Maine Gun Control Laws

Main state firearms laws are very straightforward and make it simple for the average citizen to own their own firearm. There are few laws that govern the use of rifles and shotguns. Handguns may only be carried as concealed weapons with a permit. However, no kind firearm is required to be registered with any establishment. Those who are 18 years or older and have not committed any crimes may possess a handgun, rifle or shot gun. These firearms may be possessed while concealed if the appropriate permit is granted. Permits are granted only to those with little to no criminal history and sound medical history. Rifles and shotguns may be possessed by minors in most cases. Permits may take up to 30 days to receive, and up to 60 for residents of less than five years or non-residents within 60 days.

Carrying Guns and Possession Laws: Penalties & Regulations

• Possession of a firearm while in a designated liquor dispensary is a Class D crime.
• Possession of a firearm while intoxicated is a Class D crime.
• Possession of a machine gun is a Class D crime.

Requirements:

Maine Gun Purchasing Laws

Purchasing firearms in the state of Main is fairly simple. It is among the most lenient in the country. No permits are required to purchase. In addition, after purchasing, no registration of the firearm is required by the owner. However, all businesses that sell firearms are required by law to place a sign at each sales counter that warns customers of child endangerment laws through owning firearms.  

Penalties & Regulations for Unlawful Purchases

• No firearms dealer may be held liable for injuries resulting from use of a firearm
• Safety brochures must be included with every firearms sale
• Sale of machine guns is a Class D crime

Requirements:

Firing Handguns and Self Defense

Self-defense with the use of deadly force in the state of Main is legal. Deadly force includes the use of legally owned firearms. However, the following things can void the use of deadly force:

• Discharging the firearm in self-defense, while in a public place
• Discharging the firearm in the direction of a roadway or highway
• Using deadly force when a lethal threat to the defender's life is not present

Legal Help

Though many of the firearms regulations in Maine are lax, there are still possible infractions to the present laws. With the help of an attorney, an individual charged with violating a gun law may earn the minimum of punishments. Some of the common infractions by firearms owners are the following:

• Felon in possession of firearm
• Possession of a concealed firearm without the appropriate permit
• Carrying a loaded firearm while traveling in a motor vehicle