Maine Statewide Rule

Maine Forest Practices Act Tree Removal Rules

Some RestrictionsApplies statewide across Maine (2026)

Maine's Forest Practices Act regulates timber harvesting on all forestland statewide and requires harvest notifications to the Bureau of Forestry. Shoreland tree removal rules also apply universally near protected waters under separate statewide standards.

Key Facts

Statute: 12 MRSA 8867-8869
Notification: Required before harvest
Clearcut limit: 250 acres typical
Shoreland buffer: 250 feet
Per-acre fine: Up to $1,000

Source: Maine Legislature

Full Breakdown

Under 12 MRSA section 8867 through 8869, anyone harvesting commercial forest products in Maine must file a notification of intent with the Bureau of Forestry before cutting. The Forest Practices Act also imposes clearcut size limits, regeneration standards, and shoreland zone restrictions on timber harvesting within 250 feet of protected water bodies. Municipalities may regulate timber harvesting in shoreland zones only if their ordinance is reviewed and certified by the state, otherwise the statewide standards apply by default under 12 MRSA 8869(8).

Violations & Penalties

Civil penalties up to $1,000 per acre for unlawful clearcuts and up to $1,000 per violation for failure to notify under 12 MRSA section 8868.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a permit to cut trees on my own land?

Commercial harvesting requires Bureau of Forestry notification statewide. Personal-use cutting outside shoreland zones generally does not, though local rules may add requirements.

Can my town ban all logging?

No. Towns may regulate timber harvesting in shoreland zones if certified by the state, but cannot prohibit silviculture entirely on commercial forestland under Maine law.

Sources

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