Me. Rev. Stat. tit. 22, §§ 1315–1331 (housing) § 1316
Restrictions on use of lead-based substances
Operative Text
A person may not use or apply lead-based substances: 1. Interiors. In or upon any exposed surface of a dwelling, residential child-care facility or preschool facility; 2. Fixtures. In or upon any fixtures or other objects used, installed or located in or upon any exposed surface of a dwelling, residential child-care facility or preschool facility or intended to be so used, installed or located; and 3. Toys and furniture. In and upon toys or household furniture.
Maine law under 22 M.R.S. § 1316 prohibits anyone from using or applying lead-based substances on exposed interior surfaces of dwellings, residential child-care facilities, or preschool facilities, as well as on fixtures, objects associated with those surfaces, toys, and household furniture. The rule applies broadly to any person involved in applying such substances, not just licensed contractors. This provision is part of Maine's broader framework at 22 M.R.S. §§ 1315 et seq. aimed at reducing lead exposure risks, particularly for children in residential and care settings.
Plain English — not legal advice.
Property owners and managers operating under 22 M.R.S. § 1316 generally ensure that no lead-based substances are applied during renovation, repainting, or repair work on any exposed interior surfaces, fixtures, or objects within dwellings or residential child-care facilities. Compliant operators typically vet contractors and materials to confirm that lead-based paints or coatings are not introduced into covered spaces. Maintaining records of materials used and work performed can help demonstrate adherence to the restrictions set out in 22 M.R.S. §§ 1315 et seq.
General guidance for property managers — not legal advice for your specific situation. Consult an attorney for advice on your case.
Under 22 M.R.S. § 1316, tenants have an interest in knowing that lead-based substances are prohibited on interior surfaces, fixtures, and objects in their homes, as well as on toys and household furniture. If a tenant suspects that lead-based materials have been applied in violation of this provision, general enforcement paths include contacting Maine's relevant public health or housing authorities, raising the violation in any applicable housing or habitability proceeding, or reaching out to a local tenant-rights organization for guidance. Consulting with a qualified attorney familiar with 22 M.R.S. §§ 1315 et seq. is one option for understanding how this provision may apply to a particular living situation.
General guidance for tenants — not legal advice for your specific situation. Consult a tenant-rights organization or attorney for advice on your case.
Generated October 22, 2026 — auto-generated, not yet human-reviewed. See /transparency for methodology.
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