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Maine is a “Shall Issue” state because of reciprocity with other states. If you’re 21 you’re not required to have a permit, as long as you’re legally allowed to have a handgun. Permits are still available for residents who wish to travel out-of-state and non-residents. Applications are handled at the state level by the Maine State Police.
| Open Carry Permitted? | Yes! |
| Carry In Vehicle? | Yes! |
| Carry In State Park? | Yes! |
| Carry In Restaurants? | Yes! |
| Constitutional Carry? | Yes! |
| No Weapon Sign Enforced? | Row 6, Content 1 |
| Must Notify Officer? | Row 7, Content 1 |
YES – Without a Permit/License Open carrying a handgun without a permit/license in Maine is legal but not common in cities. You cannot open carry in State Parks.
YES – Without a Permit/License Any person in Maine older than 21 years (18 – 20 if in the military) who can legally own a firearm can carry a loaded, concealed handgun in a motor vehicle without a permit/license.
YES
If you are a resident of Maine then you are permitted to conceal carry firearms in state parks, state forests, and roadside rest areas. Wildlife management areas are off limits and it is illegal to open carry in state parks.
YES – IF NOT POSTED – In Restaurants That Serve Alcohol “Yes” or “No” states if you can carry in a restaurant that serves alcohol. Some restaurants may be posted with “NO GUN” signs. Check with the staff if this means just the bar area. If we have indicated a “Yes” then it should be legal to have a meal without drinking alcohol.
YES
Maine gun laws give “No Weapons” signs force of law. There are legal penalties for entering a private property or business that has posted these signs.
YES/NO – Must Inform Officer on Contact By Law No License – Under Maine gun laws if you are carrying under permitless carry you must inform law enforcement immediately you have a concealed firearm. With license – If you have a permit/license that Maine honors then you do not need to inform law enforcement you are carrying a firearm. You are required to present your permit/license and ID when requested to do so.