§ 4–208
Statutes in effect as of October 1, 2026.
Md. Code Ann., Crim. Law § 4-208 (2026)
Title 4. Weapon Crimes
Subtitle 2. Handguns
§ 4–208LinkCopy Citation
(a)
(1)
In this section the following words have the meanings indicated.
(2)
(i)
“Demonstration” means one or more persons demonstrating, picketing, speechmaking, marching, holding a vigil, or engaging in any other similar conduct that involves the communication or expression of views or grievances and that has the effect, intent, or propensity to attract a crowd or onlookers.
(ii)
“Demonstration” does not include the casual use of property by visitors or tourists that does not have the intent or propensity to attract a crowd or onlookers.
(3)
(i)
“Firearm” means a handgun, rifle, shotgun, short–barreled rifle, short–barreled shotgun, or any other firearm, whether loaded or unloaded.
(ii)
“Firearm” does not include an antique firearm.
(4)
“Handgun” has the meaning stated in § 5–101 of the Public Safety Article.
(5)
“Law enforcement officer” means:
(i)
a member of a police force or other unit of the United States, the State, a county, municipal corporation, or other political subdivision who is responsible for the prevention and detection of crime and the enforcement of the laws of the United States, the State, a county, municipal corporation, or other political subdivision;
(ii)
a park police officer of the Maryland–National Capital Park and Planning Commission;
(iii)
a member of the University System of Maryland Police Force; and
(iv)
any military or militia personnel directed by constituted authority to keep law and order.
(6)
(i)
“Public place” means a place to which the general public has access and a right to resort for business, entertainment, or other lawful purpose.
(ii)
“Public place” is not limited to a place devoted solely to the uses of the public.
(iii)
“Public place” includes:
(1)
the front or immediate area or parking lot of a store, restaurant, tavern, shopping center, or other place of business;
(2)
a public building, including its grounds and curtilage;
(3)
a public parking lot;
(4)
a public street, sidewalk, or right–of–way;
(5)
a public park; and
(6)
other public grounds.
(b)
(1)
This subsection does not apply to a law enforcement officer.
(2)
A person may not have a firearm in the person’s possession or on or about the person at a demonstration in a public place or in a vehicle that is within 1,000 feet of a demonstration in a public place after:
(i)
the person has been advised by a law enforcement officer that a demonstration is occurring at the public place; and
(ii)
the person has been ordered by the law enforcement officer to leave the area of the demonstration until the person disposes of the firearm.
(c)
A person who violates this section is guilty of a misdemeanor and on conviction is subject to imprisonment not exceeding 1 year or a fine not exceeding $1,000 or both.