Adverse Possession in Maine
State-specific overview · Property & Real Estate
Maine requires 20 years of open, continuous occupation without the owner's permission.
How Maine treats Adverse Possession
Maine's adverse possession statute requires a 20-year period of continuous, open, and exclusive possession. The possessor must occupy the land as an owner would, visibly and notoriously, so that a reasonable owner would become aware of the occupation. Maine courts examine whether the possessor made improvements, paid taxes, or otherwise demonstrated ownership intent. The occupation must be hostile—without the owner's consent or legal authority.
The general definition of Adverse Possession
Gaining legal ownership of land by occupying it openly and continuously for a set period.
If someone uses another person's land openly, without permission, and continuously for many years (typically 7–21 years depending on the state), they may eventually become the legal owner. The original owner must not have stopped them during that time. This doctrine rewards people who improve and maintain land while punishing owners who abandon or ignore their property.
Read the full Adverse Possession entry →This page is a plain-English reference and is not legal advice. State laws change frequently. For specific situations consult a licensed attorney in Maine.