By FindLaw Staff | Legally reviewed by Maddy Teka, Esq. | Last reviewed June 04, 2021
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The Second Amendment of the U.S. Constitution provides residents the right to bear arms. Maine's Constitution is quite clear on gun rights. It states, “Every citizen has a right to keep and bear arms and this right shall never be questioned."
While the federal and state constitutional rights are clear to some people, the right to own guns can be controversial. While most people believe some limitations (like no guns in daycare centers) could be acceptable, other people question which types of limits are OK and which are not.
Many gun rights advocates find Maine supportive of gun ownership, but some critics find Maine's gun control laws far too lax. The Giffords Law Center to Prevent Gun Violence gave Maine an “F" grade for its gun laws because it doesn't require:
Maine's gun control laws are intended to make Maine safer while permitting recreational gun use, such as hunting, clay target shooting, and gun range shooting.
The following table details the primary gun laws in Maine.
Relevant Statutes (Laws) |
|
|---|---|
Illegal Arms |
Maine and federal law (National Firearms Act) prohibit carrying certain guns without authorization. This includes:
|
Waiting Period |
None |
Who May Not Own |
The following people are not allowed to possess firearms:
|
License Required? |
|
Concealed Carry License Required? |
|
Open Carried Allowed? |
Open carry is allowed in Maine. |
Eligibility for a Concealed Carry License |
In order to be eligible for a concealed carry license you must:
|
Machine Gun Laws |
Machine gun possession is illegal in Maine unless it is obtained in compliance with federal law. |
Penalties for Illegal Firearm Possession |
|
Penalties for Illegal Possession on or Near School Grounds |
Possessing a firearm on public or private school property is a Class E crime punishable by up to six months incarceration and a $1,000 fine. You also can't discharge a firearm within 500 feet of a school. There are exceptions for school-operated gun ranges. |
Note: State laws are always subject to change through the passage of new legislation, rulings in the higher courts (including federal decisions), ballot initiatives, and other means. While we strive to provide the most current information available, please consult an attorney or conduct your own legal research to verify the state law(s) you are researching.
If you have questions about gun control laws or getting your gun rights restored in Maine, you should speak with an experienced Maine constitutional lawyer or criminal defense lawyer.
Contact a qualified attorney.
Get tailored advice and ask your legal questions. Many Maine attorneys offer free consultations.