Maine’s Outdoor Laws for 2025: A Comprehensive Review
Outdoor enthusiasts, brace yourselves for a shift in the landscape of outdoor recreation in Maine as we dive into the laws legislated in 2024 that will impact your experience in 2025.
Maine’s 2025 Boating Regulations
Noise limitations for Airboats
The state of Maine has legislated new noise limits for airboats with the aim of curbing noise pollution on Maine’s scenic water bodies. Airboats, as we know, are often characterized by their unique flat-bottomed structure and aircraft-like propeller. To these, noise standards have been stipulated, restricting them to 90 decibels during the day (7 a.m. – 7 p.m.) and 75 at night (7 p.m. – 7 a.m.). However, some exceptions exist, particularly while leaving boat launch areas or sailing off tidal flats.
Wake boat and Wakesurfing Regulations
In the pursuit of preserving wildlife habitats and protecting shoreline integrity, the state oversaw the enforcement of legislation LD2284/HP 1472. Under this new legislation, motorboats pulling wakesurfers are required to maintain a distance of no less than 300 feet from shore and not to venture into waters less than 15 feet deep. Any violation of these stipulations will attract fines up to $100.
Invasive Species Prevention Measures
Unwanted invasive species are a threat to Maine’s aquatic ecosystems, and efforts to prevent their introduction and spread have received even more legal backing. This goes beyond keeping watercraft free of potentially invasive plant fragments and draining them before moving between water bodies. Deeper collaboration between the Departments of Marine Patrol and Inland Fisheries and Wildlife aims to amplify efforts to keep clean waters safe from invasive species, especially at dam and fishway sites.
Funds Allocation for Invasive Species Control
To further aid the fight against invasive aquatic species, Maine’s legislative assembly passed a bill for the incremental increase of funds earmarked for this purpose. This involves a raise in the cost of invasive species prevention and control stickers and a change in the allocation of fees towards two key environmental funds. Simultaneously, boat registration fees are set to rise, which will also contribute to conservation efforts.
New Lead Jigs Regulations in Maine
Continuing the state’s efforts to protect aquatic and wildlife, the sale and use of lead jigs weighing an ounce or less, or measuring 2.5 inches or less, will be prohibited from September 1, 2026, following a ban on their sale from September 1, 2024. Violators can expect to be fined between $100 and $500.
Changes to Maine’s Upland Game Hunting Laws
The upland game law H.P. 1422 – L.D. 2216 saw a few changes making the last Saturday in September integral to the open hunting season. However, the Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife commissioner will determine the length of the season. Proposed changes to upland hunting during the first week of moose season were withdrawn, and two days of youth deer hunting were made permanent.
Update on Maine ATV and Snowmobile Trails Fund Allocation
The allocation of non-recreational vehicle gas tax money has been modified in an effort to better support snowmobiling and all-terrain vehicle riding in the state. The updated allocation provides additional funds to the Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry, Bureau of Parks, and Lands’ Snowmobile Trail Fund and ATV Recreational Management Funds.
Maine Land Transfer for Local Park Development
In a unique move, the Maine Legislature approved the transfer of ownership of Peacock Beach from the state to the town of Richmond. This move allows the town to make improvements to the 32-acre public beach ahead of the summer season.
New Gun Purchase Waiting Period and its Implications
Gun buyers in Maine will now need to anticipate a 72-hour waiting period before they can take home their purchases. This new law, which has sparked a lawsuit questioning its constitutionality, took effect in early August of 2024.
Originally Post From https://observer-me.com/2024/12/28/featured/these-laws-will-affect-your-outdoor-experience-in-maine-in-2025/
