LegalCals

Maine Eviction Rules

Official notice periods, filing timelines, and legal citations for this state.

Notice Requirements

Nonpayment of Rent
7 days
Lease Violation
7 days
When can the landlord file?
Landlord may file after the 7-day notice expires (rent must be 7 days late before notice).
Tenant answer deadline
7
Hearing timeline
Typically 2–4 weeks after filing, depending on court backlog.
Lockout / physical eviction
Only the sheriff may enforce the eviction after a court judgment.

Eviction Process Timeline

  1. Notice Period (Nonpayment)

    7 days

  2. Notice Period (Lease Violation)

    7 days

  3. Landlord Can File

    Landlord may file after the 7-day notice expires (rent must be 7 days late before notice).

  4. Tenant Answer Deadline

    7

  5. Hearing Timeline

    Typically 2–4 weeks after filing, depending on court backlog.

  6. Lockout / Physical Eviction

    Only the sheriff may enforce the eviction after a court judgment.

Legal Citations

  • Me. Rev. Stat. tit. 14, § 6002