Maine Laws on Airbnb and Short-Term Sublets for Renters

Thinking about listing your Maine apartment or room on Airbnb, or wondering if your roommate is allowed to? Short-term rentals are increasingly popular, but there are important legal guidelines and landlord rules that every Maine renter should understand before proceeding.

Understanding Short-Term Rentals and Subletting in Maine

Short-term rentals, such as those arranged through Airbnb or VRBO, typically involve renting all or part of your rental unit to someone else for under 30 days at a time. In Maine, this practice is legally considered a form of subletting. Subletting, in legal terms, is when a renter (the original tenant) lets someone else (a subtenant or guest) occupy their space temporarily.

Do You Need Landlord Permission for Airbnb or Short-Term Sublets?

Yes—Maine law requires renters to have their landlord's written consent before subletting, including through platforms like Airbnb. Even if your lease doesn’t mention "Airbnb" specifically, almost all standard leases prohibit renters from subletting or allowing others to stay long-term without approval. If you go ahead without permission, you could face eviction for violating your lease agreement.

• Check your lease carefully for any language about guests, subletting, or short-term rentals.
• If your lease is silent, Maine law still requires tenant-landlord agreement to change who resides in the rental.
• Written permission protects you from disputes or possible eviction.[1]

What Does Maine Law Say?

Maine’s key law on subletting and rental agreements is the Maine Revised Statutes Title 14, Chapter 709 – Residential Landlord and Tenant Act. This legislation governs what you can and cannot do as a renter, including making changes to the occupants of your rental home.[1]

City and Local Ordinances Matter

Some Maine cities, such as Portland and South Portland, have their own rules or licensing requirements for short-term rentals. These local ordinances may create additional steps before you can list your unit or room online. Check with your city hall or code enforcement office before moving forward.

• Portland residents: See the City of Portland Short-Term Rentals page for licensing and restrictions.

Possible Risks of Unauthorized Airbnb Sublets

If you sublet your apartment on Airbnb or similar platforms without following your lease or Maine law:

• Your landlord may begin an eviction process for lease violation.
• You could be responsible for damages or disturbances caused by guests.
• Most leases and the law make you responsible for a subtenant’s conduct.

Official Forms and Complaints: What Renters Need

If you want to ask your landlord for permission to sublet, there isn’t a statewide Maine “sublet request” form. However, you should:

• Submit your request in writing to your landlord, describing who will stay, how long, and under what arrangement.
• Keep your landlord’s written response as proof.

If your landlord tries to evict you due to unauthorized subletting, you may receive an official "Notice to Quit." This is a formal written notice that your tenancy may end, often used in eviction proceedings.

Important Form: Maine Notice to Quit (Eviction Notice)

• Form Name: 7-Day Notice to Quit or 30-Day Notice to Quit (no official state number)
• How It's Used: A landlord uses this form to inform a renter that the lease will end in 7 or 30 days due to a legal reason, such as unauthorized subletting. If you receive one, you have a limited time either to correct the problem (if allowed) or move out to avoid formal eviction proceedings.[2]
• Official Source: Notice to Quit (PDF) from MaineHousing

Which Tribunal Handles Disputes?

If you and your landlord cannot resolve conflicts (including around subletting or eviction notices), court matters are handled by the Maine District Court – Landlord-Tenant Division. This is the official tribunal for residential tenancies in Maine.

What If My Landlord Refuses My Sublet Request?

Your landlord isn’t obligated to let you sublet. If they say no, you cannot legally list your space, and doing so can result in eviction. Always try to get their reasoning in writing. If you believe the refusal is based on illegal discrimination, you may contact the Maine Human Rights Commission.

FAQs About Airbnb and Short-Term Subleases in Maine

1. Can my landlord evict me for listing my apartment on Airbnb without permission?
   Yes. In Maine, doing so without written landlord approval violates most leases and state law, making you subject to eviction procedures.
2. What does a "Notice to Quit" mean for renters involved in subletting?
   This is a legal eviction notice. Renters have a set number of days to resolve the issue or move out; otherwise, formal eviction can begin.
3. Are there any exceptions that allow Airbnb subletting without landlord consent?
   No. Consent is always required under Maine law, unless your lease specifically gives you unlimited subletting rights (rare in practice).
4. Does Maine provide an official statewide sublet form?
   No official form, but always create a written request and get a written response from your landlord.
5. Where can I get help if my landlord is threatening eviction over alleged unauthorized subletting?
   Contact Pine Tree Legal Assistance, MaineHousing, or the Maine District Court for guidance and possible legal help.

Key Takeaways for Maine Renters

• Always secure written landlord permission before subletting or using Airbnb.
• Check local city regulations, as these may be stricter than state law.
• Keep records of all communication with your landlord regarding sublets or guests.

Maine law is clear: get approval first, and protect your rights by understanding the risks and responsibilities of short-term rentals.

Need Help? Resources for Renters in Maine

• MaineHousing – Renters’ Rights & Resources: Official information about rental rules and eviction notices
• Pine Tree Legal Assistance: Free legal services and guides for tenants
• Maine District Court – Landlord-Tenant Division: The main tribunal for landlord-tenant disputes
• Maine Human Rights Commission: Report discrimination or unfair rental treatment

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1. Maine Revised Statutes Title 14, Chapter 709 – Residential Landlord and Tenant Act
2. Notice to Quit (PDF) from MaineHousing

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