Title 3. Recordation — Subtitle 1. General Rules and Exceptions
Statutes in effect as of October 1, 2026.
Md. Code Ann., Real Prop. § 3-101 (2026)
Title 3. Recordation
Subtitle 1. General Rules and Exceptions
§ 3–101LinkCopy Citation
(a)
Except as otherwise provided in this section, no estate of inheritance or freehold, declaration or limitation of use, estate above seven years, or deed may pass or take effect unless the deed granting it is executed and recorded.
(b)
Subsection (a) of this section does not limit any other method of transferring or creating an estate, declaration, or limitation which is permitted by the law of the State except to the extent required by law.
(c)
The recording requirement of subsection (a) of this section does not apply to any lease for an initial term not exceeding seven years if each renewal term under the lease (i) is for seven years or less, and (ii) by the provisions of the lease, may be effected or prevented by a party to the lease or his assigns.
(d)
If a lease required to be executed and recorded under the provisions of subsection (a) of this section is executed but not recorded, the lease is valid and fully effective both at law and in equity (i) between the original parties to the lease and their personal representatives, (ii) against their creditors, and (iii) against and for the benefit of any other person who claims by, through, or under an original party and who acquires the interest claimed with actual notice of the lease or at a time when the tenant, or anyone claiming by, through, or under the tenant, is in such actual occupancy as to give reasonable notice to the person.
(e)
In lieu of recording a lease as prescribed above, a memorandum of the lease, executed by every person who is a party to the lease, may be recorded with like effect. A memorandum of lease thus entitled to be recorded shall contain at least the following information with respect to the lease: (1) the name of the lessor and the name of the lessee; (2) any addresses of the parties set forth in the lease; (3) a reference to the lease, with its date of execution; (4) a description of the leased premises in the form contained in the lease; (5) the term of the lease, with the date of commencement and the date of termination of the term; and (6) if there is a right of extension or renewal, the maximum period for which or date to which it may be renewed, and any date on which the right of extension or renewal is exercisable. If any date is unknown, then the memorandum of lease shall contain the formula from which the date is to be computed. When a memorandum of lease is presented for recording, the lease also shall be submitted to the recording office for the purpose of examination to determine whether or not the lease or the memorandum authorized by this section is subject to any transfer or other tax or requires any recording stamp. The clerk shall stamp the lease when submitted so that it may be identified as the instrument presented to the clerk at the time of recording the memorandum, and the clerk shall collect any required tax.
(f)
(1)
In this subsection, “option” includes any agreement or contract creating:
(i)
An option with respect to the purchase, lease, or grant of property; or
(ii)
A right of first refusal, a right of first offer, or similar right, with respect to the purchase, lease, or grant of property.
(2)
In lieu of recording an option as prescribed above, a memorandum of the option, executed by each person who is a party to the option, may be recorded with like effect.
(3)
A memorandum of option thus entitled to be recorded shall contain at least the following information with respect to the option:
(i)
The name of the parties to the option;
(ii)
Any addresses of the parties set forth in the option;
(iii)
A reference to the option, with its date of execution;
(iv)
A description of the property affected by the option in the form contained in the option;
(v)
The nature of the right or interest created;
(vi)
If stated, the term of the option, with the date of commencement and the date of termination of the term; and
(vii)
If there is a right of extension or renewal, the maximum period for which or date to which it may be renewed, and any date on which the right of extension or renewal is exercisable.
(4)
If any date is unknown, then the memorandum of option shall contain the formula, if any, from which the date is to be computed.
Md. Code Ann., Real Prop. § 3-102 (2026)
Title 3. Recordation
Subtitle 1. General Rules and Exceptions
§ 3–102LinkCopy Citation
(a)
(1)
Any other instrument affecting property, including any contract for the grant of property, or any subordination agreement establishing priorities between interests in property may be recorded.
(2)
The following instruments also may be recorded:
(i)
Any notice of deferred property footage assessment for street construction;
(ii)
Any boundary survey plat signed and sealed by a professional land surveyor or property line surveyor licensed in the State;
(iii)
Any assumption agreement by which a person agrees to assume the liability of a debt or other obligation secured by a mortgage or deed of trust;
(iv)
Any release of personal liability of a borrower or guarantor under a mortgage or under a note or other obligation secured by a deed of trust;
(v)
A ground rent redemption certificate or a ground rent extinguishment certificate issued under § 8–110 of this article;
(vi)
An affordable housing land trust agreement executed under Title 14, Subtitle 5 of this article with any transfer of property for which an affordable housing land trust has a reversionary interest; or
(vii)
A restrictive covenant modification executed under § 3–112 of this subtitle.
(3)
The recording of any instrument constitutes constructive notice from the date of recording.
(b)
This section may not be construed to authorize the recording of a subdivision plat without any prior review and approval otherwise required by law.
Md. Code Ann., Real Prop. § 3-102.1 (2026)
Title 3. Recordation
Subtitle 1. General Rules and Exceptions
§ 3–102.1LinkCopy Citation
(a)
If a recorded easement, covenant, restriction, or condition has been granted, devised, dedicated, reserved, or donated to, or otherwise affects an interest in, real property, a notice of the easement, covenant, restriction, or condition may be recorded in the land records of the county in which the property interest is located.
(b)
A notice recorded under subsection (a) of this section shall:
(1)
State, if known, the name and current address of:
(i)
The current holder of the easement, covenant, restriction, or condition; and
(ii)
Any neighborhood association relevant to the easement, covenant, restriction, or condition;
(2)
Contain a statement that the easement, covenant, restriction, or condition is still in effect as of the date of the notice;
(3)
Contain the recording information for the easement, covenant, restriction, or condition and the recording information for any associated amendment or corrective document; and
(4)
State, as of the date of the notice, the name of the fee simple owner of the land encumbered by the easement, covenant, restriction, or condition and, if applicable and known:
(i)
The owner of any recorded leasehold estate or holder of any other real property interest in land encumbered by the easement, covenant, restriction, or condition; and
(ii)
Any neighborhood association relevant to the land encumbered by the easement, covenant, restriction, or condition.
(c)
A notice recorded under subsection (a) of this section shall be indexed among the land records under the name of:
(1)
The holder of the easement, covenant, restriction, or condition; and
(2)
The fee simple owner of the land encumbered by the easement, covenant, restriction, or condition, as specified in the notice and, if applicable and known:
(i)
The owner of any recorded leasehold estate or holder of any other real property interest in land encumbered by the easement, covenant, restriction, or condition; and
(ii)
Any neighborhood association relevant to land encumbered by the easement, covenant, restriction, or condition.
(d)
Failure to record a notice in accordance with the requirements of this section does not:
(1)
Impair the rights or interests of the holder of an easement, a covenant, a restriction, or a condition; or
(2)
Waive, release, or otherwise affect the obligations of any person holding a real property interest burdened by the easement, covenant, restriction, or condition.
Md. Code Ann., Real Prop. § 3-103 (2026)
Title 3. Recordation
Subtitle 1. General Rules and Exceptions
§ 3–103LinkCopy Citation
The proper jurisdiction for recording all deeds or other instruments referred to in §§ 3–101 and 3–102 is as follows:
(1)
In the county where the land affected by the deed or instrument lies; or
(2)
If the land lies in more than one county, in all of such counties.
Md. Code Ann., Real Prop. § 3-104 (2026)
Title 3. Recordation
Subtitle 1. General Rules and Exceptions
§ 3–104LinkCopy Citation
(a)
(1)
(i)
Except as provided in subparagraph (ii) of this paragraph, the clerk of the circuit court may record an instrument that effects a change of ownership if the instrument is:
(1)
Endorsed with the certificate of the collector of taxes of the county in which the property is assessed, required under subsection (b) of this section;
(B)
Endorsed by the assessment office for the county as provided in subsection (g)(8) of this section; and
(3)
Accompanied by a copy of the instrument, and any survey, for submission to the Department of Assessments and Taxation.
(ii)
The requirements of subparagraph (i)1 and 2B of this paragraph do not apply to the recordation of a transfer–on–death deed or a revocation of a transfer–on–death deed executed in accordance with Title 14, Subtitle 10 of this article.
(2)
(i)
Except as provided under subparagraph (ii) of this paragraph, the Supervisor of Assessments shall transfer ownership of property in the assessment records, effective as of the date of recordation, on receipt from the clerk of the circuit court of a copy of the instrument, the completed intake sheet, and any survey submitted under paragraph (1) of this subsection or documents received through an electronic recordation system.
(ii)
Provided that there is not a revocation of a transfer–on–death deed designating a beneficiary recorded subsequent to the recordation of a transfer–on–death deed, ownership of a property that is the subject of the transfer–on–death deed may be transferred in the assessment records to the designated beneficiary only following the death of the transferor named on the transfer–on–death deed.
(b)
(1)
(i)
Except as provided in subsection (c) of this section, property may not be transferred on the assessment books or records until:
(1)
All public taxes, assessments, and charges currently due and owed on the property have been paid to the treasurer, tax collector, or director of finance of the county in which the property is assessed; and
(2)
All taxes on personal property in the county due by the transferor have been paid when all land owned by the transferor in the county is being transferred.
(ii)
The certificate of the collecting agent designated by law, showing that all taxes, assessments, and charges have been paid, shall be endorsed on the deed, and the endorsement shall be sufficient authority for transfer on the assessment books.
(2)
(i)
Except as provided in subsection (c) of this section, in Allegany, Cecil, Charles, Dorchester, Harford, Howard, Kent, Queen Anne’s, Somerset, and St. Mary’s counties no property may be transferred on the assessment books or records until:
(1)
All public taxes, assessments, any charges due a municipal corporation, and charges due on the property have been paid as required by law; and
(2)
All taxes on personal property in the county due by the transferor have been paid when all land owned by the transferor in the county and municipal corporation is being transferred.
(ii)
The certificate of the collecting agent and municipal corporation designated by law showing that all taxes, assessments, and charges have been paid, shall be endorsed on the deed and the endorsement shall be sufficient authority for transfer on the assessment books.
(3)
(i)
On request, the treasurer, tax collector, or director of finance for a county shall issue to the requester a certificate clearly enumerating by type and amount any public taxes, assessments, and charges due to the county or municipality against a property located in the county or municipality.
(ii)
A certificate issued under this paragraph shall bar any charge or assessment against the property levied on a bona fide purchaser for value with no notice of the charge or assessment prior to the purchase of the property.
(iii)
A collecting agent presented with a certificate issued under this paragraph within 45 days after issuance shall endorse the deed as required under paragraph (1)(ii) or (2)(ii) of this subsection on payment of all charges set forth in the certificate and any applicable transfer or recordation taxes.
(iv)
A county or municipality may collect a fee of up to $55 for the issuance of a certificate under this paragraph.
(v)
The payment of a fee and the issuance of a certificate under this paragraph may not preclude a claim by a county or municipality to payment of a charge or assessment against:
(1)
The owner of the property at the time of the issuance of the certificate; or
(2)
A person who acquires the property with knowledge of the charge or assessment.
(vi)
Each treasurer, tax collector, or director of finance of a county shall adopt procedures to implement the requirements of this paragraph, including procedures for obtaining a statement on a certificate issued under this paragraph of all taxes, assessments, and charges due to a municipality on the transfer of ownership of a property.
(c)
(1)
(i)
(1)
The requirements for prepayment of personal property taxes in subsection (b) of this section do not apply to grants of land made:
(A)
By or on behalf of any mortgagee, lien creditor, trustee of a deed of trust, judgment creditor, trustee in bankruptcy or receiver, and any other court–appointed officer in an insolvency or liquidation proceeding; or
(B)
By a deed in lieu of foreclosure to any holder of a mortgage or deed of trust or to the holder’s assignee or designee.
(2)
The requirements for payment of real property taxes in subsection (b) of this section do not apply to grants of land that transfer residential real property from the estate of a decedent to an heir or a legatee of the decedent, if the heir or legatee of the decedent enters into a payment plan to pay all public taxes, assessments, and charges currently due and owed on the property with:
(A)
The county or municipal corporation to which the taxes, assessments, and charges are due; or
(B)
The State Tax Sale Ombudsman.
(3)
The collector of taxes for the county or municipal corporation to which the taxes, assessments, or charges are due shall provide the heir or legatee of a decedent to whom property is transferred under subsubparagraph 2 of this subparagraph with the toll–free telephone number and website address of the State Tax Sale Ombudsman and a brief description of the services and programs available through the Ombudsman’s office.
(4)
When an heir or a legatee of a decedent enters into a payment plan with a county, a municipal corporation, or the State Tax Sale Ombudsman under subsubparagraph 2 of this subparagraph, the collector of taxes for the county or municipal corporation or the State Tax Sale Ombudsman shall provide the heir or legatee with an affidavit of the payment plan, which the heir or legatee shall provide to the Clerk of the Circuit Court to record an instrument transferring ownership to the heir or legatee.
(ii)
Notwithstanding any other provision of law, and except as provided in subparagraph (iii) of this paragraph, after the recordation of a deed or other instrument that effects a grant of land described in subparagraph (i)1 of this paragraph, the land shall be free and clear of, and unencumbered by, any lien or claim of lien for any unpaid taxes on personal property.
(iii)
Subparagraph (ii) of this paragraph does not apply to:
(1)
Any lien for unpaid taxes on personal property that attached to the land by recording and indexing a notice as provided in § 14–804(b) of the Tax – Property Article prior to the recording of the mortgage, lien, deed of trust, or other encumbrance giving rise to the grant of land described in subparagraph (i)1 of this paragraph; or
(2)
Unpaid taxes on personal property owed by the transferee or subsequent owner of the land after a grant of land described in subparagraph (i)1 of this paragraph.
(iv)
This paragraph does not affect the rights of the personal property tax lienholder to make a claim to any surplus proceeds from a judicial sale of land resulting in a grant of land described in subparagraph (i)1 of this paragraph.
(2)
Subsection (b) of this section does not apply in Charles, St. Mary’s, Dorchester, Harford, Howard, Kent, Prince George’s, Worcester, Carroll, Montgomery, Frederick and Washington counties to any deed executed as a mere conduit or for convenience in holding and passing title, known popularly as a straw deed or, as provided in § 4–108 of this article, a deed making a direct grant in lieu of a straw deed, or to a deed which is a supplementary instrument merely confirming, correcting, or modifying a previously recorded deed, if there is no actual consideration paid or to be paid for the execution of the supplementary instrument.
(3)
Subsection (b) of this section does not apply in Baltimore City and Anne Arundel, Baltimore, Carroll, Frederick, St. Mary’s, or Washington counties to any deed transferring property to the county when the controller or treasurer of the county has certified that the conveyance does not impair the security for any public taxes, assessments, and charges due on the remaining property of the grantor.
(4)
(i)
Property may be transferred on the assessment books or records in July, August, or September if instead of paying the taxes required under subsection (b)(1) of this section on a property transfer by assumption, a lender or the attorney handling the transfer of title files with the county treasurer, tax collector, or director of finance of the county in which the property is assessed a statement that certifies that the lender maintains a real estate tax escrow account.
(ii)
Upon receipt of the statement required in subparagraph (i) of this paragraph, the county treasurer, tax collector, or director of finance shall endorse on the deed an appropriate certification and the endorsement shall be sufficient authority for transfer on the assessment books.
(5)
(i)
Except as provided in subparagraph (ii) of this paragraph, at the time of transfer of real property subject to a semiannual payment schedule for the payment of property taxes, only those semiannual payments that are due for the current taxable year under § 10–204.3 of the Tax – Property Article must be paid prior to the transfer of the property.
(ii)
The semiannual payments that are due for the current taxable year under § 10–204.3 of the Tax – Property Article are not required to be paid before the transfer of the property if:
(1)
The property is residential real property that is being transferred from the estate of a decedent to an heir or a legatee of the decedent; and
(2)
The heir or legatee of the decedent enters into a payment plan to pay all public taxes, assessments, and charges currently due and owed on the property with:
(A)
The county or municipal corporation to which the taxes, assessments, and charges are due; or
(B)
The State Tax Sale Ombudsman.
(iii)
The collector of taxes for the county or municipal corporation to which the taxes, assessments, or charges are due shall provide the heir or legatee of a decedent to whom property is transferred under subparagraph (ii) of this paragraph with the toll–free telephone number and website address of the State Tax Sale Ombudsman and a brief description of the services and programs available through the Ombudsman’s office.
(iv)
When an heir or a legatee of a decedent enters into a payment plan with a county, a municipal corporation, or the State Tax Sale Ombudsman under subparagraph (ii) of this paragraph, the collector of taxes for the county or municipal corporation or the State Tax Sale Ombudsman shall provide the heir or legatee with an affidavit of the payment plan, which the heir or legatee shall provide to the Clerk of the Circuit Court to record an instrument transferring ownership to the heir or legatee.
(6)
(i)
The requirements for payment of real property taxes in subsection (b) of this section do not apply to a grant of land that is subject to a payment plan for property taxes with a county, a municipal corporation, or the State Tax Sale Ombudsman if the grantee enters into an agreement with the county, municipal corporation, or the State Tax Sale Ombudsman to assume the grantor’s obligations under the payment plan.
(ii)
The collector of taxes for the county or municipal corporation or the State Tax Sale Ombudsman shall provide the grantee with an affidavit of the payment plan, which the grantee shall provide to the Clerk of the Circuit Court to record an instrument transferring ownership to the grantee.
(d)
(1)
Every deed or other instrument offered for recordation shall have the name of each person typed or printed directly above or below the signature of the person.
(2)
If a typed or printed name is not provided as required in this subsection, the clerk shall make reasonable efforts to determine the correct name under which the deed or other instrument shall be indexed.
(e)
(1)
(i)
Any printed deed or other instrument offered for recordation shall be printed in not less than 8 point type and in black letters and be on white paper of sufficient weight and thickness to be clearly readable. If the deed or other instrument is wholly typewritten or typewritten on a printed form, the typewriting shall be in black letters, in not less than elite type and on white paper of sufficient weight or thickness as to be clearly readable. The foregoing provisions do not apply to manuscript covers or backs customarily used on documents offered for recordation. The recording charge for any instrument not conforming to these requirements shall be three times the normal amount charged. In any clerk’s office where the deeds or other instruments are scanned, no instrument on which a rider has been placed or attached in a manner obscuring, hiding, or covering any other part of the instrument may be offered or received for record. No instrument not otherwise readily subject to scanning may be offered or received for record until three times the normal recording charge is paid to the clerk and unless an affidavit, black type on white paper, is attached and made a part of the document stating the kind of instrument, the date, the parties to the transaction, description of the property, and all other pertinent data.
(ii)
After any document has been recorded in one county, a certified copy of the recorded document may be recorded in any other county.
(2)
A certified copy of any document from a state, commonwealth, territory, or possession of the United States, or the District of Columbia that would otherwise be recordable under Maryland law may be recorded in this State, if the document contains:
(i)
An original certification made by the clerk or other governmental official having responsibility for the certification or authentication of recorded documents in the jurisdiction where the document is recorded; and
(ii)
An indication of the recording reference and court or other public registry where the original document is recorded.
(f)
(1)
(i)
In this paragraph, “under the attorney’s supervision” includes review of an instrument by the certifying attorney.
(ii)
A deed other than a mortgage, a deed of trust, an assignment of rents, an assignment of a lease for security purposes, or an assignment or a release of a mortgage or a deed of trust may not be recorded unless it bears:
(1)
The certification of an attorney admitted to the Bar of this State that the instrument has been prepared by the attorney or under the attorney’s supervision; or
(2)
A certification by a party named in the instrument that the instrument was prepared by that party.
(iii)
A mortgage, a deed of trust, an assignment of rents, an assignment of a lease for security purposes, or an assignment or a release of a mortgage or a deed of trust prepared by any attorney or one of the parties named in the instrument may be recorded without the certification required under subparagraph (ii) of this paragraph.
(2)
Every deed recorded in Prince George’s County shall contain a reference to the election district in which the property described in the deed is located.
(3)
Every deed or other instrument recorded in Talbot County shall have written, typed, or printed on its back, to be readily visible when folded for filing in the appropriate drawer or file, the name of every party to the deed or other instrument and the nature or character of the instrument.
(4)
(i)
This paragraph does not apply to a transfer–on–death deed executed in accordance with the requirements of Title 14, Subtitle 10 of this article.
(ii)
No deed granting property lying within the boundaries of any sanitary district operated by the County Commissioners of Worcester County may be accepted by the Clerk of the Circuit Court for recording unless the deed is marked by the county to indicate that every assessment or charge currently due and owed to the county with respect to the property described in the deed has been paid.
(5)
(i)
In Frederick County, if the property to be transferred is a subdivision, which is being dissected from a larger tract of land, then every public tax, assessment, and charge due on the larger tract shall be paid before the property is transferred on the assessment books or land records.
(ii)
Notwithstanding any other provision of this section, in Frederick County the certificate of the Treasurer and the appropriate municipal tax collector, if the property is within an incorporated town or city, showing that every tax has been paid shall be endorsed on the deed. The endorsement is sufficient authority for transfer on the assessment books or land records.
(6)
Every deed granting a right–of–way or other easement to a public utility, public agency, or a department or agency of the State shall contain an accurate and definite description as well as a reference to the liber and folio where the servient land was granted and a recitation of the grantors, grantees, and the date of the reference deed.
(g)
(1)
This subsection does not apply to:
(i)
An assignment of a mortgage or if presented for recordation, an assignment of a deed of trust;
(ii)
A release of a deed of trust or mortgage;
(iii)
A substitution of trustees on a deed of trust;
(iv)
A power of attorney;
(v)
A financing statement or an amendment, continuation, release, or termination of a financing statement recorded in land records; or
(vi)
A restrictive covenant modification executed under § 3–112 of this subtitle.
(2)
Except as provided in paragraph (1) of this subsection, each deed or other instrument affecting property and presented for recordation shall be:
(i)
Accompanied by a complete intake sheet, on the form that the Administrative Office of the Courts provides; or
(ii)
Endorsed as provided under paragraph (8) of this subsection.
(3)
A complete intake sheet shall:
(i)
Describe the property by at least one of the following property identifiers:
(1)
The property tax account identification number, if any, or in Montgomery County, any parcel identifier required under § 3–501 of this title, if different from the tax account number;
(2)
The street address, if any;
(3)
If the property is a lot within a subdivided tract, the lot and block designation, or in Baltimore City, the current land record block number;
(4)
If the property is part of a tract that has been subdivided informally and there is neither an assigned tax account identification number for the parcel nor a lot and block designation, then the street address, if any, or the amount of acreage; or
(5)
If the property consists of multiple parcels, the designation “various lots of ground” or the abbreviation “VAR. L.O.G.”;
(ii)
Name each grantor, donor, mortgagor, and assignor and each grantee, donee, mortgagee, and assignee;
(iii)
State the type of instrument;
(iv)
State the amount of consideration payable, including the amount of any mortgage or deed of trust indebtedness assumed, or the principal amount of debt secured;
(v)
State the amount of recording charges due, including the land records surcharge and any transfer and recordation taxes;
(vi)
Identify, by citation or explanation, each claimed exemption from recording taxes;
(vii)
For an instrument effecting a change in ownership, state a tax bill mailing address; and
(viii)
Indicate the person to whom the instrument is to be returned.
(4)
An intake sheet may request any other information that the Administrative Office of the Courts considers necessary in expediting transfers of property or recording and indexing of instruments.
(5)
A clerk may not charge any fee for recording an intake sheet.
(6)
(i)
Except as provided in subparagraph (ii) of this paragraph, a clerk may not refuse to record an instrument that does not effect a change of ownership on the assessment books solely because it is not accompanied by an intake sheet.
(ii)
A clerk may refuse to record a transfer–on–death deed executed in accordance with Title 14, Subtitle 10 of this article if it is not accompanied by an intake sheet.
(7)
A clerk may refuse to record a deed or instrument that effects a change of ownership on the assessment rolls if the instrument is not accompanied by a complete intake sheet or endorsed as transferred on the assessment books by the assessment office for the county where the property is located.
(8)
(i)
This paragraph does not apply to a transfer–on–death deed executed in accordance with Title 14, Subtitle 10 of this article.
(ii)
If a deed or other instrument that effects a change in ownership is submitted for transfer on the assessment books without an intake sheet, the person offering the deed or other instrument shall mail or deliver to the person having charge of the assessment books the information required on the intake sheet.
(iii)
When property is transferred on the assessment books under this paragraph:
(1)
The transfer shall be to the grantee or assignee named in the deed or other instrument; and
(2)
The person recording the transfer shall evidence the fact of the transfer on the deed or other instrument.
(iv)
An endorsement under this paragraph is sufficient to authorize the recording of the deed or other instrument by the clerk of the appropriate court.
(9)
A clerk may not record an instrument that effects a real property lease dealing in natural gas and oil unless the instrument is accompanied by a complete intake sheet.
(10)
(i)
An intake sheet shall be recorded immediately after the instrument it accompanies.
(ii)
The intake sheet is not part of the instrument and does not constitute constructive notice as to the contents of the instrument.
(iii)
The lack of an intake sheet does not affect the validity of any conveyance, lien, or lien priority based on recordation of an instrument.
Md. Code Ann., Real Prop. § 3-104.1 (2026)
Title 3. Recordation
Subtitle 1. General Rules and Exceptions
§ 3–104.1LinkCopy Citation
(a)
In this section, “residential property” means real property improved by four or fewer single family dwelling units that are designed principally and are intended for human habitation.
(b)
When recorded, a mortgage, deed of trust, or any other instrument securing a mortgage loan on residential property shall contain:
(1)
(i)
The name and Maryland mortgage originator license number of the mortgage originator that originated the loan secured by the instrument; or
(ii)
An affidavit by the person that originated the mortgage loan secured by the instrument that the individual who originated the loan is exempt from the licensing requirement under Title 11, Subtitle 6 of the Financial Institutions Article; and
(2)
(i)
The name and Maryland mortgage lender license number of the mortgage lender that made the loan secured by the instrument; or
(ii)
An affidavit by the lender that made the mortgage loan secured by the instrument that the lender is exempt from the licensing requirement under Title 11, Subtitle 5 of the Financial Institutions Article.
(c)
The Commissioner of Financial Regulation shall adopt regulations to implement the provisions of this section, including:
(1)
Minimum requirements for the inclusion of licensing information when a mortgage, deed of trust, or other instrument securing a mortgage loan on residential property is recorded; and
(2)
Consequences, including penalties, for the failure to include licensing information when a mortgage, deed of trust, or other instrument securing a mortgage loan on residential property is recorded.
Md. Code Ann., Real Prop. § 3-104.2 (2026)
Title 3. Recordation
Subtitle 1. General Rules and Exceptions
§ 3–104.2LinkCopy Citation
(a)
A person may not record a deed or other instrument that the person knows contains false information, including information related to the ownership of the property.
(b)
A person who violates this section is guilty of a misdemeanor and on conviction is subject to a fine not exceeding $500.
Md. Code Ann., Real Prop. § 3-105 (2026)
Title 3. Recordation
Subtitle 1. General Rules and Exceptions
§ 3–105LinkCopy Citation
(a)
A mortgage or deed of trust may be released validly by any procedure enumerated in this section or § 3–105.2 of this subtitle.
(b)
(1)
A release may be endorsed on the original mortgage or deed of trust by the mortgagee or an assignee of the mortgagee, the trustee or a successor of the trustee under a deed of trust, or by the holder of the debt or obligation secured by the deed of trust.
(2)
The mortgage or the deed of trust, with the endorsed release, then shall be filed in the office in which the mortgage or deed of trust is recorded.
(3)
The clerk shall record the release, with an attachment or rider affixed to it containing the names of the parties as they appear on the original mortgage or deed of trust, together with a reference to the book and page number where the mortgage or deed of trust is recorded.
(c)
(1)
(i)
When the debt secured by a deed of trust is paid fully or satisfied, and any bond, note, or other evidence of the total indebtedness is marked “paid” or “canceled” by the holder or an agent of the holder, it may be received by the clerk and indexed and recorded as any other instrument in the nature of a release.
(ii)
The marked note has the same effect as a release of the property for which it is the security, as if a release were executed by the named trustees, if there is attached to or endorsed on the note an affidavit of the holder, the party making satisfaction, or an agent of either of them, that it has been paid or satisfied, and specifically setting forth the land record reference where the original deed of trust is recorded.
(2)
(i)
When the debt secured by a mortgage is paid fully or satisfied, and the original mortgage is marked “paid” or “canceled” by the mortgagee or an agent of the mortgagee, it may be received by the clerk and indexed and recorded as any other instrument in the nature of a release.
(ii)
The marked mortgage has the same effect as a release of the property for which it is the security, as if a release were executed by the mortgagee, if there is attached to or endorsed on the mortgage an affidavit of the mortgagee, the mortgagor, the party making satisfaction, or the agent of the mortgagee, the mortgagor, or the party making satisfaction, that it has been paid or satisfied, and specifically setting forth the land record reference where the mortgage is recorded.
(3)
(i)
When the debt secured by a mortgage or deed of trust is paid fully or satisfied, and the canceled check evidencing final payment or, if the canceled check is unavailable, a copy of the canceled check accompanied by a certificate from the institution on which the check was drawn stating that the copy is a true and genuine image of the original check is presented, it may be received by the clerk and indexed and recorded as any other instrument in the nature of a release.
(ii)
The canceled check or copy accompanied by the certificate has the same effect as a release of the property for which the mortgage or deed of trust is the security, as if a release were executed by the mortgagee or named trustees, if:
(1)
The party making satisfaction of the mortgage or deed of trust has:
(A)
Allowed at least a 60–day waiting period, from the date the mortgage or deed of trust is paid fully or is satisfied, for the party satisfied to provide a release suitable for recording;
(B)
Sent the party satisfied a copy of this section and a notice that, unless a release is provided within 30 days, the party making satisfaction will obtain a release by utilizing the provisions of this paragraph; and
(C)
Following the mailing of the notice required under item 2 of this item, allowed an additional waiting period of at least 30 days for the party satisfied to provide a release suitable for recording;
(2)
The canceled check or copy accompanied by the certificate contains the name of the party whose debt is being satisfied, the debt account number, if any, and words indicating that the check is intended as payment in full of the debt being satisfied; and
(3)
There is attached to the canceled check or copy accompanied by the certificate an affidavit made by a member of the Maryland Bar that the mortgage or deed of trust has been satisfied, that the notice required under item 1 of this subparagraph has been sent, and specifically setting forth the land record reference where the original mortgage or deed of trust is recorded.
(4)
(i)
When the debt secured by a mortgage or deed of trust is fully paid or satisfied and the holder or the agent of the holder of the mortgage or deed of trust note or other obligation secured by the deed of trust, or the trustee or successor trustee under the deed of trust, executes and acknowledges a certificate of satisfaction substantially in the form specified under § 4–203(d) of this article, containing the name of the debtor, holder, the authorized agent of the holder, or the trustee or successor trustee under the deed of trust, the date, and the land record recording reference of the instrument to be released, it may be received by the clerk and indexed and recorded as any other instrument in the nature of a release.
(ii)
The certificate of satisfaction shall have the same effect as a release executed by the holder of a mortgage or the named trustee under a deed of trust.
(5)
(i)
When the holder of a mortgage or deed of trust note or other obligation secured by the deed of trust has agreed to release certain property from the lien of the mortgage or deed of trust and the holder or the agent of the holder of the mortgage or deed of trust note or other obligation secured by the deed of trust, or the trustee or successor trustee under the deed of trust executes and acknowledges a certificate of partial satisfaction or partial release substantially in the form specified under § 4–203(e) of this article, containing the name of the debtor, holder, the authorized agent of the holder, or the trustee or successor trustee under the deed of trust, the date, the land record recording reference of the instrument to be partially released, and a description of the real property being released, it may be received by the clerk and indexed and recorded as any other instrument in the nature of a partial release.
(ii)
The certificate of partial satisfaction or partial release shall have the same effect as a partial release executed by the holder of a mortgage, the holder of the debt secured by a deed of trust, or the named trustee under a deed of trust.
(d)
A release of a mortgage or deed of trust may be made on a separate instrument if it states that the mortgagee, holder of the debt or obligation secured by the deed of trust, trustee, or assignee releases the mortgage or deed of trust and states the names of the parties to the mortgage or deed of trust and the date and recording reference of the mortgage or deed of trust to be released. In addition, any form of release that satisfies the requirements of a deed and is recorded as required by this article is sufficient.
(e)
(1)
A holder of a debt secured by a mortgage or deed of trust, or a successor of a holder, may release part of the collateral securing the mortgage or deed of trust by executing and acknowledging a partial release on an instrument separate from the mortgage or deed of trust.
(2)
A partial release shall:
(i)
Be executed and acknowledged;
(ii)
Contain the names of the parties to the mortgage or deed of trust, the date, and the land record recording reference of the instrument subject to the partial release; and
(iii)
Otherwise satisfy the requirements of a valid deed.
(3)
The clerk of the court shall accept, index, and record, as a partial release, an instrument that complies with and is filed under this section.
(4)
Unless otherwise stated in an instrument recorded among the land records, a trustee under a deed of trust may execute, acknowledge, and deliver partial releases.
(f)
If a full or partial release of a mortgage or deed of trust is recorded, the clerk shall place a reference to the book and page number or other place where the release is recorded on the recorded mortgage or deed of trust.
(g)
Unless otherwise expressly provided in the release, a full or partial release that is recorded for a mortgage or deed of trust that is re–recorded, amended, modified, or otherwise altered or affected by a supplemental instrument and which cites the released mortgage or deed of trust by reference to only the original recorded mortgage, deed of trust, or supplemental instrument to the original mortgage or deed of trust, shall be effective as a full or partial release of the original mortgage or deed of trust and all supplemental instruments to the original mortgage or deed of trust.
(h)
Unless otherwise expressly provided in the release, a full or partial release that is recorded for a mortgage or deed of trust, or for any re–recording, amendment, modification, or supplemental instrument to the mortgage or deed of trust shall terminate or partially release any related financing statements, but only to the extent that the financing statements describe fixtures that are part of the collateral described in the full or partial release.
Md. Code Ann., Real Prop. § 3-105.1 (2026)
Title 3. Recordation
Subtitle 1. General Rules and Exceptions
§ 3–105.1LinkCopy Citation
(a)
(1)
In this section the following words have the meanings indicated.
(2)
“Borrower” means an individual who is mortgagor or grantor on a mortgage or deed of trust and whose loan was for personal, household, or family purposes or for a commercial purpose not in excess of $75,000.
(3)
(i)
“Holder” means the person to whom a loan secured by a mortgage or deed of trust is owed or that person’s designee.
(ii)
“Holder” does not include a responsible person.
(4)
“Loan” means all indebtedness and other obligations of a borrower secured by a mortgage or deed of trust.
(5)
“Mortgage or deed of trust” means a mortgage, deed of trust, security agreement, or other lien secured by a borrower’s principal dwelling.
(6)
(i)
“Responsible person” means a person other than the holder or the holder’s designee who has undertaken responsibility for filing a release of a mortgage or deed of trust with the governmental agency charged with recording the release.
(ii)
“Responsible person” includes:
(1)
The person responsible for the disbursement of funds in connection with the grant of title to the property; and
(2)
An attorney or other person responsible for preparing the HUD–1 settlement statement required under the federal Real Estate Settlement Procedures Act.
(b)
(1)
Except as provided in paragraph (2) of this subsection, this section does not apply to a mortgage or deed of trust given to secure or guaranty a commercial loan as defined in § 12–101 of the Commercial Law Article.
(2)
This section applies to a mortgage or deed of trust given by an individual to secure a commercial loan to that individual if the commercial loan was not in excess of $75,000 and was secured by the borrower’s principal dwelling.
(c)
Within a reasonable time after a loan secured by an existing mortgage or deed of trust has been paid in full and there is no further commitment by the holder to make an advance or by the borrower to incur an obligation secured by that mortgage or deed of trust, the holder shall:
(1)
(i)
Indelibly mark with the word “paid” or “canceled” and return to the borrower each agreement, note, or other evidence of the loan secured by that mortgage or deed of trust; or
(ii)
Furnish the borrower with a written statement that identifies the loan secured by that mortgage or deed of trust and states that the loan has been paid in full; and
(2)
Release any recorded mortgage or deed of trust securing the loan.
(d)
The release shall be:
(1)
In writing; and
(2)
Prepared at the expense of the holder.
(e)
(1)
If the holder does not record the release or provide the release to a responsible person for recording within 45 days after a loan secured by an existing mortgage or deed of trust has been paid in full and there has been no further commitment by the holder to make an advance or by the borrower to incur an obligation secured by the mortgage or deed of trust, the holder shall furnish the borrower with:
(i)
The release in a recordable form; and
(ii)
A notice disclosing the location where the release should be recorded and the estimated amount of any fee required to be paid to a governmental entity in order to record the release.
(2)
If the holder records the release, the holder shall furnish the borrower with a copy of the release.
(f)
(1)
A fee for the recording of a release may be collected by the holder from the borrower subject to this subsection.
(2)
If a fee is collected for the recording of a release:
(i)
The release shall be recorded by the holder; and
(ii)
Any portion of the fee not paid to a governmental entity for recording the release that exceeds $15 shall be refunded to the borrower.
(3)
A fee authorized under this subsection is not interest with respect to any loan.
(4)
If a fee is not collected for the recording of a release, the holder is not obligated to record the release.
(g)
(1)
This subsection does not apply to:
(i)
A licensee under Title 11, Subtitle 5 of the Financial Institutions Article; or
(ii)
An entity described in § 11–502(b)(1) or (10) of the Financial Institutions Article.
(2)
Except as provided in paragraph (1) of this subsection, if the borrower is the prevailing party in an action to require the delivery of the release, the holder is liable for the delivery of a release and for all costs and expenses in connection with the bringing of the action, including reasonable attorney’s fees.
Md. Code Ann., Real Prop. § 3-105.2 (2026)
Title 3. Recordation
Subtitle 1. General Rules and Exceptions
§ 3–105.2LinkCopy Citation
(a)
In this section, “lien instrument” means:
(1)
A lien created under the Maryland Contract Lien Act;
(2)
An instrument creating or authorizing the creation of a lien in favor of a homeowners’ association, a condominium council of unit owners, a property owners association, or a community association;
(3)
A security agreement; or
(4)
A vendor’s lien.
(b)
A mortgage, deed of trust, or lien instrument may be released validly in accordance with this section.
(c)
When the debt secured by a mortgage, deed of trust, or lien instrument is paid fully or satisfied by a settlement agent licensed by the Maryland Insurance Administration as a title insurance producer under Title 10, Subtitle 1 of the Insurance Article, a title insurer, or a lawyer admitted to the Maryland Bar, and the party satisfied fails to provide a release suitable for recording, the settlement agent, title insurer, or lawyer may prepare and record a statutory release affidavit that:
(1)
May be received by the clerk and indexed and recorded as any other instrument in the nature of a release or certificate of satisfaction; and
(2)
Has the same effect as a release of the property for which the mortgage, deed of trust, or lien instrument is the security, as if a release were executed by the mortgagee, named trustees, or secured party.
(d)
Before the settlement agent, title insurer, or lawyer may record a statutory release affidavit under this section, that person shall:
(1)
Allow at least a 60–day waiting period from the date the mortgage, deed of trust, or lien instrument is paid fully or satisfied for the party satisfied to provide a release suitable for recording;
(2)
Send by certified mail, with or without a return receipt, to the party satisfied:
(i)
A copy of this section;
(ii)
A copy of the proposed statutory release affidavit that the person intends to record; and
(iii)
A notice that unless a release suitable for recording is provided within 30 days, the person will obtain a release in accordance with the provisions of this section;
(3)
After the mailing of the notice under item (2) of this subsection, allow an additional waiting period of at least 30 days for the party satisfied to provide a release suitable for recording.
(e)
A statutory release affidavit recorded under this section shall:
(1)
Be in substantially the following form:
“Statutory Release Affidavit
I hereby declare or affirm, under the penalties of perjury, that:
(1)
On (insert date), I caused to be paid off the debt secured by the mortgage, deed of trust, or lien instrument, found in Liber/Book _____, at Folio/Page _____, in the land records of __________ County/Baltimore City, Maryland.
(2)
I obtained a written payoff statement from the person to whom the debt was owed or the person’s agent, the funds paid to the person or the person’s agent were sufficient to pay off the debt in full, and, as authorized by the obligor on the account, I instructed the person or the person’s agent to close the account.
(3)
On (insert date), I sent the notice required under § 3–105.2(d)(2) of the Real Property Article to the person satisfied by certified mail.
(4)
The person satisfied has failed to provide a release suitable for recording.
(5)
I am:
___ A settlement agent who holds a title insurance producer license in good standing from the Maryland Insurance Administration;
___ An officer of a title insurer; or
___ A member of the Maryland Bar.
(6)
The payoff of the debt was accomplished by:
___ The original check, written on an escrow account controlled by the undersigned individual, which is attached to this affidavit and incorporated by reference;
___ A check, written on an escrow account controlled by the undersigned individual, a check facsimile of which is attached to this affidavit and incorporated by reference, and which has been certified as a true copy of the original check by the issuing bank; or
___ A wire transfer, the wire transfer remittance advice for which contains the information required under § 3–105.2(e)(2)(iii)2 of the Real Property Article and is attached to this affidavit and incorporated by reference.
___________________________
(signature)
___________________________
(printed or typed name)
__________________________
(date)
”
; and
(2)
Be accompanied by:
(i)
The canceled check evidencing final payment, which shall contain the name of the party whose debt is being satisfied, the debt account number, if any, and words indicating that the check is intended as payment in full of the debt being satisfied;
(ii)
If the canceled check is unavailable, a check facsimile, as defined in § 5–513 of the Financial Institutions Article, that contains the information required under item (i) of this item, accompanied by a certification from an authorized agent of the institution on which the check was drawn stating the check facsimile is a true and genuine image of the original check; or
(iii)
If the debt securing the mortgage, deed of trust, or lien instrument was paid off by a wire transfer, the wire transfer remittance advice, which shall:
(1)
Be accompanied by a certification from an authorized agent of the institution from which the wire transfer was initiated stating that the document is a true and genuine image of the original wire transfer confirmation order issued by the institution; and
(2)
Contain the name of the person for whom the payoff was made, the name of the institution that was paid the money, a truncated version of the number of the account from which the funds were transferred, a truncated version of the number of the account to which the funds were transferred, the Federal Reserve Bank’s reference numbers for the wire transfer, the loan number for the note that was paid off, the amount of the payoff made by the wire transfer, and the date and time of the wire transfer.
Md. Code Ann., Real Prop. § 3-106 (2026)
Title 3. Recordation
Subtitle 1. General Rules and Exceptions
§ 3–106LinkCopy Citation
The clerk of the circuit court shall record any assignment of a mortgage with an attachment or rider affixed to it containing the names of the parties as they appear on the original mortgage and a reference to the book number and page number where the mortgage is recorded.
Md. Code Ann., Real Prop. § 3-107 (2026)
Title 3. Recordation
Subtitle 1. General Rules and Exceptions
§ 3–107LinkCopy Citation
When recording a deed or other instrument retaining a vendor’s lien, the clerk shall leave a blank space at the foot of the document for the purpose of entering assignments and releases.
Md. Code Ann., Real Prop. § 3-108 (2026)
Title 3. Recordation
Subtitle 1. General Rules and Exceptions
§ 3–108LinkCopy Citation
(a)
(1)
Except as provided in paragraph (2) of this subsection, the provisions of this section are in addition to any other provisions of the Code, pertaining to recordation of subdivision plats.
(2)
This section does not apply in Queen Anne’s County.
(b)
(1)
If the owner of land in the State subdivides the land for commercial, industrial, or residential use to be comprised of streets, avenues, lanes, or alleys and lots, and desires, for the purpose of description and identification, to record a plat of the subdivision among the land records of the county where the land lies, the clerk of the court shall accept and record the plat as prescribed in this section.
(2)
The clerk may not accept the plat for record until the owner of land complies with the requirements prescribed in this section.
(c)
(1)
In this subsection, “coordinate” means a number which determines the position of any point in a north or south and an east or west direction in relation to any other point in the same coordinate system.
(2)
The plat shall be legible, drawn accurately and to scale and shall be submitted for recordation using black ink on transparent mylar or black–line photo process comparable to original quality that will conform to archival standards.
(3)
The plat shall contain the courses and distances of all lines drawn on the plat.
(4)
With respect to all curved lines, the plat shall show the length of all radii, arcs, and tangents and the courses and distances of all chords.
(5)
The plat shall contain a north arrow which represents and designates either true or magnetic meridian as of a date specified on the plat or shall be referenced to a recognized coordinate system within the county.
(6)
All courses shown on the plat shall be calculated from the plat meridian.
(7)
No distance on the plat may be marked “more or less” except on lines which begin, terminate, or bind on a marsh, stream, or any body of water.
(8)
(i)
The plat shall show the position by coordinates of not less than four markers set in convenient places within the subdivision in a manner so that the position of one marker is visible from the position of one other marker.
(ii)
From these markers, commonly called traverse points, every corner and line can be readily calculated and marked on the ground.
(iii)
These markers shall comply with standards that the State Board for Professional Land Surveyors sets by regulation under § 15–208 of the Business Occupations and Professions Article.
(9)
A certificate stating that the requirement of this subsection, as far as it concerns the making of the plat and setting of the markers, shall be put on the plat and signed by the owner of the land shown on the plat to the best of the owner’s knowledge and by the professional land surveyor or property line surveyor preparing it.
(d)
(1)
The owner shall mail or deliver three copies of the plat to the clerk.
(2)
(i)
Except as provided in subparagraph (ii) of this paragraph, the fee is $5 for each set of plats.
(ii)
A fee is not required for plats showing property or rights–of–way to be acquired or granted by the State Highway Administration.
(iii)
The clerk may assess additional fees if required by local law or ordinance.
(e)
Each plat shall be signed and sealed by a professional land surveyor or property line surveyor licensed in the State.
(f)
(1)
In Worcester County, if an unrecorded plat exists showing a subdivision, from which any lot has been granted, and the owner of the subdivision, or any part of it, proposes to resubdivide it in a manner different from the unrecorded plat, a copy of the unrecorded plat shall be recorded as required by this section and in addition to any other plat required by this section. If no unrecorded plat exists, the owner shall record an affidavit to this fact.
(2)
In Worcester County, if a recorded plat exists showing a subdivision, and the owner of the subdivision, or any part of it, proposes to resubdivide it in a manner different from the recorded plat, another plat shall be recorded. This plat shall indicate clearly the lines, designation of blocks and block numbers, lots and lot numbers, streets, alleys, rights–of–way, and all other easements or pertinent data of the original recorded plat, with the proposed resubdivision plat superimposed on it. The proposed resubdivision plat shall indicate clearly the lines, designation of blocks and block numbers, lots and lot numbers, streets, alleys, rights–of–way, and all other easements and pertinent data. This plat shall be recorded in addition to any other plats required by this section.
(3)
In Worcester County, if the owner of two or more contiguous tracts of land proposes to combine the tracts and subdivide them, the owner shall have recorded a plat to be known as a perimeter plat as provided in this section and in addition to any other plat required by this paragraph. The perimeter plat shall show clearly the lines of the original tracts, include a title reference to each tract, and have a plat showing the proposed subdivision of the entire tract superimposed on it. If less than the entire tract is subdivided, at any one time, each subsequent subdivision plat likewise shall be superimposed on a perimeter plat which also shall show clearly all prior subdivisions made pursuant to this subsection.
(4)
Notwithstanding the provisions of subsections (b), (c), and (d) of this section and in addition to the requirements of paragraphs (1), (2), and (3) of this subsection, if the subdivided lands are, in whole or in part, within the corporate limits of an incorporated municipality, the plat may not be accepted for record by the Clerk of the Circuit Court of Worcester County until it first has been submitted to and approved by the governing body of the municipality where the land is located, and the approval of the municipality has been indicated plainly on the plat.
(g)
In Cecil County, if an unrecorded plat exists showing a subdivision created prior to June 1, 1945, from which any lot has been granted and to which reference has been made in a deed now of record, the owner of the subdivision or any lot, or any interested party may have recorded a copy of the unrecorded plat in a separate plat book to be maintained by the Clerk of the Circuit Court for Cecil County. Reference to the plat is not by itself a “description of the property sufficient to identify it with reasonable certainty” within the meaning of § 4–101 of this article. The person presenting the plat for recording shall pay to the Clerk a fee of $1 for each plat so offered. No other provision of this section applies to the recording of any plat in Cecil County.
(h)
(1)
In Garrett County the size of the sheet (plat) shall be 11 by 17 inches, 18 by 24 inches, or 24 by 36 inches, including a one and one–half inch margin for binding along the left edge. When more than one sheet is required, an index sheet of the same size shall be submitted showing the entire subdivision drawn to scale.
(2)
This subsection does not apply to single lot plats suitable for recording in the same manner as other land record instruments.
(i)
(1)
A plat filed in the land records of Wicomico County shall measure 18 by 24 inches or 24 by 36 inches, including a 1 1/2 inch margin along the left edge. If more than one sheet is required, an index sheet of the same size shall be submitted showing the entire subdivision drawn to scale.
(2)
This subsection does not apply to single lot plats suitable for recording in the same manner as other land record instruments, or to plats dated prior to July 1, 1977.
(j)
(1)
Notwithstanding any other provision of this section, in Caroline County, any interested person may record a copy of a plat if:
(i)
It is signed and dated prior to January 1, 1970;
(ii)
The general location of the property can be determined by reference to the plat; and
(iii)
The person offering the plat for recording appends a verified statement that it is the original plat, to the best of the offerer’s knowledge, information and belief.
(2)
The recording of plats under this subsection shall not be construed as the creation or establishment of a subdivision or compliance with any other rules or regulations applicable to subdivisions.
(k)
(1)
A plat filed in the land records of Dorchester County shall measure 18 by 24 inches or 24 by 36 inches, including a 1 1/2 inch margin along the left edge. If more than one sheet is required, an index sheet of the same size shall be submitted showing the entire subdivision drawn to scale.
(2)
This subsection does not apply to single lot plats suitable for recording in the same manner as other land record instruments, or to plats dated prior to July 1, 1987.
(l)
In Charles County, a deed conveying a parcel of land containing more than 20 acres of unimproved land is not required to be accompanied by a survey plat.
(m)
In Calvert County, the Clerk of Court may not accept and record a plat that creates a new lot or that combines two or more subdivision lots to create one or more new lots unless the County Treasurer has certified on the plat that all taxes, assessments, and charges against the existing lots have been paid.
(n)
In Montgomery County, a plat shall be drawn in accordance with subsection (c)(2) of this section or drawn in an electronic version in a manner approved by the State Archivist.
(o)
This section does not apply in Allegany, Harford, Montgomery, Prince George’s, and Talbot counties, except to the extent any of these counties is expressly mentioned in this section.
Md. Code Ann., Real Prop. § 3-108.1 (2026)
Title 3. Recordation
Subtitle 1. General Rules and Exceptions
§ 3–108.1LinkCopy Citation
(a)
(1)
In this section the following words have the meanings indicated.
(2)
“Appendix plat” means a plat of a single lot or parcel of land that:
(i)
Is produced on a single page not larger than 8.5 inches by 14 inches;
(ii)
Is presented for recordation as part of a deed or other instrument; and
(iii)
Does not require subdivision approval.
(3)
(i)
“Plat” includes any diagram that purports to represent the boundaries of any land.
(ii)
“Plat” does not include a plat or microfilm aperture card that:
(1)
Meets archival standards for permanent records; and
(2)
Depicts property or rights–of–way to be acquired or granted by the State Highway Administration.
(4)
“Subdivision approval” means approval required under subdivision regulations adopted in Queen Anne’s County in accordance with Title 5 of the Land Use Article.
(b)
The provisions of this section apply only in Queen Anne’s County.
(c)
The Clerk of the Circuit Court for Queen Anne’s County may not accept for record any plat that does not comply with the provisions of this section.
(d)
(1)
The provisions of this subsection do not apply to appendix plats.
(2)
A person who is recording a plat shall deliver a set of 3 copies of each page of the plat at the time of recordation.
(3)
Each copy of a page of a plat shall conform to all of the provisions of this section.
(4)
The fee for recording each set of plats is $25.
(5)
In accordance with the provisions of § 3–304 of this title, the Clerk of the Circuit Court of Queen Anne’s County shall maintain and distribute any plat that the Clerk records.
(e)
(1)
Except for the provisions relating to legibility and scale, the provisions of this subsection do not apply to appendix plats.
(2)
Each page of a plat shall:
(i)
Be legible;
(ii)
Be drawn to a stated scale;
(iii)
Be 18 inches by 24 inches in size, including a one and one–half inch unused margin for binding along the left edge of the page; and
(iv)
Be prepared in black ink on transparent mylar or by another process comparable to original quality that conforms to the archival standards established by the Maryland Hall of Records.
(3)
A plat consisting of more than 1 page shall include an index page that includes and delineates each area shown on all other pages.
(f)
A person who is recording a plat shall submit, along with the plat, a written certificate that is signed by:
(1)
A person authorized to certify subdivision approval under regulations concerning subdivisions adopted by the county or a municipal corporation under Title 5 of the Land Use Article, and which states that:
(i)
Subdivision approval has been given; or
(ii)
Subdivision approval is not required; or
(2)
Each owner of the property, and which states that the plat does not require subdivision approval.
(g)
A certificate under subsection (f) of this section shall:
(1)
Be in writing; and
(2)
Contain the actual signature of the person who makes the certificate.
(h)
A person who willfully executes or presents for recordation a plat that contains a certificate required by subsection (f) of this section and that is false is guilty of a misdemeanor and on conviction is subject to a fine not exceeding $500 or imprisonment not exceeding 6 months or both.
Md. Code Ann., Real Prop. § 3-109 (2026)
Title 3. Recordation
Subtitle 1. General Rules and Exceptions
§ 3–109LinkCopy Citation
Plats showing property or rights–of–way acquired or conveyed by the State Roads Commission and the State Highway Administration shall be filed with the State Archives and electronically recorded, as provided in § 9–1011 of the State Government Article.
Md. Code Ann., Real Prop. § 3-109.1 (2026)
Title 3. Recordation
Subtitle 1. General Rules and Exceptions
§ 3–109.1LinkCopy Citation
(a)
(1)
In Frederick, Carroll, and Talbot counties, the clerk of the circuit court for the respective county shall receive, index, and file in a substantial loose–leaf, linen–backed, or other durable–backed book, copies of plats showing property or rights–of–way to be acquired or conveyed by the board of county commissioners or the governing body of that county.
(2)
Each plat may not be greater in size than 22 inches by 36 inches.
(b)
When filed and indexed under subsection (a) of this section, a plat constitutes a part of the land records of the county.
Md. Code Ann., Real Prop. § 3-110 (2026)
Title 3. Recordation
Subtitle 1. General Rules and Exceptions
§ 3–110LinkCopy Citation
(a)
The clerk of the court of any county may not refuse to accept for recording any deed or other recordable instrument delivered by mail, or not in person, if the deed or other recordable instrument:
(1)
Meets all the requisites for recording;
(2)
Is accompanied by correct fees and taxes; and
(3)
Is accompanied by a letter from an attorney or party to the instrument requesting or directing its recordation.
(b)
This section does not require a clerk to perform any function which he normally would not have to perform if an instrument is delivered in person.
Md. Code Ann., Real Prop. § 3-111 (2026)
Title 3. Recordation
Subtitle 1. General Rules and Exceptions
§ 3–111LinkCopy Citation
(a)
In this section, “personal information” means an individual’s:
(1)
Social Security number; or
(2)
Driver’s license number.
(b)
On or after June 1, 2010, a person may not include personal information in a deed or other recordable instrument intended for recording.
(c)
A person engaged to perform or charged with the duty to record a deed or other recordable instrument that contains personal information may, prior to recording:
(1)
Permanently delete the personal information from the deed or other recordable instrument; or
(2)
Request that the personal information be masked from the deed or other recordable instrument in accordance with § 8–504 of the State Government Article.
(d)
A person is immune from civil liability or criminal penalty if the person:
(1)
Inadvertently records a deed or other recordable instrument containing personal information; or
(2)
Deletes or masks personal information from a deed or other recordable instrument in accordance with subsection (c) of this section.
(e)
If a deed or other recordable instrument that contains personal information is inadvertently recorded, the inclusion of the personal information does not affect the validity of the instrument.
Md. Code Ann., Real Prop. § 3-112 (2026)
Title 3. Recordation
Subtitle 1. General Rules and Exceptions
§ 3–112LinkCopy Citation
(a)
In this section, “unlawfully restrictive covenant” means any recorded covenant or restriction that restricts ownership based on race, religious belief, or national origin.
(b)
This section does not apply to an unlawfully restrictive covenant that is part of a declaration, uniform general scheme, or plan of development of a homeowners association, as defined in § 11B–101 of this article.
(c)
(1)
A person may execute and record a restrictive covenant modification to an unlawfully restrictive covenant in accordance with this section if the person:
(i)
Holds an ownership interest in property that the person believes is subject to the unlawfully restrictive covenant; or
(ii)
Is a nonprofit entity that is required to enforce within a defined residential neighborhood:
(1)
Covenants that limit architectural alterations, renovations, landscaping elements, or other modifications to residential lots in the neighborhood; and
(2)
The unlawfully restrictive covenant.
(2)
(i)
Subject to subparagraph (ii) of this paragraph, a county or municipality may execute and record a restrictive covenant modification to an unlawfully restrictive covenant in accordance with this section if:
(1)
The property that the county or municipality believes is subject to an unlawfully restrictive covenant is within the boundaries of the county or municipality; and
(2)
At least 30 days before executing and recording the restrictive covenant modification, the county or municipality provides written notice in accordance with subparagraph (iii) of this paragraph of the county’s or municipality’s intent to execute and record the restrictive covenant modification to all persons with an ownership interest in the property.
(ii)
A person with an ownership interest in the property may decline to have the restrictive covenant modification executed and recorded by the county or municipality by notifying the county or municipality within 30 days after the date of notice.
(iii)
Notice under subparagraph (i)2 of this paragraph shall:
(1)
(A)
Be published once per week for 4 successive weeks in one or more newspapers of general circulation in the county or municipality where the property is located; and
(B)
Be posted on the official website of the county or municipality where the property is located; and
(2)
Provide information on how a person with an ownership interest in the property may decline to have the restrictive covenant modification executed and recorded by the county or municipality.
(d)
(1)
A restrictive covenant modification shall:
(i)
Consist of a complete copy of the original instrument containing the unlawfully restrictive covenant with the language of the unlawfully restrictive covenant stricken; and
(ii)
Be accompanied by a complete restrictive covenant modification intake sheet, on the form that the Administrative Office of the Courts provides.
(2)
The restrictive covenant modification intake sheet described in paragraph (1)(ii) of this subsection shall:
(i)
(1)
Be signed by the record owner of the property; or
(2)
In the case of a nonprofit entity, be accompanied by a statement that a majority of the governing body of the nonprofit entity has agreed to the restrictive covenant modification;
(ii)
Reference the book and page number or other place where the original instrument containing the unlawfully restrictive covenant is recorded; and
(iii)
Include any other information that the Administrative Office of the Courts considers necessary in carrying out the requirements of this section.
(e)
(1)
On receipt of a restrictive covenant modification, the clerk of the circuit court shall submit the restrictive covenant modification together with a copy of the original instrument referenced in the restrictive covenant modification to the county attorney.
(2)
The county attorney shall:
(i)
Review the restrictive covenant modification and the copy of the original instrument to determine:
(1)
Whether the original instrument contains an unlawfully restrictive covenant; and
(2)
Whether the restrictive covenant modification correctly strikes through only the language of the unlawfully restrictive covenant; and
(ii)
On completion of the review, return the restrictive covenant modification and copy of the original to the clerk of the circuit court together with the county attorney’s determination.
(3)
The clerk of the circuit court may not record a restrictive covenant modification unless the county attorney determines that the modification is appropriate in accordance with paragraph (2) of this subsection.
(f)
A restrictive covenant modification shall be indexed in the same manner as the original instrument.
(g)
(1)
Subject to all covenants, conditions, and restrictions that were recorded after the recording of the original instrument, the restrictions contained in the restrictive covenant modification, once recorded, are the only restrictions based on the original instrument that apply to the property.
(2)
The effective date of the terms and conditions contained in the restrictive covenant modification shall be the same as the effective date of the original instrument.
(h)
If a person causes to be recorded a restrictive covenant modification that contains modifications not authorized under this section:
(1)
The clerk of the circuit court may not incur any liability for recording the restrictive covenant modification;
(2)
The county may not incur any liability as a result of a determination rendered by the county attorney under subsection (e) of this section; and
(3)
Any liability that results from the unauthorized recordation shall be the sole responsibility of the person that executed the restrictive covenant modification.
Md. Code Ann., Real Prop. § 3-114 (2026)
Title 3. Recordation
Subtitle 1. General Rules and Exceptions
§ 3–114LinkCopy Citation
(a)
In this part the following words have the meanings indicated.
(b)
“ACP number” means the unique identification number assigned to each program participant by the Secretary or by the Office of Information Privacy.
(c)
“Actual address” means a residential street address, school address, or work address of an individual, as specified on the individual’s application to be a program participant under Title 7, Subtitle 3 of the State Government Article.
(d)
“Address Confidentiality Program” means the Address Confidentiality Program for survivors of threatened, attempted, or actual domestic violence, sexual assault, stalking, harassment, or human trafficking administered by the Secretary under Title 7, Subtitle 3 of the State Government Article and the Judicial Address Confidentiality Program administered by the Administrative Office of the Courts under Title 3, Subtitle 24 of the Courts Article.
(e)
(1)
“Identity information” means information that may be used to identify a program participant.
(2)
“Identity information” includes a program participant’s:
(i)
Name;
(ii)
Phone number;
(iii)
E–mail address;
(iv)
Social Security number; and
(v)
Driver’s license number.
(f)
“Office of Information Privacy” means the Office of Information Privacy in the Administrative Office of the Courts.
(g)
“Program participant” means an individual designated by the Secretary or by the Office of Information Privacy as a participant in an address confidentiality program.
(h)
“Real Property ACP Notice” means the notice required under this part for a program participant to request the shielding of real property records.
(i)
“Real property record” means any record or data maintained by a clerk of the circuit court or a State or local agency as part of the land or tax records.
(j)
“Secretary” means the Secretary of State.
(k)
“Shield” means to remove real property records from public inspection in accordance with this part.
(l)
“Shielding” means, with respect to a real property record accepted for recording by a clerk of the circuit court or a State or local agency, removing the record to a separate secure area to which persons who do not have a legitimate reason for access are denied access.
Md. Code Ann., Real Prop. § 3-115 (2026)
Title 3. Recordation
Subtitle 1. General Rules and Exceptions
§ 3–115LinkCopy Citation
(a)
A program participant who acquires an ownership interest in real property while participating in an address confidentiality program may request the shielding of real property records concerning the property in accordance with this section.
(b)
(1)
To request the shielding of real property records, a program participant, or any agent of a program participant, shall submit to the clerk of the circuit court and the appropriate county finance office:
(i)
A Real Property ACP Notice;
(ii)
The deed or other instrument to be recorded; and
(iii)
The intake sheet required under § 3–104 of this subtitle.
(2)
The Real Property ACP Notice shall be on the form that the Secretary provides and shall include:
(i)
The full legal name of the program participant, including middle name;
(ii)
The program participant’s ACP number;
(iii)
The substitute address designated by the Secretary as the program participant’s address;
(iv)
A description of the property identical to the description given on the intake sheet required under § 3–104 of this subtitle; and
(v)
The signature of the program participant.
(3)
The program participant shall submit to the Secretary a copy of any Real Property ACP Notice submitted under paragraph (1) of this subsection.
(c)
A Real Property ACP Notice applies to:
(1)
The instrument submitted for recordation at the same time as the Real Property ACP Notice; and
(2)
Any other instrument concerning the property identified in the Real Property ACP Notice that is subsequently presented for recordation during the period of time that the program participant holds a record interest in the property and is a program participant.
(d)
A program participant shall use a separate Real Property ACP Notice for each property in which the program participant acquires an ownership interest.
(e)
The clerk of the circuit court shall provide a copy of any Real Property ACP Notice received under this section to the State Department of Assessments and Taxation and the State Archives.
(f)
A Real Property ACP Notice is not a public record within the meaning of § 4–101 of the General Provisions Article.
(g)
If a program participant intends to request the shielding of real property records under this section, the program participant may not submit any instrument for recordation electronically.
Md. Code Ann., Real Prop. § 3-116 (2026)
Title 3. Recordation
Subtitle 1. General Rules and Exceptions
§ 3–116LinkCopy Citation
(a)
Except as provided in subsections (b) and (c) of this section, a clerk of the circuit court and any State or local agency that receives a Real Property ACP Notice under § 3–115 of this subtitle may not disclose the program participant’s identity information in conjunction with the property identified in the notice.
(b)
A program participant’s identity information may be disclosed in conjunction with a property identified in a Real Property ACP Notice if:
(1)
The program participant consents to the disclosure for a specific purpose identified in a writing acknowledged by the program participant;
(2)
The information is subject to disclosure in accordance with a court order; or
(3)
The Secretary authorizes the disclosure in accordance with § 3–118 of this subtitle.
(c)
The prohibition on disclosure shall continue until:
(1)
The program participant consents to the termination of the Real Property ACP Notice in a writing acknowledged by the program participant;
(2)
The Real Property ACP Notice is terminated in accordance with a court order;
(3)
The program participant no longer holds a record interest in the property identified in the Real Property ACP Notice; or
(4)
The Secretary gives written notice to the clerk of the circuit court that the individual named in the Real Property ACP Notice is no longer a program participant.
Md. Code Ann., Real Prop. § 3-117 (2026)
Title 3. Recordation
Subtitle 1. General Rules and Exceptions
§ 3–117LinkCopy Citation
(a)
(1)
The clerks of the circuit courts, in conjunction with the Administrative Office of the Courts, shall establish uniform statewide procedures for recording deeds and other instruments to comply with this part.
(2)
The procedures shall, at a minimum, include provisions for:
(i)
Shielding recorded instruments that contain a program participant’s actual address or identity information; and
(ii)
Providing notice to the public of the existence of a shielded instrument and instructions for requesting access to the shielded instrument in accordance with § 3–118 of this subtitle.
(3)
Nothing in this section may be interpreted to prohibit a clerk of the circuit court from returning an original deed or any other instrument to the person who submitted the instrument for recordation.
(b)
All State and local agencies, including the State Department of Assessments and Taxation and all county, bicounty, municipal, and special taxing district finance offices, shall establish uniform procedures for maintaining records, including tax, utility, and zoning records, in accordance with this part.
Md. Code Ann., Real Prop. § 3-118 (2026)
Title 3. Recordation
Subtitle 1. General Rules and Exceptions
§ 3–118LinkCopy Citation
(a)
On request, the Secretary may authorize the disclosure of real property records that have been shielded under § 3–116 of this subtitle for the purpose of performing a bona fide title examination.
(b)
A request under this section shall include:
(1)
The name, title, address, and affiliated organization, if applicable, of the individual requesting the disclosure;
(2)
The individual’s purpose for requesting the disclosure;
(3)
The individual’s relationship, if any, to the program participant;
(4)
A legal description of the property subject to the title examination;
(5)
A statement that any information disclosed to the individual shall be treated as confidential and shall be used and disclosed only for the purpose identified in the request;
(6)
The individual’s signature; and
(7)
Any other information required by the Secretary to respond to the request.
(c)
(1)
Within 2 business days after receiving a request under this section, the Secretary shall provide a written response approving or denying the request.
(2)
The Secretary shall approve the request only if the Secretary confirms that the property subject to the title examination is the property identified in the Real Property ACP Notice of a current program participant.
(3)
If the property belongs to an individual who is no longer a program participant:
(i)
The Secretary shall give written notice to the clerk of the appropriate circuit court and the State Archives; and
(ii)
The clerk and the State Archives shall cease shielding all real property records relating to the property.
Md. Code Ann., Real Prop. § 3-119 (2026)
Title 3. Recordation
Subtitle 1. General Rules and Exceptions
§ 3–119LinkCopy Citation
(a)
Nothing in this part may be interpreted to require:
(1)
The Secretary to identify other agencies that may possess information on a program participant; or
(2)
The clerk of a circuit court or any State or local agency to independently determine whether the clerk or agency maintains information on a program participant.
(b)
Nothing in this part may be interpreted to prohibit the clerk of a circuit court or any State or local agency from sharing a program participant’s information with the Secretary for the purpose of facilitating compliance with this part.
Md. Code Ann., Real Prop. § 3-120 (2026)
Title 3. Recordation
Subtitle 1. General Rules and Exceptions
§ 3–120LinkCopy Citation
The Secretary shall adopt regulations to carry out this part.