Rep. Arata 4/29 Update

Maine Burn Permit System

This online service allows people to purchase an open burning permit 24 hours a day, seven days a week.  Permits are $7 each, and $2 from each permit goes to the organized municipality where it was purchased.
 
Although permits can be purchased 24 hours a day, the default setting for allowable burn times is after 5:00 p.m. and before 9:00 a.m. for unorganized towns, plantations, and most towns.  The exception to the default "after 5 p.m." restriction is when there is a steady rain or the ground is completely covered in snow.  Some communities, particularly those with full-time fire departments, have elected to override the allowable burn times and have authorized burning during the daytime.  Please read your permit carefully and only burn during the times listed.
 
This system is for brush piles, wood debris, and agricultural burns only.  Permits are only valid for 48 hours from the time they are purchased and cannot be purchased in advance.  Please contact the local fire department or the Maine Forest Service regional headquarters for campfire permits.

Augusta Regional Office:  (207) 624-3700

For additional details about the Maine Burn Permit System, please click here.
 

How to Freeze Your Credit

If you are concerned about identity theft, those reported mega-data breaches, or someone gaining access to your credit report without your permission, you might consider placing a credit freeze on your report.

What is a credit freeze?

Also known as a security freeze, this tool lets you restrict access to your credit report, which, in turn, makes it more difficult for identity thieves to open new accounts in your name.  That is because most creditors need to see your credit report before they approve a new account.  If they cannot see your file, they may not extend the credit.

Does a credit freeze affect my credit score?

No.  A credit freeze does not affect your credit score.

How do I place a freeze on my credit reports?

Contact each of the nationwide credit reporting companies.

Equifax — 1‑800‑525‑6285

Experian —1‑888‑397‑3742

TransUnion — 1‑800‑680‑7289

You will need to supply your name, address, date of birth, Social Security number, and other personal information.  Maine’s file freeze law permits FREE freezing and unfreezing of credit reports!

After receiving your freeze request, each credit reporting company will send you a confirmation letter containing a unique PIN (personal identification number) or password.  Keep the PIN or password in a safe place.  You will need it if you choose to lift the freeze.

How do I lift a freeze?

A freeze remains in place until you ask the credit reporting company to temporarily lift it or remove it altogether.  A credit reporting company must lift a freeze no later than three business days after getting your request.  The cost to lift a freeze varies by state.

If you opt for a temporary lift because you are applying for credit or a job, and you can find out which credit reporting company the business will contact for your file, you can save some money by lifting the freeze only at that particular company.

For additional information, please visit the Federal Trade Commission’s Web site by clicking here.  The Maine Office of Consumer Credit Protection also offers file free information online here.
 

Yardscaping

Can anything be more satisfying than a fertile carpet of green grass?  How about a healthy landscape that features less lawn and beautiful plantings—all grown without the excessive use of pesticides, fertilizers, and water!

Whether you have been wringing your hands over Japanese beetles or you are tired of slaving away on your lawn, YARDSCAPING is for you.

Join the growing number of Mainers who have decided to change their yard care ways—for the health of the environment, people, and wildlife.

For Yardscaping details, click here.

To learn more about which plants you can add to your garden to feed and attract pollinators, click here.

Spending, Saving, and Investing

Find tips on handling money wisely and confidently, whether you are spending it now or investing for the future.

Before You Shop

Before you make a purchase, do your research, and know your rights.

Buying and Fixing Cars

Find out about buying cars and what to do if you have a problem with your car.

Donating to Charity

Before donating to a charity or non-profit organization, make sure to do your research.

Mortgages

Learn some of the basics about mortgages.

Retirement

Learn some of the basics about retirement and pension benefits.

Saving and Investment Options

Learn how to create a budget and get the basics on investing, including savings bonds and other Treasury securities backed by the federal government.