Is Suppressors / Silencers Legal in Maine? (2026)
Partially — Suppressors / Silencers are legal with restrictions in Maine as of 2026.
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Quick Answer
Suppressors / Silencers are legal with restrictions in Maine. Maine is one of 42 states that allow civilian ownership of suppressors. There are no state-level restrictions beyond federal requirements. Under federal law, suppressors are regulated as NFA (National Firearms Act) items and require a $200 tax stamp, ATF Form 4 approval, and a background check through the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF). Maine also allows the use of suppressors while hunting, which is permitted under Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife regulations.
- Age restriction: Must be 21 to purchase from a dealer
- Federal NFA registration required (ATF Form 4, $200 tax stamp)
- License or permit required
What the Law Says
Maine allows suppressors with federal compliance and recently removed the requirement for a special permit to hunt with a suppressor.
— Maine Revised Statutes Title 12 §11204
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Ownership (with NFA) | Legal with proper federal NFA registration. Requires ATF Form 4 approval, $200 tax stamp, and background check. Average wait time for approval is 6-12 months. No additional state permit required. |
| Dealer Availability | Legal through Class 3 SOT (Special Occupational Taxpayer) dealers. Private transfers require ATF Form 4 approval. Cannot be sold to prohibited persons. |
| Penalties | Possession of an unregistered suppressor is a federal felony under 26 U.S.C. 5861 punishable by up to 10 years in prison and $250,000 fine. No additional state penalties for properly registered suppressors. |
| Age Restriction | Must be 21 to purchase from a dealer. Must be 18 to possess if transferred from an individual (not a dealer) via ATF Form 4. |
| Pending Legislation | None known |
A significant recent change was the removal of the requirement for a special permit to hunt with a suppressor. This simplifies the process for hunters in Maine.
Enforcement Reality
Maine law enforcement recognizes federally registered suppressors. While a permit was previously required for hunting with a suppressor, this is no longer the case.
A common mistake is being unaware of the recent change that eliminated the permit requirement for hunting with a suppressor. It is important to stay up-to-date on these legislative changes.
Local Exceptions
None identified. State law applies uniformly across Maine. Local ordinances may still vary — check with your city or county government for any additional rules.
Bottom Line
Suppressors / Silencers are legal with restrictions in Maine. This product is permitted, but specific conditions apply. Violating those conditions can result in fines or criminal charges. Read the rules carefully and consult an attorney if unsure.
Maine vs. the Rest of the US
Across the US, owning a suppressor is fully legal in 0 states, restricted in 41, and illegal in 9. Maine falls in the RESTRICTED category.
View the full 50-state map →Neighboring States
Laws change at state lines. Here is how bordering states compare on Suppressors / Silencers:
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is it legal to own Suppressors / Silencers in Maine?
What are the restrictions on owning a suppressor in Maine?
What mistakes do people make with owning a suppressor in Maine?
What is the age restriction for owning a suppressor in Maine?
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Reviewed by cross-referencing the cited state statute against current legislative databases and regulatory publications.
Sources & Verification
This page was reviewed by Ethan Harper by comparing the legal status against the cited state statute. AllowedHere is an informational resource and does not provide legal advice. Consult a licensed attorney for guidance specific to your situation.
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Suppressors / Silencers in Other States
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