Me. Rev. Stat. tit. 30-A, §§ 4971–4978, 4743, 4994-D § 4972-A
Definitions
Operative Text
As used in this subchapter, unless the context otherwise indicates, the following terms have the following meanings. 1. Affordability restriction. "Affordability restriction" means, for rental housing: A. A limitation on the rent amount that is based on the income of the person or family renting the unit compared to the area median income or to market rates for rental units in that geographic area; or B. A limitation on the income of the person or family renting the dwelling unit. 2. Financial assistance. "Financial assistance" means funding in the form of grants, loans, rental assistance, subsidies, tax credits or other tax incentives provided by a federal, state or local government entity for which receipt is contingent upon constructing or maintaining dwelling units subject to an affordability restriction. 3. Holder. "Holder" means the Maine State Housing Authority or a municipal housing authority that holds the option to purchase a low-income rental housing project. 4. Low-income rental housing. "Low-income rental housing" means rental housing with 5 or more dwelling units in which any of the dwelling units are: A. Subject to affordability restrictions; B. Subject to rents that are controlled, regulated or assisted by a federal or state agency pursuant to a regulatory agreement, rental assistance agreement, restrictive covenant, mortgage or other documentation; or C. Subject to requirements as a condition of receiving financial assistance.
Section 4972-A of Maine's housing law establishes the key definitions that apply throughout the subchapter governing low-income rental housing. It defines terms such as 'affordability restriction,' 'financial assistance,' 'holder,' and 'low-income rental housing,' setting the conceptual boundaries for how the rest of the subchapter operates. These definitions determine which properties, funding arrangements, and entities fall within the scope of the law's protections and requirements.
Plain English — not legal advice.
Under § 4972-A, operators of rental properties with five or more units should be aware that receiving federal, state, or local financial assistance—such as grants, tax credits, or rental subsidies—can bring a property within the definition of 'low-income rental housing,' triggering the subchapter's broader requirements. Compliant operators typically maintain clear records of any regulatory agreements, restrictive covenants, or assistance agreements that impose affordability restrictions on their units. Understanding these definitions helps operators determine whether their properties are subject to the subchapter's rules.
General guidance for property managers — not legal advice for your specific situation. Consult an attorney for advice on your case.
Section 4972-A provides the foundational definitions that determine whether a rental property qualifies as 'low-income rental housing' under Maine law, which affects what protections may apply to residents. Tenants living in properties receiving government financial assistance or subject to income or rent restrictions may have rights under this subchapter. Tenant-rights organizations familiar with Maine housing law can help residents understand whether their building meets these definitions and what remedies may be available.
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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