Maine § 1285. - Collection of taxes in unorganized territory

Full text of Maine Maine Revised Statutes § 1285. — Collection of taxes in unorganized territory, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 1285.. Collection of taxes in unorganized territory

In addition to the methods of collecting state taxes provided by law, owners of real estate in the unorganized territory are liable for payment of such taxes to the State Tax Assessor upon demand. If such taxes are not paid within 30 days after such demand, the State Tax Assessor may collect the same, with interest as provided by law, by a civil action in the name of the State. This action must be brought in a court of competent jurisdiction in the county where such real estate is located, and the Attorney General may begin and prosecute such actions when requested by the State Tax Assessor. The demand is sufficient if made by a writing mailed to such owner or the owner's agent at the owner's usual post office address. In case such owner resides outside the State and has no agent within the State known to the State Tax Assessor, such demand is sufficient if made upon the Director of the Bureau of Forestry. Such action must be brought not less than 30 days after the giving or mailing of the demand. The beginning of such action, obtaining execution and collecting the same is deemed a waiver of the rights of the State under sections 1281 and 1282. In case the owners of any such real estate are unknown, the demand is sufficient if advertised in the state paper and in some newspaper, if any, published in the county in which the real estate is located.   [PL 2019, c. 379, Pt. A, §7 (AMD).]

Source: official Maine text · Last verified 2026-08-27

Frequently Asked Questions About Maine § 1285.

What does Maine Revised Statutes § 1285. cover?

Section 1285. ("Collection of taxes in unorganized territory") 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 § 1285.?

A common citation format is "Maine Revised Statutes § 1285." (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 § 1285. 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.