Notice: 45 days written notice required (Maine state law).
Registration: Landlords must register units with the city.
Overview of Portland Rent Control
The City of Portland, Maine has a rent control ordinance that limits how much landlords can raise rents each year. The ordinance was enacted in November 2020 after a citizens' referendum and is administered by the Portland Housing Safety Office.
The ordinance limits rent increases on most rental units to 70% of the change in the Greater Boston metro Consumer Price Index (CPI) each year, set every September 1. For calendar year 2026 the City set the allowable increase at 2.2%.
Who Is Covered?
Portland's rent control ordinance applies to most residential rental units in the city. Exemptions include:
New construction – Buildings constructed after April 2020 are exempt
Previously subsidized units – Units that previously received subsidies and are no longer restricted
Small owner-occupied buildings – Owner-occupied buildings with 4 or fewer units
Hotels, inns, and boarding houses
Rent Increase Limits
The rent cap equals 70% of the change in the Greater Boston CPI; for calendar year 2026 the City set the allowable increase at 2.2%.
Landlords must provide 45 days' written notice before any rent increase (Maine state law).
Registration and Compliance
Landlords must register their rental units with the city and certify their compliance with the rent cap each year. Failure to register or violating the cap may result in penalties of $50 to $500 per violation.
Maine State Law Protections
In addition to Portland's local ordinance, Maine state law provides:
Portland limits annual rent increases to 70% of the change in the Greater Boston CPI. For calendar year 2026 the City set the allowable increase at 2.2%.
Which buildings are exempt from Portland rent control?
Buildings constructed after April 2020, owner-occupied buildings with 4 or fewer units, previously subsidized units, and hotels/inns/boarding houses are exempt.
What penalties exist for rent control violations in Portland?
The city can fine landlords $50 to $500 per violation. Tenants can also take legal action to recover excess rent paid.
Do I need to register my rental unit?
Yes, landlords must register their rental units with the city and certify compliance with the rent cap each year.
Get notified when rent laws change in Portland
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