Maine
Maine Surveillance Camera Laws (2026 Guide)
Independently fact-checked against primary sources (last audited August 16, 2026). · Reviewed by the RecordingLaw editorial team. · Law checked current as of August 16, 2026. · 11 primary sources cited on this page. How we verify our legal content
Maine allows home and business security cameras on your own property under a framework set by 17-A MRSA Section 511 and 15 MRSA Sections 709 to 710. Video recording public-facing areas is legal, but cameras in private places such as bathrooms or bedrooms are prohibited. Audio recording requires one-party consent.
Overview of Maine Surveillance Camera Laws
Maine does not have a single statute that governs all surveillance camera use. Instead, the state addresses surveillance through several overlapping laws that cover voyeurism, wiretapping, property rights, workplace monitoring, and facial recognition technology.
The primary statutes that affect surveillance camera use in Maine include 17-A MRSA Section 511 (violation of privacy), 15 MRSA Sections 709 through 710 (interception of wire and oral communications), Title 33 Section 2001 (placement of cameras on private property), Title 25 Section 6001 (facial surveillance), and 26 MRSA Section 620-A (employer surveillance).
Together, these laws create a framework that permits most residential and commercial security camera use while protecting individuals from being recorded in spaces where they have a reasonable expectation of privacy.
Home Security Camera Laws in Maine
Maine law generally allows homeowners to install and operate security cameras on their own property. There is no state statute that prohibits you from placing cameras on the exterior of your home, including doorbell cameras, driveway cameras, and backyard-facing cameras.
What You Can Record
You may legally record video of areas visible from your own property, including your front porch, driveway, yard, and other exterior spaces. Maine law does not treat the outside of your home or your backyard as places where others have a reasonable expectation of privacy.
Doorbell cameras such as Ring and Nest devices are legal in Maine when they are pointed at your own entryway or public-facing areas. These devices are treated the same as any other exterior security camera under Maine law.
What You Cannot Record
Under 17-A MRSA Section 511, it is illegal to install or use any device for observing, photographing, recording, amplifying, or broadcasting events or sounds in a "private place" without the consent of the people being recorded.
Maine defines a "private place" as a location "where one may reasonably expect to be safe from surveillance, including, but not limited to, changing or dressing rooms, bathrooms and similar places." This means you cannot point a security camera into a bedroom, bathroom, or other area where someone has a reasonable expectation of privacy, even within your own home if guests or household members use that space.
Audio Recording on Home Cameras
If your home security camera records audio, you must comply with Maine's wiretapping laws under 15 MRSA Chapter 102. Maine is a one-party consent state, so you may record conversations you are participating in. However, you generally cannot use a camera to capture conversations between other people on your property without the consent of at least one participant.
Audio Recording and One-Party Consent
Maine follows a one-party consent rule for recording conversations. Under 15 MRSA Section 709, the definition of "intercept" excludes recordings made by the sender or receiver of a communication, or by someone given prior authority by the sender or receiver.
What One-Party Consent Means
If you are a participant in a conversation, you may legally record it without telling the other person. This applies to both in-person conversations and telephone calls. You do not need to notify the other party or obtain their permission.
However, if you are not a party to the conversation, you cannot record it. Using a device to capture conversations between other people without the consent of at least one participant is a criminal offense under 15 MRSA Section 710.
Criminal Penalties for Illegal Audio Recording
Unauthorized interception of wire or oral communications is a Class C crime in Maine. Under 17-A MRSA Section 1604, a Class C crime carries a maximum of 5 years in prison. Under 17-A MRSA Section 1704, the maximum fine is $5,000.
Additional offenses under 15 MRSA Section 710 include:
| Offense | Classification |
|---|---|
| Unauthorized interception of communications | Class C crime (up to 5 years, $5,000 fine) |
| Disclosing or using intercepted communications | Class C crime (up to 5 years, $5,000 fine) |
| Possessing interception devices without authorization | Class C crime (up to 5 years, $5,000 fine) |
| Selling or furnishing interception devices | Class B crime (up to 10 years, $20,000 fine) |
| Editing recordings and presenting them in court | Class C crime (up to 5 years, $5,000 fine) |
Civil Remedies for Illegal Recording
Under 15 MRSA Section 711, anyone whose conversation is illegally intercepted, disclosed, or used may bring a civil lawsuit. Victims can recover actual damages, with a minimum of $100 per day for each day of violation, plus reasonable attorney fees and litigation costs.
Special Rule for Private Places
Maine's privacy statute adds an extra layer of protection for audio in private places. Under 17-A MRSA Section 511(1)(C), it is illegal to use any device outside a private place to capture sounds originating inside that would not ordinarily be audible from outside, without the consent of the people entitled to privacy in that space.
Hidden Cameras and Voyeurism: 17-A MRSA 511
Maine's primary statute addressing hidden cameras and voyeurism is 17-A MRSA Section 511, titled "Violation of Privacy." This law criminalizes several forms of unauthorized surveillance.
Prohibited Conduct
A person commits violation of privacy in Maine by intentionally, and without legal authorization:
Trespassing to observe or overhear (Section 511(1)(A)): Committing a civil trespass on property with the intent to overhear or observe any person in a private place.
Recording in private places (Section 511(1)(B)): Installing or using any device in a private place to observe, photograph, record, amplify, or broadcast sounds or events in that place without the consent of the person or people being recorded.
Using remote devices to capture private sounds or images (Section 511(1)(C)): Installing or using equipment outside a private place, without the consent of the people entitled to privacy, to capture images or sounds originating inside that would not normally be perceptible from outside. This subsection was amended in 2023 to expand its scope.
Upskirting and similar violations (Section 511(1)(D)): Using mechanical or electronic equipment in public places to photograph, observe, or record any portion of a person's body that is concealed from public view under clothing, when a reasonable person would expect to be safe from such surveillance. This provision was also amended in 2023.
Provisions Covering Victims Under 16
The 2023 amendments to Section 511 added two additional provisions targeting surveillance crimes against children:
Section 511(1)(E): Committing any of the above violations when the victim has not attained 16 years of age.
Section 511(1)(F): Committing any of the above violations for the purpose of arousing or gratifying sexual desire when the victim is under 16.
These paragraphs do not raise the crime class. Section 511(3) states flatly that "violation of privacy is a Class D crime," with no tiering by paragraph. Their practical effect is collateral rather than a longer sentence: under 34-A MRSA Section 11273, a conviction under Section 511(1)(D) or Section 511(1)(F) is a Tier I offense that triggers sex offender registration. Section 511(1)(E) is not listed as a registration offense.
Defense
Under Section 511(1-A), it is a defense to a prosecution under subsection 1(D) that the person subject to surveillance had attained 14 years of age and had consented to the visual surveillance.
Unauthorized Dissemination of Private Images: 17-A MRSA 511-A
Maine also criminalizes the sharing of intimate images without consent under 17-A MRSA Section 511-A. This statute, sometimes called Maine's "revenge porn" law, is relevant to surveillance camera footage.
What the Law Prohibits
A person violates Section 511-A by intentionally or knowingly disseminating an image of another person in a state of nudity or engaged in a sexual act or sexual contact, with the intent to harass, torment, or threaten. The law also covers artificially created or modified images that appear to show such content.
The depicted person must be identifiable from the image or from information provided with it, and must not have consented to the dissemination.
Exceptions
Section 511-A does not apply to images shared for medical treatment, voluntary exposure in public or commercial settings, or content hosted by interactive computer services under federal law (47 USC Section 230).
Penalty
Violation of Section 511-A is a Class D crime, carrying up to 364 days in jail and a fine of up to $2,000.
Workplace Surveillance Laws in Maine
Maine has enacted one of the most comprehensive workplace surveillance laws in the United States. It began as LD 61, "An Act to Regulate Employer Surveillance to Protect Workers." The bill became law on January 11, 2026 without the Governor's signature, as Public Law 2025, chapter 524, and is codified at 26 MRSA Section 620-A. The law is already in force, so Maine employers are subject to its notice and monitoring rules now rather than at some future compliance date.
What the Law Covers
Section 620-A defines "employer surveillance" broadly as monitoring an employee through an electronic device or system, including a computer, telephone, wire or radio, or an electromagnetic, photoelectronic, or photo-optical system. This includes employee productivity tracking tools, remote attendance applications, and mobile device tracking.
Key Restrictions on Employers
Under Section 620-A, employers in Maine face the following restrictions:
Notice before monitoring starts: An employer may not use employer surveillance unless it notifies the employee before beginning that surveillance.
No audiovisual monitoring in personal spaces: Employers cannot use audiovisual monitoring in an employee's residence, personal vehicle, or on the employee's property unless the monitoring is required by the employer for the duties of the job.
No forced installation on personal devices: Employees may decline a request to install data collection or transmission applications on their personal electronic devices.
Employer Notification Requirements
Employers who use employer surveillance must:
- Inform prospective employees during the interview process that the employer engages in surveillance
- Provide written notice to all current employees at least once per calendar year
Unlike some other states, Maine does not require a workplace poster or employee acknowledgment of the notice. The Maine Department of Labor publishes an "Employer Surveillance: Your Rights" poster, but it appears on the state's list of optional posters.
Exceptions
Section 620-A does not apply to surveillance cameras used for security or safety purposes, or to GPS tracking and other safety devices on vehicles owned by the employer but operated by the employee. The section also does not apply to surveillance installed in a setting where personal care services are expected to be provided by an employee.
Penalties for Employers
The Maine Department of Labor enforces Section 620-A, which sets a fine of not less than $100 and not more than $500 for each violation. The statute directs the department to enforce it within existing resources using strategic enforcement, and it does not create a private right of action for employees.
Neighbor Security Camera Disputes
Disputes over security cameras between neighbors are common in Maine. The law draws a clear line between recording public-facing areas and invading someone's privacy.
What Your Neighbor Can Legally Record
Your neighbor may legally point security cameras outward from their own property. Maine law does not protect backyards, driveways, or the exterior of your home as private spaces. If an area is visible from your neighbor's property or from public view, it can generally be recorded by video.
What Your Neighbor Cannot Record
Your neighbor cannot:
- Point cameras through your windows to record activities inside your home where you have a reasonable expectation of privacy
- Use audio recording devices to capture conversations from your property that would not ordinarily be audible from outside, without your consent
- Place cameras on your property without your written consent under Title 33 Section 2001
Harassment Through Surveillance
If a neighbor installs cameras specifically to intimidate or harass you, you may have legal options beyond the surveillance statutes. Maine recognizes private nuisance claims when a neighbor's actions unreasonably interfere with your use and enjoyment of your property. A pattern of camera placement designed to create discomfort rather than serve a legitimate security purpose could support such a claim.
Cameras on Private Property: Title 33 Section 2001
Maine has a specific statute addressing the placement of surveillance equipment on other people's property. Title 33 Section 2001, originally enacted in 2013 and amended in 2025, establishes clear rules.
Prohibition
No person may place a camera or electronic surveillance equipment on another person's private property without the written consent of the landowner, unless the placement is authorized by a warrant.
Labeling Requirement
When surveillance equipment is lawfully placed with consent or by warrant, the person who installs it must label the device with their name and contact information.
Property Owner Rights
If a landowner discovers an unauthorized camera on their property, they may:
- Remove or disable the equipment
- If the camera is abandoned and the owner is unknown, take ownership of the device
- Remove, destroy, sell, or possess abandoned surveillance equipment
Exceptions
Title 33 Section 2001 permits:
- Using cameras to prevent vehicle theft or vandalism while a vehicle is temporarily parked
- Using electronic devices to identify and track animals through implantation or attachment
Penalty
Violations of this statute are civil infractions carrying fines of up to $500.
Nanny Cams and In-Home Recording
Maine law allows parents and homeowners to use nanny cams (hidden cameras) in their homes, but with important restrictions.
Video-Only Nanny Cams
You may legally place video-only cameras in common areas of your home, such as living rooms, kitchens, and hallways. These are areas where a caregiver does not have a reasonable expectation of privacy.
You cannot place cameras in areas where your nanny or babysitter has a reasonable expectation of privacy. This includes:
- Bathrooms
- A live-in caregiver's bedroom
- Changing areas
Nanny Cams with Audio
If your nanny cam records audio, Maine's one-party consent law applies. Since you will not be present for the conversations being recorded, you are not a party to those conversations. Recording audio of conversations between your babysitter and your children, or between your babysitter and another person, without the consent of at least one participant could violate 15 MRSA Section 710.
The safest approach is to either disable audio recording on nanny cams or inform your caregiver that audio and video recording is in use in common areas of the home.
Best Practices for Nanny Cam Use
- Place cameras only in common living areas
- Avoid recording in bathrooms, bedrooms, or changing areas
- Disable audio recording or inform the caregiver about it
- Consider providing written notice of camera placement as part of your employment agreement
Facial Surveillance Restrictions: Title 25 Section 6001
Maine enacted Title 25 Section 6001 to regulate the use of facial recognition technology by government entities. This law is among the strictest in the nation.
What the Law Restricts
Government departments and public employees generally cannot obtain, retain, possess, access, request, or use a facial surveillance system. This ban extends to agreements with third parties to use facial surveillance on the government's behalf.
Definition of Facial Surveillance
The statute defines facial surveillance as "an automated or semi-automated process that assists in identifying or verifying an individual, or in capturing information about an individual, based on the physical characteristics of an individual's face."
Limited Exceptions
Facial surveillance may be used in narrow circumstances:
- Investigating serious crimes (felonies or specific Class D/E offenses) when there is probable cause
- Identifying deceased or missing persons
- Bureau of Motor Vehicles fraud prevention duties
Enforcement
Data collected through facial surveillance in violation of Section 6001 must be deleted upon discovery and is inadmissible as evidence. Individuals harmed by violations may seek injunctive or declaratory relief, and government employees who violate the law face disciplinary action, including suspension or termination.
Facial surveillance data alone cannot establish probable cause for an arrest or search warrant.
Penalties for Violating Maine Surveillance Laws
Maine imposes a range of penalties depending on the type of surveillance violation.
Criminal Penalties
| Violation | Statute | Classification | Maximum Jail Time | Maximum Fine |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Violation of privacy (voyeurism, hidden cameras) | 17-A MRSA Section 511 | Class D crime | 364 days | $2,000 |
| Unauthorized dissemination of private images | 17-A MRSA Section 511-A | Class D crime | 364 days | $2,000 |
| Illegal wiretapping or interception | 15 MRSA Section 710 | Class C crime | 5 years | $5,000 |
| Selling interception devices | 15 MRSA Section 710 | Class B crime | 10 years | $20,000 |
Civil Penalties
| Violation | Statute | Penalty |
|---|---|---|
| Illegal interception of communications | 15 MRSA Section 711 | $100 per day minimum + attorney fees |
| Placing cameras on another's property | Title 33 Section 2001 | Up to $500 per violation |
| Employer surveillance violations | 26 MRSA Section 620-A | $100 to $500 per violation |
| Telecom carrier failure to report | 15 MRSA Section 710 | Up to $5,000 |
Sex Offender Registration
A conviction for upskirting or similar public-place surveillance under 17-A MRSA Section 511(1)(D) can require mandatory registration as a Tier 1 sex offender for 10 years under Maine's sex offender registry laws.
A conviction under Section 511(1)(F), which covers surveillance of a victim under 16 for the purpose of sexual gratification, is likewise a Tier I offense under 34-A MRSA Section 11273. Section 511 violations remain Class D crimes whichever paragraph is charged, because Section 511(3) sets a single crime class for the whole section.
Related Maine Camera and Privacy Laws
- Maine Recording Laws covers the consent rule that governs camera audio in Maine.
- Maine Security Camera Recording Rules explains the recording-law side of camera use.
- Maine Biometric Privacy Laws addresses facial recognition and biometric data.
- Maine Ring Doorbell Laws covers video doorbell rules in Maine.
Common Camera Questions
These national guides answer the most common surveillance camera questions:
- HOA Security Camera Rules
- Neighbor Security Camera Laws
- Nanny Cam Laws
- Workplace Surveillance Camera Laws
- Landlord Security Camera Laws
More Maine Laws
Frequently Asked Questions
Are home security cameras legal in Maine?
Yes, home security cameras are legal in Maine when placed on your own property and pointed at areas where people do not have a reasonable expectation of privacy. You may record your front porch, driveway, yard, and other exterior areas. You cannot place cameras in bathrooms, bedrooms, or other private spaces where someone would reasonably expect not to be observed. If your camera records audio, Maine's one-party consent law applies, meaning at least one participant in any recorded conversation must have consented.
Can my neighbor point a security camera at my house in Maine?
Your neighbor may point a security camera toward the exterior of your house, including your yard and driveway, because Maine law does not treat these outdoor areas as private spaces. However, your neighbor cannot aim a camera through your windows to record activities inside your home, and cannot use audio recording devices to capture conversations on your property that would not normally be audible from outside. Under Title 33 Section 2001, your neighbor also cannot place any camera or surveillance equipment directly on your property without your written consent.
Is Maine a one-party or two-party consent state for recording?
Maine is a one-party consent state. Under 15 MRSA Sections 709 and 710, you may legally record a conversation you are participating in without telling the other person. However, you cannot record a conversation between other people unless at least one participant has given you prior consent. Unauthorized recording is a Class C crime punishable by up to 5 years in prison and a $5,000 fine.
Are nanny cams legal in Maine?
Video-only nanny cams are legal in common areas of your home, such as living rooms and kitchens, where there is no reasonable expectation of privacy. You cannot place cameras in bathrooms, a live-in caregiver's bedroom, or other private spaces. If your nanny cam records audio, you should either disable the audio function or inform your caregiver, because recording conversations you are not participating in without consent may violate Maine's wiretapping statute (15 MRSA Section 710).
What are the penalties for illegal surveillance in Maine?
Penalties depend on the type of violation. Hidden camera use in private places (voyeurism) under 17-A MRSA Section 511 is a Class D crime carrying up to 364 days in jail and a $2,000 fine. Illegal wiretapping under 15 MRSA Section 710 is a Class C crime carrying up to 5 years in prison and a $5,000 fine. Placing cameras on someone else's property without consent under Title 33 Section 2001 is a civil infraction with fines up to $500. Certain voyeurism convictions, particularly upskirting, can also require registration as a sex offender for 10 years.
Updates
Corrected the Maine employer surveillance law section: the measure became law on January 11, 2026 without the Governor's signature as Public Law 2025 chapter 524, it is codified at 26 MRSA Section 620-A rather than cited only as bill LD 61, and it is now in force rather than pending; also removed an unsupported claim that Section 511 carries enhanced penalties when the victim is under 16, since Section 511(3) sets a single Class D crime class for the whole section.
Independently fact-checked against the cited primary sources; governing law re-checked for recent changes
Governing law re-checked for recent changes
Governing law re-checked for recent changes
Reviewed and approved by an editor
The Law Behind This Article
This article rests on the statutory provisions below, held in our own legal record and retrieved from the official source. Tap a section to read the operative text.
Maine Revised Statutes, Title 17-A: MAINE CRIMINAL CODE, Part 2: SUBSTANTIVE OFFENSES, Chapter 21: OFFENSES AGAINST PUBLIC ORDER
§ 511Violation of privacyIn forcecited in 15 of our articles
1. A person is guilty of violation of privacy if, except in the execution of a public duty or as authorized by law, that person intentionally: A. Commits a civil trespass on property with the intent to overhear or observe any person in a private place; [PL 1997, c. 467, §1 (AMD).] B. Installs or uses in a private place without the consent of the person or persons entitled to privacy in that place, any device for observing, photographing, recording, amplifying or broadcasting sounds or events in that place; [PL 1997, c. 467, §1 (AMD).] C. Installs or uses outside a private place without the consent of the person or persons entitled to privacy therein any device for observing, photographing, hearing, recording, amplifying or broadcasting images or sounds originating in that place that would not ordinarily be visible, audible or comprehensible outside that place; [PL 2023, c. 227, §1 (AMD).] D.
Official text (excerpt) · last checked 2026-08-31 · Read the full text in our law library · Verify at legislature.maine.gov
Cited in 6 court opinions in our collectionLatest citing opinion in our collection: 2026
In the courts (editorial summary, independently checked):In State of Maine v. Mark W. Strong Sr. (2013) the Maine Supreme Judicial Court read section 511(1)(B) to require an objectively reasonable expectation of being safe from surveillance, and held that people who entered a place solely to engage a prostitute were not persons entitled to privacy there.
Opinions citing this section in our collection:
- State of Maine v. Mark W. Strong Sr. (Supreme Judicial Court of Maine 2013, 60 A.3d 1286)✓A man faced 45 counts of violation of privacy for recording the clients of a Kennebunk prostitute; the Law Court held that people present solely to engage a prostitute were not 'persons entitled to privacy' there, so the indictment failed to charge the offense.
- Friedman v. Public Utilities Commission (Supreme Judicial Court of Maine 2012, 48 A.3d 794)“…statutes: 17-A M.R.S. § 402(1) (2011) (criminal trespass), 17-A M.R.S. § 511 (2011) (criminal violation of privacy),…”
- Cuso Mortgage Corp. v. Gauthier (Superior Court of Maine 2012)“…e counts of criminal invasion of privacy, presumably under 17-A M.R.S. § 511(1)(B), for allegedly filming sexual act…”
Identified automatically from the court opinions citing this section — not a ranking of which case controls.
Also relied on in: Maine Recording Laws (2026): One-Party Consent, § 710 and § 511, Maine Audio Recording Laws: One-Party Consent Rules and Penalties (2026), Maine Laws on Recording in Public: Your Complete Guide (2026)
§ 511-AUnauthorized dissemination of certain private imagesIn forcecited in 7 of our articles
1. A person is guilty of unauthorized dissemination of certain private images if the person, with the intent to harass, torment or threaten the depicted person or another person, intentionally or knowingly disseminates, displays or publishes an image of another person in a state of nudity or engaged in a sexual act or engaged in sexual contact or an image that has been created or modified so that it appears to show the depicted person in a state of nudity or engaged in a sexual act or engaged in sexual contact in a manner in which there is no public or newsworthy purpose when the person knows or should have known that the depicted person: A. [PL 2015, c. 394, §5 (RP).] B. Is identifiable from the image itself or information displayed in connection with the image; and [PL 2015, c. 339, §1 (NEW).] C. Has not consented to the dissemination, display or publication of the image. [PL 2025, c. 400, §2 (AMD).] 2. This section does not apply to the following: A. Lawful and common practices of medical treatment; [PL 2015, c. 339, §1 (NEW).] B. Images involving voluntary exposure in a public or commercial setting; or [PL 2015, c. 339, §1 (NEW).] C.
Official text (excerpt) · last checked 2026-08-30 · Read the full text in our law library · Verify at legislature.maine.gov
Also relied on in: Maine Voyeurism Laws: Hidden Cameras, Penalties, and Defenses (2026), Maine AI Laws and Regulation (2026), Maine Deepfake Laws: AI Images, Voice Cloning & Penalties (2026)
Maine Revised Statutes, Title 15: COURT PROCEDURE -- CRIMINAL, Part 2: PROCEEDINGS BEFORE TRIAL, Chapter 102: INTERCEPTION OF WIRE AND ORAL COMMUNICATIONS
§ 710OffensesIn forcecited in 17 of our articles
1. Interception, oral communications prohibited. Any person, other than an employee of a communication common carrier, a law enforcement officer, an investigative officer, another employee of the Department of Corrections authorized to exercise law enforcement powers as described in Title 34‑A, section 3011 or a jail investigative officer or a jail employee acting at the direction of a jail investigative officer, carrying out practices otherwise permitted by this chapter, who intentionally or knowingly intercepts, attempts to intercept or procures any other person to intercept or attempt to intercept any wire or oral communication is guilty of a Class C crime. 2. Editing of tape recordings in judicial proceedings prohibited. Any person who knowingly or intentionally edits, alters or tampers with any tape, transcription or other sound recording, or knows of such editing, altering or tampering, and presents that recording in any judicial proceeding or proceeding under oath, without fully indicating the nature of the changes made and the original state of the recording, is guilty of a Class C crime. 3. Disclosure or use of wire or oral communications prohibited.
Official text (excerpt) · last checked 2026-08-28 · Read the full text in our law library · Verify at legislature.maine.gov
Cited in 5 court opinions in our collectionLatest citing opinion in our collection: 2022
In the courts (editorial summary, independently checked):Williams v. Poulos (1993) affirmed section 710(1) liability for intercepting employee calls and held section 710(3)(A) and (B) require only knowledge the information came through interception. Glenn A. Griffin v. Cristie J. Griffin (2014) allowed a parent's vicarious consent for a young child only on a good faith best-interest belief.
Opinions citing this section in our collection:
- Glenn A. Griffin v. Cristie J. Griffin (Supreme Judicial Court of Maine 2014, 92 A.3d 1144)✓A father recorded his six-year-old daughter's nightly calls with her mother after overhearing abusive remarks; the court held a parent with a good faith, objectively reasonable best-interest belief may vicariously consent under section 709(4)(C), so section 710 was not violated.
- Archer v. Androscoggin County (Superior Court of Maine 2022)✓An attorney sought recordings of another inmate's jail calls under Maine's public records law; the court applied the wiretap chapter that makes interception a crime under section 710 and held a court-appointed defense lawyer is not within the section 712(4) disclosure exception.
- Williams v. Poulos (Court of Appeals for the First Circuit 1993)✓Company owners secretly recorded employee phone calls using alligator clips wired to a VCR, and their lawyers then used the tapes; the First Circuit affirmed liability under section 710, holding subsection 3 requires only knowledge that the material came from an interception.
Identified automatically from the court opinions citing this section — not a ranking of which case controls.
Also relied on in: Maine Dashcam Laws: Mounting Rules, Audio Recording, and Evidence (2026), Maine Landlord-Tenant Recording Laws: Cameras, Audio, and Privacy Rights (2026), Maine Phone Call Recording Laws: Consent Rules for Cell, Landline, and VoIP (2026)
§ 711Civil remedyIn forcecited in 8 of our articles
Any party to a conversation intercepted, disclosed or used in violation of this chapter shall have a civil cause of action against any person who intercepts, discloses or uses such communications and shall be entitled to recover from any such persons: [PL 1973, c. 561 (NEW).] 1. Damages. Actual damages, but not less than liquidated damages, computed at the rate of $100 per day for each day of violation; and 2. Attorney's fee. A reasonable attorney's fee and other litigation disbursements reasonably incurred.
Official text (excerpt) · last checked 2026-07-30 · Read the full text in our law library · Verify at legislature.maine.gov
Cited in 1 court opinions in our collectionLatest citing opinion in our collection: 2009
Opinions citing this section in our collection:
- Simpson v. Cumberland County (Superior Court of Maine 2009)“…additional claims, including: (1) an alleged violation of 15 M.R.S. § 711 - which provides a civil damages remedy…”
Identified automatically from the court opinions citing this section — not a ranking of which case controls.
Also relied on in: Maine Security Camera Laws: Home, Business, and HOA Rules (2026), Maine Smart Glasses Recording Laws: What You Need to Know
§ 709DefinitionsIn forcecited in 10 of our articles
The following words and phrases as used in this chapter, unless the context otherwise indicates, shall have the following meanings. [PL 1973, c. 561 (NEW).] 1. Communication common carrier. "Communication common carrier" means any telephone or telegraph company. 1-A. Administration of criminal justice. 1-B. Administration of juvenile criminal justice. 1-C. Administration of juvenile justice. "Administration of juvenile justice" has the same meaning as in section 3003, subsection 1‑A. 2. Contents. "Contents," when used with respect to any wire or oral communication, means any information concerning the identity of the parties to such communication or the existence, contents, substance, purport or meaning of that communication. 3. Intercepting device. "Intercepting device" means any device or apparatus which can be used to intercept a wire or oral communication other than: A. Any telephone or telegraph instrument, equipment or facility or any component thereof being used by a communication common carrier in the ordinary course of its business or extension telephones used by a subscriber to telephone service; or [PL 1973, c. 561 (NEW).] B.
Official text (excerpt) · last checked 2026-07-30 · Read the full text in our law library · Verify at legislature.maine.gov
Cited in 8 court opinions in our collectionLatest citing opinion in our collection: 2021
Opinions citing this section in our collection:
- Glenn A. Griffin v. Cristie J. Griffin (Supreme Judicial Court of Maine 2014, 92 A.3d 1144)“…nterception of Wire and Oral Communications Act (the Act), 15 M.R.S. §§ 709-713 (2012),1 and (2) whether the court…”
- State v. Kehling (Supreme Judicial Court of Maine 1991, 601 A.2d 620)“…e Maine’s Interception of Wire and Oral Communications Act, 15 M.R.S.A. §§ 709-713 (Supp.1991). As to the sentence, we…”
- State v. Cyran (Supreme Judicial Court of Maine 1991, 586 A.2d 1238)“…versations. Nevertheless, both Maine’s wiretap regulations, 15 M.R.S.A. §§ 709-712, and the applicable federal provisi…”
Identified automatically from the court opinions citing this section — not a ranking of which case controls.
Also relied on in: Maine Medical Recording Laws: Patient Rights, HIPAA, and Consent (2026), Maine Laws on Recording Police: Your Rights and Limits (2026), Maine Workplace Recording Laws: Employee and Employer Rights (2026)
Maine Revised Statutes, Title 33: PROPERTY, Chapter 43: PLACEMENT OF EQUIPMENT ON PRIVATE PROPERTY
§ 2001Placement of cameras and electronic surveillance equipment on private propertyIn forcecited in 2 of our articles
1. Prohibition. A person may not place a camera or electronic surveillance equipment that records images or data of any kind while unattended outside on the private property of another without the written consent of the landowner or the landowner's representative, unless the placement is pursuant to a warrant. 2. Labeling. A person who places a camera or electronic surveillance equipment described in subsection 1 on the private property of another with the written consent of the landowner or the landowner's representative or pursuant to a warrant shall label the camera or electronic surveillance equipment with that person's name and contact information. 3. Remove or disable; abandoned camera or electronic surveillance equipment. A landowner or the landowner's representative may remove or disable a camera or electronic surveillance equipment placed on the landowner's private property in violation of this section.
Official text (excerpt) · last checked 2026-07-30 · Read the full text in our law library · Verify at legislature.maine.gov
Also relied on in: Maine Ring Doorbell Laws: What You Need to Know in 2026
Maine Revised Statutes, Title 25: INTERNAL SECURITY AND PUBLIC SAFETY, Part 14: SURVEILLANCE, Chapter 701: FACIAL SURVEILLANCE
§ 6001Facial surveillanceIn forcecited in 3 of our articles
1. Definitions. As used in this chapter, unless the context otherwise indicates, the following terms have the following meanings. A. "Another jurisdiction" has the same meaning as in Title 17‑A, section 2, subsection 3‑B. [PL 2021, c. 394, §1 (NEW).] B. "Bureau of Motor Vehicles" means the Department of the Secretary of State, Bureau of Motor Vehicles. [PL 2021, c. 394, §1 (NEW).] C. "Department" means a state, county or municipal government or a department, agency or subdivision thereof or any other entity identified in law as a public instrumentality, including, but not limited to, a law enforcement agency. [PL 2021, c. 394, §1 (NEW).] D. "Facial surveillance" means an automated or semi-automated process that assists in identifying or verifying an individual, or in capturing information about an individual, based on the physical characteristics of an individual's face. [PL 2021, c. 394, §1 (NEW).] E. "Facial surveillance system" means any computer software or application that performs facial surveillance. [PL 2021, c. 394, §1 (NEW).] F. "Law enforcement agency" has the same meaning as in section 3701, subsection 1. [PL 2021, c. 394, §1 (NEW).] G.
Official text (excerpt) · last checked 2026-08-28 · Read the full text in our law library · Verify at legislature.maine.gov
Also relied on in: Maine Data Privacy Laws: ISP Privacy & Consumer Rights (2026), Maine Biometric Privacy Laws: Facial Recognition Ban & Current Protections (2026)
Maine Revised Statutes, Title 17-A: MAINE CRIMINAL CODE, Part 6: PUNISHMENTS, Chapter 63: SENTENCES OF IMPRISONMENT
§ 1604Imprisonment for crimes other than murderIn forcecited in 3 of our articles
1. Maximum terms of imprisonment dependent on crime class. Unless a different maximum term of imprisonment is specified by statute, the maximum term of imprisonment is as follows: A. In the case of a Class A crime, 30 years; [PL 2019, c. 113, Pt. A, §2 (NEW).] B. In the case of a Class B crime, 10 years; [PL 2019, c. 113, Pt. A, §2 (NEW).] C. In the case of a Class C crime, 5 years; [PL 2019, c. 113, Pt. A, §2 (NEW).] D. In the case of a Class D crime, less than one year; or [PL 2019, c. 113, Pt. A, §2 (NEW).] E. In the case of a Class E crime, 6 months. [PL 2019, c. 113, Pt. A, §2 (NEW).] 2. Exceptions to maximum term of imprisonment based on crime class. Notwithstanding subsection 1: A. In the case of the Class A crime of aggravated attempted murder, the court shall set a term of imprisonment under section 152‑A, subsection 2 of life or a definite period of any term of years; [PL 2019, c. 113, Pt. A, §2 (NEW).] B. If the State pleads and proves that the defendant is a repeat sexual assault offender, the court may set a definite term of imprisonment under section 253‑A, subsection 1 for any term of years; and [PL 2019, c. 113, Pt. A, §2 (NEW).] C.
Official text (excerpt) · last checked 2026-07-30 · Read the full text in our law library · Verify at legislature.maine.gov
Cited in 30 court opinions in our collectionLatest citing opinion in our collection: 2026
Opinions citing this section in our collection:
- State of Maine v. Taylor A. Pelletier (Supreme Judicial Court of Maine 2023, 2023 ME 74)“…ndictment. That count cites 17-A M.R.S. § 301(1)(A)(3) and 17-A M.R.S § 1604(5)(A) (2021)10 and reads: On…”
- State of Maine v. Germaine Page (Supreme Judicial Court of Maine 2023, 2023 ME 73)“…e’s sentences exceed the maximum sentences allowable under 17-A M.R.S. § 1604(1)(D) (2023).…”
- State of Maine v. Thomas G. Coffill III (Supreme Judicial Court of Maine 2026, 2026 ME 18)“…A M.R.S. § 211(1), and an elevating-circumstances statute, 17-A M.R.S. § 1604(5)(A). A crimes. See, e.g., United St…”
Identified automatically from the court opinions citing this section — not a ranking of which case controls.
Also relied on in: Maine Sexting Laws: Legal Consequences and Penalties
Maine Revised Statutes, Title 17-A: MAINE CRIMINAL CODE, Part 6: PUNISHMENTS, Chapter 65: FINES, FEES, ASSESSMENTS AND SURCHARGES
§ 1704Maximum fine amounts authorized for convicted individualsIn forcecited in 3 of our articles
An individual who has been convicted of a Class A, Class B, Class C, Class D or Class E crime may be sentenced to pay a fine. Except as provided in section 1706 and unless a different maximum fine is specified by statute, the maximum fine that may be imposed by a court on a convicted individual is as follows: [PL 2019, c. 113, Pt. A, §2 (NEW).] 1. Class A crime. In the case of a Class A crime, $50,000; 2. Class B crime. In the case of a Class B crime, $20,000; 3. Class C crime. In the case of a Class C crime, $5,000; 4. Class D crime. In the case of a Class D crime, $2,000; and 5. Class E crime. In the case of a Class E crime, $1,000.
Official text (excerpt) · last checked 2026-07-30 · Read the full text in our law library · Verify at legislature.maine.gov
Cited in 2 court opinions in our collectionLatest citing opinion in our collection: 2022
Opinions citing this section in our collection:
- State of Maine v. Pedro J. Rosario (Supreme Judicial Court of Maine 2022, 280 A.3d 199)“…fine is half of the maximum amount authorized by statute, 17-A M.R.S. § 1704(1) (2022), and is not…”
- WE THE PEOPLE PAC v. DUNLAP (District Court, D. Maine 2021)“…17-A M.R.S. § 1604(1)(E), and a fine not to exceed $1,000. 17-A M.R.S. § 1704(5). Inj. Opp’n at 9. The Court agree…”
Identified automatically from the court opinions citing this section — not a ranking of which case controls.
Also relied on in: Maine Identity Theft Laws
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Sources and References
- Maine Title 17-A Section 511: Violation of Privacy(mainelegislature.org).gov
- Maine Title 17-A Section 511-A: Unauthorized Dissemination of Certain Private Images(legislature.maine.gov).gov
- Maine Title 15 Chapter 102: Interception of Wire and Oral Communications(mainelegislature.org).gov
- Maine 15 MRSA Section 709: Definitions(legislature.maine.gov).gov
- Maine 15 MRSA Section 710: Offenses(mainelegislature.org).gov
- Maine 15 MRSA Section 711: Civil Remedy(mainelegislature.org).gov
- Maine Title 33 Section 2001: Placement of Cameras and Electronic Surveillance Equipment on Private Property(legislature.maine.gov).gov
- Maine Title 25 Section 6001: Facial Surveillance(legislature.maine.gov).gov
- Maine Title 17-A Section 1604: Imprisonment for Crimes Other Than Murder(legislature.maine.gov).gov
- Maine Title 17-A Section 1704: Maximum Fine Amounts(legislature.maine.gov).gov
- Maine State Legislature: Recording and Surveillance of Private Conversations(legislature.maine.gov).gov
- Maine Public Law 2025, chapter 524 (LD 61): An Act to Regulate Employer Surveillance to Protect Workers, enacting 26 MRSA Section 620-A(legislature.maine.gov)
- Maine Legislature Bill Status, LD 61 (HP 25), 132nd Legislature: enacted January 11, 2026, Governor unsigned(legislature.maine.gov)
- Maine Title 34-A Section 11273: Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act of 2013, definitions (Tier I offense)(legislature.maine.gov)
- Maine Department of Labor: Required and Optional Workplace Posters (Employer Surveillance poster listed as optional)(maine.gov)