General info, not legal advice. Details

Portland, ME local landlord rules

2 of 2 topics verified

State law also applies. See Maine landlord-tenant law.

Last reviewed 2026-10-15

Quick facts

TopicAt a glance
Rent control / stabilizationYes.
Rental licensing / registrationYes.

Details & sources

Rent control / stabilization

Yes. For covered units, rent may be raised once every 12 months, by no more than the Allowable Increase Percentage published each year by the Housing Safety Office. Tax-rate adjustments and Rent Board-approved increases may be added. No increase may exceed 10%; any excess is banked. The landlord must give the tenant a signed notice at least 90 days before the increase. The ordinance also bars refusing to rent because of a tenant's source of income.

Verified Source: Portland, Me., Code ch. 6, art. XII, §§ 6-233, 6-234, 6-237 · last checked 2026-10-15

Back to quick facts ↑

Rental licensing / registration

Yes. Rental units must be registered with the City by January 1 each year, and registration must be renewed annually. Units newly entering the rental market must be registered within 14 days.

Verified Source: Portland, Me., Code ch. 6, art. VI, § 6-151 · last checked 2026-10-15

Back to quick facts ↑

Other Maine cities

Back to Maine landlord-tenant law