Local Government (GLG) — Title 4. In General
Statutes in effect as of October 1, 2026.
Subtitle 1. Definitions; General Provisions
Md. Code Ann., Local Gov't § 4-101 (2026)
Title 4. In General
Subtitle 1. Definitions; General Provisions
§ 4–101LinkCopy Citation
(a)
In this title the following words have the meanings indicated.
(b)
“Municipal charter” means a charter adopted under Article XI–E of the Maryland Constitution and a local law enacted by the General Assembly relating to the incorporation, organization, government, or affairs concerning administration and services of a municipality.
(c)
“Qualified voter” means an individual authorized under a municipal charter to vote in elections in the municipality.
Md. Code Ann., Local Gov't § 4-102 (2026)
Title 4. In General
Subtitle 1. Definitions; General Provisions
§ 4–102LinkCopy Citation
There is one class of municipalities in the State, and every municipality is a member of that class.
Md. Code Ann., Local Gov't § 4-103 (2026)
Title 4. In General
Subtitle 1. Definitions; General Provisions
§ 4–103LinkCopy Citation
(a)
The residents of a municipality are a municipal corporation.
(b)
Under the municipality’s corporate name, the municipality:
(1)
has perpetual succession;
(2)
may sue and be sued; and
(3)
may enact and adopt ordinances, resolutions, or bylaws necessary to exercise the authority of the municipality.
Md. Code Ann., Local Gov't § 4-104 (2026)
Title 4. In General
Subtitle 1. Definitions; General Provisions
§ 4–104LinkCopy Citation
(a)
In this section, “special district” means a special tax area or district, sanitary district, park or planning district, soil conservation district, or public agency exercising specific powers in a defined area that does not exercise general municipal functions.
(b)
(1)
Except as provided in paragraph (2) of this subsection, a municipality located in a special district may not exercise, divest, or duplicate in the municipality’s corporate limits any special power or duty conferred on the special district.
(2)
Subject to the consent of the special district, a municipality may, within its corporate limits, provide recreational facilities within a special district’s jurisdiction.
(c)
A municipality may not exempt an area from any property tax, special benefit assessment, or service charge imposed to support a special district.
(d)
A local law conferring a special power or duty on a special district does not authorize the special district to exercise that power or perform that duty in an area where a municipality continues to exercise the power or perform the duty.
(e)
A municipality may not amend or repeal its charter or exercise its powers of annexation or incorporation as to affect the power of:
(1)
the Maryland–National Capital Park and Planning Commission, relating to zoning; or
(2)
the Washington Suburban Sanitary Commission, relating to sanitation, including sewer, water, and similar facilities.
(f)
Article XI–E of the Maryland Constitution, this division, and Division I of the Land Use Article do not authorize a municipality, through procedures under this title or other changes in the municipal charter, to exercise planning authority, subdivision control, or zoning jurisdiction in a political subdivision in which a State, regional, or county unit exercises planning authority, subdivision control, or zoning jurisdiction.
Md. Code Ann., Local Gov't § 4-105 (2026)
Title 4. In General
Subtitle 1. Definitions; General Provisions
§ 4–105LinkCopy Citation
The legislative body of a municipality may not adopt an ordinance, a resolution, a rule, or a regulation at a meeting not open to the public, except in accordance with the Open Meetings Act.
Md. Code Ann., Local Gov't § 4-106 (2026)
Title 4. In General
Subtitle 1. Definitions; General Provisions
§ 4–106LinkCopy Citation
(a)
The legislative body of a municipality may set a date and establish procedures for submitting to the qualified voters of the municipality at a regular or special municipal election a local law, enacted under Article XI–E, § 5 of the Maryland Constitution, that sets a maximum property tax rate or a maximum amount of debt that may be incurred by the municipality.
(b)
The legislative body of a municipality may take necessary action to ensure that a local law setting a maximum property tax rate or a maximum amount of debt that may be incurred by the municipality does not take effect without approval by a majority of those who voted on the question at a regular or special municipal election.
Md. Code Ann., Local Gov't § 4-107 (2026)
Title 4. In General
Subtitle 1. Definitions; General Provisions
§ 4–107LinkCopy Citation
A municipality may not require an individual to own or control an interest in property to participate in an election or hold office in the municipality.
Md. Code Ann., Local Gov't § 4-108 (2026)
Title 4. In General
Subtitle 1. Definitions; General Provisions
§ 4–108LinkCopy Citation
(a)
A qualified voter may vote in a municipal election by absentee ballot.
(b)
(1)
Subject to paragraph (2) of this subsection, a municipality shall provide a procedure to vote by absentee ballot.
(2)
A municipality may not require an individual to provide a reason that the individual will be unable to vote in person on election day in order to vote by absentee ballot.
(c)
A municipality may use any method to enable absentee voters to vote, including using any facilities to transmit and receive applications for absentee ballots.
Md. Code Ann., Local Gov't § 4-108.1 (2026)
Title 4. In General
Subtitle 1. Definitions; General Provisions
§ 4–108.1LinkCopy Citation
As to voting in a municipal election:
(1)
a person is subject to the offenses and penalties related to voting specified under § 16–201 of the Election Law Article; and
(2)
the State Prosecutor or the State’s Attorney for the county in which the municipal election was held and where the offense is alleged to have occurred may prosecute the person for the offense.
Md. Code Ann., Local Gov't § 4-108.2 (2026)
Title 4. In General
Subtitle 1. Definitions; General Provisions
§ 4–108.2LinkCopy Citation
If a municipality requires candidates in a municipal election to file campaign finance reports, within 10 days after the filing deadline, each candidate in the municipal election shall submit to the State Board of Elections a copy of the campaign finance report that was filed by the candidate.
Md. Code Ann., Local Gov't § 4-108.3 (2026)
Title 4. In General
Subtitle 1. Definitions; General Provisions
§ 4–108.3LinkCopy Citation
(a)
(1)
In this section the following words have the meanings indicated.
(2)
“Ballot” means a ballot prepared by the State Board of Elections under Title 9 of the Election Law Article.
(3)
“State Board” means the State Board of Elections.
(b)
A municipality may request that the State Board include on a ballot the offices and questions to be voted on in a municipal election.
(c)
(1)
A municipality that makes a request under this section shall:
(i)
file the request with the State Board on or before the day that is 9 months before the deadline date applicable for individuals who are required to file a certificate of candidacy as required under § 5–303 of the Election Law Article; and
(ii)
certify as part of the request that the charter of the municipality requires, and the municipality has established, deadlines and procedures for the administration of municipal elections for the municipality that are consistent with the deadlines and procedures for State and county elections established by the State Board with regard to:
(1)
the filing of certificates of candidacy;
(2)
the filling of a vacancy in office;
(3)
the filing of a petition;
(4)
the certification of a ballot question;
(5)
voter registration; and
(6)
voting.
(2)
(i)
Except as provided in subparagraph (ii) of this paragraph, if the State Board previously included a municipal election on the ballot, that municipality’s elections may continue to appear on the ballot without the municipality filing an additional request under this section.
(ii)
A municipality shall file a request under this section if, since the municipality’s election last appeared on the ballot, there has been a significant change in the method the municipality uses to conduct its elections.
(3)
Within 30 days after receipt of a municipality’s request under this section, the State Board, after consultation with the local board in the county where the municipality is located, shall notify the municipality of its decision whether to include the municipal election on the ballot.
(d)
If the State Board approves a municipality’s request under this section, the State Board shall:
(1)
include the offices and questions at the end of the ballot; and
(2)
arrange the offices and questions in a similar order as other offices and questions are arranged on the ballot.
(e)
A municipality shall reimburse the State Board and the applicable local board for any additional costs incurred by the State Board or local board on account of including the offices and questions to be voted on in a municipal election on the ballot.
Md. Code Ann., Local Gov't § 4-108.4 (2026)
Title 4. In General
Subtitle 1. Definitions; General Provisions
§ 4–108.4LinkCopy Citation
A municipality shall fill a vacancy that resulted from a tie vote in an election for a municipal office within 90 days after the date of the election.
Md. Code Ann., Local Gov't § 4-108.5 (2026)
Title 4. In General
Subtitle 1. Definitions; General Provisions
§ 4–108.5LinkCopy Citation
(a)
In this section, “State Board” means the State Board of Elections.
(b)
(1)
The State Board shall prominently display on the State Board’s website:
(i)
a list of all upcoming regular municipal elections reported under subsection (d)(2) of this section that includes:
(1)
the name of the municipality;
(2)
the election date; and
(3)
each office to be voted on; and
(ii)
a list indicating which municipalities have not yet reported upcoming regular municipal elections under subsection (d)(2) of this section.
(2)
Each municipality that maintains a website shall prominently display on the municipality’s website a list of all upcoming regular and special elections in the municipality, including:
(i)
the election date;
(ii)
whether the election is a regular or special municipal election; and
(iii)
each office to be voted on.
(c)
(1)
(i)
(1)
On or before the date that is 3 months before the candidate filing deadline for a regular municipal election, the municipality shall submit to the State Board the qualifications to be a candidate for each office on the municipal ballot.
(2)
Within 15 business days after a special municipal election is scheduled, the municipality shall report to the State Board:
(A)
the date of the special election;
(B)
each office on the special election ballot; and
(C)
the qualifications to be a candidate for each office on the special election ballot.
(ii)
Immediately after a municipality submits the information required under subparagraph (i) of this paragraph, the State Board shall publish the information on the State Board’s website.
(2)
(i)
On or before the date that is 10 business days after the candidate filing deadline for a municipal election, including a special election, the municipality shall submit to the State Board:
(1)
a list of each qualified candidate for each office on the municipal ballot and, if the election is a partisan election, the party affiliation of each candidate; and
(2)
information on how to vote and where to vote in the municipal election.
(ii)
Immediately after a municipality submits the information required under subparagraph (i) of this paragraph, the State Board shall publish the information on the State Board’s website.
(d)
(1)
(i)
The State Board shall, immediately after a municipality submits its election results, publish the election results on the State Board’s website.
(ii)
The election results published under subparagraph (i) of this paragraph shall be organized by election year and the name of the municipality.
(2)
Within 30 days after the results of a municipal election are certified, the municipality shall submit to the State Board an electronic copy of the election results for each office or question voted on at the election, including:
(i)
vote totals for each office or question reported separately by each of the following voting methods, if applicable:
(1)
in–person early voting;
(2)
mail–in voting or vote–by–mail;
(3)
provisional voting; and
(4)
in–person election day voting;
(ii)
if the municipality conducts partisan elections, the party affiliation of each candidate; and
(iii)
(1)
the date of the next regular municipal election; and
(2)
each office to be voted on at the next regular municipal election.
(d)
(1)
In this subsection, “ranked–choice voting” means a method of casting and tabulating votes in which voters rank candidates in order of preference and votes are tabulated in a manner that reflects voter preference.
(2)
A municipality that conducts its elections using ranked–choice voting shall submit to the State Board the municipality’s regulations for the tabulation of ranked–choice ballots.
(3)
The State Board shall publish the regulations submitted under paragraph (2) of this subsection on the State Board’s website.
Md. Code Ann., Local Gov't § 4-109 (2026)
Title 4. In General
Subtitle 1. Definitions; General Provisions
§ 4–109LinkCopy Citation
(a)
(1)
If the governing body of a municipality creates, or causes the creation of, a document listed in paragraph (2) of this subsection, the chief executive officer of the municipality shall submit one copy of the document to the Department of Legislative Services by mail.
(2)
A municipality shall submit:
(i)
a code or compilation containing all or part of the municipal charter;
(ii)
in accordance with § 4–308 of this title, a charter amendment passed by the legislative body of the municipality or adopted by referendum, including the complete text of the amendment, the date of any referendum, the number of votes cast for and against the amendment by the legislative body or in a referendum, and the effective date of the amendment;
(iii)
in accordance with § 4–303(b), (c), and (e) of this title, a complete list of measures that add, amend, or repeal sections in a municipal charter, including each charter section affected, by number and title;
(iv)
in accordance with § 4–414(a) of this title, a charter amendment, a resolution, a referendum, or any other document that changes the boundaries of the municipality, including a copy of the complete text of the document with a statement of the new boundaries, the date of any referendum, the number of votes cast for and against the annexation by the legislative body or in a referendum, and the effective date of the annexation;
(v)
in accordance with § 4–508(b) of this title, a unified charter for merging municipalities, including the complete text of the unified charter, the date of any referendum, the number of votes cast for and against the adoption of the unified charter by the legislative bodies or a referendum, and the effective date of the unified charter;
(vi)
in accordance with § 4–214(a) of this title, a charter creating a municipality, including the complete text of the charter, the date of the referendum, the number of votes cast for and against the charter, and the effective date of the charter;
(vii)
in accordance with § 4–313(a), (b), and (c) of this title, a charter amendment repealing the entire municipal charter passed by the legislative body of the municipality or adopted by referendum, including the complete text of the amendment, the date of any referendum, the number of votes cast for and against the amendment by the legislative body or in a referendum, and the effective date of the amendment; and
(viii)
in accordance with § 4–310(d) of this title, a statement on the results of any referendum on a proposed charter amendment held during the year, or any actual or potential pending referendum that had not been held by the end of the year.
(b)
The chief executive officer of each municipality shall send to the Department of Legislative Services:
(1)
any charter amendment resolution within 10 days after the resolution becomes effective under § 4–304(c) or § 4–307(e) of this title; and
(2)
any annexation resolution within 10 days after the resolution becomes effective under § 4–407 or § 4–412(d) of this title.
(c)
The Department of Legislative Services shall forward each document the Department receives under this division to the State Archives at least once each year for permanent storage.
Md. Code Ann., Local Gov't § 4-110 (2026)
Title 4. In General
Subtitle 1. Definitions; General Provisions
§ 4–110LinkCopy Citation
(a)
(1)
In this section, “ordinance” means a legislative enactment of general application and continuing force for a municipality.
(2)
“Ordinance” does not include a public local law under § 9–102 of this article.
(b)
Each year, if a municipality enacts any ordinance appropriate for codification during the year, the governing body of a municipality shall provide for the preparation and distribution of a supplement to or new edition of its code of ordinances.
(c)
(1)
A supplement published under subsection (b) of this section shall contain each ordinance that is in effect and has been enacted or amended since the municipality’s most recent code of ordinances was published.
(2)
A new code published under subsection (b) of this section shall contain each ordinance that is in effect at the time of publication.
Md. Code Ann., Local Gov't § 4-111 (2026)
Title 4. In General
Subtitle 1. Definitions; General Provisions
§ 4–111LinkCopy Citation
(a)
In this section, “legislation” means any form of county or municipal legislative enactment, including a law, an ordinance, a resolution, or any action by which a county budget is adopted.
(b)
Except as provided in subsection (c) of this section, legislation enacted by a county does not apply in a municipality located in the county if the legislation:
(1)
by its terms, exempts the municipality;
(2)
conflicts with legislation of the municipality enacted under a grant of legislative authority provided by public general law or the municipal charter; or
(3)
(i)
relates to a subject on which a public general law or the municipal charter grants the municipality legislative authority; and
(ii)
the municipality by ordinance or charter amendment:
(1)
specifically exempts itself from the county legislation; or
(2)
generally exempts itself from county legislation covered by the type of grant of authority to the municipality.
(c)
The following categories of county legislation, if within the scope of legislative powers granted to a county by the General Assembly, apply in all municipalities in the county:
(1)
county legislation made applicable to all municipalities in the county under a law enacted by the General Assembly;
(2)
county revenue or tax legislation, subject to Title 16, Subtitle 5 and Title 20 of this article, the Tax – General Article, and the Tax – Property Article, or legislation adopting a county budget; and
(3)
subject to subsection (e) of this section, county legislation that is enacted in accordance with county requirements for legislation that is to become effective immediately and for which the legislative body of the county:
(i)
makes a specific finding based on evidence of record after a hearing held under item (ii) of this item that there will be significant adverse impact on the public health, safety, or welfare affecting residents of the county in unincorporated areas if the legislation does not apply in all municipalities in the county;
(ii)
conducts a public hearing at which all municipalities in the county and any interested persons have an opportunity to be heard;
(iii)
(1)
provides notice of the hearing by certified mail to all municipalities in the county at least 30 days before the hearing; and
(2)
publishes notice in a newspaper of general circulation in the county for 3 successive weeks, beginning at least 30 days before the hearing; and
(iv)
enacts the county legislation by an affirmative vote of at least two–thirds of the authorized membership of the county legislative body.
(d)
(1)
County legislation enacted in accordance with subsection (c)(3) of this section is subject to judicial review by the circuit court of the county, in accordance with the Maryland Rules governing appeals from administrative agencies, of:
(i)
the finding made under subsection (c)(3)(i) of this section; and
(ii)
the legislation’s applicability to municipalities located in the county.
(2)
An appeal under this subsection shall be filed within 30 days after the effective date of the county legislation.
(3)
In a judicial proceeding under this subsection, the only issues that may be considered are whether the county legislative body:
(i)
complied with the procedures of subsection (c)(3) of this section; and
(ii)
had sufficient evidence from which a reasonable person could conclude that there will be a significant adverse impact on the public health, safety, or welfare affecting residents of the county in unincorporated areas if the county legislation does not apply in all municipalities in the county.
(4)
The court shall decide the issues under paragraph (3) of this subsection without a jury.
(5)
If a court reverses a legislative body’s finding under subsection (c)(3)(i) of this section:
(i)
the legislation shall continue to apply in unincorporated areas of the county; and
(ii)
the applicability of the legislation in a municipality is governed by subsection (b) of this section.
(6)
A county or municipality in the county may appeal the decision of a circuit court in a proceeding under this subsection to the Appellate Court of Maryland.
(e)
County legislation enacted in accordance with subsection (c)(3) of this section does not apply, or becomes inapplicable, in a municipality that has enacted or enacts municipal legislation that:
(1)
covers the same subject matter and furthers the same policies as the county legislation;
(2)
is at least as restrictive as the county legislation; and
(3)
includes provisions for enforcement.
(f)
(1)
By ordinance, a municipality may request and authorize the county in which it is located to administer or enforce any municipal legislation.
(2)
After a municipality enacts an ordinance under paragraph (1) of this subsection, a county may administer or enforce the municipal legislation on mutually agreed terms.
(g)
The other provisions of this article are considered amended as provided in this section.
Md. Code Ann., Local Gov't § 4-112 (2026)
Title 4. In General
Subtitle 1. Definitions; General Provisions
§ 4–112LinkCopy Citation
(a)
(1)
In this section the following words have the meanings indicated.
(2)
(i)
“Approved grating system” means a cover placed over the opening of an open drainage inlet in order to allow stormwater runoff to enter the drainage inlet while preventing large debris from entering the drainage inlet.
(ii)
“Approved grating system” includes:
(1)
a standard yard inlet;
(2)
a raised grate yard inlet;
(3)
a trash rack grating, provided that the rack has at least four sides, each of which is at least as large as the diameter of the surface opening; and
(4)
for new drainage inlets, a precast concrete box incorporated into the construction of the drainage inlet.
(3)
(i)
“Open drainage inlet” means a structure with a surface opening that:
(1)
has a diameter of 12 inches or more; and
(2)
is designed to collect and drain stormwater runoff.
(ii)
“Open drainage inlet” includes an open headwall structure attached to a culvert.
(iii)
“Open drainage inlet” does not include:
(1)
a grate inlet;
(2)
a curb inlet;
(3)
a combination curb and grate inlet;
(4)
a surface–level drainage tunnel with only one surface–level inlet and one direct surface–level outlet;
(5)
a slotted inlet; or
(6)
a culvert located on an open drainage highway.
(4)
“Privately owned existing open drainage inlet” means an inlet that is located on private property and was installed before October 1, 2026.
(5)
(i)
“Publicly owned existing open drainage inlet” means an inlet owned and maintained by the municipality that was installed before October 1, 2026.
(ii)
“Publicly owned existing open drainage inlet” does not include inlets:
(1)
owned or maintained by a federal entity, State entity, county, or school board; or
(2)
inspected by the Department of the Environment.
(b)
A municipality may enter private property to:
(1)
complete the inventory required under subsection (c) of this section; and
(2)
install an approved grating system.
(c)
(1)
On or before July 1, 2027, a municipality shall inventory the number and location of all publicly owned existing open drainage inlets and privately owned existing open drainage inlets in the municipality.
(2)
(i)
(1)
On or before April 1, 2028, a municipality shall develop a prioritization plan for making improvements to publicly owned existing open drainage inlets and privately owned existing open drainage inlets.
(2)
The plan shall prioritize making improvements to publicly owned existing open drainage inlets and privately owned existing open drainage inlets that pose the greatest risk to public safety.
(3)
(A)
A municipality is not required to make improvements to publicly owned existing open drainage inlets and privately owned existing open drainage inlets that do not pose a legitimate risk to public safety.
(B)
A municipality shall include in the plan an explanation of the reason for each publicly owned existing open drainage inlet and privately owned existing open drainage inlet excluded from the prioritization plan.
(ii)
Improvements may include:
(1)
installation of an approved grating system secured to the inlet end of the open drainage inlet or the concrete structure built to house the drainage inlet, in a manner that prevents the approved grating system from being removed without the appropriate tools or by the force of flood water; or
(2)
installation of fencing that:
(A)
obstructs at least 50% of any opening; and
(B)
is designed and installed in a manner that would not allow a person to enter the open drainage inlet.
(3)
On or before April 1, 2028, each municipality shall notify a private property owner with a privately owned existing open drainage inlet that the installation of an approved grating system or fencing is required in accordance with paragraph (2) of this subsection.
(4)
On or before April 1, 2031, each municipality shall make improvements to all publicly owned existing open drainage inlets and privately owned existing open drainage inlets included in the prioritization plan developed under paragraph (2) of this subsection.
(5)
(i)
A municipality is responsible for the cost of installing improvements on all publicly owned existing open drainage inlets and privately owned existing open drainage inlets.
(ii)
A municipality may apply to the comprehensive flood management grant program within the Department of the Environment to cost–share a portion of the installation costs.
(d)
A municipality is not required to add improvements to any publicly owned existing open drainage inlets and privately owned existing open drainage inlets if it would significantly impair the hydraulic capacity of the drainage system.
(e)
Once a municipality has installed an approved grating system on a privately owned existing open drainage inlet, the municipality:
(1)
is not responsible for maintaining improvements installed on a privately owned existing open drainage inlet; and
(2)
may not be held liable for incidents arising out of the maintenance of an approved grating system.
(f)
Any new open drainage inlet installed in a municipality shall be equipped with an approved grating system that meets the requirements for installation described in this section.
Subtitle 2. Incorporation of Municipalities
Md. Code Ann., Local Gov't § 4-201 (2026)
Title 4. In General
Subtitle 2. Incorporation of Municipalities
§ 4–201LinkCopy Citation
(a)
In this subtitle the following words have the meanings indicated.
(b)
“County liaison” means a county official, or the designee of the county official, who coordinates communication between the organizing committee and the county.
(c)
“Organizing committee” means the group of individuals from the organizing community that works with the county commissioners or county council on the proposed municipal incorporation after a petition for incorporation is verified.
(d)
“Organizing community” means individuals residing in an unincorporated area who are interested in forming a municipality.
Md. Code Ann., Local Gov't § 4-202 (2026)
Title 4. In General
Subtitle 2. Incorporation of Municipalities
§ 4–202LinkCopy Citation
This subtitle governs municipal incorporation.
Md. Code Ann., Local Gov't § 4-203 (2026)
Title 4. In General
Subtitle 2. Incorporation of Municipalities
§ 4–203LinkCopy Citation
An area proposed to be incorporated shall contain at least 300 residents before the organizing community may proceed under this subtitle.
Md. Code Ann., Local Gov't § 4-204 (2026)
Title 4. In General
Subtitle 2. Incorporation of Municipalities
§ 4–204LinkCopy Citation
(a)
A proposal to incorporate an area as a municipality is initiated when a valid petition is presented to the county commissioners or county council of a county by:
(1)
at least 25% of the registered voters who are residents of the area proposed to be incorporated; or
(2)
at least 20% of the registered voters who are residents of the area proposed to be incorporated, together with the owners of at least 25% of the assessed valuation of the real property of the area proposed to be incorporated.
(b)
The Office of the Attorney General shall:
(1)
create a standard petition form for use by an organizing community; and
(2)
provide the board of elections of each county with the form for distribution to an organizing community.
(c)
A petition presented under subsection (a) of this section shall:
(1)
express the interest of the subscribing individuals in the incorporation of the area;
(2)
contain a detailed description of the boundaries of the area proposed to be incorporated, including a survey of courses and distances or general landmarks and place names;
(3)
state the name of the new municipality, which may not be the same as a name used by a municipality or county in the State; and
(4)
state the names of the individuals who will initially represent the organizing community on the organizing committee.
(d)
The organizing community shall obtain the minimum number of valid signatures required under subsection (a) of this section within 18 months after the organizing community receives the standard petition form from the county board of elections.
(e)
Each person signing the petition shall indicate on the petition:
(1)
the person’s name and residence address; and
(2)
if the petition is intended to be presented under subsection (a)(2) of this section and the person signing the petition owns real property in the area proposed to be incorporated, the location and assessed valuation of the property.
(f)
Within 60 days after receiving a petition, the county commissioners or county council shall:
(1)
verify that each person who signed the petition:
(i)
resides in the area proposed to be incorporated;
(ii)
is registered to vote in the elections of that county; and
(iii)
if applicable, owns real property within the area proposed to be incorporated;
(2)
verify that the petition meets the requirements of this section; and
(3)
appoint a county liaison if the petition meets the requirements of this section.
(g)
A petition, when received, becomes the property of the county commissioners or county council and may not be used to initiate another incorporation.
(h)
A proposal to incorporate a municipality and to adopt a municipal charter may not be rescinded after the formal submission of the proposal in a manner other than that of a formal charter repeal as provided in §§ 4–313 and 4–314 of this title.
Md. Code Ann., Local Gov't § 4-205 (2026)
Title 4. In General
Subtitle 2. Incorporation of Municipalities
§ 4–205LinkCopy Citation
(a)
(1)
Within 90 days after the county commissioners or county council has verified that a petition presented under § 4–204 of this subtitle is valid, the organizing committee shall:
(i)
actively seek information and input from the county;
(ii)
hold a public meeting to collect testimony on the proposed incorporation; and
(iii)
provide the county commissioners or county council with a report on issues related to the proposed incorporation.
(2)
During the 90–day period, the county shall cooperate fully with the organizing committee.
(b)
The organizing committee shall:
(1)
notify the county liaison of all meetings and deliberations of the organizing committee; and
(2)
give the county liaison full opportunity to participate in all meetings and deliberations of the organizing committee.
(c)
Within 45 days after receiving the report required under subsection (a)(1)(iii) of this section, the county commissioners or county council or its designee may review the report and provide comments to the organizing committee on issues relating to the proposed incorporation.
Md. Code Ann., Local Gov't § 4-206 (2026)
Title 4. In General
Subtitle 2. Incorporation of Municipalities
§ 4–206LinkCopy Citation
(a)
The organizing committee shall present to the county commissioners or county council a proposed municipal charter:
(1)
within 45 days after receiving the comments submitted to the organizing committee under § 4–205(c) of this subtitle; or
(2)
if the county commissioners or county council has not submitted comments, within 90 days after the report is submitted by the organizing committee under § 4–205(a)(1)(iii) of this subtitle.
(b)
The organizing committee shall submit statements with the proposed municipal charter describing:
(1)
the likely fiscal effect of the proposed incorporation on residents of the proposed municipality, residents in the vicinity of the proposed municipality, and the county;
(2)
the services that the proposed municipality is expected to provide; and
(3)
the impact that the proposed incorporation is expected to have on property tax rates.
Md. Code Ann., Local Gov't § 4-207 (2026)
Title 4. In General
Subtitle 2. Incorporation of Municipalities
§ 4–207LinkCopy Citation
(a)
(1)
If the county commissioners or county council approves the referendum request, between 40 and 60 days after it receives the proposed municipal charter, the county commissioners or county council shall specify, by resolution, the day and hours for a vote on the proposed incorporation by the voters of the area to be incorporated.
(2)
The resolution shall include the exact text of the proposed municipal charter as submitted by the organizing committee.
(b)
(1)
If the county commissioners or county council rejects the referendum request, the county commissioners or county council shall:
(i)
provide in writing and make available to the public within a reasonable time the reasons for the rejection; and
(ii)
establish reasonable procedures by which the county commissioners or county council shall reconsider a referendum request, including an opportunity for a public hearing with sufficient advance public notice.
(2)
After the hearing and reconsideration process is completed, the county commissioners or county council, by resolution, shall affirm the rejection or approve the referendum request.
Md. Code Ann., Local Gov't § 4-208 (2026)
Title 4. In General
Subtitle 2. Incorporation of Municipalities
§ 4–208LinkCopy Citation
(a)
The county commissioners or county council shall notify the voters of the area proposed to be incorporated by posting and publication of the proposal to incorporate, including a fair summary of the proposed municipal charter.
(b)
For at least 4 weeks immediately before the referendum, the county commissioners or county council shall make available an exact copy of the proposed municipal charter for public inspection at its office.
(c)
The county commissioners or county council shall publish notice of the referendum, together with a fair summary of the proposed municipal charter, in a newspaper of general circulation in the area proposed to be incorporated at least once a week during the 4 weeks immediately before the referendum.
(d)
On the day of the referendum, the county commissioners or county council shall make available an exact copy of the proposed municipal charter for public inspection at each place for voting on the referendum.
Md. Code Ann., Local Gov't § 4-209 (2026)
Title 4. In General
Subtitle 2. Incorporation of Municipalities
§ 4–209LinkCopy Citation
(a)
Except as expressly or necessarily modified by this subtitle, a referendum shall be conducted generally according to the procedures and practices for regular countywide elections.
(b)
(1)
On the day and during the hours specified for the referendum, the question of incorporation under the proposed municipal charter shall be submitted to the registered voters of the area proposed to be incorporated.
(2)
The county board of elections shall arrange for and conduct the referendum.
(3)
The wording specified by the county commissioners or county council in the resolution authorizing a referendum on the question of the proposed incorporation shall be placed on the ballots used at the referendum.
(c)
Promptly after the canvass is complete, the county board of elections shall certify the results to the county commissioners or county council.
(d)
Within 10 days after receiving a certification of the vote on the referendum from the county board of elections:
(1)
if a majority of those who voted on the question voted in favor of incorporation under the proposed municipal charter:
(i)
the county commissioners or county council publicly shall so proclaim; and
(ii)
on the 30th day after the public proclamation, the area proposed to be incorporated shall become a municipality operating under the municipal charter; or
(2)
if less than a majority of those who voted on the question voted in favor of incorporation under the proposed municipal charter:
(i)
the county commissioners or county council publicly shall so proclaim; and
(ii)
the proclamation shall state that the proposed incorporation is not approved.
Md. Code Ann., Local Gov't § 4-210 (2026)
Title 4. In General
Subtitle 2. Incorporation of Municipalities
§ 4–210LinkCopy Citation
(a)
An election of officers for a proposed municipality shall be conducted at the same time and place as the referendum on the question of incorporation and is subject to the same procedures and practices.
(b)
An individual may not be initially nominated or elected to a municipal office unless the individual qualifies under the requirements specified for that office in the proposed municipal charter.
(c)
(1)
A candidate for an elected office of a proposed municipality shall be nominated by a certificate of nomination filed by the candidate with the county board of elections.
(2)
The certificate of nomination shall include:
(i)
the name and residence address of the candidate; and
(ii)
the office that the candidate seeks.
(d)
After certificates of nomination by candidates for municipal office are filed, the county board of elections shall prepare ballots to allow the registered voters of the area proposed to be incorporated to vote on the candidates who are nominated under this section.
Md. Code Ann., Local Gov't § 4-211 (2026)
Title 4. In General
Subtitle 2. Incorporation of Municipalities
§ 4–211LinkCopy Citation
(a)
Casting a vote against the proposed incorporation does not prevent the voter from voting for a candidate for a municipal office.
(b)
The county board of elections shall:
(1)
tally the votes cast for candidates to a municipal office; and
(2)
certify the results to the county commissioners or county council.
(c)
If less than a majority of those who voted on the question voted in favor of incorporation under the proposed municipal charter, the votes cast for candidates for a municipal office are void.
Md. Code Ann., Local Gov't § 4-212 (2026)
Title 4. In General
Subtitle 2. Incorporation of Municipalities
§ 4–212LinkCopy Citation
(a)
The county commissioners or county council publicly shall proclaim that a candidate who received a plurality of the votes cast for an office has been elected to that office.
(b)
A candidate proclaimed by the county commissioners or county council to have been elected to an office shall become an officer of the municipality when the municipal charter takes effect.
(c)
(1)
If no individual is nominated for a municipal office, a candidate elected to an office is unable to assume the office, or for any other reason no candidate is elected to fill an office, the county commissioners or county council shall appoint a resident of the municipality to the office.
(2)
When appointed to an office as provided in paragraph (1) of this subsection, a resident shall hold the office as if elected.
Md. Code Ann., Local Gov't § 4-213 (2026)
Title 4. In General
Subtitle 2. Incorporation of Municipalities
§ 4–213LinkCopy Citation
(a)
Subject to subsection (b) of this section, the county commissioners or county council shall pay for:
(1)
the referendum;
(2)
the original election of officers required under § 4–210 of this subtitle; and
(3)
the reasonable costs of third party consultants hired by the county commissioners or county council to analyze issues related to the proposed incorporation.
(b)
If the referendum results in incorporation, the municipality shall repay the expenses specified in subsection (a) of this section to the county within 1 year after the incorporation takes effect.
(c)
After 1 year from the effective date of the incorporation, the county commissioners or county council may withhold any payment due to the municipality to satisfy any unpaid expense specified in subsection (a) of this section.
Md. Code Ann., Local Gov't § 4-214 (2026)
Title 4. In General
Subtitle 2. Incorporation of Municipalities
§ 4–214LinkCopy Citation
(a)
When the public proclamation under § 4–209(d) of this subtitle is made, the county commissioners or county council shall send the information concerning the municipal charter to the Department of Legislative Services, as provided in § 4–109 of this title.
(b)
The municipal charter is subject to the requirements of §§ 4–310 and 4–311 of this title.
(c)
The exact text of the municipal charter, including any amendments, shall be included in any edition or codification of the municipal charter.
Md. Code Ann., Local Gov't § 4-215 (2026)
Title 4. In General
Subtitle 2. Incorporation of Municipalities
§ 4–215LinkCopy Citation
If a referendum held under this subtitle results in the creation of a new municipality, the local income tax payments authorized under § 2–607 of the Tax – General Article shall be distributed to the municipality as follows, unless the county commissioners or county council agrees to an accelerated payment schedule:
(1)
in the first full fiscal year after the municipal incorporation takes effect, one–third of the distribution otherwise required under § 2–607 of the Tax – General Article;
(2)
in the second fiscal year after the municipal incorporation takes effect, two–thirds of the distribution otherwise required under § 2–607 of the Tax – General Article; and
(3)
in the third fiscal year after the municipal incorporation takes effect and each subsequent fiscal year, all of the distribution required under § 2–607 of the Tax – General Article.
Md. Code Ann., Local Gov't § 4-216 (2026)
Title 4. In General
Subtitle 2. Incorporation of Municipalities
§ 4–216LinkCopy Citation
(a)
A new municipality that is eligible to assume planning and zoning authority and the county commissioners or county council shall cooperate in developing the first comprehensive land use plan of the municipality.
(b)
Unless the county commissioners or county council expressly approves otherwise, the initial zoning designations used by the municipality shall comply with §§ 4–104(e) and 4–516 of this title, including the 5–year zoning classification restriction.
Subtitle 3. Amendment or Repeal of Charter
Md. Code Ann., Local Gov't § 4-301 (2026)
Title 4. In General
Subtitle 3. Amendment or Repeal of Charter
§ 4–301LinkCopy Citation
A municipality shall act in accordance with this subtitle in exercising the powers to amend its municipal charter that are granted under Article XI–E of the Maryland Constitution.
Md. Code Ann., Local Gov't § 4-302 (2026)
Title 4. In General
Subtitle 3. Amendment or Repeal of Charter
§ 4–302LinkCopy Citation
An amendment to a municipal charter may be initiated by:
(1)
the legislative body of the municipality as provided in § 4–304 of this subtitle; or
(2)
a petition of the qualified voters of the municipality as provided in § 4–305 of this subtitle.
Md. Code Ann., Local Gov't § 4-303 (2026)
Title 4. In General
Subtitle 3. Amendment or Repeal of Charter
§ 4–303LinkCopy Citation
(a)
In conformity with the requirement imposed on the General Assembly under Article III, § 29 of the Maryland Constitution:
(1)
a resolution or petition to amend a municipal charter shall contain the exact text of the proposed charter amendment, prepared so that each provision is shown as the provision would read when amended or enacted;
(2)
except as provided in subsection (e)(2) of this section, a provision of a municipal charter may not be amended by reference to its title or citation only; and
(3)
a municipal charter amendment shall:
(i)
embrace one subject only; and
(ii)
describe the subject in its title.
(b)
A proposed amendment shall identify the provision to be amended by citing the code or other publication or amendment in which the most recent text of the provision appears.
(c)
Proposed amendments shall be in a consecutively numbered series.
(d)
A proposed amendment shall provide specifically for the repeal of a provision of the municipal charter that is inconsistent with the amended provision.
(e)
(1)
In a proposal to amend a municipal charter:
(i)
each addition shall be underscored, italicized, or shown in capital letters;
(ii)
subject to paragraph (2) of this subsection, each provision to be repealed shall be enclosed in double parentheses or boldface brackets; and
(iii)
each new section shall be underscored, italicized, or shown in capital letters or contain some marginal or other notation to that effect.
(2)
Each entire section to be repealed need not be written out in full and enclosed in double parentheses or boldface brackets.
Md. Code Ann., Local Gov't § 4-304 (2026)
Title 4. In General
Subtitle 3. Amendment or Repeal of Charter
§ 4–304LinkCopy Citation
(a)
(1)
The legislative body of a municipality may initiate a proposed amendment to the municipal charter by a resolution that, except as otherwise provided in this subtitle, is adopted in the same manner as other resolutions in the municipality by a majority of all the individuals elected to the legislative body.
(2)
Before adopting a resolution initiated by the legislative body of a municipality that proposes an amendment to the municipal charter, the legislative body shall:
(i)
hold a public hearing on the proposed amendment; and
(ii)
give at least 21 days’ advance notice of the public hearing.
(b)
(1)
The chief executive officer of the municipality shall give notice of the resolution that proposes an amendment to the municipal charter by:
(i)
posting an exact copy of the resolution at the main municipal building or other public place for the 40 days after the resolution is adopted; and
(ii)
(1)
publishing a fair summary of the proposed amendment in a newspaper of general circulation in the municipality:
(A)
at least four times;
(B)
at weekly intervals; and
(C)
within the 40 days after the resolution is adopted; or
(2)
(A)
publishing a fair summary of the proposed amendment in a newspaper of general circulation in the municipality at least once; and
(B)
delivering a copy of a fair summary of the proposed charter amendment either by hand or by mail once to every residence in the municipality.
(2)
The delivery required under paragraph (1)(ii)2B of this subsection may be accomplished by including a fair summary of the proposed charter amendment in a printed newsletter or any other regular municipal publication.
(3)
The municipality delivering a copy of a fair summary under paragraph (1)(ii)2B of this subsection shall:
(i)
maintain a record of or a copy of the receipt for the delivery under the records retention and document disposal schedule of the municipality; and
(ii)
make the record or copy available to the general public in accordance with the Maryland Public Information Act.
(c)
Unless a petition meeting the requirements of subsection (d) of this section is presented to the legislative body of a municipality on or before the 40th day after the legislative body adopts a charter amendment resolution, the amendment shall take effect as a part of the municipal charter on the 50th day after the resolution is adopted.
(d)
(1)
A petition for a referendum on a proposed charter amendment shall:
(i)
be signed by at least 20% of the qualified voters for the municipal general election; and
(ii)
request that the proposed amendment be submitted to referendum of the qualified voters of the municipality.
(2)
Each individual signing the petition shall indicate on the petition the individual’s name and residence address.
(3)
The petition shall be delivered to the legislative body of the municipality by:
(i)
presentment; or
(ii)
certified mail, return receipt requested.
(4)
(i)
On receiving the petition, the legislative body shall verify that each individual who signed the petition is a qualified voter for the municipal general election.
(ii)
The petition has no effect if it is signed by less than 20% of the qualified voters for the municipal general election.
(5)
If the petition complies with this section, the legislative body shall specify by resolution adopted in accordance with its normal legislative procedure:
(i)
the day and hours for the referendum; and
(ii)
the exact text that is to be placed on the ballot.
(6)
(i)
The legislative body may schedule the referendum for the next regular municipal general election or at a special election.
(ii)
If the legislative body schedules a special election, it shall be held not less than 40 days or more than 60 days after the resolution scheduling the referendum is adopted.
Md. Code Ann., Local Gov't § 4-305 (2026)
Title 4. In General
Subtitle 3. Amendment or Repeal of Charter
§ 4–305LinkCopy Citation
(a)
(1)
By a petition presented to the legislative body of a municipality, at least 20% of the qualified voters for the municipal general election may initiate a proposed amendment to the municipal charter.
(2)
Each individual signing the petition shall indicate on the petition the individual’s name and residence address.
(b)
(1)
On receiving the petition, the legislative body shall verify that each individual who signed the petition is a qualified voter for the municipal general election.
(2)
The petition has no effect if it is signed by less than 20% of the qualified voters for the municipal general election.
(c)
(1)
Before voting on the proposed amendment initiated by the petition presented under subsection (a) of this section, the legislative body shall:
(i)
hold a public hearing on the proposed amendment; and
(ii)
give at least 21 days’ advance notice of the public hearing.
(2)
If the legislative body approves of the amendment in the petition presented under subsection (a) of this section, the legislative body may adopt the proposed amendment by resolution and proceed in the same manner as if the amendment had been initiated by the legislative body and in compliance with §§ 4–303(a) and 4–304 of this subtitle.
(d)
Except as provided in subsection (c) of this section, if the petition complies with this section, the legislative body, no later than 60 days after the petition is presented to the legislative body, shall specify by resolution adopted in accordance with its normal legislative procedure:
(1)
the day and hours for the referendum; and
(2)
the exact text that is to be placed on the ballot.
(e)
(1)
The legislative body may schedule the referendum for the next regular municipal general election or at a special election.
(2)
If the legislative body schedules a special election, it shall be held not less than 40 days or more than 60 days after the resolution scheduling the referendum is adopted.
(f)
(1)
The chief executive officer of the municipality shall give notice of a submission of a proposed charter amendment by:
(i)
(1)
posting an exact copy of the proposed amendment at the main municipal building or other public place for at least 40 days immediately preceding the referendum at which the question is to be submitted; and
(2)
on the day of the referendum, posting a similar copy at the place for voting; and
(ii)
(1)
publishing notice of the referendum and a fair summary of the proposed amendment in a newspaper of general circulation in the municipality at least once in each of the 4 weeks immediately preceding the referendum; or
(2)
(A)
publishing a fair summary of the proposed amendment in a newspaper of general circulation in the municipality at least once; and
(B)
delivering a copy of a fair summary of the proposed charter amendment either by hand or by mail to every residence in the municipality.
(2)
The delivery required under paragraph (1)(ii)2B of this subsection may be accomplished by including a fair summary of the proposed charter amendment in a printed newsletter or any other regular municipal publication.
(3)
The municipality delivering a copy of a fair summary under paragraph (1)(ii)2B of this subsection shall:
(i)
maintain a record of or a copy of the receipt for the delivery under the records retention and document disposal schedule of the municipality; and
(ii)
make the record or copy available to the general public in accordance with the Maryland Public Information Act.
Md. Code Ann., Local Gov't § 4-306 (2026)
Title 4. In General
Subtitle 3. Amendment or Repeal of Charter
§ 4–306LinkCopy Citation
After a resolution is adopted by the legislative body or after its submission in a petition, a proposal to amend a municipal charter may not be rescinded in any manner except by another charter amendment.
Md. Code Ann., Local Gov't § 4-307 (2026)
Title 4. In General
Subtitle 3. Amendment or Repeal of Charter
§ 4–307LinkCopy Citation
(a)
On the day and during the hours specified in the resolution for a referendum, the charter amendment shall be submitted to the qualified voters.
(b)
(1)
Except as otherwise provided in this subtitle, the referendum shall be conducted generally according to the procedures for regular municipal elections.
(2)
The official who conducts the regular municipal election shall perform the same duties for the referendum.
(c)
The municipality shall pay for the referendum.
(d)
Promptly after the canvas is complete, the official who conducts the referendum shall certify the results to the chief executive officer of the municipality.
(e)
Within 10 days after receiving the certification:
(1)
if a majority of those who voted on the question voted for the proposed charter amendment:
(i)
the chief executive officer of the municipality publicly shall so proclaim; and
(ii)
on the 30th day after the public proclamation, the charter amendment shall become part of the municipal charter; or
(2)
if less than a majority of those who voted on the question voted for the proposed charter amendment:
(i)
the chief executive officer of the municipality publicly shall so proclaim; and
(ii)
the proclamation shall state that the charter amendment is not approved.
Md. Code Ann., Local Gov't § 4-308 (2026)
Title 4. In General
Subtitle 3. Amendment or Repeal of Charter
§ 4–308LinkCopy Citation
When a charter amendment becomes effective, the chief executive officer of the municipality shall send the information concerning the charter amendment to the Department of Legislative Services as provided in § 4–109 of this title.
Md. Code Ann., Local Gov't § 4-309 (2026)
Title 4. In General
Subtitle 3. Amendment or Repeal of Charter
§ 4–309LinkCopy Citation
The exact text of an amendment to a municipal charter then effective shall be included in any later edition or codification of the charter.
Md. Code Ann., Local Gov't § 4-310 (2026)
Title 4. In General
Subtitle 3. Amendment or Repeal of Charter
§ 4–310LinkCopy Citation
(a)
(1)
At the end of each calendar or fiscal year, each municipality shall compile a complete set of charter enactments of the municipality for that year.
(2)
The charter enactments in the compilation shall be in a numerical sequence, beginning with No. 1, and in a separate series for each year.
(b)
(1)
Subject to paragraph (2) of this subsection, copies of the compilation shall be:
(i)
kept on permanent record at the offices of the chief executive officer and legislative body of the municipality;
(ii)
made available at those offices for inspection during regular business hours; and
(iii)
provided by those offices without charge.
(2)
The county in which the municipality is located may make other copies of the compilation available at a reasonable cost to any person.
(c)
On or before March 1 of each year, the municipality shall provide without charge copies of the compilation to the Department of Legislative Services as provided in § 4–109 of this title.
(d)
Along with the compilation provided under subsection (c) of this section, the municipality shall provide to the Department of Legislative Services, as provided in § 4–109 of this title, a statement that includes information on any referendum on a proposed charter amendment.
Md. Code Ann., Local Gov't § 4-311 (2026)
Title 4. In General
Subtitle 3. Amendment or Repeal of Charter
§ 4–311LinkCopy Citation
(a)
(1)
At the end of each calendar year, the Department of Legislative Services shall ask each municipality whether any charter enactments have been adopted during that calendar year or the last fiscal year.
(2)
The municipality promptly shall:
(i)
answer the inquiry; and
(ii)
verify, by a signed and notarized statement, that copies of the charter enactments already have been sent to the Department of Legislative Services.
(b)
(1)
The Department of Legislative Services promptly shall certify to the State Comptroller if a municipality does not comply with subsection (a) of this section or § 4–310(c) or (d) of this subtitle.
(2)
If the Department of Legislative Services certifies noncompliance, the Comptroller may discontinue all funds, grants, or State aid that the municipality is entitled to under State law relating to:
(i)
the income tax;
(ii)
the tax on racing;
(iii)
the recordation tax;
(iv)
the admissions and amusement tax; and
(v)
license taxes or fees.
(c)
The Department of Legislative Services shall:
(1)
arrange in a logical and convenient order the titles or the full text of the laws of the municipalities that amend the municipal charters; and
(2)
publish on the General Assembly website each title, identified as a title of the laws of the municipality, or the full text of each law of the municipalities that amends the municipal charters.
Md. Code Ann., Local Gov't § 4-312 (2026)
Title 4. In General
Subtitle 3. Amendment or Repeal of Charter
§ 4–312LinkCopy Citation
(a)
The Department of Legislative Services shall compile the charters of all municipalities into a single publication.
(b)
The Department of Legislative Services shall update the compilation of municipal charters on a regular basis.
Md. Code Ann., Local Gov't § 4-313 (2026)
Title 4. In General
Subtitle 3. Amendment or Repeal of Charter
§ 4–313LinkCopy Citation
(a)
Except as provided in subsection (b) of this section, the repeal of an entire municipal charter, and the termination of the municipality, may be accomplished by a charter amendment adopted under this subtitle.
(b)
The following need not contain the text of the municipal charter that is proposed for repeal and may simply state that the charter is proposed for repeal:
(1)
the resolution of the legislative body of the municipality, or the petition of the qualified voters, proposing the repeal of the municipal charter;
(2)
the posting and publication of the proposed repeal of the municipal charter; and
(3)
the submission of the resolution proposing the repeal of the municipal charter and the favorable vote on the resolution to the Department of Legislative Services as provided in § 4–109 of this title.
(c)
After a municipal charter is repealed, the charter may not be included in any later edition or codification of the public local laws of the county or State.
(d)
The resolution or petition to initiate the repeal of a municipal charter may provide for the disposition of the assets of the municipality and the liquidation of any debt of the municipality.
(e)
If no disposition is made in accordance with subsection (d) of this section, the county commissioners or county council of the county in which the municipality is located shall:
(1)
succeed to full ownership, title, and control of the assets of the municipality after the municipal charter is repealed; and
(2)
pay the debts and obligations of the municipality in accordance with the terms of the debts and obligations.
(f)
While a municipal charter remains in effect, the county commissioners or county council of the county in which the municipality is located may provide, by written agreement with the municipality, when the repeal of the charter takes effect, for:
(1)
the transfer of some or all of the assets of the municipality; and
(2)
the assumption of some or all of the debts and obligations of the municipality.
(g)
(1)
To provide the revenue necessary to pay the debts and obligations of a municipality as of the time the municipal charter is repealed, the county commissioners or county council of the county in which the municipality is located shall:
(i)
establish a special tax area with the same boundaries as the former municipality; and
(ii)
impose a special tax or special assessment in the special tax area and collect the special tax or special assessment in the same manner as other county property taxes are collected.
(2)
The proceeds of the tax or assessment shall be applied only to the debt and obligation of the former municipality.
(3)
The tax or assessment shall be discontinued when all debts and obligations of the former municipality have been paid.
Md. Code Ann., Local Gov't § 4-314 (2026)
Title 4. In General
Subtitle 3. Amendment or Repeal of Charter
§ 4–314LinkCopy Citation
(a)
If the following conditions are satisfied, the Executive Director of the Department of Legislative Services promptly shall certify all the facts to the Secretary of State:
(1)
a municipality fails for 3 consecutive years to file with the Department of Legislative Services a comprehensive statement of financial condition as required under § 16–103 of this article;
(2)
the Executive Director of the Department of Legislative Services has reasonable cause to believe the municipality is no longer actively operating as a municipality under its charter; and
(3)
the Legislative Auditor certifies that the municipality has no debts or obligations outstanding and unpaid.
(b)
(1)
On receiving a certification under subsection (a) of this section, the Secretary of State shall issue a public proclamation declaring that the municipal charter is repealed under this section.
(2)
The Secretary of State shall file copies of the proclamation with:
(i)
the clerk of the Supreme Court of Maryland;
(ii)
the clerk of the circuit court of the county in which the municipality is located; and
(iii)
the Department of Legislative Services.
(c)
The repeal of the municipal charter is effective on the first day of the month after a proclamation is issued under subsection (b) of this section.
(d)
On and after the effective date of the repeal:
(1)
the former municipality may not be treated as a municipality; and
(2)
the repealed municipal charter may not be included in any later edition or codification of public local laws of the county in which the municipality was located or of the State.
(e)
If the assets and liabilities of the former municipality have not been disposed of before a municipal charter is repealed, after the charter is repealed the county commissioners or county council of the county in which the municipality is located shall:
(1)
succeed to full ownership, title, and control of the assets of the municipality; and
(2)
liquidate the debt of the municipality as provided in § 4–313 of this subtitle.
Subtitle 4. Annexation
Md. Code Ann., Local Gov't § 4-401 (2026)
Title 4. In General
Subtitle 4. Annexation
§ 4–401LinkCopy Citation
(a)
Subject to subsections (b) and (c) of this section, the legislative body of a municipality may enlarge its boundaries by annexation as provided in this subtitle.
(b)
The power of annexation applies only to land that:
(1)
is contiguous and adjoining to the existing boundaries of the municipality; and
(2)
does not create an unincorporated area that is bounded on all sides by:
(i)
real property presently in the boundaries of the municipality;
(ii)
real property proposed to be in the boundaries of the municipality as a result of the proposed annexation; or
(iii)
any combination of real property described in item (i) or (ii) of this item.
(c)
A municipality may not annex land that is in another municipality.
Md. Code Ann., Local Gov't § 4-402 (2026)
Title 4. In General
Subtitle 4. Annexation
§ 4–402LinkCopy Citation
An annexation proposal may be initiated by:
(1)
the legislative body of the municipality as provided in § 4–403 of this subtitle; or
(2)
a petition in accordance with § 4–404 of this subtitle.
Md. Code Ann., Local Gov't § 4-403 (2026)
Title 4. In General
Subtitle 4. Annexation
§ 4–403LinkCopy Citation
(a)
Subject to subsection (b) of this section, an annexation resolution may be introduced in the legislative body of the municipality in accordance with:
(1)
the requirements and practices applicable to its legislative enactments; and
(2)
the requirements of § 4–303(a) of this title.
(b)
Before an annexation resolution is introduced, the legislative body shall obtain consent from:
(1)
at least 25% of the registered voters who are residents in the area to be annexed; and
(2)
the owners of at least 25% of the assessed valuation of the real property in the area to be annexed.
(c)
The annexation resolution:
(1)
shall describe by a survey of courses and distances the exact area to be annexed;
(2)
may also describe by landmarks and other well–known terms the exact area to be annexed; and
(3)
shall contain a complete and detailed description of the conditions and circumstances that apply to:
(i)
the change in boundaries; and
(ii)
the residents and property in the area to be annexed.
Md. Code Ann., Local Gov't § 4-404 (2026)
Title 4. In General
Subtitle 4. Annexation
§ 4–404LinkCopy Citation
(a)
Subject to § 4–413 of this subtitle, an annexation petition shall be signed by:
(1)
at least 25% of the registered voters who are residents in the area to be annexed; and
(2)
the owners of at least 25% of the assessed valuation of the real property in the area to be annexed.
(b)
After an annexation petition is presented to the legislative body of the municipality, the presiding officer of the legislative body shall verify:
(1)
the signatures on the petition; and
(2)
that the petition meets the requirements of subsection (a) of this section.
(c)
(1)
After verifying compliance with the requirements of this section, the presiding officer of the legislative body promptly shall cause a resolution proposing the change of boundaries as requested by the petition to be introduced in the legislative body.
(2)
The annexation resolution shall conform to the form and content requirements of this subtitle.
Md. Code Ann., Local Gov't § 4-405 (2026)
Title 4. In General
Subtitle 4. Annexation
§ 4–405LinkCopy Citation
(a)
An annexation resolution shall provide that the residents in the area to be annexed and their property shall be added to the municipality, generally subject or not, as applicable, to specific provisions of the municipal charter.
(b)
(1)
Notwithstanding subsection (a) of this section, an annexation resolution may provide, for stated periods and under specific conditions, special treatment of the residents in the area to be annexed and their property as to:
(i)
rates of municipal taxation; and
(ii)
municipal services and facilities.
(2)
After an annexation resolution takes effect, any change in the provisions for special treatment for stated periods and under specific conditions may be made only by a resolution enacted under this subtitle.
Md. Code Ann., Local Gov't § 4-406 (2026)
Title 4. In General
Subtitle 4. Annexation
§ 4–406LinkCopy Citation
(a)
After an annexation resolution is introduced, the chief executive and administrative officer of the municipality shall publish notice in accordance with the requirements of this section that:
(1)
briefly and accurately describes the proposed annexation and the applicable conditions and circumstances; and
(2)
specifies the date, time, and place that the legislative body sets for the public hearing on the proposed annexation.
(b)
After an annexation resolution is introduced, the chief executive or the administrative officer of the municipality shall notify commercial property owners in the area to be annexed of:
(1)
all personal property taxes and fees imposed by the municipality; and
(2)
the date, time, and place that the legislative body sets for the public hearing on the proposed annexation.
(c)
(1)
Public notice of the annexation resolution shall be published:
(i)
(1)
at least four times; or
(2)
if the total area of the proposed annexation is 25 acres or less, at least two times;
(ii)
at not less than weekly intervals; and
(iii)
in at least one newspaper of general circulation in the municipality and the area to be annexed.
(2)
The public hearing shall be:
(i)
set no sooner than 15 days after the final required publication of the public notice; and
(ii)
held in the municipality or the area to be annexed.
(d)
Immediately after the first publication of the public notice, the municipality shall provide a copy of the public notice to:
(1)
the governing body of the county in which the municipality is located; and
(2)
any regional or State planning agency with jurisdiction in the county.
(e)
The county and any regional or State planning agency with jurisdiction in the county has the right to be heard before the public at the hearing on the proposed annexation.
(f)
(1)
The public hearing may be rescheduled for or continued to a later date not more than 30 days after:
(i)
the date when the hearing was originally scheduled; or
(ii)
the date on which the hearing began but was not completed.
(2)
If the hearing is rescheduled or continued, public notice shall be published:
(i)
at least 7 days before the date of the rescheduled or continued hearing; and
(ii)
in a newspaper of general circulation in the municipality and the area to be annexed.
(3)
The public notice shall:
(i)
briefly and accurately describe the area to be annexed; and
(ii)
specify the date, time, and place of the rescheduled or continued public hearing.
(g)
If a municipality is seeking to annex land that is located in a different legislative district than the legislative district in which the municipality or any part of the municipality is located, after the annexation resolution is introduced, the municipality shall provide written notice to the members of the General Assembly for the district in which the land is located and for the district to which the land is being annexed by:
(1)
electronic communication; and
(2)
United States Postal Service.
Md. Code Ann., Local Gov't § 4-407 (2026)
Title 4. In General
Subtitle 4. Annexation
§ 4–407LinkCopy Citation
(a)
After a public hearing, the legislative body of a municipality may enact an annexation resolution in accordance with its normal legislative procedure.
(b)
The annexation resolution may not take effect until at least 45 days after its enactment.
Md. Code Ann., Local Gov't § 4-408 (2026)
Title 4. In General
Subtitle 4. Annexation
§ 4–408LinkCopy Citation
(a)
Subject to § 4–413 of this subtitle, at any time within 45 days after enactment of an annexation resolution, at least 20% of the registered voters who are residents in the area to be annexed may petition the chief executive and administrative officer of the municipality in writing for a referendum on the resolution.
(b)
After a petition is presented to the chief executive and administrative officer, the officer shall verify:
(1)
the signatures on the petition; and
(2)
that the petition meets the requirements of subsection (a) of this section.
(c)
After verifying compliance with the requirements of this section, the chief executive and administrative officer, by proclamation, shall suspend the effectiveness of the annexation resolution pending the results of the referendum.
Md. Code Ann., Local Gov't § 4-409 (2026)
Title 4. In General
Subtitle 4. Annexation
§ 4–409LinkCopy Citation
(a)
At any time within 45 days after enactment of an annexation resolution, at least 20% of the qualified voters of the municipality may petition the chief executive and administrative officer of the municipality in writing for a referendum on the resolution.
(b)
After a petition is presented to the chief executive and administrative officer, the officer shall verify:
(1)
the signatures on the petition; and
(2)
that the petition meets the requirements of subsection (a) of this section.
(c)
After verifying compliance with the requirements of this section, the chief executive and administrative officer, by proclamation, shall suspend the effectiveness of the annexation resolution pending the results of the referendum.
Md. Code Ann., Local Gov't § 4-410 (2026)
Title 4. In General
Subtitle 4. Annexation
§ 4–410LinkCopy Citation
(a)
At any time within 45 days after enactment of an annexation resolution, the governing body of the county or counties in which the municipality is located, by at least a two–thirds majority vote, may petition the chief executive and administrative officer of the municipality for a referendum on the resolution.
(b)
After verifying compliance with the requirements of this section, the chief executive and administrative officer, by proclamation, shall suspend the effectiveness of the annexation resolution pending the results of the referendum.
Md. Code Ann., Local Gov't § 4-411 (2026)
Title 4. In General
Subtitle 4. Annexation
§ 4–411LinkCopy Citation
(a)
The chief executive and administrative officer of the municipality shall schedule a referendum on the annexation resolution and publish notice of the date, time, and place at which the referendum will be held.
(b)
The referendum shall be held:
(1)
no sooner than 15 days and no later than 90 days after notices of the referendum are published; and
(2)
at one or more places in:
(i)
the municipality, for the referendum in the municipality; and
(ii)
the area to be annexed, for the referendum in that area.
(c)
Public notice of the referendum shall be published:
(1)
twice at not less than weekly intervals; and
(2)
in at least one newspaper of general circulation in the municipality and the area to be annexed.
Md. Code Ann., Local Gov't § 4-412 (2026)
Title 4. In General
Subtitle 4. Annexation
§ 4–412LinkCopy Citation
(a)
The governing body of a municipality, by ordinance, resolution, or regulation, may provide for conducting and tabulating the results of a referendum held under this subtitle.
(b)
(1)
The annexation resolution shall be submitted to:
(i)
a referendum of the qualified voters of the municipality if the petition for referendum was presented by the residents of the municipality;
(ii)
subject to § 4–413 of this subtitle, a referendum of the registered voters who are residents in the area to be annexed if the petition for referendum was presented by the residents of the area to be annexed; or
(iii)
separate referendums of the voters specified in items (i) and (ii) of this paragraph if a petition for referendum was presented by the residents of the municipality and the residents in the area to be annexed.
(2)
A petition for referendum presented by the governing body of a county shall be acted on in the same manner as a petition for referendum presented by the residents of the area to be annexed.
(c)
The ballot shall:
(1)
contain a summary of the annexation resolution; and
(2)
provide for the voter to indicate a choice for or against the annexation resolution.
(d)
(1)
If only one petition for a referendum is filed and if a majority of the persons voting on the annexation resolution vote for the resolution, the resolution takes effect on the 14th day after the referendum.
(2)
(i)
If a referendum is conducted for both the residents of the municipality and the residents in the area to be annexed, the votes cast for the two referendums shall be tabulated separately to show the votes cast in the municipality and the area to be annexed.
(ii)
If in both referendums a majority of the persons voting on the annexation resolution vote for the resolution, the resolution takes effect on the 14th day after the referendum.
(iii)
If two referendums are held, the annexation resolution is void unless a majority in both referendums vote for the resolution.
(e)
The municipality shall pay for a referendum held under this subtitle.
Md. Code Ann., Local Gov't § 4-413 (2026)
Title 4. In General
Subtitle 4. Annexation
§ 4–413LinkCopy Citation
If fewer than 20 residents in an area to be annexed are eligible to sign a petition for annexation and vote in a referendum under this subtitle, any person, including the two or more joint owners of jointly owned property, who owns real property in the area to be annexed may sign the petition and vote in the referendum.
Md. Code Ann., Local Gov't § 4-414 (2026)
Title 4. In General
Subtitle 4. Annexation
§ 4–414LinkCopy Citation
(a)
(1)
The chief executive and administrative officer of a municipality that has annexed property shall send a copy of the annexation resolution with the new boundaries to:
(i)
the clerk or similar official of the municipality;
(ii)
the clerk of the court in any county in which the municipality is located;
(iii)
the Department of Legislative Services in accordance with paragraph (2) of this subsection;
(iv)
the Department of Planning in accordance with paragraph (2) of this subsection; and
(v)
for any municipality located in the regional district, the Maryland–National Capital Park and Planning Commission.
(2)
The annexation resolution shall be sent to the Department of Legislative Services and the Department of Planning within 10 days after the resolution takes effect.
(b)
Each official or agency that receives an annexation resolution under subsection (a) of this section shall:
(1)
keep on record the resolution with the new boundaries; and
(2)
make the resolution available for public inspection during regular business hours.
Md. Code Ann., Local Gov't § 4-415 (2026)
Title 4. In General
Subtitle 4. Annexation
§ 4–415LinkCopy Citation
(a)
In addition to, but not as part of, an annexation resolution, the legislative body of the municipality shall adopt an annexation plan for the area to be annexed.
(b)
Except as provided in subsection (e) of this section, for an annexation that began before October 1, 2009, the annexation plan shall:
(1)
contain a description of the land use pattern proposed for the area to be annexed, which may include a county master plan already in effect for the area;
(2)
describe the schedule to extend each municipal service performed in the municipality at the time of the annexation to the area to be annexed;
(3)
describe the general methods by which the municipality anticipates financing the extension of municipal services to the area to be annexed; and
(4)
be presented so as to demonstrate the available land for public facilities that may be considered reasonably necessary for the proposed use, including facilities for schools, water or sewage treatment, libraries, recreation, or fire or police services.
(c)
Except as provided in subsection (e) of this section, for annexation that begins on or after October 1, 2009, the annexation plan shall be consistent with the municipal growth element of the comprehensive plan of the municipality.
(d)
For purposes of subsections (b) and (c) of this section, an annexation begins when a proposal for annexation is initiated by:
(1)
resolution under § 4–403 of this subtitle; or
(2)
petition under § 4–404 of this subtitle.
(e)
(1)
On or after October 1, 2009, a municipality may submit an annexation plan under subsection (b) of this section if the municipality is granted an extension for the inclusion of a municipal growth element under § 3–304 of the Land Use Article.
(2)
After the expiration of a final extension granted under § 3–304 of the Land Use Article for the inclusion of a municipal growth element, an annexation plan shall be submitted in accordance with subsection (c) of this section.
(f)
At least 30 days before the public hearing on an annexation resolution required under § 4–406 of this subtitle, a copy of the annexation plan shall be provided to:
(1)
the governing body of any county in which the municipality is located;
(2)
the Department of Planning; and
(3)
any regional or State planning agency with jurisdiction in the county.
(g)
(1)
The annexation plan shall be open to public review and discussion at the public hearing on the annexation resolution.
(2)
An amendment to the annexation plan does not:
(i)
amend the proposed annexation resolution; or
(ii)
cause a reinitiation of the annexation procedure then in process.
Md. Code Ann., Local Gov't § 4-416 (2026)
Title 4. In General
Subtitle 4. Annexation
§ 4–416LinkCopy Citation
(a)
(1)
Notwithstanding § 4–104(f) of this title, if an area is annexed to a municipality that has planning and zoning authority at the time of annexation, the municipality shall have exclusive jurisdiction over planning, subdivision control, and zoning in the area annexed.
(2)
Paragraph (1) of this subsection does not grant any planning or zoning power or subdivision control to a municipality that is not authorized to exercise planning or zoning power or subdivision control at the time of annexation.
(b)
Without the express approval of the county commissioners or county council of the county in which the municipality is located, for 5 years after an annexation by a municipality, the municipality may not allow development of the annexed land for land uses substantially different than the authorized use, or at a substantially higher density, not exceeding 50%, than could be granted for the proposed development, in accordance with the zoning classification of the county applicable at the time of the annexation.
(c)
Notwithstanding § 4–204 of the Land Use Article and if the county expressly approves, the municipality may place the annexed land in a zoning classification that allows a land use or density different from the land use or density specified in the zoning classification of the county or agency with planning and zoning jurisdiction over the land prior to its annexation applicable at the time of the annexation.
Subtitle 5. Merger of Municipalities
Md. Code Ann., Local Gov't § 4-501 (2026)
Title 4. In General
Subtitle 5. Merger of Municipalities
§ 4–501LinkCopy Citation
(a)
Subject to subsection (b) of this section, two or more abutting municipalities located in the same county may merge to form one municipality.
(b)
The governing body of the county must approve any merger under this subtitle.
Md. Code Ann., Local Gov't § 4-502 (2026)
Title 4. In General
Subtitle 5. Merger of Municipalities
§ 4–502LinkCopy Citation
(a)
To initiate a merger, the legislative body of each municipality shall adopt a proposal of unification.
(b)
Each municipality shall adopt the proposal of unification:
(1)
in substantially identical form; and
(2)
in the manner that the municipality adopts ordinary legislation.
(c)
The proposal of unification shall include a detailed description of the boundaries of the proposed municipality that:
(1)
is comprised of a survey of courses and distances; and
(2)
may refer to general landmarks and place names.
Md. Code Ann., Local Gov't § 4-503 (2026)
Title 4. In General
Subtitle 5. Merger of Municipalities
§ 4–503LinkCopy Citation
(a)
After both municipalities adopt the proposal of unification, the municipalities shall prepare a unified charter.
(b)
(1)
Each municipality shall appoint three, four, or five representatives to serve on a charter commission.
(2)
Each municipality shall appoint the same number of representatives.
(c)
(1)
The representatives shall meet as a charter commission.
(2)
Within 6 months after the municipalities adopt the proposal of unification, the commission shall draft a proposed unified charter.
(d)
(1)
The charter commission shall elect officers from among the representatives.
(2)
As the representatives consider necessary, the charter commission may adopt rules to govern meetings and expedite the drafting of the unified charter.
Md. Code Ann., Local Gov't § 4-504 (2026)
Title 4. In General
Subtitle 5. Merger of Municipalities
§ 4–504LinkCopy Citation
(a)
The unified charter is a legal document separate from any other legal instrument.
(b)
The unified charter shall provide that the unified municipality receive the assets and liabilities of the merging municipalities.
Md. Code Ann., Local Gov't § 4-505 (2026)
Title 4. In General
Subtitle 5. Merger of Municipalities
§ 4–505LinkCopy Citation
(a)
(1)
The charter commission shall submit a proposed unified charter to the legislative body of each municipality.
(2)
The legislative body shall include the proposed charter in a resolution that is considered in accordance with the procedural requirements provided for charter amendments in §§ 4–303(a) and 4–304 of this title.
(3)
For purposes of § 4–303(a) of this title, the resolution is considered to embrace only one subject.
(b)
Each legislative body may:
(1)
adopt or reject the resolution; or
(2)
amend the resolution, if the legislative bodies of the other municipalities concur.
Md. Code Ann., Local Gov't § 4-506 (2026)
Title 4. In General
Subtitle 5. Merger of Municipalities
§ 4–506LinkCopy Citation
(a)
If a referendum is required under § 4–304 of this title, the referendum shall occur on the same day in each municipality.
(b)
Each municipality shall administer and pay for the referendum in proportion to its respective population.
(c)
In a referendum, the unified charter is adopted if a majority of votes cast in each municipality is in favor of adoption.
Md. Code Ann., Local Gov't § 4-507 (2026)
Title 4. In General
Subtitle 5. Merger of Municipalities
§ 4–507LinkCopy Citation
(a)
If a majority of the voters casting votes in any municipality at a referendum do not vote to adopt the unified charter, the proposed merger is not approved.
(b)
If the unified charter is adopted, by referendum or by the legislative bodies when a referendum is not required, the adoption is final.
Md. Code Ann., Local Gov't § 4-508 (2026)
Title 4. In General
Subtitle 5. Merger of Municipalities
§ 4–508LinkCopy Citation
(a)
(1)
A merging municipality shall transfer its assets and liabilities to the unified municipality.
(2)
The merging municipality shall transfer the assets and liabilities by legal instruments separate from the unified charter and resolution.
(3)
The invalidity of a legal instrument that transfers or disposes of any property of a merging municipality does not affect the validity of the unified charter.
(b)
Within 60 days after the unified charter is adopted, the legislative bodies of the merging municipalities jointly shall send the information concerning the charter to the Department of Legislative Services as provided in § 4–109 of this title.
(c)
The exact text of the unified charter adopted under this subtitle, including any amendments, shall be included in any edition or codification of the charter.
Md. Code Ann., Local Gov't § 4-509 (2026)
Title 4. In General
Subtitle 5. Merger of Municipalities
§ 4–509LinkCopy Citation
(a)
Unless the zoning classification is amended under the procedures required by the county, for 5 years after the effective date of the unified charter, the land of a merging municipality that does not have planning and zoning powers may not be placed in a zoning classification that allows a land use substantially different from the use allowed by the master plan or plan of the county or agency that has planning and zoning jurisdiction over the land before the merger.
(b)
This subtitle does not grant planning and zoning powers to a unified municipality if none of the merging municipalities has planning and zoning powers.