Maine contractor license bond
No statewide bondMaine has no state contractor license bond.
Currently there's no statewide general contractor license in Maine and no state contractor bond; contractors follow local permitting, and home improvement work over $3,000 must be in a written contract. Under LD 1226, a state residential contractor license becomes required on January 1, 2027 for projects over $15,000, but the new Residential Construction Board hasn't yet set the detailed requirements, including whether any bond will apply. [Source: Maine OPOR ↗]
Updated: A new state residential contractor license (LD 1226) takes effect January 1, 2027 for projects over $15,000.
Good to know
No state license or bond is required now, but residential contractors will need a state license starting January 1, 2027 for projects over $15,000.
If your city requires a bond, estimate the cost
You pay a percentage of the bond amount each year, based on credit.
About 1.5–3.0% of a $25,000 bond.
Estimate only. Your real rate is set by the surety after a quick credit check, and the premium is typically nonrefundable once the bond is issued.
How to get licensed in Maine
- 1Maine has no statewide contractor license, so start with the building department in the city or county where you'll work and ask what they require.
- 2Meet that jurisdiction's local license, bond, and insurance rules — amounts vary by city, so confirm them directly.
- 3If you do electrical, plumbing, or HVAC work, get the matching state trade license, which is issued separately.
- 4Keep your local registration and any trade licenses current as you renew.
Maine contractor bond FAQ
Does Maine require a contractor license bond?
No. Maine doesn't license general contractors statewide today and requires no state bond; a new residential license takes effect January 1, 2027.
How much does a contractor license bond cost in Maine?
You don't pay the full bond amount. You pay an annual premium that's a small percentage of it, usually around 1–3% with good credit and more while your credit is still building. Use the calculator above to estimate the premium for your bond amount.
Who regulates contractor licensing in Maine?
Maine has no single statewide contractor licensing agency — general contractors are licensed by city and county building departments. No state license or bond is required now, but residential contractors will need a state license starting January 1, 2027 for projects over $15,000.
What does a contractor license bond protect?
A contractor license bond protects your customers and the licensing authority, not you. It guarantees you'll follow the state's contractor laws; if you break them and someone is owed money, they can file a claim against the bond, and you must repay the surety.
Is the bond premium refundable?
Generally no. Once the bond is issued, the premium is earned by the surety and is typically nonrefundable, even if you never have a claim. Most bonds run one to two years, and you renew to keep your license active.
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Bond requirements and amounts are set by Local (state license from 2027) and can change. Confirm the current figure with the authority before you buy. This page is general information, not legal advice.