Maine § 6851-B. - Lobster processor license

§ 6851-B.. Lobster processor license

1.  License required.  A person may not engage in the activities authorized under this section without a current wholesale seafood license with a lobster permit as required under section 6851 and a current lobster processor license.

2.  Licensed activity.  A lobster processor license authorizes a person to process lobsters and lobster meat for sale in accordance with rules adopted by the commissioner, including, but not limited to, the appropriate fee for the license, which may not exceed $750, and under the following conditions:

A. The lobster and lobster meat may be processed only at the fixed place of business named on the license;   [PL 2009, c. 523, §9 (NEW).]

B. The lobster meat or lobster parts may come from only legal-sized lobsters;   [PL 2009, c. 523, §9 (NEW).]

C. All containers in which lobster meat is packed after removal and that are to be sold, shipped or transported must be clearly labeled with the lobster processor license number of the packer;   [PL 2011, c. 247, §3 (AMD).]

D. Records must be maintained at the fixed place of business named on the license; and   [PL 2011, c. 247, §4 (AMD).]

E. [PL 2011, c. 247, §5 (NEW); MRSA T. 12 §6851B, sub2, ¶E (RP).]

The commissioner may grant waivers for specific lobster products not addressed in rules that are produced by holders of lobster processor licenses. Such a waiver must be in writing and must describe in detail the product that is not specified in rule.  

3.  Exception.  A license is not required to remove lobster meat for serving in hotels and restaurants if the meat is removed from the shell in a hotel or restaurant for serving on the premises.

4.  License limited.  A lobster processor license authorizes activities under this section at only one fixed place of business.

5.  Violation.  A person who violates this section commits a civil violation for which a fine of not less than $100 nor more than $1,000 may be adjudged.