Maine § 4042. - Stray livestock
Full text of Maine Maine Revised Statutes § 4042. — Stray livestock, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 4042.. Stray livestock
1. Ownership of livestock unknown. If the ownership of any stray livestock cannot be established, the livestock must be handled as a stray and an animal control officer shall seize, impound or restrain the livestock and:
A. Deliver the livestock to an animal shelter, farm or holding facility that is capable of safely containing the number, type and size of the livestock; or [PL 2019, c. 437, §6 (NEW).]
B. Arrange for the safe confinement of the livestock at a location designated by the municipality in which the livestock was found. [PL 2019, c. 437, §6 (NEW).]
2. Municipal procedure for stray livestock. A municipality shall retain custody of stray livestock under subsection 1 for a period of 10 days. The municipality is responsible for ensuring the proper care of the livestock while confined, including providing proper sustenance, shelter and necessary medical care. If ownership of the stray livestock is not claimed by any person, after 10 days, ownership of the livestock vests with the municipality or an animal shelter designated by the municipality, and the municipality or designated animal shelter may sell, adopt, give away or humanely euthanize the stray livestock. A municipality may reimburse a farm, holding facility or animal shelter for the care and housing of stray livestock pursuant to this section at the same rates as in section 3919‑C. For purposes of this section, "municipality" includes a county under Title 30‑A, section 7501 if the stray livestock has been found in the unorganized territory of that county.
For purposes of this section, "livestock" does not include feral swine or domesticated cervids. [PL 2019, c. 437, §6 (NEW).]
Frequently Asked Questions About Maine § 4042.
What does Maine Revised Statutes § 4042. cover?
Section 4042. ("Stray livestock") 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 § 4042.?
A common citation format is "Maine Revised Statutes § 4042." (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 § 4042. 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.