8 Meats That Are Illegal to BBQ in Maine

While you may be getting ready for summer BBQs here in Maine, just know that if you somehow end up with any of these meats, you’re breaking the law.

And listen—really, why would you even want to BBQ any of these illegal meats, when there are so many delicious and totally legal options you can throw on the grill instead?

So, with that in mind, how do we know these meats are illegal? What are we looking at—state laws, federal laws? What’s this all based on?

While it’s true that different states have their own rules when it comes to hunting, fishing, and living that hunter-gatherer life, there are also strict federal laws that set the baseline for what’s allowed nationwide. Those federal protections, combined with Maine’s state-specific regulations, are what we looked at when identifying meats that are illegal to have at your BBQ.

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And to be clear—these rules aren’t just for your summer BBQs. These laws, regulations, and protections are in place all year long, no matter the season.

When it comes to the law, Uncle Sam—and let’s say, ‘Aunt Pine Tree’ for Maine—doesn’t care what time of year it is, unless it’s specifically noted otherwise.

Keep scrolling to see the list of meats that are illegal to BBQ—or, in many cases, even possess—in Maine this summer (and really, ever).

After you’ve scrolled through the meats you can’t have, why not let us know what your favorite meat that you can have is? We’d love to hear from you! Feel free to join the conversation by messaging us on the app.

https://q1065.fm/maine-best-under-the-radar-steakhouses-2025/

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