Alcoholic Beverages and Cannabis (GAB) — Title 18. Charles County
Statutes in effect as of October 1, 2026.
Subtitle 1. Definitions; General Provisions
Md. Code Ann., Alco. Bev. § 18-101 (2026)
Title 18. Charles County
Subtitle 1. Definitions; General Provisions
§ 18–101LinkCopy Citation
(a)
In this title:
(1)
the definitions in § 1–101 of this article apply without exception or variation; and
(2)
the following words have the meanings indicated.
(b)
“Board” means the Board of License Commissioners for Charles County.
(c)
“County” means Charles County.
(d)
“Light wine” means wine that contains not more than 15.5% of alcohol by volume.
Md. Code Ann., Alco. Bev. § 18-102 (2026)
Title 18. Charles County
Subtitle 1. Definitions; General Provisions
§ 18–102LinkCopy Citation
This title applies only in Charles County.
Md. Code Ann., Alco. Bev. § 18-103 (2026)
Title 18. Charles County
Subtitle 1. Definitions; General Provisions
§ 18–103LinkCopy Citation
The County Commissioners may regulate by ordinance the consumption of alcoholic beverages on public property, including buildings, grounds, streets, highways, alleys, sidewalks, and other structures or roads on land in the county owned by:
(1)
the county;
(2)
the county board of education; or
(3)
the State.
Md. Code Ann., Alco. Bev. § 18-104 (2026)
Title 18. Charles County
Subtitle 1. Definitions; General Provisions
§ 18–104LinkCopy Citation
A copy of any legislation concerning alcoholic beverages enacted by the County Commissioners under this title shall be sent to the Department of Legislative Services, 90 State Circle, Annapolis, Maryland 21401.
Subtitle 2. Board of License Commissioners
Md. Code Ann., Alco. Bev. § 18-201 (2026)
Title 18. Charles County
Subtitle 2. Board of License Commissioners
§ 18–201LinkCopy Citation
There is a Board of License Commissioners for Charles County.
Md. Code Ann., Alco. Bev. § 18-202 (2026)
Title 18. Charles County
Subtitle 2. Board of License Commissioners
§ 18–202LinkCopy Citation
(a)
The County Commissioners shall appoint five members to the Board.
(b)
(1)
Of the members of the Board:
(i)
at least one shall be from each of the County Commissioner districts; and
(ii)
one shall be at large.
(2)
Each member of the Board shall be a registered voter of the county.
(3)
Preferably, at least one member of the Board before being appointed shall have some familiarity or experience with the alcoholic beverages industry.
(c)
(1)
In this subsection, “direct or indirect interest” means an interest that is proprietary or obtained by a loan, mortgage, or lien or in any other manner.
(2)
A member of the Board may not:
(i)
have a direct or indirect interest in or on a premises where alcoholic beverages are sold;
(ii)
have a direct or indirect interest in a business wholly or partly devoted to the sale of alcoholic beverages;
(iii)
own stock in:
(1)
a corporation that has a direct or indirect interest in a premises where alcoholic beverages are sold; or
(2)
a business wholly or partially devoted to the sale of alcoholic beverages;
(iv)
hold any other public office or employment; or
(v)
solicit or receive, directly or indirectly, a commission, remuneration, or gift from:
(1)
a person engaged in the sale of alcoholic beverages or an agent or employee of the person; or
(2)
a license holder.
(3)
A person engaged in the manufacture or sale of alcoholic beverages, an agent or employee of the person, or a license holder may not directly or indirectly offer a commission, remuneration, or gift to:
(i)
a member of the Board; or
(ii)
someone on behalf of a member of the Board.
(d)
(1)
The term of a member is 4 years.
(2)
A member may not serve more than two consecutive terms.
(3)
The terms of the members are staggered as required by the terms provided for members of the Board on July 1, 2016.
(e)
The County Commissioners may remove a member for:
(1)
a violation of subsection (c) of this section or other misconduct in office;
(2)
incompetence; or
(3)
willful neglect of duty.
Md. Code Ann., Alco. Bev. § 18-203 (2026)
Title 18. Charles County
Subtitle 2. Board of License Commissioners
§ 18–203LinkCopy Citation
(a)
From among its members, the Board annually shall elect a chair.
(b)
A member may not serve more than two consecutive terms as chair.
Md. Code Ann., Alco. Bev. § 18-204 (2026)
Title 18. Charles County
Subtitle 2. Board of License Commissioners
§ 18–204LinkCopy Citation
(a)
Three members of the Board are a quorum for transacting business.
(b)
The Board shall meet at least once a month.
(c)
The County Commissioners shall set the salaries of the chair and the other members of the Board.
(d)
(1)
The Board may:
(i)
employ:
(1)
a secretary;
(2)
inspectors; and
(3)
clerical and other assistants as are necessary; and
(ii)
set the compensation of the employees.
(2)
(i)
The County Commissioners shall provide a clerk, counsel, and supplies to the Board as the County Commissioners consider appropriate.
(ii)
The County Commissioners may set salaries for the clerk and counsel as the County Commissioners consider appropriate.
Md. Code Ann., Alco. Bev. § 18-205 (2026)
Title 18. Charles County
Subtitle 2. Board of License Commissioners
§ 18–205LinkCopy Citation
The Board may adopt regulations to carry out this article.
Subtitle 3. Liquor Control
Md. Code Ann., Alco. Bev. § 18-301 (2026)
Title 18. Charles County
Subtitle 3. Liquor Control
§ 18–301LinkCopy Citation
There is no liquor control board or department of liquor control in the county.
Subtitle 4. Manufacturer's Licenses
Md. Code Ann., Alco. Bev. § 18-401 (2026)
Title 18. Charles County
Subtitle 4. Manufacturer's Licenses
§ 18–401LinkCopy Citation
(a)
The following sections of Title 2, Subtitle 2 (“Manufacturer’s Licenses”) of Division I of this article apply in the county without exception or variation:
(1)
§ 2–201 (“Issuance by Comptroller”);
(2)
§ 2–202 (“Class 1 distillery license”);
(3)
§ 2–203 (“Class 9 limited distillery license”);
(4)
§ 2–204 (“Class 2 rectifying license”);
(5)
§ 2–205 (“Class 3 winery license”);
(6)
§ 2–206 (“Class 4 limited winery license”);
(7)
§ 2–207 (“Class 5 brewery license”);
(8)
§ 2–208 (“Class 6 pub–brewery license”);
(9)
§ 2–209 (“Class 7 micro–brewery license”);
(10)
§ 2–210 (“Class 8 farm brewery license”);
(11)
§ 2–211 (“Residency requirement”);
(12)
§ 2–212 (“Additional licenses”);
(13)
§ 2–213 (“Additional fees”);
(14)
§ 2–214 (“Sale or delivery restricted”);
(15)
§ 2–215 (“Beer sale on credit to retail dealer prohibited”);
(16)
§ 2–217 (“Distribution of alcoholic beverages — Prohibited practices”); and
(17)
§ 2–218 (“Restrictive agreements between producers and retailers — Prohibited”).
(b)
Section 2–216 (“Interaction between manufacturing entities and retailers”) of Division I of this article applies in the county, subject to § 18–403 of this subtitle.
Md. Code Ann., Alco. Bev. § 18-402 (2026)
Title 18. Charles County
Subtitle 4. Manufacturer's Licenses
§ 18–402LinkCopy Citation
A holder of a manufacturer’s license may sell or deliver alcoholic beverages to a holder of a retail license from 6 a.m. to midnight on every day except Sunday.
Md. Code Ann., Alco. Bev. § 18-403 (2026)
Title 18. Charles County
Subtitle 4. Manufacturer's Licenses
§ 18–403LinkCopy Citation
(a)
Section 2–216(b) of this article does not apply to a holder of a Class 4 limited winery license.
(b)
A holder of a Class 4 limited winery license may hold or have a financial interest in one retail license that does not apply to the premises for which a Class 4 limited winery license applies.
Subtitle 5. Wholesaler's Licenses
Md. Code Ann., Alco. Bev. § 18-501 (2026)
Title 18. Charles County
Subtitle 5. Wholesaler's Licenses
§ 18–501LinkCopy Citation
Title 2, Subtitle 3 (“Wholesaler’s Licenses”) of Division I of this article applies in the county without exception or variation.
Md. Code Ann., Alco. Bev. § 18-502 (2026)
Title 18. Charles County
Subtitle 5. Wholesaler's Licenses
§ 18–502LinkCopy Citation
Except as provided in § 18–503 of this subtitle, a holder of a wholesaler’s license may sell or deliver alcoholic beverages to a holder of a retail license from 6 a.m. to midnight on every day except Sunday.
Md. Code Ann., Alco. Bev. § 18-503 (2026)
Title 18. Charles County
Subtitle 5. Wholesaler's Licenses
§ 18–503LinkCopy Citation
(a)
A holder of a wholesaler’s license may enter into an agreement with a holder of a per diem license issued under Subtitle 13 of this title to deliver beer on the effective date of the per diem license and accept returns on the same day.
(b)
The agreement entered into under subsection (a) of this section shall include the type of equipment, services, personnel, and supplies required to dispense draft beer.
Subtitle 6. Beer Licenses
Md. Code Ann., Alco. Bev. § 18-601 (2026)
Title 18. Charles County
Subtitle 6. Beer Licenses
§ 18–601LinkCopy Citation
A Class A beer license may not be issued in the county.
Md. Code Ann., Alco. Bev. § 18-602 (2026)
Title 18. Charles County
Subtitle 6. Beer Licenses
§ 18–602LinkCopy Citation
A Class B beer license may not be issued in the county.
Md. Code Ann., Alco. Bev. § 18-603 (2026)
Title 18. Charles County
Subtitle 6. Beer Licenses
§ 18–603LinkCopy Citation
A Class C beer license may not be issued in the county.
Md. Code Ann., Alco. Bev. § 18-604 (2026)
Title 18. Charles County
Subtitle 6. Beer Licenses
§ 18–604LinkCopy Citation
(a)
There is a Class D beer license.
(b)
(1)
Subject to paragraph (2) of this subsection, the license authorizes the license holder to sell beer at retail at the place described in the license for on– and off–premises consumption.
(2)
A license may not be issued for a drugstore.
(c)
(1)
The annual license fee is $240.
(2)
In addition to the annual license fee, a license holder shall annually pay:
(i)
$200, if the license holder provides live entertainment; and
(ii)
$200, if the license holder provides outdoor table service.
Subtitle 7. Light Wine Licenses
Md. Code Ann., Alco. Bev. § 18-701 (2026)
Title 18. Charles County
Subtitle 7. Light Wine Licenses
§ 18–701LinkCopy Citation
A light wine license may not be issued in the county.
Subtitle 8. Beer and Light Wine Licenses
Md. Code Ann., Alco. Bev. § 18-801 (2026)
Title 18. Charles County
Subtitle 8. Beer and Light Wine Licenses
§ 18–801LinkCopy Citation
A Class A beer and light wine license may not be issued in the county.
Md. Code Ann., Alco. Bev. § 18-802 (2026)
Title 18. Charles County
Subtitle 8. Beer and Light Wine Licenses
§ 18–802LinkCopy Citation
A Class B beer and light wine license may not be issued in the county.
Md. Code Ann., Alco. Bev. § 18-803 (2026)
Title 18. Charles County
Subtitle 8. Beer and Light Wine Licenses
§ 18–803LinkCopy Citation
A Class C beer and light wine license may not be issued in the county.
Md. Code Ann., Alco. Bev. § 18-804 (2026)
Title 18. Charles County
Subtitle 8. Beer and Light Wine Licenses
§ 18–804LinkCopy Citation
(a)
There is a Class D beer and light wine license.
(b)
The license authorizes the license holder to sell beer and light wine, at retail, at the place described in the license, for on– and off–premises consumption.
(c)
The license may not be issued for use by a drugstore.
(d)
(1)
The annual license fee is $340.
(2)
A license holder shall pay, in addition to the annual license fee:
(i)
$200, if the license holder provides live entertainment; and
(ii)
$200, if the license holder provides outdoor table service.
Md. Code Ann., Alco. Bev. § 18-805 (2026)
Title 18. Charles County
Subtitle 8. Beer and Light Wine Licenses
§ 18–805LinkCopy Citation
(a)
There is a Class H beer and light wine license.
(b)
The license authorizes the license holder to sell beer and light wine at a hotel or restaurant, at retail, at the place described in the license, for on–premises consumption.
(c)
(1)
The annual license fee is $340.
(2)
A license holder shall pay, in addition to the annual license fee:
(i)
$200, if the license holder provides live entertainment; and
(ii)
$200, if the license holder provides outdoor table service.
Subtitle 9. Beer, Wine, and Liquor Licenses
Md. Code Ann., Alco. Bev. § 18-901 (2026)
Title 18. Charles County
Subtitle 9. Beer, Wine, and Liquor Licenses
§ 18–901LinkCopy Citation
(a)
There is a Class A beer, wine, and liquor license.
(b)
(1)
The license authorizes the holder to:
(i)
sell beer, wine, and liquor at retail at the place described in the license; and
(ii)
serve beer, wine, and liquor for tasting and sampling if:
(1)
the tasting or sampling is held on the licensed premises; and
(2)
the holder serves not more than 1 ounce from each serving of beer, wine, or liquor, in a container that holds not more than 4 ounces, to any one individual.
(2)
The license holder shall deliver the beer, wine, or liquor in a sealed package or container that may not be opened or its contents consumed on the licensed premises.
(c)
A license may not be issued for a drugstore unless the applicant:
(1)
has been doing business at the location applied for in the license for at least 1 year before the date of the application for the license;
(2)
is the assignee of a business established for at least 1 year before the date of the application for the license at the location applied for; or
(3)
has been engaged in the retail drug business for at least 3 years.
(d)
The annual license fee is $960.
Md. Code Ann., Alco. Bev. § 18-902 (2026)
Title 18. Charles County
Subtitle 9. Beer, Wine, and Liquor Licenses
§ 18–902LinkCopy Citation
(a)
There is a Class B–H (hotel) on–sale beer, wine, and liquor license.
(b)
The license authorizes the license holder to sell beer, wine, and liquor for on–premises consumption in a hotel common area, for a premises primarily engaged in the day–to–day rental of hotel rooms.
(c)
The license holder may sell beer, wine, and liquor during the hours and days as set out for a Class B beer, wine, and liquor license under § 18–2004(b) of this title.
(d)
(1)
The annual license fee is $360.
(2)
In addition to the annual license fee, a license holder shall yearly pay:
(i)
$200, if the license holder provides live entertainment; and
(ii)
$200, if the license holder provides outdoor table service.
Md. Code Ann., Alco. Bev. § 18-903 (2026)
Title 18. Charles County
Subtitle 9. Beer, Wine, and Liquor Licenses
§ 18–903LinkCopy Citation
(a)
There is a Class B–N (nightclub) on–sale beer, wine, and liquor license.
(b)
The license authorizes the license holder to sell beer, wine, and liquor for consumption on the premises of a nightclub facility that:
(1)
is primarily engaged in selling and serving alcoholic beverages, on a drink–by–drink basis; and
(2)
has a seating capacity of more than 100 people, as determined by the State Fire Marshal.
(c)
The license holder may sell beer, wine, and liquor during the hours and days as set out for a Class B beer, wine, and liquor license under § 18–2004(b) of this title.
(d)
(1)
The annual license fee is $610.
(2)
In addition to the annual license fee, a license holder shall yearly pay $200 if the license holder provides live entertainment.
Md. Code Ann., Alco. Bev. § 18-904 (2026)
Title 18. Charles County
Subtitle 9. Beer, Wine, and Liquor Licenses
§ 18–904LinkCopy Citation
(a)
There is a Class B–R (restaurant) on–sale beer, wine, and liquor license.
(b)
The license authorizes the license holder to sell beer, wine, and liquor at retail for consumption on the premises of a restaurant that:
(1)
is primarily engaged in the sale of food and nonalcoholic beverages for on–premises consumption; and
(2)
contains a dining room with facilities for preparing and serving meals.
(c)
The license holder may sell beer, wine, and liquor during the hours and days as set out for a Class B beer, wine, and liquor license under § 18–2004(b) of this title.
(d)
A license holder may not:
(1)
establish an area on the premises of the restaurant that is a bar; or
(2)
provide live entertainment.
(e)
(1)
The annual license fee is $360.
(2)
In addition to the annual license fee, a license holder shall yearly pay $200 if the license holder provides outdoor table service.
Md. Code Ann., Alco. Bev. § 18-905 (2026)
Title 18. Charles County
Subtitle 9. Beer, Wine, and Liquor Licenses
§ 18–905LinkCopy Citation
(a)
There is a Class B–RB (restaurant/bar) on–sale beer, wine, and liquor license.
(b)
The license authorizes the sale and consumption of beer, wine, and liquor on the premises of a restaurant that:
(1)
is primarily engaged in the sale of food and nonalcoholic beverages for on–premises consumption;
(2)
has a dining room with facilities for preparing and serving meals; and
(3)
has a bar, with stools to accommodate customers with or without service of food.
(c)
The license holder may sell beer, wine, and liquor during the hours and days as set out for a Class B beer, wine, and liquor license under § 18–2004(b) of this title.
(d)
(1)
The annual license fee is $460.
(2)
In addition to the annual license fee, a license holder shall yearly pay:
(i)
$200, if the license holder provides live entertainment; and
(ii)
$200, if the license holder provides outdoor table service.
Md. Code Ann., Alco. Bev. § 18-906 (2026)
Title 18. Charles County
Subtitle 9. Beer, Wine, and Liquor Licenses
§ 18–906LinkCopy Citation
(a)
There is a Class B–T (tavern) on–sale beer, wine, and liquor license.
(b)
The license authorizes the license holder to sell beer, wine, and liquor for consumption on the premises of a restaurant or bar that:
(1)
is primarily engaged in selling and serving alcoholic beverages, on a drink–by–drink basis; and
(2)
has a seating capacity of less than 100 people, as determined by the State Fire Marshal.
(c)
The license holder may sell beer, wine, and liquor during the hours and days as set out for a Class B beer, wine, and liquor license under § 18–2004(b) of this title.
(d)
(1)
The annual license fee is $460.
(2)
In addition to the annual license fee, a license holder shall yearly pay:
(i)
$200, if the license holder provides live entertainment; and
(ii)
$200, if the license holder provides outdoor table service.
Md. Code Ann., Alco. Bev. § 18-907 (2026)
Title 18. Charles County
Subtitle 9. Beer, Wine, and Liquor Licenses
§ 18–907LinkCopy Citation
(a)
There is a Class C beer, wine, and liquor license.
(b)
(1)
The Board may issue the license for use by:
(i)
a nonprofit organization; or
(ii)
a club composed only of members who served in the armed forces of the United States in a war in which the United States has been engaged.
(2)
The nonprofit organization or club for which the license is issued shall:
(i)
operate only for the use of its members and guests when accompanied by members; and
(ii)
meet in a clubhouse that is used exclusively for its members and guests.
(c)
The license authorizes the license holder to sell beer, wine, and liquor for on–premises consumption:
(1)
in the clubhouse; or
(2)
on property directly contiguous to the clubhouse that is:
(i)
owned by the nonprofit organization or club; and
(ii)
used exclusively by members and guests for social functions or business of the organization or club.
(d)
(1)
The annual license fee is $350.
(2)
In addition to the annual license fee, a license holder shall annually pay:
(i)
$200, if the license holder provides live entertainment; and
(ii)
$200, if the license holder provides outdoor table service.
Md. Code Ann., Alco. Bev. § 18-908 (2026)
Title 18. Charles County
Subtitle 9. Beer, Wine, and Liquor Licenses
§ 18–908LinkCopy Citation
(a)
There are two types of Class D beer, wine, and liquor licenses.
(b)
The licenses authorize the license holder to sell at retail at the place described in the license:
(1)
beer, wine, and liquor for on– and off–premises consumption; or
(2)
beer and wine for on– and off–premises consumption and liquor for off–premises consumption.
(c)
The licenses may not be issued for use by a drugstore.
(d)
(1)
The annual license fees are:
(i)
$1,320, for a license to sell beer, wine, and liquor for on– and off–premises consumption; and
(ii)
$1,020, for a license to sell beer and wine for on– and off–premises consumption and liquor for off–premises consumption.
(2)
In addition to the annual license fee, a license holder shall annually pay:
(i)
$200, if the license holder provides live entertainment; and
(ii)
$200, if the license holder provides outdoor table service.
Subtitle 10. Licenses for Specific Types of Organizations and Venues
Md. Code Ann., Alco. Bev. § 18-1001 (2026)
Title 18. Charles County
Subtitle 10. Licenses for Specific Types of Organizations and Venues
§ 18–1001LinkCopy Citation
(a)
There is a Class B–Stadium (baseball stadium) beer, wine, and liquor license.
(b)
The Board may issue the license to:
(1)
the owner of a professional team franchise, whether the franchise is a partnership, corporation, or limited liability company; or
(2)
a private concessionaire that is under contract with the county or a professional baseball team franchise.
(c)
(1)
The license authorizes the license holder to sell beer, wine, and liquor on the premises of a baseball stadium owned or operated by the county, excluding any parking areas, to individuals present at a baseball game or other event held at the stadium.
(2)
(i)
Except as provided in subparagraph (ii) of this paragraph, beer, wine, and liquor shall be served in plastic, paper, or other nonglass containers on the stadium premises.
(ii)
Beer, wine, and liquor may be served in glass containers in an enclosed stadium dining area in which patrons are seated.
(3)
A patron may consume and carry beer, wine, and liquor anywhere on the stadium premises, excluding any parking areas.
(4)
The license holder may not allow an individual to carry alcoholic beverages onto or from the licensed premises.
(d)
Except as provided in regulations adopted under subsection (e) of this section, the license holder may sell beer, wine, and liquor during the hours and days as set out for a Class B beer, wine, and liquor license under § 18–2004 of this title.
(e)
The Board may adopt regulations relating to:
(1)
the manner of serving alcoholic beverages;
(2)
the number of outlets authorized to serve alcoholic beverages; and
(3)
the hours and days of sale.
(f)
The annual license fee is $2,200.
Md. Code Ann., Alco. Bev. § 18-1002 (2026)
Title 18. Charles County
Subtitle 10. Licenses for Specific Types of Organizations and Venues
§ 18–1002LinkCopy Citation
(a)
There is a Class B–B&B (bed and breakfast) beer, wine, and liquor license.
(b)
The Board may issue the license for the use of a bed and breakfast that:
(1)
has rooms, excluding the resident management quarters, that the public for consideration may use for sleeping accommodations for a specified time;
(2)
does not have dining facilities that are open to the public; and
(3)
meets all other qualifications to hold a license issued by the Board.
(c)
(1)
The license authorizes the license holder to sell beer, wine, and liquor for on–premises consumption only to a guest:
(i)
whose name and address appear on the registry that the bed and breakfast maintains; and
(ii)
who is an occupant of a sleeping room in the bed and breakfast.
(2)
The license holder may not sell beer, wine, and liquor to an individual who is registered only to obtain alcoholic beverages.
(3)
If the licensed premises ends operations as a bed and breakfast, the license is void.
(d)
The license holder may sell beer, wine, and liquor during the hours and days as set out for a Class B beer, wine, and liquor license under § 18–2004 of this title.
(e)
The annual license fee is:
(1)
$25 for a bed and breakfast with five or fewer bedrooms; and
(2)
$50 for a bed and breakfast with six or more bedrooms.
Md. Code Ann., Alco. Bev. § 18-1002.1 (2026)
Title 18. Charles County
Subtitle 10. Licenses for Specific Types of Organizations and Venues
§ 18–1002.1LinkCopy Citation
(a)
(1)
In this section the following words have the meanings indicated.
(2)
“Concessionaire” means a lessee, a sublessee, or any other operator of an establishment that:
(i)
engages in the daily sale of beer, wine, and liquor on its premises for consumption anywhere in an entertainment facility; and
(ii)
is operated as a concession adjacent to but independent of the entertainment facility.
(3)
“Entertainment facility” means a facility that holds a license under Title 9, Subtitle 1A of the State Government Article.
(b)
There is an entertainment concessionaire license.
(c)
The Board may issue the license to a concessionaire operating in conjunction with an entertainment facility.
(d)
(1)
The license authorizes:
(i)
the license holder to sell beer, wine, and liquor on the premises of the concessionaire for consumption in any part of the licensed premises; and
(ii)
the playing of music and dancing on the licensed premises.
(2)
Beer, wine, and liquor purchased under the license may be taken into and consumed anywhere in any part of the licensed premises.
(e)
The hours for the sale and consumption of alcoholic beverages under the license are the same as the hours of operation for a video lottery facility established under § 9–1A–23 of the State Government Article.
(f)
(1)
The annual fee for the license is $5,000.
(2)
The fee shall be paid on or before May 1 of each year to the Board.
(g)
Any penalty or other sanction that is imposed for a violation of a regulation of the Board on the licensed premises of the holder of an entertainment concessionaire license shall apply to the holder of a concessionaire’s license who the Board determines to be responsible for the violation.
Md. Code Ann., Alco. Bev. § 18-1002.2 (2026)
Title 18. Charles County
Subtitle 10. Licenses for Specific Types of Organizations and Venues
§ 18–1002.2LinkCopy Citation
(a)
“Entertainment facility” means a facility that holds a license under Title 9, Subtitle 1A of the State Government Article.
(b)
There is an entertainment facility license.
(c)
(1)
The Board may issue the license for the use of an entertainment facility that contains one or more food service facilities, bars, or lounges that are part of the operation of the entertainment facility.
(2)
(i)
The license shall be issued to an individual or entity that owns an entertainment facility and holds a license under Title 9, Subtitle 1A of the State Government Article.
(ii)
An applicant for the license need not meet any location, voting, or residency requirements.
(d)
(1)
The license authorizes:
(i)
the license holder to sell beer, wine, and liquor in any location of the entertainment facility that is not covered by an entertainment concessionaire license for consumption anywhere on the licensed premises; and
(ii)
the playing of music and dancing on the licensed premises.
(2)
Beer, wine, and liquor purchased under the license may be taken and consumed anywhere on the licensed premises.
(e)
The hours for the sale and consumption of alcoholic beverages under the license are the same as the hours of operation for a video lottery facility established under § 9–1A–23 of the State Government Article.
(f)
(1)
The annual fee for the license is $15,000.
(2)
The fee shall be paid on or before May 1 of each year to the Board.
Md. Code Ann., Alco. Bev. § 18-1004 (2026)
Title 18. Charles County
Subtitle 10. Licenses for Specific Types of Organizations and Venues
§ 18–1004LinkCopy Citation
(a)
In this section, “resort complex” means a parcel or contiguous parcels of land:
(1)
of at least 20 acres;
(2)
under common ownership; and
(3)
with facilities that:
(i)
include a venue for golf, waterfront beach activities, or a marina;
(ii)
serve the public; and
(iii)
resulted in a capital investment of at least $550,000 exclusive of the cost of the land.
(b)
There is a resort complex license.
(c)
The Board may issue one resort complex license to the person owning or operating a resort complex.
(d)
The license authorizes the license holder to sell beer, wine, and liquor from:
(1)
one or more outlets in the resort complex that may be consumed in conjunction with the playing of music and dancing at designated locations in the resort complex; and
(2)
one designated outlet in the resort complex for off–premises consumption.
(e)
A license holder may serve alcoholic beverages:
(1)
at one or more outside outlets in the resort complex on Monday through Sunday, from 6 a.m. to midnight;
(2)
at one or more inside outlets in the resort complex:
(i)
on Monday through Saturday, from 6 a.m. to 2 a.m. the following day; and
(ii)
on Sunday, from 6 a.m. to midnight; and
(3)
at one designated outlet for off–premises consumption:
(i)
on Monday through Saturday, from 6 a.m. to 2 a.m. the following day; and
(ii)
on Sunday, from 6 a.m. to midnight.
(f)
A resort complex license is exempt from any quota or restriction on off–sale licenses issued for the election district in which the resort complex is located.
(g)
(1)
Certain areas in a resort complex may be excluded from the portion of the property that is considered to be the licensed premises.
(2)
A person other than the resort complex license holder may obtain a different class of license for an area excluded under paragraph (1) of this subsection.
(h)
The annual license fees are:
(1)
$3,500 for two outlet locations; and
(2)
$1,750 for each additional outlet location.
Subtitle 11. Additional License Privileges
Md. Code Ann., Alco. Bev. § 18-1101 (2026)
Title 18. Charles County
Subtitle 11. Additional License Privileges
§ 18–1101LinkCopy Citation
(a)
The following sections of Title 4, Subtitle 11 (“Additional License Privileges”) of Division I of this article apply in the county without exception or variation:
(1)
§ 4–1102 (“Corkage — Consuming wine not purchased from license holder on licensed premises”); and
(2)
§ 4–1103 (“Removal of partially consumed bottle of wine from licensed premises”).
(b)
Section 4–1105 (“Refillable container permit — Wine”) of Division I of this article does not apply in the county.
(c)
The following sections of Title 4, Subtitle 11 (“Additional License Privileges”) of Division I of this article apply in the county:
(1)
§ 4–1104 (“Refillable container permit — Draft beer”), subject to § 18–1102 of this subtitle; and
(2)
§ 4–1106 (“Nonrefillable container permit –– Draft beer”), subject to § 18–1103 of this subtitle.
Md. Code Ann., Alco. Bev. § 18-1101.1 (2026)
Title 18. Charles County
Subtitle 11. Additional License Privileges
§ 18–1101.1LinkCopy Citation
(a)
There is a Class GC (golf course) privilege.
(b)
An owner or operator of a public or private golf course has the privilege of selling alcoholic beverages on the golf course if the owner or operator:
(1)
holds a Class B, Class BLX, Class C, Class D, Class H, or Entertainment Facility License; and
(2)
pays the annual fee of $200 for the privilege.
(c)
The Class GC (golf course) privilege expands the licensed premises to include the golf course.
Md. Code Ann., Alco. Bev. § 18-1102 (2026)
Title 18. Charles County
Subtitle 11. Additional License Privileges
§ 18–1102LinkCopy Citation
(a)
The Board may issue a refillable container permit for draft beer to a holder of a Class A license, a Class B license, or a Class C license.
(b)
An applicant for the permit shall complete the form that the Board provides.
(c)
The hours of sale for the permit:
(1)
begin at the same time as those for the underlying license; and
(2)
end at midnight.
(d)
The annual permit fees are:
(1)
$50 for an applicant whose license has an off–sale privilege; and
(2)
$500 for an applicant whose license does not have an off–sale privilege.
Md. Code Ann., Alco. Bev. § 18-1103 (2026)
Title 18. Charles County
Subtitle 11. Additional License Privileges
§ 18–1103LinkCopy Citation
(a)
The Board may issue a nonrefillable container permit for draft beer to a holder of a Class A license, a Class B license, or a Class C license.
(b)
An applicant for the permit shall complete the form that the Board provides.
(c)
The hours of sale for the permit:
(1)
begin at the same time as those for the underlying license; and
(2)
end at midnight.
(d)
(1)
Except as provided in paragraph (2) of this subsection, the annual permit fees are:
(i)
$50 for an applicant whose license has an off–sale privilege; and
(ii)
$500 for an applicant whose license does not have an off–sale privilege.
(2)
An applicant who has a refillable container permit may not be charged a fee for a nonrefillable container permit.
Subtitle 13. Temporary Licenses
Md. Code Ann., Alco. Bev. § 18-1301 (2026)
Title 18. Charles County
Subtitle 13. Temporary Licenses
§ 18–1301LinkCopy Citation
(a)
The following sections of Title 4, Subtitle 12 (“Temporary Licenses”) of Division I of this article apply in the county without exception or variation:
(1)
§ 4–1202 (“Per diem licenses”);
(2)
§ 4–1204 (“Class C per diem beer, wine, and liquor license”);
(3)
§ 4–1205(b) (“License fees — Class C per diem beer, wine, and liquor license”);
(4)
§ 4–1206 (“License to dispose of stock”);
(5)
§ 4–1207 (“Temporary move of licensed premises”);
(6)
§ 4–1208 (“Hours and days of sale”); and
(7)
§ 4–1209 (“Wine permit for fund–raising event”).
(b)
The following sections of Title 4, Subtitle 12 (“Temporary Licenses”) of Division I of this article do not apply in the county:
(1)
§ 4–1203 (“Class C per diem beer and Class C per diem beer and wine licenses”); and
(2)
§ 4–1205(a) (“License fees — Class C per diem beer and Class C per diem beer and wine licenses”).
Md. Code Ann., Alco. Bev. § 18-1304 (2026)
Title 18. Charles County
Subtitle 13. Temporary Licenses
§ 18–1304LinkCopy Citation
(a)
In this section, “Festival” means the Charles County Beer and Wine Festival.
(b)
There is a Charles County Beer and Wine Festival (CBWF) license.
(c)
The Board may issue the license to a holder of a retail license, Class 3 winery license, or Class 4 limited winery license.
(d)
The license authorizes the holder to display and sell:
(1)
wine that is:
(i)
manufactured and processed in any state; and
(ii)
distributed in the State when the license application is filed; and
(2)
beer that is brewed by a brewer:
(i)
that brews less than 60,000 barrels of beer annually; and
(ii)
whose product is distributed in the State when the license application is filed.
(e)
A license holder may display and sell beer and wine:
(1)
at retail for on– and off–premises consumption; and
(2)
during the hours and days designated for the Festival.
(f)
(1)
Subject to paragraph (3) of this subsection, the Board may choose 1 weekend, Friday through Sunday inclusive, each year for the Festival.
(2)
The Board shall:
(i)
choose a location that is not licensed; and
(ii)
ensure that the primary focus of the Festival is the promotion of Maryland beer and wine.
(3)
The weekend chosen for the Festival may not:
(i)
be within 14 days before or after the dates selected for the Maryland Wine Festival in Carroll County; or
(ii)
conflict with the dates selected for the:
(1)
Anne Arundel County Beer and Wine Festival;
(2)
Baltimore County Wine Festival;
(3)
Calvert County Wine Festival;
(4)
Harford County Wine Festival;
(5)
Howard County Wine Festival;
(6)
Queen Anne’s County Beer and Wine Festival;
(7)
Maryland Wine Festival in Somerset County;
(8)
Cumberland and Shenandoah Valley Wine Festival in Washington County; or
(9)
Worcester County Beer and Wine Festival.
(g)
The license holder may hold another license of a different class or nature.
(h)
Beer and wine displayed and sold shall be:
(1)
invoiced to the license holder by a wholesaler, Class 3 winery, or Class 4 limited winery; and
(2)
delivered to the Festival from the licensed premises of the wholesaler, Class 3 winery, or Class 4 limited winery.
(i)
A holder of a wholesale, Class 3 winery, or Class 4 limited winery license may enter into an agreement with the license holder to:
(1)
deliver beer and wine not earlier than 2 days before the effective date of the festival license; and
(2)
accept returns not later than 2 days after the expiration date of the festival license.
(j)
The Board may set the license fee.
(k)
The Board shall adopt regulations to carry out this section.
Md. Code Ann., Alco. Bev. § 18-1307 (2026)
Title 18. Charles County
Subtitle 13. Temporary Licenses
§ 18–1307LinkCopy Citation
(a)
There is a Class D per diem beer license.
(b)
(1)
The Board may issue the license for a religious, fraternal, civic, veterans’, charitable, or hospital supporting organization.
(2)
Subject to any conditions the Board may impose, the license may be issued for a period not exceeding 10 consecutive days.
(c)
The license fee is $45.
Md. Code Ann., Alco. Bev. § 18-1308 (2026)
Title 18. Charles County
Subtitle 13. Temporary Licenses
§ 18–1308LinkCopy Citation
(a)
There is a Class C per diem beer, wine, and liquor license.
(b)
(1)
The Board may issue a Class C beer, wine, and liquor license for the use of a person holding an entertainment event conducted by a club, a society, or an association at the place described in the license.
(2)
The license may be issued for a period not exceeding 7 consecutive days.
(c)
The license fee is $25 per day.
Subtitle 14. Applications for Licenses
Md. Code Ann., Alco. Bev. § 18-1401 (2026)
Title 18. Charles County
Subtitle 14. Applications for Licenses
§ 18–1401LinkCopy Citation
(a)
The following sections of Title 4, Subtitle 1 (“Applications for Local Licenses”) of Division I of this article apply in the county without exception or variation:
(1)
§ 4–102 (“Applications to be filed with local licensing board”);
(2)
§ 4–103 (“Application on behalf of partnership”);
(3)
§ 4–106 (“Payment of notice expenses”);
(4)
§ 4–108 (“Application form required by Comptroller”);
(5)
§ 4–110 (“Required information on application — Petition of support”);
(6)
§ 4–111 (“Payment of license fees”);
(7)
§ 4–113 (“Refund of license fees”); and
(8)
§ 4–114 (“Fees for licenses issued for less than 1 year”).
(b)
The following sections of Title 4, Subtitle 1 (“Applications for Local Licenses”) of Division I of this article apply in the county:
(1)
§ 4–104 (“Application on behalf of corporation or club”), subject to § 18–1404 of this subtitle;
(2)
§ 4–105 (“Application on behalf of limited liability company”), subject to § 18–1404 of this subtitle;
(3)
§ 4–107 (“Criminal history records check”), subject to §§ 18–1402, 18–1403, 18–1407, and 18–1408 of this subtitle;
(4)
§ 4–109 (“Required information on application — In general”), subject to § 18–1405 of this subtitle; and
(5)
§ 4–112 (“Disposition of license fees”), subject to § 18–1410 of this subtitle.
Md. Code Ann., Alco. Bev. § 18-1402 (2026)
Title 18. Charles County
Subtitle 14. Applications for Licenses
§ 18–1402LinkCopy Citation
The Board shall obtain criminal history record information of each applicant for a license from the Central Repository.
Md. Code Ann., Alco. Bev. § 18-1403 (2026)
Title 18. Charles County
Subtitle 14. Applications for Licenses
§ 18–1403LinkCopy Citation
The Board shall keep all criminal history record information in a sealed envelope available only to the members of the Board and their clerks.
Md. Code Ann., Alco. Bev. § 18-1404 (2026)
Title 18. Charles County
Subtitle 14. Applications for Licenses
§ 18–1404LinkCopy Citation
(a)
Except as provided in subsection (b) of this section, an applicant for a new license for a corporation or limited liability company shall certify to the Board that the applicant:
(1)
is an officer of the corporation or limited liability company;
(2)
meets any other qualification for licensing;
(3)
owns at least a 20% interest of the stock of the corporation or a 20% interest in the limited liability company; and
(4)
will maintain at least 20% of the stock or at least a 20% interest as long as the applicant is the license holder.
(b)
The ownership requirement in subsection (a) of this section does not apply to an applicant for a Class BLX license on behalf of a corporation or limited liability company in which:
(1)
the stock of the corporation or interest in the limited liability company is authorized for sale by the United States Securities and Exchange Commission; or
(2)
a majority of the stock of the corporation or interest in the limited liability company is:
(i)
owned or controlled directly or indirectly by one or more corporations or limited liability companies; and
(ii)
is authorized for sale by the United States Securities and Exchange Commission.
(c)
An applicant for a license for a corporation or limited liability company shall submit to the Board:
(1)
an executed copy of the articles of incorporation or articles of organization; and
(2)
except as provided in subsection (d) of this section, a schedule that shows:
(i)
for each stockholder holding at least 5% of the stock of a corporation, the name, address, and percentage of stock held; or
(ii)
for each member holding at least a 5% interest in a limited liability company, the name, address, and percentage of interest held.
(d)
The schedule requirement under subsection (c)(2) of this section does not apply if the stock of the corporation or interest in the limited liability company is authorized for sale by the United States Securities and Exchange Commission.
Md. Code Ann., Alco. Bev. § 18-1405 (2026)
Title 18. Charles County
Subtitle 14. Applications for Licenses
§ 18–1405LinkCopy Citation
(a)
The application shall include:
(1)
a signed statement by the applicant that:
(i)
the applicant has not been convicted of a felony; or
(ii)
except as provided in subsection (b) of this section, if the application is made on behalf of a corporation, that the applicant and none of the stockholders of that corporation have been convicted of a felony;
(2)
a statement that the applicant is at least 21 years old;
(3)
a certified statement from the Treasurer of the county that shows the value of the merchandise, fixtures, and inventory, as certified by the State Department of Assessments and Taxation, for the business for which the application is made for the calendar year immediately preceding the year for which the license is to be issued; and
(4)
a certified statement from the County Treasurer’s Office that shows that no unpaid taxes are due on the merchandise, fixtures, and inventory from the applicant to the county or municipality where the licensed premises is to be located.
(b)
The requirement under subsection (a)(1)(ii) of this section does not apply to an applicant for a Class B beer, wine, and liquor (BLX) luxury restaurant license.
Md. Code Ann., Alco. Bev. § 18-1406 (2026)
Title 18. Charles County
Subtitle 14. Applications for Licenses
§ 18–1406LinkCopy Citation
The hearing for a new applicant and the issuance of a license may not be delayed due to the failure of the Federal Bureau of Investigation to provide the requested criminal history records check by the date of the scheduled hearing.
Md. Code Ann., Alco. Bev. § 18-1407 (2026)
Title 18. Charles County
Subtitle 14. Applications for Licenses
§ 18–1407LinkCopy Citation
The Board shall destroy the criminal history record information obtained under § 4–107 of this article on completion of the application process.
Md. Code Ann., Alco. Bev. § 18-1408 (2026)
Title 18. Charles County
Subtitle 14. Applications for Licenses
§ 18–1408LinkCopy Citation
The Board may set and charge a fee to cover the cost of obtaining the applicant’s fingerprints and the results of the State and national criminal history records check.
Md. Code Ann., Alco. Bev. § 18-1409 (2026)
Title 18. Charles County
Subtitle 14. Applications for Licenses
§ 18–1409LinkCopy Citation
(a)
The Board shall charge an application fee for a new license that is:
(1)
$200, in addition to any other fee required for a license; and
(2)
nonrefundable, whether the application is approved or denied.
(b)
The Board shall use the application fee to pay its expenses to process the application.
Md. Code Ann., Alco. Bev. § 18-1410 (2026)
Title 18. Charles County
Subtitle 14. Applications for Licenses
§ 18–1410LinkCopy Citation
(a)
The Board of License Commissioners shall remit promptly to the Board of County Commissioners the fees collected and refunds paid under this article.
(b)
The Board of County Commissioners shall deposit fees received in accordance with subsection (a) of this section in the general fund of the county.
(c)
A person who violates subsection (a) of this section is subject to a fine not exceeding $500.
Subtitle 15. Issuance or Denial of Licenses
Md. Code Ann., Alco. Bev. § 18-1501 (2026)
Title 18. Charles County
Subtitle 15. Issuance or Denial of Licenses
§ 18–1501LinkCopy Citation
(a)
The following sections of Title 4, Subtitle 2 (“Issuance or Denial of Local Licenses”) of Division I of this article apply in the county without exception or variation:
(1)
§�4–205�(“Chain store, supermarket, or discount house”);
(2)
§�4–206�(“Limitations on retail sales floor space”);
(3)
§�4–207�(“Licenses issued to minors”);
(4)
§�4–209�(“Hearing”);
(5)
§�4–211�(“License forms; effective date; expiration”);
(6)
§�4–212�(“License not property”); and
(7)
§�4–213�(“Replacement licenses”).
(b)
Section 4–208 (“Notice of license application required”) of Division I of this article does not apply in the county and is superseded by § 18–1504 of this subtitle.
(c)
The following sections of Title 4, Subtitle 2 (“Issuance or Denial of Local Licenses”) of Division I of this article apply in the county:
(1)
§�4–202�(“Authority of local licensing boards”), subject to § 18–1502 of this subtitle;
(2)
§�4–203�(“Prohibition against issuing multiple licenses to individual or for use of entity”), subject to § 18–1503 of this subtitle and Subtitle 13, Part III and Subtitle 16, Part II of this title;
(3)
§�4–204�(“Prohibition against issuing multiple licenses for same premises”), subject to § 18–1503 of this subtitle and Subtitle 13, Part III of this title;
(4)
§�4–210�(“Approval or denial of license application”), subject to § 18–1505 of this subtitle; and
(5)
§�4–214�(“Waiting periods after denial of license applications”), subject to § 18–1507 of this subtitle.
Md. Code Ann., Alco. Bev. § 18-1502 (2026)
Title 18. Charles County
Subtitle 15. Issuance or Denial of Licenses
§ 18–1502LinkCopy Citation
The Board may not issue a Class A or Class D beer license, beer and light wine license, or beer, wine, and liquor license to a person that holds an out–of–state alcoholic beverages license.
Md. Code Ann., Alco. Bev. § 18-1503 (2026)
Title 18. Charles County
Subtitle 15. Issuance or Denial of Licenses
§ 18–1503LinkCopy Citation
Multiple licenses may be issued for the same premises or to an individual for the use of that individual, a partnership, a corporation, an unincorporated association, or a limited liability company if:
(1)
the licenses are Class D beer or Class D beer and light wine licenses; and
(2)
each premises is a bowling establishment that has at least 30 lanes with automatic pinsetters.
Md. Code Ann., Alco. Bev. § 18-1504 (2026)
Title 18. Charles County
Subtitle 15. Issuance or Denial of Licenses
§ 18–1504LinkCopy Citation
(a)
Before the Board may approve an application for a license, the Board shall publish notice of the application two times in 2 successive weeks in one newspaper of general circulation in the county.
(b)
(1)
An applicant for a new license or an upgrade of an existing license shall post the notice in a conspicuous place in the location described in the application for 20 consecutive days before the application hearing.
(2)
The Board shall supply the applicant with the notice on a sign that measures at least 24 by 36 inches and includes:
(i)
the class of license for which the application is made;
(ii)
the name and trade name of the applicant;
(iii)
the date, time, and location of the application hearing; and
(iv)
contact information for the applicant.
(3)
An applicant shall pay to the Board a one–time posting fee of $35 for a new license or an upgrade of an existing license.
(c)
If the location described in the application is under construction or renovation or is not easily accessible to the public, the applicant shall post an additional notice on the perimeter of the location that is easily accessible to the public, such as:
(1)
the entrance to the location;
(2)
a driveway to the location; or
(3)
the curb of the location.
(d)
The Board may hold a hearing and act on the license application without full compliance with the posting requirements under this section if the applicant demonstrates by a preponderance of the evidence that the applicant substantially complied.
Md. Code Ann., Alco. Bev. § 18-1505 (2026)
Title 18. Charles County
Subtitle 15. Issuance or Denial of Licenses
§ 18–1505LinkCopy Citation
In a hearing on an application or a protest, the general reputation of the following is admissible:
(1)
the applicant or license holder;
(2)
the location described in the application; and
(3)
the persons who congregate at the location described in the application.
Md. Code Ann., Alco. Bev. § 18-1506 (2026)
Title 18. Charles County
Subtitle 15. Issuance or Denial of Licenses
§ 18–1506LinkCopy Citation
(a)
The Board may:
(1)
give tentative approval to issuing a license for an establishment that is not completed, based on plans and specifications that accompany the application; and
(2)
issue the license when construction is completed in accordance with the plans and specifications.
(b)
This section does not apply to the renewal or transfer of a license issued before May 1, 2014.
Md. Code Ann., Alco. Bev. § 18-1507 (2026)
Title 18. Charles County
Subtitle 15. Issuance or Denial of Licenses
§ 18–1507LinkCopy Citation
The waiting periods specified in § 4–214(a) of this article do not apply if the grounds for the denials were that:
(1)
the license was not necessary to accommodate the public;
(2)
under the license, the premises would not be suitable for the sale of alcoholic beverages; or
(3)
the Board determined the applicant not to be a proper license holder.
Subtitle 16. Licensing Conditions; Multiple Licensing Plans
Md. Code Ann., Alco. Bev. § 18-1601 (2026)
Title 18. Charles County
Subtitle 16. Licensing Conditions; Multiple Licensing Plans
§ 18–1601LinkCopy Citation
(a)
(1)
(i)
Except as provided in subparagraph (ii) of this paragraph, the Board may not issue more than one of any license with an off–sale privilege for every 1,350 residents in an election district in the county, as determined by the latest federal census.
(ii)
In the sixth election district, the Board may not issue more than one of any license with an off–sale privilege for every 2,700 residents in the election district, as determined by the latest federal census.
(2)
The Board may not approve the transfer of a license issued under paragraph (1) of this subsection from one election district to another.
(3)
The Board may not issue a new license in an election district unless the issue may be made without exceeding the quotas provided for in paragraph (1) of this subsection.
(b)
(1)
This section does not require the forfeiture or revocation of a license in effect on October 1, 1992.
(2)
In an election district in which a quota established in subsection (a)(1) of this section was exceeded as of October 1, 1992, the total number of licenses may be reduced only:
(i)
by the voluntary relinquishment of a license by the license holder;
(ii)
by the bankruptcy of the license holder; or
(iii)
in accordance with another provision of this article.
(c)
(1)
Notwithstanding the license quota limitations established in subsection (a) of this section, when a license is relinquished by a license holder or revoked by the Board, the Board may hold the license in abeyance until the earlier of:
(i)
the date the Board issues the license to a new license holder; or
(ii)
1 year.
(2)
If the Board does not issue the license to a new license holder within 1 year after the date the license is relinquished or revoked the license shall be considered extinguished.
Md. Code Ann., Alco. Bev. § 18-1602 (2026)
Title 18. Charles County
Subtitle 16. Licensing Conditions; Multiple Licensing Plans
§ 18–1602LinkCopy Citation
(a)
(1)
Except as provided in subsection (b) of this section, the Board may not issue a license:
(i)
with an on–sale privilege, for an establishment that is within 500 feet of a school accredited by the State Board of Education; or
(ii)
with an off–sale privilege, for an establishment that is within 1,000 feet of a school accredited by the State Board of Education.
(2)
The distance from the establishment to the school is to be measured in a direct line from the nearest wall of the establishment to the property line of the school.
(b)
The prohibition against issuing a license in subsection (a) of this section does not apply to:
(1)
a Class B (on–sale) beer, wine, and liquor license issued for an establishment located in a municipality in the county;
(2)
a school that locates its building within 500 feet of an existing licensed premises; or
(3)
the renewal or transfer of a license issued before May 1, 2014.
Md. Code Ann., Alco. Bev. § 18-1605 (2026)
Title 18. Charles County
Subtitle 16. Licensing Conditions; Multiple Licensing Plans
§ 18–1605LinkCopy Citation
(a)
There is a Class B–BLX (luxury restaurant) on–sale beer, wine, and liquor license.
(b)
(1)
The Board may issue the license for use by a luxury–type restaurant that has:
(i)
a capital investment of at least $550,000 for dining room facilities and kitchen equipment, not including the cost of land, buildings, or leases; and
(ii)
seating for at least 150 individuals.
(2)
The license authorizes the on–premises consumption of beer, wine, and liquor.
(c)
A person may not have a direct or indirect interest in any combination in more than six Class B–BLX licenses.
(d)
An indirect interest is presumed to exist between any combination of persons if any of the following conditions exist between them:
(1)
a common parent company;
(2)
a franchise agreement;
(3)
a licensing agreement;
(4)
a concession agreement;
(5)
dual membership in a chain of businesses commonly owned and operated;
(6)
a sharing of directors, stockholders, partners, or members, or a sharing of directors, stockholders, partners, or members of parents or subsidiaries;
(7)
common direct or indirect sharing of profit from the sale of alcoholic beverages; or
(8)
a sharing of a common trade name, trademark, logo, or theme, or mode of operation identifiable by the public.
(e)
Subject to the requirements of subsection (b) of this section, the Board shall define “luxury–type restaurant” by regulation.
(f)
The annual license fee is $2,400.
Md. Code Ann., Alco. Bev. § 18-1606 (2026)
Title 18. Charles County
Subtitle 16. Licensing Conditions; Multiple Licensing Plans
§ 18–1606LinkCopy Citation
(a)
A person may not have a direct or indirect interest in more than two of the following licenses in any combination:
(1)
Class B–H (hotel) on–sale beer, wine, and liquor licenses issued under § 18–902 of this title;
(2)
Class B–R (restaurant) on–sale beer, wine, and liquor licenses issued under § 18–904 of this title; and
(3)
Class B–RB (restaurant/bar) on–sale beer, wine, and liquor licenses issued under § 18–905 of this title.
(b)
An indirect interest is presumed to exist between any combination of persons if any of the following conditions exist between them:
(1)
a common parent company;
(2)
a franchise agreement;
(3)
a licensing agreement;
(4)
a concession agreement;
(5)
dual membership in a chain of businesses commonly owned and operated;
(6)
a sharing of directors, stockholders, partners, or members, or a sharing of directors, stockholders, partners, or members of parents or subsidiaries;
(7)
common direct or indirect sharing of profit from the sale of alcoholic beverages; or
(8)
a sharing of a common trade name, trademark, logo, or theme or mode of operation identifiable by the public.
Subtitle 17. Transfer of Licenses; Substitution of Names on License
Md. Code Ann., Alco. Bev. § 18-1701 (2026)
Title 18. Charles County
Subtitle 17. Transfer of Licenses; Substitution of Names on License
§ 18–1701LinkCopy Citation
(a)
The following sections of Title 4, Subtitle 3 (“Transfer of Local Licenses; Substitution of Names on License”) of Division I of this article apply in the county without exception or variation:
(1)
§�4–303�(“Chain store, supermarket, or discount house”);
(2)
§�4–304�(“Compliance with Bulk Transfers Act required”); and
(3)
§�4–306�(“Substitution of names of officers on license”).
(b)
The following sections of Title 4, Subtitle 3 (“Transfer of Local Licenses; Substitution of Names on License”) of Division I of this article apply in the county:
(1)
§�4–302�(“Transfer of place of business; transfer of license and inventory”), subject to § 18–1702 of this subtitle; and
(2)
§�4–305�(“Filing fee and endorsement”), subject to § 18–1703 of this subtitle.
Md. Code Ann., Alco. Bev. § 18-1702 (2026)
Title 18. Charles County
Subtitle 17. Transfer of Licenses; Substitution of Names on License
§ 18–1702LinkCopy Citation
(a)
(1)
If a license is to be transferred to a different license holder, the Board shall investigate whether the transferee has a record of criminal convictions and request from the Criminal Justice Information System Central Repository of the Department of Public Safety and Correctional Services a State and national criminal history records check.
(2)
The Board shall adopt regulations to preserve the confidentiality of the records obtained under paragraph (1) of this subsection.
(b)
If a license is to be transferred to a different location, the Board shall consider the existing need for that class of license at the proposed location.
(c)
A transfer of a license may not be made unless the Board is presented with:
(1)
a certificate from the Treasurer of the county showing the value of the merchandise, fixtures, and inventory, as certified to the county by the State Department of Assessments and Taxation, for the business for which the application is made for the calendar year immediately preceding the year the license is to be issued; and
(2)
a certificate from the county or a municipality showing that all real or personal property taxes due the county, the municipality, or the State are paid.
(d)
Except by way of renewal, a license may not be transferred to a chain store, supermarket, discount house or its franchisor or franchisee, or concessionaire of any kind.
Md. Code Ann., Alco. Bev. § 18-1703 (2026)
Title 18. Charles County
Subtitle 17. Transfer of Licenses; Substitution of Names on License
§ 18–1703LinkCopy Citation
(a)
Except as provided in subsection (b) of this section, an applicant for a transfer of license for a corporation or limited liability company shall certify to the Board that the applicant:
(1)
is an officer of the corporation or limited liability company;
(2)
meets any other qualification for licensing;
(3)
owns at least a 20% interest of the stock of the corporation or a 20% interest in the limited liability company; and
(4)
will maintain at least 20% of the stock or at least a 20% interest as long as the applicant is the license holder.
(b)
The ownership requirement in subsection (a) of this section does not apply to an applicant for a transfer of a Class BLX license on behalf of a corporation or limited liability company in which:
(1)
the stock of the corporation or interest in the limited liability company is authorized for sale by the United States Securities and Exchange Commission; or
(2)
a majority of the stock of the corporation or interest in the limited liability company is:
(i)
owned or controlled directly or indirectly by one or more corporations or limited liability companies; and
(ii)
authorized for sale by the United States Securities and Exchange Commission.
(c)
An applicant for a transfer of a license for a corporation or limited liability company shall submit to the Board:
(1)
an executed copy of the articles of incorporation or articles of organization; and
(2)
except as provided in subsection (d) of this section, a schedule that shows:
(i)
for each stockholder holding at least 5% of the stock of a corporation, the name, address, and percentage of stock held; or
(ii)
for each member holding at least a 5% interest in a limited liability company, the name, address, and percentage of interest held.
(d)
The schedule requirement under subsection (c)(2) of this section does not apply if the stock of the corporation or interest in the limited liability company is authorized for sale by the United States Securities and Exchange Commission.
Md. Code Ann., Alco. Bev. § 18-1704 (2026)
Title 18. Charles County
Subtitle 17. Transfer of Licenses; Substitution of Names on License
§ 18–1704LinkCopy Citation
(a)
The fee for a transfer of a license is $200, which is nonreturnable.
(b)
In addition to the fee required under subsection (a) of this section, an applicant for a transfer of a license shall pay to the Board a onetime posting fee of $35.
Subtitle 18. Renewal of Licenses
Md. Code Ann., Alco. Bev. § 18-1801 (2026)
Title 18. Charles County
Subtitle 18. Renewal of Licenses
§ 18–1801LinkCopy Citation
(a)
The following sections of Title 4, Subtitle 4 (“Renewal of Local Licenses”) of Division I of this article apply in the county without exception or variation:
(1)
§ 4–402 (“Eligibility for renewal; process”);
(2)
§ 4–403 (“Renewal application”);
(3)
§ 4–407 (“Denial of renewal application”);
(4)
§ 4–408 (“Issuance of renewed licenses”);
(5)
§ 4–409 (“Multiple licenses”); and
(6)
§ 4–410 (“Chain store, supermarket, or discount house”).
(b)
Section 4–404 (“Filing period for renewal application”) of Division I of this article does not apply in the county and is superseded by § 18–1802 of this subtitle.
(c)
The following sections of Title 4, Subtitle 4 (“Renewal of Local Licenses”) of Division I of this article apply in the county:
(1)
§ 4–405 (“Contents of renewal application”), subject to § 18–1803 of this subtitle; and
(2)
§ 4–406 (“Protests”), subject to § 18–1804 of this subtitle.
Md. Code Ann., Alco. Bev. § 18-1802 (2026)
Title 18. Charles County
Subtitle 18. Renewal of Licenses
§ 18–1802LinkCopy Citation
(a)
To renew a license, the license holder annually shall file an application with the Board on or before March 31.
(b)
The Board:
(1)
shall accept late renewal applications through the date of the next Board meeting following March 31; and
(2)
may fine the license holder $50 for each day the application is late, up to a maximum total of $500 per renewal application.
Md. Code Ann., Alco. Bev. § 18-1803 (2026)
Title 18. Charles County
Subtitle 18. Renewal of Licenses
§ 18–1803LinkCopy Citation
The Board may not renew a license unless the license holder presents to the Board certification from the Treasurer of the county showing:
(1)
the value of the inventory and personal property, as certified to the county by the State Department of Assessments and Taxation, of the underlying business for the previous calendar year; and
(2)
that there are no unpaid taxes due from the applicant to:
(i)
the county, a municipality, or a town where the licensed premises is located; and
(ii)
the county or the State on the inventory and personal property of the underlying business.
Md. Code Ann., Alco. Bev. § 18-1804 (2026)
Title 18. Charles County
Subtitle 18. Renewal of Licenses
§ 18–1804LinkCopy Citation
(a)
A protest of a license renewal shall:
(1)
specify the basis on which the protest is made; and
(2)
be filed under oath.
(b)
The Board without a hearing may approve a license renewal that is under protest if the Board finds that the basis of the protest lacks substance.
Md. Code Ann., Alco. Bev. § 18-1805 (2026)
Title 18. Charles County
Subtitle 18. Renewal of Licenses
§ 18–1805LinkCopy Citation
Notwithstanding § 18–1502 of this title, the Board may renew a Class A or Class D beer license, beer and light wine license, or beer, wine, and liquor license originally issued to a holder of an out–of–state alcoholic beverages license.
Md. Code Ann., Alco. Bev. § 18-1806 (2026)
Title 18. Charles County
Subtitle 18. Renewal of Licenses
§ 18–1806LinkCopy Citation
Section 18–1506 of this title does not apply to the renewal of a license issued before May 1, 2014.
Md. Code Ann., Alco. Bev. § 18-1807 (2026)
Title 18. Charles County
Subtitle 18. Renewal of Licenses
§ 18–1807LinkCopy Citation
The requirement for a criminal history records check under § 4–107 of this article does not apply to applicants for license renewal.
Subtitle 19. Conduct of License Holders
Md. Code Ann., Alco. Bev. § 18-1901 (2026)
Title 18. Charles County
Subtitle 19. Conduct of License Holders
§ 18–1901LinkCopy Citation
(a)
The following sections of Title 4, Subtitle 5 (“Conduct of Local License Holders”) of Division I of this article apply in the county without exception or variation:
(1)
§ 4–502 (“Storage of alcoholic beverages”);
(2)
§ 4–503 (“Solicitations and sales outside of licensed premises”);
(3)
§ 4–506 (“Evidence of purchaser’s age”);
(4)
§ 4–507 (“Retail delivery of alcoholic beverages”); and
(5)
§ 4–508 (“Display of license”).
(b)
The following sections of Title 4, Subtitle 5 (“Conduct of Local License Holders”) of Division I of this article apply in the county:
(1)
§ 4–504 (“Employment of underage individuals”), subject to § 18–1902 of this subtitle; and
(2)
§ 4–505 (“Alcohol awareness program”), subject to § 18–1902.1 of this subtitle.
Md. Code Ann., Alco. Bev. § 18-1902 (2026)
Title 18. Charles County
Subtitle 19. Conduct of License Holders
§ 18–1902LinkCopy Citation
(a)
An individual at least 18 years old may serve alcoholic beverages in a restaurant in connection with serving a meal.
(b)
An individual under the age of 21 years may not act as bartender or in any solely bar–related capacity.
Md. Code Ann., Alco. Bev. § 18-1902.1 (2026)
Title 18. Charles County
Subtitle 19. Conduct of License Holders
§ 18–1902.1LinkCopy Citation
(a)
The license holder or an individual designated by the license holder who is employed in a supervisory capacity shall:
(1)
be certified by an approved alcohol awareness program; and
(2)
be present on the licensed premises at all times when alcoholic beverages may be sold.
(b)
A license holder who violates this section is subject to:
(1)
for a first offense, a $100 fine; and
(2)
for each subsequent offense, a fine not exceeding $500 or a suspension or revocation of the license or both.
Md. Code Ann., Alco. Bev. § 18-1903 (2026)
Title 18. Charles County
Subtitle 19. Conduct of License Holders
§ 18–1903LinkCopy Citation
(a)
A license holder or agent or employee of the license holder may sell alcoholic beverages only in a room having at least one plain glass window or door that allows an individual standing on the outside to observe the interior of the licensed premises during all hours of operation.
(b)
During all hours of operation, the view afforded by the window or door may not be obstructed.
(c)
(1)
A license holder may install a protective covering over an exterior door or window of the licensed premises if the covering is:
(i)
used only when the licensed premises is not occupied;
(ii)
designed to protect the licensed premises from unlawful intrusion or destruction; and
(iii)
secured only from the exterior of the licensed premises.
(2)
This subsection does not prevent an inspection and search of the licensed premises under § 6–202 of this article.
(d)
A person who violates this section is guilty of a misdemeanor and on conviction is subject to a fine not exceeding $250 or imprisonment or both.
Subtitle 20. Hours and Days for Consumption and Sale
Md. Code Ann., Alco. Bev. § 18-2001 (2026)
Title 18. Charles County
Subtitle 20. Hours and Days for Consumption and Sale
§ 18–2001LinkCopy Citation
(a)
(1)
Unless otherwise provided in this title, from 2 a.m. to 6 a.m. on any day, an individual may not consume alcoholic beverages in a premises licensed under this title.
(2)
An owner, operator, or manager of a licensed premises under this title may not knowingly allow consumption prohibited under paragraph (1) of this subsection.
(b)
A person who violates this section is guilty of a misdemeanor and on conviction is subject to a fine not exceeding $50.
Md. Code Ann., Alco. Bev. § 18-2002 (2026)
Title 18. Charles County
Subtitle 20. Hours and Days for Consumption and Sale
§ 18–2002LinkCopy Citation
(a)
Reserved.
(b)
Reserved.
(c)
Reserved.
(d)
A holder of a Class D beer license may sell beer:
(1)
on Monday through Saturday, from 6 a.m. to 2 a.m. the following day; and
(2)
on Sunday, from 6 a.m. to midnight.
(e)
(1)
The part of a premises where alcoholic beverages are sold or displayed may be open only during the hours of sale for alcoholic beverages set out in subsection (d) of this section.
(2)
A license holder with an on–sale license shall remove all bottles and containers from the table on or before the closing time set out in subsection (d) of this section.
(f)
A license holder may sell nonalcoholic items:
(1)
on Monday through Saturday, from 5 a.m. to 2 a.m. the following day; and
(2)
on Sunday, from 6 a.m. to midnight.
(g)
A person that violates this section is guilty of a misdemeanor and on conviction is subject to imprisonment or a fine not exceeding $250 or both.
Md. Code Ann., Alco. Bev. § 18-2003 (2026)
Title 18. Charles County
Subtitle 20. Hours and Days for Consumption and Sale
§ 18–2003LinkCopy Citation
(a)
Reserved.
(b)
Reserved.
(c)
Reserved.
(d)
A holder of a Class D beer and light wine license may sell beer and light wine:
(1)
on Monday through Saturday, from 6 a.m. to 2 a.m. the following day; and
(2)
on Sunday, from 6 a.m. to midnight.
(e)
A holder of a Class H beer and light wine license may sell beer and light wine:
(1)
on Monday through Saturday, from 6 a.m. to 2 a.m. the following day; and
(2)
on Sunday, from 6 a.m. to midnight.
(f)
(1)
The part of a premises where alcoholic beverages are sold or displayed may be open only during the hours of sale for alcoholic beverages set out in subsections (d) and (e) of this section.
(2)
A license holder with an on–sale license shall remove all bottles and containers from the table on or before the closing time set out in subsections (d) and (e) of this section.
(g)
A license holder may sell nonalcoholic items:
(1)
on Monday through Saturday, from 5 a.m. to 2 a.m. the following day; and
(2)
on Sunday, from 6 a.m. to midnight.
(h)
A person that violates this section is guilty of a misdemeanor and on conviction is subject to imprisonment or a fine not exceeding $250 or both.
Md. Code Ann., Alco. Bev. § 18-2004 (2026)
Title 18. Charles County
Subtitle 20. Hours and Days for Consumption and Sale
§ 18–2004LinkCopy Citation
(a)
A holder of a Class A beer, wine, and liquor license may sell beer, wine, and liquor for off–premises consumption:
(1)
on Monday through Saturday, from 6 a.m. to 2 a.m. the following day; and
(2)
on Sunday, from 6 a.m. to midnight.
(b)
A holder of a Class B–BLX (luxury restaurant), B–H (hotel), B–N (nightclub), B–R (restaurant), B–RB (restaurant/bar), or B–T (tavern) beer, wine, and liquor license may sell beer, wine, and liquor:
(1)
on Monday through Saturday, from 6 a.m. to 2 a.m. the following day; and
(2)
on Sunday, from 6 a.m. to midnight.
(c)
A holder of a Class C beer, wine, and liquor license may sell beer, wine, and liquor:
(1)
on Monday through Saturday, from 6 a.m. to 2 a.m. the following day; and
(2)
on Sunday, from 6 a.m. to midnight.
(d)
A holder of a Class D beer, wine, and liquor license may sell beer, wine, and liquor:
(1)
on Monday through Saturday, from 6 a.m. to 2 a.m. the following day; and
(2)
on Sunday, from 6 a.m. to midnight.
(e)
(1)
The part of a premises where alcoholic beverages are sold or displayed may be open only during the hours of sale for alcoholic beverages set out in subsections (a) through (d) of this section.
(2)
A license holder with an on–sale license shall remove all bottles and containers from the table on or before the closing time set out in subsections (a) through (d) of this section.
(f)
A license holder may sell nonalcoholic items:
(1)
on Monday through Saturday, from 5 a.m. to 2 a.m. the following day; and
(2)
on Sunday, from 6 a.m. to midnight.
(g)
A person that violates this section is guilty of a misdemeanor and on conviction is subject to imprisonment or a fine not exceeding $250 or both.
Md. Code Ann., Alco. Bev. § 18-2005 (2026)
Title 18. Charles County
Subtitle 20. Hours and Days for Consumption and Sale
§ 18–2005LinkCopy Citation
On application, the Board shall issue a special permit authorizing the license holder to stay open on January 1 during hours that are subject to regulations that the Board adopts.
Subtitle 21. Revocation and Suspension of Licenses
Md. Code Ann., Alco. Bev. § 18-2101 (2026)
Title 18. Charles County
Subtitle 21. Revocation and Suspension of Licenses
§ 18–2101LinkCopy Citation
(a)
The following sections of Title 4, Subtitle 6 (“Revocation and Suspension of Local Licenses”) of Division I of this article apply in the county without exception or variation:
(1)
§ 4–602 (“Power of local licensing board”);
(2)
§ 4–603 (“Revocation and suspension procedures”);
(3)
§ 4–604 (“Grounds for revocation or suspension”); and
(4)
§ 4–605 (“Nudity and sexual displays”).
(b)
§ 4–606 (“Effects of revocation”) of Division I of this article applies in the county, subject to § 18–1601(c) of this title.
Subtitle 22. Expiration of Licenses
Md. Code Ann., Alco. Bev. § 18-2201 (2026)
Title 18. Charles County
Subtitle 22. Expiration of Licenses
§ 18–2201LinkCopy Citation
Title 4, Subtitle 7 (“Expiration of Local Licenses”) of Division I of this article applies in the county without exception or variation.
Md. Code Ann., Alco. Bev. § 18-2202 (2026)
Title 18. Charles County
Subtitle 22. Expiration of Licenses
§ 18–2202LinkCopy Citation
The Board may authorize the closing of a licensed premises for not more than 6 months if:
(1)
the Board determines that the licensed premises is seasonally operated; and
(2)
the license holder submits a written request to the Board at least 30 days before the anticipated date of closing.
Subtitle 23. Death of License Holder
Md. Code Ann., Alco. Bev. § 18-2301 (2026)
Title 18. Charles County
Subtitle 23. Death of License Holder
§ 18–2301LinkCopy Citation
(a)
The following sections of Title 4, Subtitle 8 (“Death of License Holder”) of Division I of this article apply in the county without exception or variation:
(1)
§ 4–802 (“Expiration of license on death of license holder”);
(2)
§ 4–804 (“Transfer or reinstatement of license”);
(3)
§ 4–805 (“Rights of protest, revocation, suspension, and restriction”); and
(4)
§ 4–806 (“Refund”).
(b)
Section 4–803 (“Certificate of permission or renewal license for continuation of business”) of Division I of this article applies in the county, subject to § 18–2302 of this subtitle.
Md. Code Ann., Alco. Bev. § 18-2302 (2026)
Title 18. Charles County
Subtitle 23. Death of License Holder
§ 18–2302LinkCopy Citation
(a)
(1)
On the death of a married license holder or a license holder that holds a license for the benefit of a partnership or corporation, on application to the Board, a new license shall be issued to:
(i)
the surviving spouse;
(ii)
the surviving partners for the benefit of the partnership; or
(iii)
the senior surviving officer of the corporation for the benefit of the corporation.
(2)
The new license shall be issued:
(i)
for the balance of the license year; and
(ii)
without further proceedings.
(b)
(1)
A renewal license may be issued to the following if they are qualified to hold the license:
(i)
the surviving spouse;
(ii)
the surviving partners of a partnership; or
(iii)
the senior surviving officer of a corporation for the benefit of the corporation.
(2)
The Board may issue a renewal license under this subsection without a hearing.
Subtitle 24. Judicial Review
Md. Code Ann., Alco. Bev. § 18-2401 (2026)
Title 18. Charles County
Subtitle 24. Judicial Review
§ 18–2401LinkCopy Citation
Title 4, Subtitle 9 (“Judicial Review”) of Division I of this article applies in the county without exception or variation.
Md. Code Ann., Alco. Bev. § 18-2402 (2026)
Title 18. Charles County
Subtitle 24. Judicial Review
§ 18–2402LinkCopy Citation
(a)
Before docketing an action for judicial review under Title 4, Subtitle 9 of this article, the clerk of the circuit court for the county shall:
(1)
collect all court costs from the petitioner; and
(2)
receive a statement from the clerk of the Board that the costs for getting records and transcripts of proceedings of the hearing before the Board have been paid.
(b)
The costs described in subsection (a)(1) of this section may not be assessed against the Board.
Md. Code Ann., Alco. Bev. § 18-2403 (2026)
Title 18. Charles County
Subtitle 24. Judicial Review
§ 18–2403LinkCopy Citation
In addition to the other powers of the circuit court for the county provided in Title 4, Subtitle 9 of this article, the court may remand the proceedings to the Board.
Subtitle 25. Unlicensed Establishments
Md. Code Ann., Alco. Bev. § 18-2501 (2026)
Title 18. Charles County
Subtitle 25. Unlicensed Establishments
§ 18–2501LinkCopy Citation
(a)
Except as provided in subsection (b) of this section, an unlicensed establishment that offers or provides live entertainment may not, at a location under the control or possession of the establishment, sell, serve, keep, or allow to be consumed:
(1)
alcoholic beverages;
(2)
setups; or
(3)
other component parts of mixed alcoholic drinks.
(b)
As long as live entertainment is not offered or provided on more than 8 days in a calendar month, the following are exempted from the prohibitions in subsection (a) of this section:
(1)
the room of a registered guest in a hotel or motel;
(2)
property owned by a volunteer fire company;
(3)
property owned and operated by a community or homeowners association composed only of property owners in a single subdivision; or
(4)
property owned by a religious institution.
(c)
A person that violates this section is guilty of a misdemeanor and on conviction is subject to imprisonment not exceeding 2 years or a fine not exceeding $10,000 or both.
Md. Code Ann., Alco. Bev. § 18-2502 (2026)
Title 18. Charles County
Subtitle 25. Unlicensed Establishments
§ 18–2502LinkCopy Citation
(a)
Alcoholic beverages may not be brought into an establishment and consumed or transferred if the establishment is a place of adult entertainment that provides entertainment listed under § 4–605 of this article.
(b)
(1)
An operator of a place of adult entertainment that knowingly allows a violation of this section in the establishment is guilty of a misdemeanor and on conviction is subject to a fine not exceeding $5,000 for each violation.
(2)
Each day of operation in violation of this section is a separate violation.
Md. Code Ann., Alco. Bev. § 18-2503 (2026)
Title 18. Charles County
Subtitle 25. Unlicensed Establishments
§ 18–2503LinkCopy Citation
(a)
From 2 a.m. to 6 a.m. on any day, an individual may not consume alcoholic beverages in:
(1)
an establishment open to the public;
(2)
a place of public entertainment; or
(3)
a place at which setups or other component parts of mixed alcoholic beverages are sold under a license issued under the Business Regulation Article.
(b)
An owner or a manager of an establishment or a place specified in subsection (a) of this section may not knowingly allow consumption of alcoholic beverages between the hours specified in subsection (a) of this section.
(c)
A person who violates this section is guilty of a misdemeanor and on conviction is subject to a fine not exceeding $50.
Subtitle 26. Enforcement
Md. Code Ann., Alco. Bev. § 18-2601 (2026)
Title 18. Charles County
Subtitle 26. Enforcement
§ 18–2601LinkCopy Citation
(a)
The following sections of Title 6, Subtitle 2 (“Enforcement”) of Division I of this article apply in the county without exception or variation:
(1)
§ 6–202 (“Inspections”);
(2)
§ 6–203 (“Use of equipment to measure quantity and quality of alcoholic beverages”);
(3)
§ 6–204 (“Power to summon witnesses”);
(4)
§ 6–205 (“Peace officers”);
(5)
§ 6–206 (“Charging document for unlawful sale of alcoholic beverage”);
(6)
§ 6–207 (“Display of alcoholic beverages as prima facie evidence of sale”);
(7)
§ 6–208 (“Regulating possession or consumption of alcohol in public places”);
(8)
§ 6–209 (“Adoption of standards for authorization of consumption”); and
(9)
§ 6–211 (“Fines and forfeitures”).
(b)
Section 6–210 (“State preemption of local disorderly intoxication laws”) of Division I of this article does not apply in the county and is superseded by § 18–2602 of this subtitle.
Md. Code Ann., Alco. Bev. § 18-2602 (2026)
Title 18. Charles County
Subtitle 26. Enforcement
§ 18–2602LinkCopy Citation
The county may:
(1)
adopt an ordinance or resolution supplementing the prohibition against disorderly intoxication under § 6–320 of this article; and
(2)
regulate possession or consumption of alcoholic beverages on public property, property used by the public, or a highway.
Subtitle 27. Prohibited Acts
Md. Code Ann., Alco. Bev. § 18-2701 (2026)
Title 18. Charles County
Subtitle 27. Prohibited Acts
§ 18–2701LinkCopy Citation
(a)
The following sections of Title 6, Subtitle 3 (“Prohibited Acts”) of Division I of this article apply in the county without exception or variation:
(1)
§ 6–305 (“Proof of age for sale of alcoholic beverages”);
(2)
§ 6–306 (“Defense to prosecution for sale to underage individual”);
(3)
§ 6–308 (“Allowing on–premises consumption of alcoholic beverages not purchased from license holder”);
(4)
§ 6–309 (“Allowing on–premises consumption or possession of alcoholic beverages by individual under the age of 21 years”);
(5)
§ 6–310 (“Providing free food”);
(6)
§ 6–311 (“Restrictions on purchases and sales by retail dealer”);
(7)
§ 6–312 (“Beverage misrepresentation”);
(8)
§ 6–313 (“Tampering with alcoholic beverage container”);
(9)
§ 6–314 (“Sale of alcoholic beverage container with detachable metal tab”);
(10)
§ 6–315 (“Alcoholic beverage in container without regular label presumed illicit”);
(11)
§ 6–316 (“Maximum alcohol content”);
(12)
§ 6–317 (“Multiple serving purchase required”);
(13)
§ 6–319 (“On–premises consumption of alcoholic beverages not purchased from license holder”);
(14)
§ 6–320 (“Disorderly intoxication”);
(15)
§ 6–321 (“Consumption of alcoholic beverages in public”);
(16)
§ 6–322 (“Possession of open container”);
(17)
§ 6–323 (“Possession or use of Alcohol Without Liquid machine”);
(18)
§ 6–326 (“Sale of alcoholic beverages in powder or crystalline form prohibited”);
(19)
§ 6–327 (“Unlicensed out–of–state sale of alcoholic beverages”);
(20)
§ 6–328 (“Tax evasion”);
(21)
§ 6–329 (“Destruction of evidence”); and
(22)
§ 6–330 (“Perjury”).
(b)
The following sections of Title 6, Subtitle 3 (“Prohibited Acts”) of Division I of this article apply in the county:
(1)
§ 6–304 (“Selling or providing alcoholic beverages to individual under the age of 21 years”), subject to § 18–2702 of this subtitle; and
(2)
§ 6–307 (“Selling or providing alcoholic beverages to intoxicated individual”), subject to § 18–2703 of this subtitle.
Md. Code Ann., Alco. Bev. § 18-2702 (2026)
Title 18. Charles County
Subtitle 27. Prohibited Acts
§ 18–2702LinkCopy Citation
(a)
A license holder or an employee of a license holder who is charged with a violation of § 6–304 of this article:
(1)
shall receive a summons to appear in court on a certain day to answer the charges placed against the license holder or employee; and
(2)
may not be required to post bail pending trial in any court in the State.
(b)
A license holder or an employee of a license holder may not be found guilty of a violation of § 6–304 of this article if:
(1)
the license holder or employee establishes to the satisfaction of the finder of fact that the license holder or employee used due caution to establish that the individual was not under the age of 21 years; and
(2)
the individual was not a resident of the State.
(c)
(1)
If a license holder or an employee of a license holder violates § 6–304 of this article:
(i)
the Board may impose on the license holder:
(1)
for the first offense, a fine that the Board determines or a suspension of the license not exceeding 3 days or both; and
(2)
for each subsequent offense, a penalty that the Board determines; and
(ii)
the Board may impose on the employee a fine not exceeding $500 for each offense.
(2)
When determining the number of days for a suspension of a license for a subsequent offense as provided for in paragraph (1)(i)2 of this subsection, the Board shall consider:
(i)
the class of license; and
(ii)
the economic impact that the suspension will have on the business, taking into account the total sales of alcoholic beverages of the licensed establishment before the suspension compared to the estimated total sales during the suspension.
(3)
A fine imposed under this section shall be imposed subject to §�10–1001 of the State Government Article.
(d)
Fines collected under this section shall be paid into the general fund of the county.
(e)
The granting of probation before judgment to a license holder or an employee of the license holder for a violation of § 6–304 of this article does not bar the Board from proceeding administratively against the license holder for the violation.
Md. Code Ann., Alco. Bev. § 18-2703 (2026)
Title 18. Charles County
Subtitle 27. Prohibited Acts
§ 18–2703LinkCopy Citation
(a)
A license holder or an employee of a license holder who is charged with a violation of § 6–307 of this article:
(1)
shall receive a summons to appear in court on a certain day to answer the charges placed against the license holder or employee; and
(2)
may not be required to post bail pending trial in any court in the State.
(b)
The granting of probation before judgment to a license holder or an employee of the license holder for a violation of § 6–307 of this article does not bar the Board from proceeding administratively against the license holder for the violation.
Md. Code Ann., Alco. Bev. § 18-2704 (2026)
Title 18. Charles County
Subtitle 27. Prohibited Acts
§ 18–2704LinkCopy Citation
(a)
In this section, “knowingly” means the knowledge a reasonable individual would have under ordinary circumstances based on the habits, appearance, or personal reputation of an individual.
(b)
A license holder or an employee of a license holder may not knowingly sell or provide an alcoholic beverage to a habitual drunkard.
(c)
A license holder who violates this section is guilty of a misdemeanor and on conviction is subject to:
(1)
for a first offense, a fine not exceeding $50; and
(2)
for each subsequent offense, imprisonment not exceeding 30 days or a fine not exceeding $100 or both.
Md. Code Ann., Alco. Bev. § 18-2705 (2026)
Title 18. Charles County
Subtitle 27. Prohibited Acts
§ 18–2705LinkCopy Citation
A retail dealer may not sell or provide a go cup to an individual to consume alcoholic beverages off the licensed premises.
Subtitle 28. Penalties
Md. Code Ann., Alco. Bev. § 18-2801 (2026)
Title 18. Charles County
Subtitle 28. Penalties
§ 18–2801LinkCopy Citation
Section 6–402 (“General penalty”) of Division I of this article applies in the county.
Md. Code Ann., Alco. Bev. § 18-2802 (2026)
Title 18. Charles County
Subtitle 28. Penalties
§ 18–2802LinkCopy Citation
(a)
(1)
Subject to subsection (b) of this section, the Board may impose a fine not exceeding $2,500 or suspend a license or both for a violation of a provision of this article that applies in the county.
(2)
The fine shall be imposed subject to § 10–1001 of the State Government Article.
(b)
Fines collected under this section shall be paid into the general fund of the county.