Maine legal term
Public place in Maine Criminal Law
Current through 2026 Maine legislative session
In Maine criminal law, “Public place” is a term defined by statute rather than by its everyday meaning. Its statutory definition — quoted verbatim below — controls how the term is applied throughout the Maine criminal code.
What does “Public place” mean in Maine criminal law?
"Public place" means a place to which the public at large or a substantial group has access, including but not limited to: (1) Public ways as defined in section 505; (2) Schools and government-owned custodial facilities; and (3) The lobbies, hallways, lavatories, toilets and basement portions of apartment houses, hotels, public buildings and transportation terminals. (17-A M.R.S. § 501-A)
Statutes defining or using this term
Charges using this term
Related terms in the same statutes
This reference is informational and is not legal advice.