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Home > Horticulture > Licensing & Inspection

Licensing & Inspection

Any person or business selling plants in Maine needs a license to sell nursery stock. In 2005 there were 1450 businesses licensed in Maine. Types of businesses include seasonal and year-round greenhouses, nurseries, florists, garden centers, chain stores, and landscapers. The horticulture staff maintains a list of Licensed Producers & Dealers of Nursery Stock.

The horticulture industry plays a significant role in Maine's economy and the economy of New England. The New England Nursery Association sponsored surveys to study the economic impact of the horticulture industry. Visit the New England Environmental Horticulture Economic Impact Survey for more information .

Who needs a nursery license?

Any business or individual in the state of Maine offering plant material for sale must have a license to sell nursery stock. Nursery stock is defined as woody plant material (trees, shrubs, vines etc.) and herbaceous plant material (bulbs, annuals, perennials, houseplants, etc.). Licenses are issued annually and need to be renewed each January. A license must be obtained for each location where nursery stock is sold; a single company with multiple outlets will need more then one nursery license.

Most businesses pay a fee of $25 per license, but some small businesses (those selling less than $500 in plant material a year and having less than 150 SqFt of retail sales area) qualify for a $5 license fee. Educational institutions selling plants must obtain a license, but are exempt from the licensing fee. Businesses that are found to be selling plants and fail to obtain a license may be subject to a fine of up to $500. Print an application for a license to sell Nursery Stock (.pdf). Contact the horticulture staff with any questions regarding licensing by calling (207)287-3891 or email Horticulture.

How often will my business be inspected and why do you inspect?

Businesses selling plants are subject to inspection. Most businesses are inspected annually, but inspections may be conducted more or less frequently. Inspections are conducted because plant pests can be moved from one area to another on plants that are offered for sale. Inspecting the plants helps prevent the spread of these pests and helps to ensure the sale of healthy plant material. When inspecting, horticulture staff surveys the growing area for insect, disease or environmental problems. The inspector fills out an inspection report and reviews the report with the owner or grower to address and discuss any areas of concern and answer questions. View a sample Inspection Report (.pdf). Staff is available at any time to assist growers with anything from identifying and controlling a pest to help understanding a regulation. The horticulture staff has a broad knowledge base and is happy to share that knowledge to help growers improve their operations.