projection, will be considered when determining whether to include a species on the list of species of special concern.
- Listing Handbook
The Department shall utilize the “Endangered and Threatened Species Listing Handbook” that will provide scientifically based listing guidelines and criteria based on Sections A-1, 2, and 3 of this rule to guide the listing process.
5. Review of List
At least every 10 years, the Department shall initiate a review of the list of Species of Special Concern to determine if any species should be added to, deleted from, or changed to or from the subcategory of Rare Species of Special Concern.
29.03 Designation of Rare Species of Special Concern
The Commissioner of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife shall designate a subcategory of species identified as being of special concern that are classified as rare and may be used for advisory recommendations to other entities or agencies on fish and wildlife matters in accordance with applicable laws or rules.
Rare species shall be those Special Concern species that are dependent on specific habitat types or limited breeding locations known to be particularly vulnerable to loss or disturbance; a species that is geographically limited (e.g. < 10 sites in the state); a species identified as vulnerable (NatureServe G3 or higher, IUCN VU or higher); a species highly vulnerable to climate change; or that qualifies for MESA status, but has not yet been listed.
29.04 List of Species of Special Concern
BIRDS
Leach’s Storm-petrel ( Hydrobates leucorhoa)
Special Concern - RARE
Great Blue Heron (Ardea herodias)
Special Concern - RARE
Greater Scaup ( Aythya marila)
Special Concern
Northern Harrier (Circus cyaneus)
Special Concern
American Coot (breeding population only) (Fulica americana)
Special Concern - RARE
Lesser Yellowlegs (Tringa flavipes)
Special Concern - RARE
American Oystercatcher ( Haematopus palliates)
Special Concern - RARE
Whimbrel ( Numenius phaeopus)
Special Concern - RARE
Rufa Red Knot ( Calidris canutus rufa)
Special Concern - RARE
Red-necked Phalarope ( Phalaropus lobatus)
Special Concern
Semipalmated Sandpiper ( Calidris pusilla)
Special Concern - RARE
Purple Sandpiper ( Calidris maritima)
Special Concern - RARE
Bonaparte’s Gull (breeding population only) ( Chroicocephalus philadelphia)
Special Concern - RARE
Laughing Gull ( Leucophaeus atricilla)
Special Concern
Common Murre ( Uria aalge)
Special Concern - RARE
Eastern Whip-poor-will ( Antrostomus vociferus )
Special Concern - RARE
Chimney Swift ( Chaetura pelagica)
Special Concern
Olive-sided Flycatcher ( Contopus cooperi)
Special Concern - RARE
Eastern Kingbird (T yrannus tyrannus)
Special Concern
Eastern Wood-Pewee ( Contopus virens)
Special Concern
Loggerhead Shrike ( Lanius ludovicianus)
Special Concern
Horned Lark (breeding population only) ( Eremophila alpestris)
Special Concern - RARE
Purple Martin ( Progne subis)
Special Concern - RARE
Barn Swallow ( Hirundo rustica)
Special Concern
Northern Rough-winged Swallow ( Stelgidopteryx serripennis)
Special Concern - RARE
Tree Swallow ( Tachycineta bicolor)
Special Concern
Brown Thrasher ( Toxostoma rufum)
Special Concern
Bay-breasted Warbler ( Setophaga castanea)
Special Concern
Cape May Warbler ( Setophaga tigrina)
Special Concern - RARE
Common Nighthawk ( Chordeiles minor)
Special Concern
Canada Warbler ( Cardellina canadensis)
Special Concern
Tennessee Warbler ( Leiothlypis peregrina)
Special Concern
Fox Sparrow (breeding population only) ( Passerella iliaca)
Special Concern
Nelson’s Sparrow ( Ammospiza nelsoni)
Special Concern - RARE
Vesper Sparrow ( Pooecetes gramineus)
Special Concern - RARE
American Kestrel ( Falco sparverius)
Special Concern
Eastern Towhee ( Pipilo erythrophthalmus)
Special Concern
Rusty Blackbird ( Euphagus carolinus)
Special Concern - RARE
Eastern Meadowlark ( Sturnella magna)
Special Concern - RARE
Evening Grosbeak (breeding population only) ( Coccothraustes vespertinus )
Special Concern
Field Sparrow ( Spizella pusilla)
Special Concern
Bobolink ( Dolichonyx oryzivorus)
Special Concern
American Three-toed Woodpecker ( Picoides dorsalis)
Special Concern - RARE
INVERTEBRATES
Mayflies
Brown’s Comb Minnow Mayfly ( Ameletus browni )
Special Concern - RARE
Bumble Bees
Rusty Patched Bumble Bee ( Bombus affinis )
Special Concern - RARE
Lemon Cuckoo Bumble Bee ( Bombus citrinus )
Special Concern
Yellow Bumble Bee ( Bombus fervidus )
Special Concern - RARE
Indiscriminate Cuckoo Bumble Bee ( Bombus insularis )
Special Concern - RARE
Butterflies
Dusted Skipper ( Atrytonopsis hianna )
Special Concern - RARE
Early Hairstreak ( Erora laeta )
Special Concern - RARE
Leonard’s Skipper ( Hesperia leonardus )
Special Concern - RARE
Cobweb Skipper ( Hesperia metea )
Special Concern - RARE
Spicebush Swallowtail ( Papilio troilus )
Special Concern - RARE
Northern Blue ( Plebejus idas scudderi )
Special Concern - RARE
Crowberry Blue ( Plebejus idas empetri )
Special Concern - RARE
Satyr Comma ( Polygonia satyrus )
Special Concern - RARE
Coral Hairstreak ( Satyrium titus )
Special Concern - RARE
Hoary Elfin ( Callophrys polios )
Special Concern - RARE
Silvery Checkerspot ( Chlosyne nycteis )
Special Concern - RARE
Short-tailed Swallowtail ( Papilio brevicauda gaspeensis )
Special Concern - RARE
Monarch ( Danaus plexippus )
Special Concern
Moths
Barrens Itame ( Macaria exonerata; f. Itame sp. 1 nr inextricata, Speranza )
Special Concern - RARE
Bold-based Zale Moth ( Zale lunifera; f. Z. sp. 1 nr. lunifera)
Special Concern - RARE
Eastern Buckmoth ( Hemileuca maia maia )
Special Concern - RARE
Broad Sallow Moth ( Xylotype capax )
Special Concern - RARE
Oblique Zale ( Zale obliqua )
Special Concern - RARE
Red-winged Sallow ( Xystopeplus rufago )
Special Concern - RARE
Similar Underwing ( Catocala similis )
Special Concern - RARE
Damselflies
New England Bluet ( Enallagma laterale )
Special Concern - RARE
Dusky Dancer ( Argia translata )
Special Concern - RARE
Tule Bluet ( Enallagma carunculatum )
Special Concern - RARE
Big Bluet ( Enallagma durum )
Special Concern - RARE
Scarlet Bluet ( Enallagma pictum )
Special Concern - RARE
Dragonflies
Canada Whiteface ( Leucorrhinia patricia )
Special Concern - RARE
Southern Pygmy Clubtail ( Lanthus vernalis )
Special Concern - RARE
Sedge Darner ( Aeshna juncea )
Special Concern - RARE
Arrowhead Spiketail ( Zoraena obliqua )
Special Concern - RARE
Swamp Darner ( Epiaeschna heros )
Special Concern - RARE
Cobra Clubtail ( Gomphurus vastus )
Special Concern - RARE
Pygmy Snaketail ( Ophiogomphus howei )
Special Concern - RARE
Common Sanddragon ( Progomphus obscurus )
Special Concern - RARE
Spatterdock Darner ( Rhionaeschna mutata )
Special Concern - RARE
Ringed Emerald ( Somatochlora albicincta )
Special Concern - RARE
Quebec Emerald ( Somatochlora brevicincta )
Special Concern - RARE
Arrow Clubtail ( Stylurus spiniceps )
Special Concern - RARE
Tiger Beetles
Appalachian Tiger Beetle ( Cicindela ancocisconensis )
Special Concern - RARE
Flower Flies
Hourglass Drone Fly ( Eristalis brousii)
Special Concern
Slosson’s Pond Fly ( Sericomyia slossonae)
Special Concern
Holarctic Bristleside ( Parasyrphus tarsatus)
Special Concern
Snails
Bigmouth Pond Snail ( Stagnicola mighelsi )
Special Concern - RARE
Malleated Vertigo ( Vertigo malleata )
Special Concern - RARE
HERPETOFAUNA
Reptiles
Wood Turtle ( Glyptemys insculpta )
Special Concern - RARE
Eastern Ribbonsnake ( Thamnophis saurita )
Special Concern - RARE
Amphibians
Northern Spring Salamander ( Gyrinophilus porphryticus porphryticus )
Special Concern - RARE
Northern Leopard Frog ( Lithobates pipiens )
Special Concern
INLAND FISH
Arctic Charr ( Salvelinus alpinus oquassa )
Special Concern - RARE
Bridle Shiner ( Notropis bifrenatus )
Special Concern - RARE
Creek Chubsucker ( Erimyzon oblongus )
Special Concern - RARE
Longnose Dace ( Rhinichthys cataractae )
Special Concern - RARE
Lake Whitefish ( Coregonus clupeaformis )
Special Concern - RARE
MAMMALS
Carnivores
Canada Lynx ( Lynx canadensis )
Special Concern
Bats
Big Brown Bat ( Eptesicus fuscus )
Special Concern
Eastern Red Bat ( Lasiurus borealis )
Special Concern
Hoary Bat ( Lasiurus cinereus )
Special Concern
Silver-haired Bat ( Lasionycteris noctivigans )
Special Concern
Rodents
Penobscot Meadow Vole ( Microtus pennsylvanicus shattucki )
Special Concern - RARE
History
- STATUTORY AUTHORITY: 12 MRS §§ 10105, 12152
- EFFECTIVE DATE: February 27, 2022 – filing 2022-024
- AMENDED: December 21, 2024 – filing 2024-273
09-585 Maine Outdoor Heritage Fund Board
Chapter 25 Maine Outdoor Heritage Fund - Strategic Plan
Code Me. R. 09-585 Ch. 25 MAINE OUTDOOR HERITAGE FUND - STRATEGIC PLAN (January, 2026) {#sec-09-585-ch.-25 omnilex-key=us-me-regs-official--dept-inland-fisheries-and-wildlife--09-585 Ch. 25}
Overview
The Maine Outdoor Heritage Fund was established in July 1995 through L.D. 717, An Act to Establish the Maine Outdoor Heritage Fund. As stated in Title12, MRSA c. 903, section 10303,
"The fund is for the sole purpose of maintaining, improving and expanding state and local natural resource conservation programs and associated compatible public uses in accordance with the strategic plan provided for by section 10308, subsection 5, paragraph A."
Title 12, MRSA c. 903, section 10308 charges the Maine Outdoor Heritage Fund Board with adopting a strategic plan for each of the funding categories listed in section 10307. As the law states, "The strategic plan must identify the priority areas for funding…using the criteria listed in section 10309." This strategic plan is intended to fulfill the requirements of Title 12, MRSA c. 903, section 10308 stated above, and to provide direction to the Board and natural resource agencies on the long-term funding priorities of the Maine Outdoor Heritage Fund.
Guiding Principles
The Maine Outdoor Heritage Fund Board will be guided by the following principles as it considers grant requests during the period of its duration, which is expected to be the next six years. It will give preference to projects that most substantially accomplish one or more of these objectives:
conserve the best of Maine's outdoor heritage and achieve outstanding natural-resource or recreational benefits;
Maximize degree and diversity of public/private partnerships or other types of matching contributions. Projects with a 1/3 or higher cash match will be given the highest priority evaluation. Contributions are intended to support only project-related expenses, including salaries. Matching contributions must consist of funds raised specifically for the project proposed and should not include salary costs of natural resource agency staff that are funded by the State General Fund. In-kind contributions that occur during the duration of the project will be considered matching contributions. Proposals that are funded will receive funds according to a schedule determined by the Board. For additional information on matching contributions: refer to MOHF Matching Contributions and Partnerships found on MOHF webpage, www.maine.gov/ifw/mohf.
form alliances between natural resource agencies, interest groups, and organizations based on shared visions and mutual responsibility. These groups and organizations could include Universities, Municipalities, Tribal Nations, Conservation Groups, other Not-For Profit, and For-Profit Corporations;
address natural resource concerns of statewide significance and/or broad geographical distribution;
Prioritize natural systems that have the potential to be climate resilient, and prioritize actions that help a natural system adapt to climate change.
Fund Distribution Categories and Grant Criteria
As specified in Title 12, MRSA c. 903, section 10307, Sponsoring Natural Resource Agencies may apply for a Maine Outdoor Heritage Fund grant, independently or in partnership with other entities. The Maine Outdoor Heritage Fund Board encourages Universities, Municipalities, Tribal Nations, Conservation Groups and Not-For-Profit and For-profit corporations interested in projects to contact the appropriate Sponsoring Natural Resource Agency as reported on the MOHF webpage, www.maine.gov/ifw/mohf. Applicants are encouraged to review and address State Priority Reports and other supporting documents as listed on the MOHF webpage.
Dollar amount of grants will vary. The Board will allocate funds according to four major fund distribution categories outlined in Title 12, MRSA c. 903, section 10307 and stated below. The percentage of overall Board funding allocated to each of the four categories is also outlined in Title 12, MRSA c. 903, section 10307 and stated below.
1. Conservation of fisheries and wildlife, and habitat (35%)
The Board shall consider whether a project involves:
Protection/enhancement of a species, species group, natural community or ecosystem adversely affected due to lack of management or habitat loss;
Protection/enhancement of a species, species group, natural community or ecosystem that is adversely affected due to unusual vulnerability to human or natural disturbances, or need for a special or limited habitat type;
Provision of benefits vital to the future welfare of a species or species group;
Education about fisheries, wildlife, natural community, and habitat conservation;
Equipment and training to improve efficiencies in fisheries, wildlife and habitat conservation efforts;
Protection/enhancement of a species, species group, natural community or ecosystem of statewide or regional significance;
Long-term monitoring of fisheries and wildlife, and habitat; or
Climate change, mitigation, resiliency or adaptation strategies.
2. Acquisition and management of public lands, parks, wildlife conservation areas, and public access and outdoor recreation sites and facilities (35%)
Land acquisition projects may involve a range of land types (eg. forestlands, agricultural lands, wetlands, grasslands) that support wildlife conservation and public recreation. The Board shall consider whether a project involves:
Public outdoor recreation sites and facilities or lands of statewide or regional significance;
Acquisition and public management of habitat or species, species group, natural community or ecosystem of statewide or regional significance;
Acquisition and public management of habitat of a threatened or endangered species listed under state or federal law;
Acquisition and public management of rare or exemplary natural communities or ecosystems as determined by the State's Natural Areas Program database;
Protection/enhancement of rare or exemplary geological features;
Areas with proximity to lands dedicated to conservation purposes or public recreation.
Education about the management and use of public lands, parks, wildlife conservation areas, and public access and outdoor recreation sites and facilities;
Equipment and training to improve efficiencies in the management of public lands, parks, wildlife conservation areas, and public access and outdoor recreation sites and facilities;
Development and maintenance of outdoor recreational facilities and access sites;
Long-term monitoring of public lands, parks, and wildlife conservation areas; or
Climate change, mitigation, resiliency or adaptation strategies.
3. Conservation of endangered and threatened species (15%)
The Board shall consider whether a project involves:
A species or species group listed as endangered or threatened under state or federal law;
The habitat of one or more species listed as endangered or threatened species under state or federal law;
A species or species group not listed as threatened or endangered but, based on the best available scientific information, potentially warranting listing in near future;
A species, species group, natural community or ecosystem that has been documented as being in decline or recognized as being at risk of extirpation from the State;
A species, species group, natural community or ecosystem thought in the best professional judgment of biologists to be in decline or in danger of extirpation from the State but whose status is undetermined;
Education about conservation of rare, threatened and endangered species, species of special concern, and/or exemplary natural communities;
Equipment and training to improve efficiencies in the conservation of rare, threatened and endangered species, species of special concern, and exemplary natural communities;
Long-term monitoring of rare, threatened, endangered species or habitat; or
Climate change, mitigation, resiliency or adaptation strategies.
4. Natural resources law enforcement and protection of public health (15%)
The Board shall consider whether a project involves:
Public health or safety concerns of statewide or regional significance;
Biological or environmental indicators that would signal threats to Maine's air quality, water quality, wildlife or wildlife habitat, and/or health of Maine's ecosystems;
Environmental education for the public or law enforcement personnel;
Cross-training between natural resources state agencies;
Equipment and training to improve efficiencies in natural resources law enforcement;
Education of the public about natural resource laws and enforcement; or
Climate change, mitigation, resiliency or adaptation strategies.
For additional information on fund distribution categories: refer to MOHF Category Objectives found on MOHF webpage, www.maine.gov/ifw/mohf
Definitions of Terms used in Strategic Plan(from Title 12, MRSA c. 903, section 10301)
-
Acquisition. "Acquisition" means fee ownership, easement, lease, right-of-way, and other less-than fee interests in land.
-
Board. "Board" means the Maine Outdoor Heritage Fund Board.
-
Coordinator of the Natural Areas Program. “Coordinator of the Natural Areas Program” means the person appointed by the Commissioner of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry to be responsible for coordinating the Natural Areas Program.
-
Fund. “Fund” means the Maine Outdoor Heritage Fund.
-
Matching funds. "Matching funds" means any combination of public and private funds used in conjunction with the Maine Outdoor Heritage Fund, including, but not limited to, private contributions of cash or securities, money from municipal or other public agencies, money from a federal matching program, in-kind contributions or any combination thereof.
-
Natural resources agencies. "Natural resources agencies" means state agencies, bureaus, boards, commissions or other instrumentalities having jurisdiction over the protection of the State's natural resources.
-
Public-private partnership. "Public-private partnership" means any partnership between federal agencies, state agencies or individuals or any combination of federal agencies, state agencies or individuals, including corporations and private persons or organizations, where at least 1/3 of the funding is contributed by a nongovernmental organization or individual.
-
Wildlife. "Wildlife" means wild organisms, including vertebrate, invertebrate and plant species.
MOHF reference documents can be found on the MOHF webpage, www.maine.gov/ifw/mohf.
History
- STATUTORY AUTHORITY: 12 MRS §10308
- STATUTORY AUTHORITY: History
- EFFECTIVE DATE: November 24, 1996 – filing 96-508
- AMENDED: May 31, 1998 – filing 98-247
- AMENDED: December 25, 2001 – filing 2001-537
- AMENDED: December 4, 2007 – filing 2007-504
- AMENDED: May 20, 2014 – filing 2014-097
- AMENDED: December 2, 2019 – filing 2019-214
- AMENDED: July 6, 2025 – filing 2025-140
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