An "experimental" lease permits the lease holder to culture finfish, shellfish, and/or marine algae on up to 4 acres for commercial or scientific purposes. An experimental lease has a duration of 3 years. Experimental leases for commercial purposes cannot be renewed. Experimental leases for scientific purposes are renewable.
Diagram of the experimental lease application process (PDF file, 1 page)
Paper applications must be submitted using the forms currently hosted on this website. Please be sure your submission reflects the most current version of the respective form. Submissions that are made on discontinued forms may be returned to the applicant.
Pre-Application Requirements for Experimental Lease Applications
The first step in the experimental lease application process is to attend a pre-application meeting with the Department and the municipality.
To request a pre-application meeting, please complete the Pre-Application Scheduling Information Attachment and submit it using the Pre-Application Request Form.
If you have any questions, please contact DMRaquaculture@maine.gov.
Pre-Application Scheduling Attachment:
Experimental Lease Application:
Riparian List (if applicable):
Corporate Applicant Form (if applicable):
Corporations or partnerships that apply for aquaculture leases must complete this form and submit it with their lease application.