Maine Background Check and Gun Laws

Maine is a "shall issue" state for concealed carry. The issuing authority is the local government or local police, or the state police. A permit to carry a concealed firearm shall be issued within 30 days to a qualified applicant who has been a Maine resident for at least five years, or within 60 days to a nonresident or a resident for less than five years. The permit is valid for four years. A permit to carry a concealed firearm is required when transporting a loaded firearm, either concealed or plainly visible, in a vehicle. A permit is not required for open carry.

 

Maine does not currently honor concealed carry permits from other states. In 2007, the state enacted L.D. 148, directing the Department of Public Safety and the Attorney General to review other states' concealed weapon reciprocity agreements and actively seek reciprocity where appropriate.

 

Maine has state preemption of firearms laws. No political subdivision of the state may adopt any law regulating firearms or ammunition, except for regulating the discharge of firearms.

 

A municipality may not sue a firearm or ammunition manufacturer for damages relating to the lawful design, manufacture, marketing or sale of firearms or ammunition. A municipality may bring legal action for breach of contract or warranty.