Assisted living in Maine: how it is licensed.
Who licenses assisted living in Maine, and what to check before you choose.
What Maine calls it
In Maine, assisted living is licensed under the term “Assisted Housing Program”. Other states use different names, so it helps to know the exact term when you search.
Who licenses and inspects
Maine Department of Health and Human Services, Division of Licensing and Certification is the agency that licenses these communities. It is the official place to check a community’s license and inspection history.
Paying for care
Medicare generally does not cover long term custodial care.
Maine's MaineCare page says people in residential care facilities may qualify for long-term care coverage if they live in an apartment or small adult family care home, and that home and community-based waiver programs are available to people who meet medical and financial requirements. Eligibility rules apply.
Help and complaints
Maine Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program supports residents of long term care and their families.
Also worth knowing in Maine
Maine's rules for assisted housing, 10-144 CMR Ch 113 Part A (Assisted Living Facilities) and Part B (Residential Care Facilities), are listed by the Division of Licensing and Certification as taking effect September 18, 2025.
Sources we checked (October 2026)
Licensing rules change. We checked the pages below. Confirm with the state agency.
Questions
Who regulates assisted living in Maine?
Maine Department of Health and Human Services, Division of Licensing and Certification.