Tree Growth
Title 36, M.R.S.A. Sections 571-584A PL 1995, c. 236 amd.
As a matter of public policy, the State of Maine has set up a Tree Growth category of property which values land according to rates established by the State rather than market value. A property owner who wishes to maintain land for the planting, culture, and continuous harvesting of trees may apply for a Tree Growth classification. The owner should be intent on actual long-term tree cultivation, as any change in use triggers a hefty penalty tax. To apply, a landowner should
- Have at least 10 acres in forest production
- Have a forest management and harvest plan
- Fill out an application to be filed with the Assessor's Office
- File by April 1 in the year for which the classification is requested
- For more information and an application, visit the Assessor's Office or view the State's Property Tax Bulletin # 19 on Tree Growth: Property Tax Bulletin 19
- The Maine Forest Service also puts out a helpful bulletin.