diff --git a/layerindex/models.py b/layerindex/models.py
index c12e7a6..5f73acf 100644
--- a/layerindex/models.py
+++ b/layerindex/models.py
@@ -76,9 +76,10 @@ class LayerItem(models.Model):
         return matches
 
     def user_can_edit(self, user):
+        user_email = user.email.strip().lower()
         if user.is_authenticated():
             for maintainer in self.active_maintainers():
-                if maintainer.email == user.email:
+                if maintainer.email.strip().lower() == user_email:
                     return True
         return False