Maine’s Weirdest Laws: You Can Own an Alligator, But Don’t Blow Your Nose

Alright, buckle up, because we're about to dive into some of Maine's "special" laws that will have you scratching your head. According to visitmaine.net, these are actual laws, even though some of these may have been repealed or are just not really enforced, but we’ve got some gems. 

Ellsworth City Laws vs. Federal or State Laws

Oh, Ellsworth, bless your heart. According to this little nugget of legal wonder, if the city’s laws happen to be stricter than state or federal laws, they automatically override the big dogs. Yeah, I’m pretty sure that’s not how the law works, but we'll just let Ellsworth live in their own world for now.

Attempting to Catch Lobsters Barehanded? Big No-No

Now, if you thought you'd become a modern-day Aquaman by catching lobsters with your bare hands, well, think again. Apparently, this is illegal in Maine. 

Parking in Front of Dunkin’ in South Berwick? Don’t Even Think About It

Now, we all know Dunkin’ is life here in Maine, but if you’re planning to park in front of one on Main St in South Berwick, don’t even think about it. Apparently, the fine is a hefty $175—so that morning coffee might cost you a bit more than you bargained for. And, yes, CNBC did a whole thing on it. 

You Can’t Own Most Exotic Animals... But Pet Alligators? Totally Fine

Maine loves its critters, but the state’s got some rules about which ones can live in your house. Beavers, hippos, kangaroos, and giraffes? Nope. But guess what? You can get yourself a pet alligator if you’re willing to jump through some hoops for a permit. So go ahead and live your best Florida man life... just make sure you’re doing it legally.

Blowing Your Nose in Public in Waterville? Illegal

Yes, this is a real thing, and no, I’m not making it up. Apparently, in Waterville, if you feel the urge to clear your sinuses in public, you're breaking the law. This one's been around for a while, and it doesn't look like it's going anywhere. Maybe just carry a tissue and keep it on the down low next time you're walking around.

Biting Your Landlord in Rumford? That’s a Hard Pass

If you’re living in Rumford and things aren’t going well with your landlord, do not—under any circumstances—think about sinking your teeth into them. It’s illegal. Sure, maybe they raised your rent or are just an awful slumlord, but biting is not the answer. Get a lawyer, or better yet, move.

Potato-Eating Farmers in Huberson Must Share With Their Pigs

Okay, so Huberson? Never heard of it. But apparently, if you’re a potato farmer there, you have to share your spuds with your pigs. Because, of course, pigs love potatoes. It’s written into the law, people.

And that’s just the start. These are only a few of the crazy ones—trust me, there are more out there. Some of these are probably long gone, but the idea of getting fined for blowing your nose in public? That’s a story you can tell your friends.