Maine Rent Control Law

Last updated: January 2026

A comprehensive guide to rent control and tenant protections in Maine.

Check your address to see what protections may apply.

Overview of Rent Control in Maine

Maine has local rent control in two cities:

Additionally, Maine provides statewide tenant protections that apply everywhere:

Portland's rent control ordinance was enacted by citizens' referendum in November 2020.

Feature	Details
Rent Cap	100% of CPI (no additional percentage)
Exemptions	Buildings built after April 2020; owner-occupied buildings with 4 or fewer units
Registration	Landlords must register units with the city
Penalties	$50-$500 per violation

South Portland's rent control ordinance was passed in 2021 with a stricter cap formula.

Feature	Details
Rent Cap	100% of CPI or 5%, whichever is lower
Coverage	Buildings built before April 1, 1984
Exemptions	Owner-occupied buildings with 5 or fewer units; federally subsidized housing
Rent Board	South Portland Rent Board hears disputes and exemption petitions

All Maine tenants, regardless of whether they live in a city with rent control, have these protections:

45-day notice – Landlords must provide 45 days' written notice before raising rent
12-month limit – Rent can only be raised once every 12 months for sitting tenants
Just cause eviction – Landlords must have a valid legal reason for eviction

Disclaimer: This article provides general information and is not legal advice. Contact the appropriate city agency for specific questions.