Is Butterfly Knives Legal in Maine? (2026)
Yes — Butterfly Knives are legal in Maine as of 2026.
Quick Answer
Butterfly knives are legal to own and carry in Maine with no specific restrictions beyond general knife laws. No significant legislative changes in recent years.
- Age restriction: 18+ for purchase
What the Law Says
Maine has permissive knife laws, but it is illegal to carry a butterfly knife in a school zone.
— 17-A M.R.S.A. § 1055
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Possession | Legal |
| Sale & Purchase | Legal |
| Penalties | N/A |
| Age Restriction | 18+ for purchase |
| Pending Legislation | None known |
No significant legislative changes in recent years.
Enforcement Reality
Maine has very permissive knife laws. Butterfly knives are legal to own and carry, and enforcement is not a concern.
The most common mistake is carrying a knife in a school zone, which is illegal.
Local Exceptions
None identified. State law applies uniformly across Maine. Local ordinances may still vary — check with your city or county government for any additional rules.
Bottom Line
Butterfly Knives are legal in Maine. You can carry them without violating state law, though federal rules and local ordinances may still apply. Always verify current law before acting.
Maine vs. the Rest of the US
Across the US, carrying a butterfly knife is fully legal in 39 states, restricted in 10, and illegal in 1. Maine falls in the LEGAL category.
View the full 50-state map →Neighboring States
Laws change at state lines. Here is how bordering states compare on Butterfly Knives:
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it legal to carry Butterfly Knives in Maine?
Can you carry a butterfly knife in Maine?
What is the age restriction for carrying a butterfly knife in Maine?
Interactive Tools
See your overall risk score for Maine based on all your activities.
Get Risk Score →See how Butterfly Knives laws change if you relocate from Maine.
Relocation Analyzer →Check if Butterfly Knives laws change at state borders on your route.
Plan Your Trip →Get Butterfly Knives Legal Updates
Get notified when butterfly knives laws change in any state.
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Reviewed by cross-referencing the cited state statute against current legislative databases and regulatory publications.
Sources & Verification
This page was reviewed by Ethan Harper by comparing the legal status against the cited state statute. AllowedHere is an informational resource and does not provide legal advice. Consult a licensed attorney for guidance specific to your situation.
Comprehensive Maine Legal Guides
Explore all related legal topics in Maine — statutes, penalties, and enforcement in one place.