14 Strange (But True) Laws You’ll Only Hear About in Maine

Welcome to Maine—where the lighthouses are iconic, the moose outnumber people in some towns, and the laws range from huh? to you’ve got to be kidding. While the Pine Tree State is known for its rugged coastline, lobster rolls, and Stephen King vibes, its legal code definitely leans into the quirky. So whether you’re driving a moose or buying a violin on Sunday, you might want to check the rulebook first.

1. It’s Illegal to Park in Front of Dunkin’ in South Berwick

South Berwick takes its caffeine access seriously. Blocking a Dunkin’ Donuts entrance isn’t just rude—it’s illegal.

2. You May Not Step Out of a Plane While It’s in the Air

Seems like a no-brainer, right? But Maine made it official. Midair exits = criminal offense. Skydivers, get your paperwork in order.

3. You Can’t Keep an Armadillo as a Pet

Armadillos may be cute (ish), but Maine says no. The law restricts ownership of certain exotic animals—especially ones with armor.

4. It’s Illegal to Advertise on Tombstones

That “sponsored by Joe’s Lobster Shack” gravestone idea? Shut it down. Even in death, Mainers draw the line at tacky.

5. You Can Be Fined for Leaving Christmas Decorations Up After January 14

Maine loves holiday cheer—but not too much. Keep those lights up too long, and you could get slapped with a fine for seasonal laziness.

6. You Must Not Drive with a Dog Secured to the Roof of Your Car

Yes, someone apparently tried this. Now it’s banned. Maine protects its pups from high-speed rooftop rides.

7. It’s Illegal to Sell a Car on Sunday Unless It’s Snowing

Most car dealerships must close on Sundays… unless a snowstorm hits. Then it’s go-time. Blizzards = bargains.

8. It’s a Crime to Keep Christmas Lights on a Shed or Outhouse

Maine zoning laws frown on bedazzling your backyard bathroom. Festive outhouses? That’s a hard pass.

9. You Can’t Blow Your Nose Loudly in Public on Sunday in Waterville

If you’re feeling sniffly in Waterville, keep it down. Loud nose-honking on Sundays can technically lead to a fine.

10. It’s Illegal to Roller Skate on the Sidewalk in Biddeford

Thinking of busting out your retro moves downtown? Biddeford says keep it off the sidewalk or risk a ticket.

11. You May Not Walk Down the Street While Playing the Violin in Augusta on Sundays

Apparently, this was a real concern in the capital city. Nothing ruins a quiet Sunday like a moving violin recital, apparently.

12. You Can Be Fined for Not Having a Permit to Sell Holiday Trees

Even if you cut down your own pine and want to sell it out of your truck, Maine requires a permit. No permit? No pine profits.

13. It’s Illegal to Swear While Ice Fishing in certain parts of the state

Drop your line in the wrong hole and let out a string of expletives? Careful—some local ordinances say even the fish deserve polite language.

14. You Can’t Display a Replica of the State Flag if It’s Not “Respectful” Enough

Want a funky reinterpretation of the Maine flag on your T-shirt? Better double-check—it must be displayed with dignity. No lobster-with-sunglasses versions allowed.

In Maine, the laws are as salty as the Atlantic and just as deep. Whether you’re wrangling Christmas lights, watching your mouth on a frozen lake, or keeping armadillos off your property, the Pine Tree State keeps things quirky in the most charming way. So come for the lobster—but stay within legal bounds, or you just might get fined for playing the violin too enthusiastically.

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