Maine § 5203. - Program guidelines
Full text of Maine Maine Revised Statutes § 5203. — Program guidelines, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 5203.. Program guidelines
1. Program established. There is established, within the Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry, the Maine Shoreline Public Access Protection Program, referred to in this chapter as the "program" for the purposes of encouraging and supporting the acquisition and development of shoreland areas by the State Government and local governments. Any acquisition or development of shoreland areas supported by this program shall be undertaken solely to enhance, preserve or protect public access to coastal shoreland areas. The commissioner shall establish, amend or repeal rules of the department necessary to accomplish the purposes of this chapter.
2. Program guidelines. To accomplish the purposes of this chapter, the commissioner shall establish guidelines for the appropriate expenditure of money available in the fund. In establishing these guidelines, the commissioner shall consider, among other things:
A. Access to shoreline for shellfish and marine worm harvesters and for other economic purposes; [PL 1985, c. 794, Pt. B (NEW).]
B. Public access to shoreline for scenic and recreational purposes; [PL 1985, c. 794, Pt. B (NEW).]
C. The purchase of easements and property development rights; [PL 1985, c. 794, Pt. B (NEW).]
D. The establishment and limited development of public access ways and areas; and [PL 1985, c. 794, Pt. B (NEW).]
E. The ability of a municipality or state agency to manage shoreline access in a manner that is consistent with the natural carrying capacity of the area accessed and to provide adequate essential public services. [PL 1985, c. 794, Pt. B (NEW).]
3. Coastal municipality participation. Notwithstanding any guidelines established pursuant to this chapter, at least 50% of all revenue available from the fund must be disbursed to municipalities located in the coastal area, as defined in Title 38, section 1802, for the acquisition or development of shoreline access areas. The amount disbursed to such a municipality pursuant to this section may not exceed 50% of the total cost of the acquisition or development project.
4. Public access. All projects financed through this program shall be made equally open for use by all Maine citizens.
Frequently Asked Questions About Maine § 5203.
What does Maine Revised Statutes § 5203. cover?
Section 5203. ("Program guidelines") 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 § 5203.?
A common citation format is "Maine Revised Statutes § 5203." (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 § 5203. 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.