Maine

Maine legalized medical cannabis in 1999 via citizen initiative (Question 2) and adult-use cannabis in 2016 through Question 1, with retail sales beginning October 9, 2020, after extended implementation delays. The Office of Cannabis Policy (OCP), within the Department of Administrative and Financial Services, regulates all licensed cannabis activity. As of 2026, approximately 180 licensed retail stores operate statewide, a significant increase from 37 at launch in 2021. Maine imposes no license caps at the state level, though municipalities may limit the number of establishments within their boundaries. The state charges a 10% adult-use excise tax plus standard 5.5% sales tax. License types include cultivation, manufacturing, testing, retail, and nursery. Maine's caregiver program remains active alongside the commercial market, allowing registered caregivers to supply medical patients directly.

Ask the Expert about Maine

Regulator

Maine Office of Cannabis Policy

Key Legislation

Maine Revised Statutes Title 28-B — Adult Use Marijuana

Year Legalized

1999

Program Size

~180 licensed retail stores; no state...

Key Facts

Adult-use legalized via Question 1 in 2016; retail sales began October 2020 after extended implementation delays
No state-level license caps; municipalities retain authority to limit or ban establishments locally
10% adult-use excise tax plus 5.5% state sales tax
Active caregiver program allows registered caregivers to supply medical patients directly alongside commercial market
License types include cultivation, manufacturing, testing, retail, and nursery

Key Legislation

Maine Revised Statutes Title 28-B — Adult Use Marijuana

Regulatory Body

Maine Office of Cannabis Policy (OCP)

Country Info

ISO Code

Region

North America

Tier

Tier 1 — Active Program

Status

Adult-Use & Medical — Legal

Sources

Maine Revised Statutes Title 28-B — Adult Use Marijuana Office of Cannabis Policy (OCP)

Disclaimer: This information is for general reference only and does not constitute legal advice. Cannabis regulations change frequently. Always verify with official sources and local legal counsel before making compliance decisions.