Maine state law: dogs at large prohibited (7 MRS § 3911-A)

Per 7 MRS § 3911-A (Dogs at large prohibited), it is unlawful for any owner or keeper to allow a dog to run at large, except when used for hunting. The state baseline requires dogs to be under effective control of the owner. Per 7 MRS § 3950, a municipality may adopt or retain more stringent leash and at-large ordinances; any less restrictive municipal ordinance is invalid and of no force and effect. Section 3950 also shields municipal barking-dog ordinances from applying to dogs engaged in herding livestock or to agricultural guard dogs. Most Maine municipalities require dogs to be on a physical leash no longer than 6 feet when off the owner's property and operate designated off-leash dog parks (Portland requires a leash in all public places except posted off-leash areas). The state floor applies in every Maine city and town.

Civil violation under 7 MRS § 3911-A — typical fine $50-$250 for a dog running at large; subsequent offenses carry higher fines. Municipal leash-ordinance violations are enforced by the local Animal Control Officer; impoundment fees and reclaim charges apply.