Core definitions

Chapter 1 – General Provisions

This chapter sets the tone for Maine’s adult-use program: policy objectives, agency authority, and definitions that influence every SOP.

What It Establishes

  • Policy Intent: Adult-use framework should protect public health, prevent diversion to minors, and support responsible industry growth.§101
  • Regulator Roles: Office of Cannabis Policy administers licensing & compliance; Department of Public Safety supports enforcement.§104–§105
  • Rulemaking: Agencies can adopt rules—routine technical or major substantive—affecting how stores operate.§106
  • Local Control: Municipalities may opt-in, regulate locations, and impose local licensing.§110

Definitions to Memorize

  • "Adult Use Cannabis" refers to cannabis for retail sale to adults 21+, including concentrate and infused products.§102(1)
  • "Cannabis Store" means a licensed premises where adult use cannabis products are sold to consumers.§102(7)
  • "Immature Cannabis Plant" is less than 24 inches tall and wide, not yet flowering—important for home cultivation questions.§102(31)
  • "Track and Trace" refers to the statewide seed-to-sale monitoring system.§102(54)

Agency & Municipal Interaction

State

Office of Cannabis Policy

Primary regulator—issues licenses, writes rules, oversees compliance investigations.

Public Safety

Department of Public Safety

Supports criminal investigations tied to violations, works with OCP during enforcement actions.

Local

Municipal Oversight

Can require local licenses, dictate zoning, restrict operations. Always follow municipal approvals.

Questions to Ask Locally

  • Operating Hours: Does your town impose stricter hours than the state default?
  • Delivery Rules: Are deliveries permitted or restricted locally?
  • Signage Limits: Any municipal sign ordinances affecting retail displays?

For compliance actions and penalties, continue to Chapter 3, or return to the Title 28‑B overview.