# Local Government (GLG)

## Title 5. Powers

### Subtitle 2. Enumeration of Express Law Making Powers

#### Section 5-207

(a) A municipality may establish and maintain:

  (1) a fire department; and

  (2) a police force.

(b) A municipality may:

  (1) provide for the removal of fire hazards;

  (2) control the use and handling of dangerous and explosive materials; and

  (3) prevent the discharge of firearms or other explosive instruments.

(c) A municipality may:

  (1) pay rewards for information relating to crime committed in the municipality;

  (2) prohibit vagrancy, vice, gambling, and houses of prostitution in the municipality;

  (3) enforce all ordinances relating to disorderly conduct and nuisances equally:

    (i) within the municipality; and

    (ii) up to one-half mile outside the municipal limits, except where there is a conflict with the powers of another municipality; and

  (4) prohibit minors from being on the streets and in public places at certain hours of the night.

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Md. Code Ann., Local Gov't (as displayed at mgaleg.maryland.gov, October 16, 2026)