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# Maine

Child Labor Laws for Family Businesses

Last updated: January 1, 2026

Min. Wage: $14.65/hr (2026) 

[Maine Department of Labor](https://www.maine.gov/labor)

1.  [Home ](/)
2.  [State Labor Laws](/state-labor-laws/)
3.  Maine 

### 

Family Business Exemptions Most Important 

Exemptions Available

-   If no hazardous machinery, minors are exempt from child labor laws for agricultural/farm work.
-   Follows federal parental exemption for other work.

### 

Minimum Working Age 

14 years old for most non-agricultural work.

Exceptions:

-   No state minimum when employed by parent (follows federal parental exemption).

### 

Hours Restrictions 

Under 14

-   Generally may not work.

Ages 14-15

-   Max 3 hrs on school days, 8 hrs on non-school days.
-   Max 18 hrs during school weeks, 40 hrs during non-school weeks.
-   Max 6 days/week.

Ages 16-17

-   If in school: 10 hrs/day, 50 hrs/week non-school; 6 hrs/day, 24 hrs/week school.
-   Up to 6 consecutive days.

### 

Nightwork Restrictions 

### 

Permitted Job Types 

### 

Work Permit Requirements 

No Permits Required

-   Age certificate not required.
-   If agricultural work with no hazardous machinery, minors are exempt from child labor laws.

### 

Recordkeeping Requirements 

### 

Key Considerations 

This information is for general educational purposes only and is not legal advice. Laws change frequently. Always verify current requirements with your [state's Department of Labor](https://www.maine.gov/labor) and the [U.S. Department of Labor](https://www.dol.gov/agencies/whd/child-labor).

## Nearby States

[NH New Hampshire ](/state-labor-laws/new-hampshire/)[VT Vermont ](/state-labor-laws/vermont/)[MA Massachusetts ](/state-labor-laws/massachusetts/)

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