Regulation of architects in Maine is found in Title 32, Chapter 3- A of Revised Statute of Maine. Pursuant to 32 M.R.S. § 211, the Maine State Board for Licensure of Architects, Landscape Architects and Interior Designers (Board) administers high standard of integrity in the profession of architects. The Board administers, coordinates and enforces rules regarding regulation of the profession of architects.
Pursuant to 32 M.R.S. § 218, the Board can deny a license, or refuse to renew a license of an architect. 10 M.R.S. § 8003 provides that the Board has power to impose disciplinary sanctions on architects for the following practices:
- practice of fraud, deceit or misrepresentation in obtaining a license,
- any gross negligence, incompetence, misconduct or violation of an applicable code of ethics or standard of practice,
- conviction of a crime,
- disregarding any law or rule imposed by a governing body,
- engaging in unauthorized illegal activities, and
- failure to produce any relevant documents when required by the Board.
32 M.R.S. § 220 provides that a person is not authorized to practice architecture inside the State or use the title unless s/he is licensed. The practice of architecture consists of rendering service to clients by consultations, investigations, technical submissions and a coordination of structural factors concerning structural design. Architects also deal with administration of construction contracts located inside the State. The principal function of an architect is to design a building for human occupancy or habitation.
32 M.R.S. § 220 also provides that to be qualified for admission to the examination to practice architecture in Maine, an applicant must submit evidence to the Board that:
- The applicant has completed a course of study in a school or college of architecture approved by the board. The applicant has a graduation evidenced by a diploma, and 3 years of practical experience under the supervision of an experienced architect, or
- The applicant has training or practical experience, or a combination of both, that the Board considers as equivalent to educational qualification.
An applicant for license in Maine who has a current and valid license from another jurisdiction, or National Council of Architectural Registration Boards (NCARB), or an organization approved by the Board can offer to render architectural services in Maine prior to licensure by the Board. However, the applicant can not render architectural services until duly licensed by the Board.
Pursuant to 32 M.R.S. § 221, examinations are conducted by the Board for granting license to architects. The examination is related to technical and professional subjects. There will be oral questioning also as a part of the examination. Maine Administrative Procedure Act provides the rules for the conduct and content of examination.
32 M.R.S. § 222 provides that board can fix fees for all purposes authorized by the statute. The fees fixed should be reasonable and necessary for the purposes. However, the fee should not exceed $200. Board can issue license to any person who meets all the qualification prescribed in the statute only if the proposed fee is remitted.
Pursuant to 32 M.R.S. § 223-A, license can be issued to an applicant without an examination under certain conditions. If an applicant possesses NCARB certification or a license from other jurisdictions, s/he can be issued license from the Board without an examination. However, the applicant should make an application before the Board and claim exception in the application.
32 M.R.S. § 224, provides that when the Board issues license to a person, it is evidence to show that the person is entitled to the rights and privileges of a licensed architect. When a license is expired it should be renewed within 90 days after date of expiration of license. Extension of time period allowed by the Board to renew a license by payment of late fee prescribed.