# Criminal Law (GCR)

## Title 4. Weapon Crimes

### Subtitle 2. Handguns

#### Section 4-208

(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 Sec. 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.

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Md. Code Ann., Crim. Law (as displayed at mgaleg.maryland.gov, October 16, 2026)