Maine § 12159. - Taking reptiles and amphibians from the wild
Full text of Maine Maine Revised Statutes § 12159. — Taking reptiles and amphibians from the wild, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 12159.. Taking reptiles and amphibians from the wild
1. Prohibition; penalties. Except as provided in this section, a person may not take or possess reptiles or amphibians from the wild for export, sale or commercial purposes.
A. A person who violates this subsection commits a civil violation for which a fine of not less than $100 nor more than $500 may be adjudged. [PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §207 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §422 (AFF).]
B. A person who violates this subsection after having been adjudicated as having committed 3 or more civil violations under this Part within the previous 5-year period commits a Class E crime. [PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §207 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 655, Pt. B, §422 (AFF).]
2. Commercial amphibian permit. Persons harvesting amphibians for purposes of sale are required to obtain a permit from the commissioner. The fee for a permit issued under this subsection is $27. The permit expires one year from the date of issuance.
3. Rules. The commissioner shall adopt rules pertaining to harvest methods, confinement and disposal of amphibians. The commissioner may by rule:
A. Require reporting of harvest activities; [PL 2011, c. 253, §23 (AMD).]
B. Establish a season, including daily and season possession limits; and [PL 2017, c. 205, §23 (AMD).]
C. Establish requirements for humane harvest, confinement and disposal methods. [PL 2017, c. 205, §23 (AMD).]
D. [PL 2017, c. 205, §23 (RP).]
Rules adopted pursuant to this subsection are routine technical rules as defined in Title 5, chapter 375, subchapter 2‑A.
Source: official Maine text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Maine § 12159.
What does Maine Revised Statutes § 12159. cover?
Section 12159. ("Taking reptiles and amphibians from the wild") is part of the Maine Revised Statutes, the codified statutory law of Maine. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite Maine § 12159.?
A common citation format is "Maine Revised Statutes § 12159." (Maine). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of Maine law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Maine official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Maine attorney.
How does Maine § 12159. apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Maine can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Maine.