Maryland alcohol laws
What Maryland has enacted on alcohol, what each law requires, and what the bills still moving would do. Maryland is one of 47 states that enacted an alcohol law in the 2025 and 2026 sessions.
9 new Maryland laws take effect in 2027
- Bills in scope
- 142bills in scope
- Past committee
- 114past committee
- Most recent action
- 26 May 2026most recent action
Alcohol laws enacted in Maryland
105 alcohol laws enacted in the Maryland Legislature in the 2025 and 2026 sessions, newest first. Each links to the legislature's own page.
- HB 1101Worcester County - Alcoholic Beverages - Temporary To-Go Event Permit and Class C Per Diem Municipal To-Go Beer, Wine, and Liquor LicenseTook effect 1 July 2026
What it requires: The Board of License Commissioners for Worcester County may issue temporary to-go event permits to holders of Class B or Class D licenses located within or immediately adjacent to special event areas designated by Class C per diem municipal to-go licenses. The Board must adopt regulations governing permit issuance, special event area designation, hours of sale, age verification, to-go cup specifications, and public hearing requirements.
Direct-to-consumer shipping and delivery, Licensing and retail permits
What it requires: Holders of Class 3 winery or Class 4 limited winery licenses may obtain a special event permit to sell beer, wine, sparkling wine, and liquor at private events. Permit holders must notify the Board 7 days before events, supply service personnel at all times, keep purchase receipts for 1 year, and limit permit use to 32 times annually. Applicants for alcoholic beverages licenses must disclose citizenship status or immigration compliance.
Licensing and retail permits
- HB 121Baltimore County - Alcoholic Beverages - Sale for Off-Premises ConsumptionTook effect 1 July 2026
What it requires: The Board of License Commissioners for Baltimore County must adopt regulations authorizing off-premises sale of alcoholic beverages before this section applies. Class B and Class D license holders may obtain a permit to sell mixed drinks or cocktails in sealed containers for off-premises consumption only with prepared food, to purchasers age 21 or older with valid identification, and only before 11 p.m.
Licensing and retail permits
- HB 1286Anne Arundel County - Alcoholic Beverages - Barbershop and Beauty Salon LicenseTook effect 1 July 2026
What it requires: A holder of a barbershop and beauty salon license in Anne Arundel County may provide not more than 12 ounces of beer, 5 ounces of wine by the glass, or 1.7 ounces of liquor for on-premises consumption to customers during barbering or cosmetology services or fund-raising events, but not later than 9 p.m. during normal business hours.
Licensing and retail permits
What it requires: Holders of Class A beer and light wine licenses or Class A beer, wine, and liquor licenses must present to the Board by March 30 annually a certificate from the Director of Finance showing all personal property taxes due to Baltimore City or the State are paid.
Licensing and retail permits
- HB 1474Baltimore County - Alcoholic Beverages Licenses - Transfers and ConversionsTook effect 1 July 2026
What it requires: The Board of License Commissioners for Baltimore County may approve transfers of Class B or Class D licenses from eligible transferor districts to other election districts between June 1, 2025 and May 31, 2028, subject to limits of five total licenses and two per receiving district. The Board shall convert transferred Class D licenses to Class B licenses.
Licensing and retail permits
- HB 1526Carroll County - Alcoholic Beverages - Class 1 Distillery On-Premises Consumption PermitTook effect 1 July 2026
What it requires: The Board of License Commissioners for Carroll County may issue a Class 1 distillery on-site consumption permit to holders of a Class 1 distillery license. Permit holders must comply with alcohol awareness requirements under section 4-505, abide by applicable trade practice restrictions, obtain Carroll County Health Department approval for food and nonalcoholic beverage service, and use no more than 7,750 gallons annually of self-produced liquor for mixed drinks.
Licensing and retail permits
What it does: Extends the expiration date of a racetrack license for premises at 5200 Park Heights Avenue in Baltimore City until July 1, 2029, to allow completion of ownership transfer, renewal, and renovations. The extension expires July 31, 2029.
Licensing and retail permits
- HB 406Prince George's County - Alcoholic Beverages - Multiple Licenses Prohibition - Exceptions PG 313-26Took effect 1 July 2026
What it does: Adds Class B (on-sale) beer and wine licenses and Class B (on-sale) beer, wine, and liquor licenses to the exceptions allowing multiple licenses for the same person or premises in Prince George's County. Effective July 1, 2026.
Licensing and retail permits
- HB 443Prince George's County - Alcoholic Beverages - Class B-SEC (Small Event Center) License PG 312-26Took effect 1 July 2026
What it requires: The Board of License Commissioners for Prince George's County may issue Class B-SEC licenses to small event centers meeting specified requirements: kitchen and dining facilities accommodating 75 to 125 individuals, minimum capital investment or appraised value of $350,000 to $500,000 for facilities and equipment, and food available during event hours. The Board may issue no more than 24 licenses per license year and no more than 3 licenses per state legislative district at any one time.
Licensing and retail permits
What it requires: A gift basket permit holder whose primary business is selling and delivering flowers may sell and deliver gift baskets containing up to 72 ounces of beer, 2.25 liters of wine, or 2.25 liters of liquor to consumers of legal drinking age. The permit holder or employee must verify the recipient is at least 21 years old and the deliverer must be at least 21 years old. Annual alcoholic beverage sales may not exceed 10% of annual gross sales.
Licensing and retail permits
What it requires: License holders in Anne Arundel County seeking to provide entertainment beyond piped-in background music or one television screen must obtain a permit from the Board. Permit holders must comply with restrictions on entertainment types and, if entertainment occurs outside, must maintain at least 100 feet distance from residentially zoned property.
Licensing and retail permits
- HB 522Anne Arundel County - Alcoholic Beverages Licenses - Class C Per Diem License FeesTook effect 1 July 2026
What it requires: The Board of License Commissioners for Anne Arundel County must alter the license fee structure for Class C per diem beer, beer and wine, and beer, wine, and liquor licenses. For events with fewer than 500 individuals, fees are $25 per day for beer or beer and wine licenses and $50 per day for beer, wine, and liquor licenses. For events with 500 or more individuals, fees are $25 per point of sale location per day for beer or beer and wine licenses and $50 per point of sale location per day for beer, wine, and liquor licenses.
Licensing and retail permits, Excise taxes and fees
- HB 558Prince George's County - Alcoholic Beverages - Wine Festival Licenses PG 316-26Took effect 1 July 2026
What it requires: The Board of License Commissioners for Prince George's County may issue wine festival licenses to holders of retail licenses, Class 3 winery licenses, or Class 4 limited winery licenses. License holders must display and sell wine manufactured and processed in any state and distributed in Maryland during designated hours and days. The Board must choose locations not in the 24th Legislative District and ensure the primary focus is promotion of Maryland wine.
Licensing and retail permits
- HB 583Prince George’s County – Alcoholic Beverages – Notice of Issuance of Class C Per Diem Beer, Wine, and Liquor License PG 319–26Took effect 1 July 2026
What it requires: When the Board of License Commissioners for Prince George's County issues a Class C per diem beer, wine, and liquor license, the Board shall provide notice of the event to the County Police Chief, County Fire Chief, Department of Permitting, Inspections, and Enforcement, and if applicable, the chief administrative officer of the municipality where the event is held. The notice shall include the time, place, and expected size of the event.
Licensing and retail permits
What it requires: The Board of License Commissioners for Cecil County may not issue Class A alcoholic beverages licenses exceeding 1 for every 2,000 registered voters or major fraction in the county, except the Board must issue not fewer than 2 Class A licenses in each election district. The quota applies separately to each election district.
Licensing and retail permits
- HB 682Anne Arundel County – Alcoholic Beverages – Golf Course License and Sports Activity Venue LicensesTook effect 1 July 2026
What it requires: The Board may issue a Class C GC license to golf courses with at least nine holes authorizing sale of beer, wine, and liquor for on-premises consumption Monday through Sunday from 6 a.m. to 2 a.m. The Board may issue sports activity venue licenses to owners or operators of commercial recreational facilities authorizing sale of beer and wine or beer, wine, and liquor for on-premises consumption, with license holders required to maintain food items, certify employees in alcohol awareness training, and implement written policies monitoring service to active participants.
Licensing and retail permits
- HB 727Anne Arundel County - Alcoholic Beverages - Class C (Veterans' Organization) Licenses - MembershipTook effect 1 July 2026
What it requires: The Board shall issue a Class C (veterans' organization) license to a local unit of a nationwide nonprofit organization or club composed only of members who served in the Uniformed Services, with a national charter granted before application, at least 100 members paying at least $5 annual dues, and a clubhouse principally for members. The license authorizes retail sale of beer, wine, and liquor for on-premises consumption by members and guests.
Licensing and retail permits
- HB 754Wicomico County - Alcoholic Beverages - Class B (Golf Course) License - Hours of SaleTook effect 1 July 2026
What it requires: A holder of a Class B beer, wine, and liquor (golf course) license in Wicomico County may sell beer, wine, and liquor for consumption on golf course land and buildings from 7 A.M. to 2 A.M. the following day Monday through Saturday, and from 7 A.M. to midnight on Sunday.
Licensing and retail permits
What it requires: The Governor shall appoint five members to the Board of License Commissioners for Anne Arundel County from a list of individuals recommended by the county's House and Senate delegations, with advice and consent of the Senate. Board members must be county residents and voters of high character and integrity. No more than three members may belong to the same political party, and no more than two may reside in the same state legislative district. The Board shall adopt and publish a written policy on conflicts of interest and member recusal.
Licensing and retail permits
What it requires: The Governor shall appoint five members to the Board of License Commissioners for Worcester County, subject to advice and consent of the Senate. Each member must be a resident and voter of the county and an individual of high character and integrity with recognized business capacity. Member terms are four years and staggered.
Licensing and retail permits
- HB 991Harford County - Alcoholic Beverages - Class HC (Health Club) License - Hours of SaleTook effect 1 July 2026
What it requires: Holders of a Class HC (health club) beer and wine license in Harford County may sell beer and wine for on-premises consumption from 1 p.m. to 11 P.M. The Board may issue either a 6-day license (Monday through Saturday) or a 7-day license (Monday through Sunday) to persons operating health club facilities with specified amenities and membership requirements.
Licensing and retail permits
- HB 998Baltimore City – Alcoholic Beverages – 46th Alcoholic Beverages DistrictTook effect 1 June 2026
What it requires: The Board of License Commissioners for Baltimore City must establish a standard template for memoranda of understanding between alcoholic beverage license applicants and neighborhood associations by January 1, 2027. The Board may issue Class 7 micro-brewery licenses to Class B-D-7 license holders in the 46th district with Ridgely's Delight Association support and may authorize Class B-D-7 license transfers from the 40th to 46th district.
Licensing and retail permits
What it requires: Holders of a Class 9 limited distillery license may manufacture, rectify, or bottle more than one brand of alcoholic beverage and may manufacture or rectify up to 31,000 gallons each calendar year of product for any other brand or entity. Holders must not distill, rectify, bottle, or sell more than 100,000 gallons of brandy, rum, whiskey, alcohol, and neutral spirits each calendar year.
Licensing and retail permits
What it requires: License holders are entitled to refunds of unearned license fees upon surrender in specified circumstances, including death, service in uniformed services or organized state militia, receivership or bankruptcy, license class upgrades, revocation after guilty findings, judicial reversal of license issuance, or taking of premises by government.
Excise taxes and fees
What it requires: The Governor shall appoint five members to the Board of License Commissioners for Anne Arundel County from a list of individuals recommended by the county's House and Senate delegations. Board members must be county residents and voters of high character, integrity, and recognized business capacity. No more than three members may belong to the same political party, and no more than two may reside in the same state legislative district. The Board shall adopt and publish a written policy addressing conflicts of interest and member recusal.
Licensing and retail permits
What it requires: License holders in Anne Arundel County seeking to provide entertainment must obtain permits from the Board. A Background Entertainment permit authorizes recorded or piped-in background music and multiple televisions. A General Entertainment permit authorizes live music with not more than four musicians, karaoke, and disc jockey music, but if outside entertainment occurs, the area must be at least 100 feet from residentially zoned property. A Full Entertainment permit authorizes a permanent dance floor, stage area, floor shows, and other legal entertainment forms, with the same 100-foot setback requirement for outside entertainment.
Licensing and retail permits
- SB 414Anne Arundel County - Alcoholic Beverages - Consumption-Only Nonprofit Swim Club LicenseTook effect 1 July 2026
What it requires: The Board of License Commissioners for Anne Arundel County may issue a consumption-only nonprofit swim club license to a nonprofit swim club. The license holder must provide notice to the Board at least 10 days prior to a designated event where alcohol will be consumed. The license authorizes consumption of beer, wine, and liquor up to 5 days per year in a designated area from 2 P.M. to 10 P.M.
Licensing and retail permits
- SB 441Anne Arundel County - Alcoholic Beverages - Golf Course License and Sports Activity Venue LicensesTook effect 1 July 2026
What it requires: The Board may issue a Class C GC license authorizing golf course holders to sell beer, wine, and liquor for on-premises consumption at golf courses with at least nine holes. The Board may issue sports activity venue licenses authorizing owners or operators of commercial recreational facilities to sell beer and wine or beer, wine, and liquor for on-premises consumption. Sports activity venue license holders must maintain prepared food, require alcohol-certified employees, implement written service policies, and obtain crowd control training if occupant load exceeds 50 persons.
Licensing and retail permits
- SB 442Anne Arundel County - Population Ratio Quota for Class A (Off-Sale) and Class D (Off-Sale) Licenses - ExemptionTook effect 1 July 2026
What it requires: The Board may not issue a Class A (off-sale) or Class D (off-sale) license in Anne Arundel County if the ratio of off-sale licenses per individual in the assessment district exceeds one for every 3,500 individuals, except for transfers or renewals of licenses issued on or before July 1, 2025, applications in the 6th tax assessment district, brewery on-site consumption permits, or applications filed on or after January 1, 2023 and approved before July 1, 2025.
Licensing and retail permits
What it requires: Holders of Class A beer and light wine licenses or Class A beer, wine, and liquor licenses must present to the Board by March 30 annually a certificate from the Director of Finance showing all personal property taxes due to Baltimore City or the State are paid. The deadline for paying supplementary fees to exercise Sunday sales privileges between Thanksgiving and New Year's Day is removed.
Licensing and retail permits
- SB 642Baltimore City - Alcoholic Beverages - 46th Alcoholic Beverages DistrictTook effect 1 June 2026
What it requires: The Board of License Commissioners for Baltimore City may authorize transfer of a Class B-D-7 license from the 700 block of Washington Boulevard in the 40th alcoholic beverages district to the 200 block of South High Street in the 46th district. A licensed establishment on the south side of the unit block of West Pratt Street may allow consumption of alcoholic beverages donated by a manufacturer or wholesaler at nonprofit-rented events if the licensee provides nonprofit status evidence, serves the alcohol, remits taxes, and keeps alcohol only under a single rental contract.
Licensing and retail permits
- SB 684Harford County - Alcoholic Beverages - Class HC (Health Club) License - Hours of SaleTook effect 1 July 2026
What it requires: Holders of a Class HC (health club) beer and wine license in Harford County may sell beer and wine for on-premises consumption from 1 p.m. to 11 P.M. The Board may issue 6-day or 7-day licenses to persons selling health club services with specified facilities and membership requirements.
Licensing and retail permits
- SB 700Wicomico County - Alcoholic Beverages - Class B (Golf Course) License - Hours of SaleTook effect 1 July 2026
What it requires: Holders of a Class B beer, wine, and liquor (golf course) license in Wicomico County may sell alcoholic beverages on Monday through Saturday from 7 A.M. to 2 a.m. the following day, and on Sunday from 7 A.M. to midnight. Sales are limited to consumption on golf course land and buildings used for golfing purposes.
Licensing and retail permits
What it requires: Holders of Class 3 winery or Class 4 limited winery licenses with special event permits must notify the Board at least 7 days before events, supply service personnel including bartenders and wait staff present at all times, keep purchase receipts for 1 year, and purchase beer and liquor from licensed county retailers. Local caterers must ensure food sales represent at least 70% of total event cost and supply service personnel present throughout catered events.
Licensing and retail permits
- SB 803Alcoholic Beverages - Class 3 Wineries and Class 4 Limited Wineries - AlterationsTook effect 1 July 2026
What it requires: Holders of Class 4 limited winery licenses must report all pomace brandy distilled and bottled as a distilled spirit in accordance with Title 5 of the Tax-General Article. Holders of Class 3 winery licenses may acquire bulk wine from Class 4 limited winery license holders. Holders of Class 4 limited winery licenses may sell and deliver bulk wine to Class 3 winery license holders.
Licensing and retail permits
What it requires: Holders of Class 8 farm brewery licenses and Class 10 farm distillery licenses must engage in agritourism by exposing the public to farming and value-added farming practices. Distilled spirits must be manufactured with Maryland agricultural products produced on the licensed farm. Class 10 farm distillery license holders may not distill, rectify, bottle, or sell more than 100,000 gallons annually.
Licensing and retail permits
- SB 852Anne Arundel County – Alcoholic Beverages – Barbershop and Beauty Salon LicenseTook effect 1 July 2026
What it requires: A holder of a barbershop and beauty salon license in Anne Arundel County may provide alcoholic beverages for on-premises consumption: not more than 12 ounces of beer, 5 ounces of wine by the glass, or 1.7 ounces of liquor per customer visit during barbering or cosmetology services or fund-raising events, served during normal business hours but not later than 9 p.m.
Licensing and retail permits
What it requires: The Board of License Commissioners for Cecil County may not issue a number of Class A alcoholic beverages licenses that in the aggregate exceeds 1 for every 1,200 registered voters or major fraction in the county. The quota applies only to Class A licenses and is computed separately for each election district.
Licensing and retail permits
What it requires: A related event promoter or participating license holder must obtain a permit from the Board of License Commissioners for Baltimore City at least 30 days before conducting a related event. Applicants must obtain written consent from a Visit Baltimore designee, submit a notarized application signed by each participating license holder, and obtain a special event permit if required. State caterer's license holders must obtain a Class C per diem license before participating.
Licensing and retail permits
- SB 972Baltimore City - 40th Alcoholic Beverages District - Authorizations and RevisionsTook effect 1 July 2026
What it requires: The Board of License Commissioners for Baltimore City must issue Class B beer, wine, and liquor licenses for restaurants at specified locations in the 40th alcoholic beverages district upon satisfaction of conditions including memoranda of understanding with community associations and waiver of minimum seating requirements. License holders in designated areas of the 40th district must not begin alcoholic beverage sales before 10 a.m. or end after 10 p.m.
Licensing and retail permits
- HB 1523Alcohol, Tobacco, and Cannabis Commission - Unauthorized Consumable Products - Enforcement and SeizureTook effect 1 July 2026
What it requires: A retailer may not distribute, sell, expose for sale, or advertise for sale an unauthorized consumable product. The Executive Director may seize, confiscate, or destroy unauthorized consumable products and products labeled as containing kratom, tianeptine, phenibut, or related compounds. The Maryland Department of Health must notify the Alcohol, Tobacco, and Cannabis Commission within 30 days of changes to regulatory or approval status of these products.
Hemp and THC beverages
- SB 820Alcohol, Tobacco, and Cannabis Commission - Unauthorized Consumable Products - Enforcement and SeizureTook effect 1 July 2026
What it requires: Retailers may not distribute, sell, expose for sale, or advertise for sale unauthorized consumable products, which include tianeptine products, certain kratom products not complying with labeling requirements, certain phenibut products not complying with labeling requirements, and consumable products containing poisonous or deleterious substances designated by the Secretary of Health. The Maryland Department of Health must notify the Alcohol, Tobacco, and Cannabis Commission within 30 days after changes to regulatory or approval status of these products.
What it requires: A related event promoter or participating license holder must obtain a related event promoter's permit from the Board of License Commissioners for Baltimore City at least 30 days before the related event, including written consent from a designee of Visit Baltimore and a special event permit from the Baltimore City Department of Transportation if required. A holder of a State caterer's license must obtain a Class C per diem license before acting as a participating license holder at a related event.
Licensing and retail permits
What it requires: Holders of Class A licenses in Frederick County may obtain a beer and wine tasting permit or a beer, wine, and liquor tasting permit from the Board. Permit holders must limit individuals to tasting no more than 12 ounces of beer, 6 ounces of wine, or 1.5 ounces of liquor. Permit holders must not allow open containers to leave licensed premises or serve from drive-through windows.
Licensing and retail permits
- HB 1095Montgomery County - Alcoholic Beverages - Beauty Salon and Barbershop License MC 3-25Took effect 1 July 2025
What it requires: Holders of a beauty salon or barbershop permit in Montgomery County may obtain a license to provide beer, wine, and liquor for on-premises consumption. License holders must not provide more than 12 ounces of beer, 5 ounces of wine, or 1.7 ounces of liquor per customer during cosmetology or barbering services or fund-raising events, and must not serve after 9 p.m. License holders must comply with alcohol awareness training requirements.
Licensing and retail permits
- HB 1108Allegany County - Alcoholic Beverages - Minimum Age for Employment of Underage IndividualsTook effect 1 July 2025
What it requires: License holders in Allegany County that do not derive more than half their revenues from food sales must employ individuals aged 18 to 21 years only. License holders deriving more than half revenues from food sales may employ individuals aged 16 to 21 years. All individuals must be at least 18 years old to sell or serve beer, light wine, and liquor.
Underage sales and liability
- HB 1145Baltimore County - Alcoholic Beverages - Waiting Period After License DenialTook effect 1 July 2025
What it requires: In Baltimore County, if a license application for alcoholic beverages is denied, another application for the same location may not be made for 1 year after the denial. If a license application for a location is denied twice, a license may not be issued for that location for 2 years after the second denial.
Licensing and retail permits
What it requires: The Board of License Commissioners for Baltimore City must impose a fee of not more than $250 for expedited processing of per diem license applications submitted less than 2 weeks before the scheduled event. The Board must adopt regulations for Class C per diem license applications, including denial or revocation procedures and limits on licenses issued to one person for the same location within a calendar year. License holders in specified areas of the 40th alcoholic beverages district must not sell alcoholic beverages before 10 a.m. or after 10 p.m.
Licensing and retail permits
- HB 1174Montgomery County - Alcoholic Beverages - Class BD-BWL Licenses - Multiple Licenses MC 18-25Took effect 1 July 2025
What it requires: A holder of a Class BD-BWL license may hold up to two such licenses instead of one. If a person holds a second Class BD-BWL license, that second license authorizes sale of beer, wine, and liquor for on-premises consumption, and only private-label products manufactured exclusively for the holder for off-premises consumption.
Licensing and retail permits
What it requires: The Board of License Commissioners for Somerset County may issue a liquor tasting license to holders of a Class A beer, wine, and liquor license. License holders may allow consumption of liquor for tasting only if the holder is authorized to sell the liquor and the consumer is not charged. Individuals may consume not more than one-half ounce from each offering and not more than five offerings in one day.
Licensing and retail permits
- HB 1259Anne Arundel County - Alcoholic Beverages - License and Permit Distance RequirementsTook effect 1 July 2025
What it requires: The Board of Liquor Commissioners for Anne Arundel County may issue a dancing permit to holders of Class H licenses for premises within 1,000 feet of a school located at the Annapolis Mall. The Board may issue new Class B beer and wine or beer, wine, and liquor licenses for establishments within 1,000 feet of a school located at the Annapolis Mall.
Licensing and retail permits
- HB 1281Anne Arundel County - Alcoholic Beverages - Limited Special Event PermitTook effect 1 July 2025
What it requires: The Board of License Commissioners for Anne Arundel County may issue a limited cultural event permit to holders of Class B, BLX, C, D, or H alcoholic beverages licenses, authorizing them to provide cultural music, cultural dancing, and other legal forms of cultural entertainment for one day on a specific date stated in the permit application. The Board may require applicants to provide information on the planned cultural event, including the date and type of cultural entertainment.
Licensing and retail permits
- HB 1335Caroline County - Alcoholic Beverages - Special Event Venue License and Multiple Event LicensesTook effect 1 July 2025
What it requires: The Board of License Commissioners for Caroline County must issue rural special event venue beer, wine, and liquor licenses to owners of venues zoned as rural special event venues. Holders of multiple event licenses and rural special event venue licenses may store alcoholic beverages on licensed premises between events only in locked, secured locations and must maintain complete inventory records for 2 years.
Licensing and retail permits
What it requires: Holders of Class A or Class D licenses and their employees may deliver alcoholic beverages only within Howard County. Deliverers must be at least 21 years old. At delivery, both parties must endorse an approved form certifying the recipient claimed to be at least 21 with documentary evidence, knew it is criminal to give alcohol to those under 21, and the deliverer examined identification. Purchasers or a designated person at least 21 must be physically present and pay at time of order.
Direct-to-consumer shipping and delivery, Licensing and retail permits
- HB 1494Howard County - Alcoholic Beverages - Class MT (Movie Theater) LicenseTook effect 1 July 2025
What it requires: The Board of License Commissioners for Howard County may issue a Class MT (movie theater) beer, wine, and liquor license to the owner of a movie theater that holds a crowd control training certification. The license holder may sell beer, wine, and liquor at retail for on-premises consumption by patrons who have purchased a ticket to a current or future movie showing.
Licensing and retail permits
- HB 346Baltimore City - Alcoholic Beverages - 43rd Alcoholic Beverages District - Class B-D-7 LicensesTook effect 1 July 2025
What it requires: The Board of License Commissioners for Baltimore City may issue Class B-D-7 beer, wine, and liquor licenses in three specified locations in the 43rd alcoholic beverages district if applicants meet criteria including that average daily receipts from non-package goods sales are at least 51% of total daily receipts, applicants execute memoranda of understanding with the Greater Remington Improvement Association, and applicants do not create separate package goods departments.
Licensing and retail permits
- HB 472Baltimore City - Alcoholic Beverages - 45th Alcoholic Beverages District - LicensesTook effect 1 July 2025
What it requires: The Board of License Commissioners for Baltimore City may issue a Class C beer, wine, and liquor license in the 400 block of East Oliver Street in the 45th alcoholic beverages district only if the applicant does not convert the license to a different class, serves alcoholic beverages outdoors only to seated patrons or in a courtyard, prohibits off-premises sales, begins sales no earlier than 10 a.m., and executes a memorandum of understanding with the Greenmount West Community Association.
Licensing and retail permits
What it requires: The Board may not issue more than one Class A alcoholic beverages license for every 1,350 individuals in St. Mary's County election districts other than the 8th, or for every 4,000 individuals in the 8th election district. The Board may not approve transfers of such licenses between election districts if the transfer would exceed these quotas.
Licensing and retail permits
- HB 486St. Mary's County - Alcoholic Beverages - Civil Penalty for Sales ViolationsTook effect 1 July 2025
What it does: Increases the maximum civil penalty that the Board of License Commissioners for St. Mary's County may impose for violations of alcoholic beverage licensing laws from $1,000 to $2,500, effective July 1, 2025.
Underage sales and liability
- HB 512Frederick County - Barbershop and Beauty Salon Beer and Wine License - AlterationsTook effect 1 July 2025
What it requires: Holders of barbershop beer and wine licenses in Frederick County must provide no more than 6.5 ounces of wine by the glass or 12 ounces of beer for on-premises consumption to customers receiving barbershop services or attending fund-raising events. Holders of beauty salon beer and wine licenses must provide no more than 6.5 ounces of wine by the glass or 12 ounces of beer for on-premises consumption to customers receiving cosmetology services or attending fund-raising events. Both license holders may provide beer and wine only during normal business hours but not later than 9 p.m.
Licensing and retail permits
- HB 515Anne Arundel County - Alcoholic Beverages Licenses - Veterans' OrganizationsTook effect 1 July 2025
What it requires: The Board of License Commissioners for Anne Arundel County must issue Class C (veterans' organization) licenses to local units of nationwide nonprofit veterans' organizations meeting specified criteria. Holders of Class C beer, wine, and liquor licenses qualifying as veterans' organizations may convert to Class C (veterans' organization) licenses. The Board may provide application and administrative fee discounts to qualifying veterans' organizations.
Licensing and retail permits
- HB 564Dorchester County - Alcoholic Beverages - Venue Beer, Wine, and Liquor LicenseTook effect 1 July 2025
What it requires: The Board of License Commissioners for Dorchester County may issue a venue beer, wine, and liquor license to nonprofit or for-profit retail businesses hosting events at venues of at least 2,000 square feet that accommodate at least 100 individuals and have adequate bathrooms. License holders may sell or serve beer, wine, and liquor for on-premises consumption only during events where food is provided and may not allow individuals to carry beverages onto or off the premises.
Licensing and retail permits
What it requires: The Board of License Commissioners for Dorchester County must charge altered annual license fees for various alcoholic beverage licenses in Dorchester County, ranging from $150 to $1,250 depending on license class. The Board may charge nonrefundable application fees of $150 or $200 for new licenses and transfer fees of $50 per license transfer.
Excise taxes and fees
What it requires: The Board of License Commissioners for Dorchester County may issue an arts beer and wine license to nonprofit or for-profit retail businesses primarily devoted to art that display and sell original artwork in an approved arts and entertainment district. License holders may sell or serve beer and wine for on-premises consumption when snacks are served, Monday through Sunday between 10 a.m. and 10 p.m. The license may not be transferred to another location.
Licensing and retail permits
- HB 569Dorchester County - Alcoholic Beverages - Beer, Wine, and Liquor Tasting LicenseTook effect 1 July 2025
What it requires: Holders of a Class A license in Dorchester County who obtain a beer, wine, and liquor tasting license may conduct tastings of only those alcoholic beverages they are authorized to sell. Individuals may consume no more than 0.5 ounces per liquor offering and 1.5 ounces total per day. License holders must notify the Board in writing at least 7 days before each tasting event and properly dispose of opened containers at day's end.
Licensing and retail permits
What it requires: An outside group hosting an event at a Class C (veterans' organization) licensed premises must obtain a Class C per diem beer, wine, and liquor license from the Board of License Commissioners for Anne Arundel County. Holders of Class C (veterans' organization) licenses may sell alcoholic beverages during events to individuals attending, including non-members, with an event permit.
Licensing and retail permits
- HB 574St. Mary's County - Alcoholic Beverages Licenses - Multiple Licensing PlansTook effect 1 July 2025
What it requires: The Board of License Commissioners for St. Mary's County may issue not more than three Class B beer, wine, and liquor restaurant licenses to a person for separate premises, with only one authorizing off-premises alcohol sales. A person may not have direct or indirect interest in more than three such licenses, or more than one if it authorizes off-premises consumption.
Licensing and retail permits
- HB 655Wicomico County - Alcoholic Beverages - Temporary To-Go Event Permit and Class C Per Diem Municipal To-Go Beer, Wine, and Liquor LicenseTook effect 1 July 2025
What it requires: The Board of License Commissioners for Wicomico County may issue a temporary to-go event permit to holders of Class B beer, wine, and liquor licenses located within or immediately adjacent to special event areas. The Board may issue a Class C per diem municipal to-go beer, wine, and liquor license to municipalities. The Board must adopt regulations for both permits.
Direct-to-consumer shipping and delivery, Licensing and retail permits
What it requires: The Board of License Commissioners for Garrett County must adopt regulations for multiple new alcoholic beverage license classes including deluxe complex restaurant licenses, resort complex licenses, and festival licenses. The Board must hold hearings and publish notice at least 7 days before for certain festival license applications. Applicants must submit applications on Board-provided forms.
Licensing and retail permits
- HB 712Harford County - Alcoholic Beverages - Multiple Licenses - Golf Simulator FacilitiesTook effect 1 July 2025
What it requires: The Board of License Commissioners for Harford County may issue one Class GSF (golf simulator facility) license to a holder of one or more Class B licenses. A Class GSF license counts toward the maximum of nine Class B licenses that may be issued to the same person.
Licensing and retail permits
- HB 714Harford County - Alcoholic Beverages - Performing Arts Nonprofit Organization License - Record-Keeping RequirementsTook effect 1 July 2025
What it requires: A holder of a performing arts nonprofit organization beer, wine, and liquor license in Harford County must keep complete and accurate records of all alcoholic beverages sold, served, and purchased. Upon written request of the Board or Executive Director, the license holder must report information relating to those beverages on the required form and under oath if requested. Records must be kept at the designated location, preserved for at least 2 years, and made available for audit or inspection during regular business hours.
Licensing and retail permits
What it requires: The Board of License Commissioners for Harford County may not issue more than one Class A, Class A-1, or Class A-2 off-sale alcoholic beverages license for every 4,750 individuals in the county as specified by the Maryland Department of Health. The Board may not issue new licenses of a class if that class exceeds its quota unless existing licenses are reduced by revocation or surrender.
Licensing and retail permits
What it requires: The Board of License Commissioners for Baltimore County may approve transfers of Class B or Class D licenses existing on June 1, 2025, from eligible transferor districts to other election districts between June 1, 2025, and May 31, 2028, subject to limits of five total transfers and two transfers per receiving district. The Board must deny transfers if the license holder owns the property and has not demonstrated appropriate future use or if transfer causes significant negative economic impact.
Licensing and retail permits
What it requires: The Board of License Commissioners for Harford County must publish notice of license applications two times in two successive weeks either in one newspaper of general circulation or online at least 14 days before the hearing. For new licenses or upgrades, the Board must post a conspicuous exterior sign at least 12 by 18 inches for 20 days before the hearing. The Board must publish its decision in a newspaper or online.
Licensing and retail permits
What it requires: The Board of License Commissioners for Baltimore City must require a memorandum of understanding between a licensee and a community association within a bounded area in the 46th alcoholic beverages district before issuing or transferring an alcoholic beverages license. The Board may waive food sale requirements for certain restaurants and may extend license expiration dates for specific transfer purposes.
Licensing and retail permits
- HB 835Charles County - Alcoholic Beverages - Baseball Stadium License - AlterationsTook effect 1 July 2025
What it requires: License holders of Class B-Stadium beer, wine, and liquor licenses in Charles County must serve beer, wine, and liquor in plastic, paper, or other nonglass containers on stadium premises, except in enclosed dining areas where glass containers are permitted. Patrons may consume and carry beer, wine, and liquor anywhere on stadium premises excluding parking areas.
Licensing and retail permits
- HB 866Frederick County - Alcoholic Beverages - Class C (Theater) Beer, Wine, and Liquor LicenseTook effect 1 June 2025
What it requires: The Board of License Commissioners for Frederick County may issue a Class C (theater) beer, wine, and liquor license to theaters with seating. The license holder may sell beer, wine, and liquor for on-premises consumption from 1 hour before to 1 hour after regular performances, fund-raiser performances benefiting the theater, or events hosted by outside groups that have rented the theater.
Licensing and retail permits
- HB 987Baltimore County - Alcoholic Beverages - Class B-OB-CRD (Office Building - Commercial Revitalization District) Beer, Wine, and Liquor LicenseTook effect 1 July 2025
What it requires: The Board of License Commissioners for Baltimore County may issue no more than one Class B-OB-CRD beer, wine, and liquor license, only to a restaurant in the Towson Commercial Revitalization District located in an office building of at least 100,000 square feet with BM-D.T. zoning and at least 100 feet from a place of worship. Bar seating may not exceed 25% of total premises seating.
Licensing and retail permits
- HB 99Anne Arundel County - Class A (Off-Sale) and Class D (Off-Sale) Licenses - Population Ratio QuotaTook effect 1 July 2025
What it requires: The Board of License Commissioners for Anne Arundel County may not issue a Class A (off-sale) or Class D (off-sale) license if the establishment is located in an assessment district where the ratio of off-sale licenses per individual already exceeds one for every 4,000 individuals, or if issuance would cause that ratio to be exceeded. The Board may not approve transfers of such licenses to locations outside their original assessment district.
Licensing and retail permits
What it does: Extends the expiration date of a Class B-D-7 alcoholic beverages license for a premises on the 5700 block of Falls Road in Baltimore City until July 1, 2026, to allow completion of ownership transfer and renewal at that location.
Licensing and retail permits
- SB 1036Howard County – Alcoholic Beverages – Class D Licenses – Delivery Ho. Co. 21–25Took effect 1 July 2025
What it requires: Holders of Class A or Class D licenses and their employees may deliver alcoholic beverages only within Howard County. Deliverers and recipients must endorse an approved delivery form certifying the recipient is at least 21 years old with documentary evidence, knew it is criminal to give alcohol to those under 21, and had identification examined. Purchasers or a designated individual at least 21 years old must be physically present at delivery and pay at time of order.
Direct-to-consumer shipping and delivery, Licensing and retail permits
- SB 17Anne Arundel County - Alcoholic Beverages Licenses - Veterans' OrganizationsTook effect 1 July 2025
What it requires: Holders of a Class C beer, wine, and liquor license in Anne Arundel County that qualify as a veterans' organization may convert to a Class C (veterans' organization) license, which carries an annual fee of $300. Holders of Class C (veterans' organization) licenses may sell beer, wine, and liquor Monday through Sunday from 6 a.m. to 2 a.m. the following day without obtaining a separate Sunday license.
Licensing and retail permits
- SB 284Baltimore City - Alcoholic Beverages - Hours of Operation Violations - Civil PenaltiesTook effect 1 July 2025
What it requires: Holders of alcoholic beverages licenses in Baltimore City must not operate licensed premises outside specified hours of operation without first obtaining an exemption from the Board under Section 12-2007.
Licensing and retail permits
- SB 304Baltimore City - Alcoholic Beverages - 45th Alcoholic Beverages District - LicensesTook effect 1 July 2025
What it requires: The Board of License Commissioners for Baltimore City may issue a Class C beer, wine, and liquor license in the 400 block of East Oliver Street in the 45th alcoholic beverages district only if the applicant does not convert the license to a different class, serves alcoholic beverages outdoors only to seated patrons or those in a courtyard, prohibits off-premises sales, begins sales no earlier than 10 a.m., and executes a memorandum of understanding with the Greenmount West Community Association.
Licensing and retail permits
- SB 571Anne Arundel County - Class A (Off-Sale) and Class D (Off-Sale) Licenses - Population Ratio QuotaTook effect 1 July 2025
What it requires: The Board of License Commissioners for Anne Arundel County may not issue a Class A (off-sale) or Class D (off-sale) license if the establishment is located in an assessment district where the ratio of off-sale licenses per individual exceeds one for every 3,500 individuals, or if issuance would cause such a ratio to be exceeded. The Board may not approve transfers of these licenses outside their original assessment districts.
Licensing and retail permits
What it requires: Holders of Class A licenses in Frederick County may obtain a beer and wine tasting permit or a beer, wine, and liquor tasting permit from the Board. Permit holders must limit individuals to tasting 12 ounces of beer, 6 ounces of wine, or 1.5 ounces of liquor. Permit holders must prevent open containers from leaving licensed premises and may not serve from drive-through windows.
Licensing and retail permits
What it requires: The Board of License Commissioners for Baltimore City must require applicants for alcoholic beverages licenses in the area bounded by South Eden Street on the west, Bank Street on the north, South Spring Street on the east, and Eastern Avenue on the south to enter into a memorandum of understanding with a community association before issuing or transferring a license.
Licensing and retail permits
- SB 731Charles County - Alcoholic Beverages - Baseball Stadium License - AlterationsTook effect 1 July 2025
What it requires: The license holder of a Class B–Stadium beer, wine, and liquor license in Charles County must serve beer, wine, and liquor in plastic, paper, or other nonglass containers on stadium premises, except in enclosed dining areas where glass containers may be used. Patrons may consume and carry beer and wine anywhere on stadium premises excluding parking areas, but liquor consumption is restricted to enclosed dining areas or bars.
Licensing and retail permits
- SB 738Frederick County – Barbershop and Beauty Salon Beer and Wine License – AlterationsTook effect 1 July 2025
What it requires: Holders of barbershop beer and wine licenses in Frederick County must provide no more than 6.5 ounces of wine by the glass or 12 ounces of beer for on-premises consumption to barbershop customers. Holders of beauty salon beer and wine licenses must provide no more than 6.5 ounces of wine by the glass or 12 ounces of beer for on-premises consumption to beauty salon customers. Both license holders may provide beverages only during normal business hours but not later than 9 p.m.
Licensing and retail permits
What it requires: The Board of License Commissioners for Harford County must publish notice of proposed regulatory changes at least 2 consecutive weeks before public hearings in either a newspaper of general circulation or online. Before holding license application hearings, the Board must publish notice twice in 2 successive weeks in a newspaper or online at least 14 days before the hearing, post a conspicuous exterior sign for 20 days, and publish its decision in a newspaper or online.
Licensing and retail permits
- SB 745Harford County - Alcoholic Beverages - Performing Arts Nonprofit Organization License - Record-Keeping RequirementsTook effect 1 July 2025
What it requires: The holder of a performing arts nonprofit organization license in Harford County must keep complete and accurate records of all alcoholic beverages sold, served, and purchased, preserve records for at least 2 years, and report on written request of the Board or Executive Director.
Licensing and retail permits
- SB 746Harford County - Alcoholic Beverages - Multiple Licenses - Golf Simulator FacilitiesTook effect 1 July 2025
What it requires: The Board of License Commissioners for Harford County may issue one Class GSF (golf simulator facility) license to a holder of one or more Class B licenses. A Class GSF license counts toward the maximum of nine Class B licenses that may be issued to the same person.
Licensing and retail permits
- SB 788Baltimore City - Alcoholic Beverages - 43rd Alcoholic Beverages District - Class B-D-7 LicensesTook effect 1 July 2025
What it requires: The Board of License Commissioners for Baltimore City may issue Class B-D-7 beer, wine, and liquor licenses in three specified locations in the 43rd alcoholic beverages district if applicants meet criteria: average daily receipts from non-package goods sales are at least 51% of total daily receipts, applicants execute memoranda of understanding with the Greater Remington Improvement Association, and applicants do not create separate package goods departments.
Licensing and retail permits
What it requires: The Board of License Commissioners for Dorchester County may issue an arts beer and wine license to nonprofit or for-profit retail businesses that display and sell original artwork in an approved arts and entertainment district. License holders may sell or serve beer and wine for on-premises consumption when snacks are served, Monday through Sunday between 10 a.m. and 10 p.m. The Board may not issue licenses to businesses selling commercially prepared or mass-produced artistic products.
Licensing and retail permits
- SB 802Dorchester County - Alcoholic Beverages - Venue Beer, Wine, and Liquor LicenseTook effect 1 July 2025
What it requires: The Board of License Commissioners for Dorchester County may issue a venue beer, wine, and liquor license to a nonprofit or for-profit retail business that hosts events at a venue meeting specified criteria. License holders may sell or serve beer, wine, and liquor for on-premises consumption only during events where food is provided and must prohibit individuals from carrying beverages onto or off the licensed premises.
Licensing and retail permits
What it requires: The Board of License Commissioners for Garrett County must issue beer and wine licenses, beer, wine, and liquor licenses, and resort complex licenses to qualifying restaurants and resort complexes meeting specified seating and capital investment requirements. The Board must hold hearings and publish notice at least 7 days before hearings for festival license applications. Applicants must submit applications on Board-provided forms.
Licensing and retail permits
What it requires: The Board of License Commissioners for Dorchester County must charge altered annual license fees for various alcoholic beverage licenses, ranging from $150 to $1,250 depending on license class. The Board may charge nonrefundable application fees of $150 or $200 for new licenses and transfer fees of $50 per license transfer.
Excise taxes and fees
- SB 888Anne Arundel County - Alcoholic Beverages - License and Permit Distance RequirementsTook effect 1 July 2025
What it requires: The Board of Liquor Commissioners for Anne Arundel County may issue a dancing permit to holders of Class H beer and wine or beer, wine, and liquor on-sale licenses whose premises are within 1,000 feet of a school located at the Annapolis Mall. The Board may issue new Class B beer and wine or beer, wine, and liquor on-sale licenses for establishments within 1,000 feet of a school located at the Annapolis Mall.
Licensing and retail permits
- SB 910Caroline County - Alcoholic Beverages - Special Event Venue License and Multiple Event LicensesTook effect 1 July 2025
What it requires: Holders of a rural special event venue beer, wine, and liquor license or multiple event license must store alcoholic beverages in a locked and secured location between events, keep complete and accurate records of all beverages purchased and sold for two years on premises, and complete pre- and post-inventory for each event.
Licensing and retail permits
What it requires: The Board of License Commissioners for Baltimore City must impose a fee of not more than $250 for expedited processing of per diem license applications submitted less than 2 weeks before the scheduled event. The Board must adopt regulations for Class C per diem licenses authorizing denial, revocation, or limiting licenses issued to a person for the same location within a calendar year. License holders in specified areas of the 40th alcoholic beverages district must not sell alcoholic beverages before 10 a.m. or after 10 p.m.
Licensing and retail permits
What it requires: The Board of License Commissioners for Baltimore County may approve a change of location for an alcoholic beverages license issued under section 13-1404 if the license holder has engaged in an active alcoholic beverages business for at least 1 year, or if the license was originally issued within the same election district and has been at the same location for at least 10 years.
Licensing and retail permits
What it requires: Holders of a Class 5 brewery license with a Class D beer license or equivalent license may sell beer brewed at locations other than the Class 5 brewery for on-premises consumption, provided the number of barrels sold does not exceed the greater of 35% of total barrels sold for on-premises consumption in that calendar year or 1.2% of total finished production.
Licensing and retail permits
What it requires: Persons may not sell or distribute products containing tetrahydrocannabinol exceeding 0.5 milligrams per serving or 2.5 milligrams per package unless licensed and compliant with manufacturing, testing, and labeling standards. Persons may not sell or distribute products advertised as containing tetrahydrocannabinol that violate potency requirements. Distributors of delta-8 or delta-10 tetrahydrocannabinol may not sell to individuals under 21 years old and must employ age-verification mechanisms on websites.
What it requires: Persons may not sell or distribute products containing tetrahydrocannabinol that violate potency, packaging, or labeling requirements, or that are advertised as containing tetrahydrocannabinol in violation of those requirements. Persons may not sell or distribute such products to individuals under 21 years old. Websites selling delta-8 or delta-10 tetrahydrocannabinol must employ age-verification mechanisms.
Alcohol in Maryland, by topic
Licensing and retail permits
129 bills, 96 enacted. Enacted in 41 states.
Excise taxes and fees
6 bills, 4 enacted. Enacted in 19 states.
Direct-to-consumer shipping and delivery
5 bills, 4 enacted. Enacted in 12 states.
Underage sales and liability
2 bills, 2 enacted. Enacted in 16 states.
Hemp and THC beverages
2 bills, 1 enacted. Enacted in 9 states.
Three-tier, distribution and franchise
1 bill. Enacted in 23 states.
Alcohol bills in Maryland
The bills not yet law, furthest along first, with what each would do.
105Enacted
1Cleared both chambers
8Past committee
28Introduced or inactive
142 bills in scope
Cleared both chambers
1
What it would do: Increases the Anne Arundel County Board of License Commissioners from three to five members, requires members be selected from lists recommended by the county legislative delegation, prohibits more than two members from the same political party or legislative district, requires an ethics policy, mandates race and ethnicity data collection on applications while prohibiting its use in licensing decisions, and restructures penalty amounts for violations.
Past committee
8
What it would do: Changes the pay grade for the chief inspector employed by the Anne Arundel County Board of License Commissioners from NR-05 to NR-15 within the non-represented pay schedule, effective July 1, 2026.
What it would do: Increases application, license, permit, and license transfer fees for various classes of alcoholic beverage licenses and permits in Prince George's County, effective July 1, 2026.
What it would do: Establishes a Class AER (equity retail) beer, wine, and liquor license in Prince George's County for certified minority business enterprises located outside the Capital Beltway with minimum $200,000 capital investment and meaningful inventory of brands owned by socially and economically disadvantaged individuals, limited to 2 per year and 10 total licenses.
What it would do: Establishes a Class C–PCL (premium cigar lounge) alcoholic beverages license for tobacconists, allowing on-premises consumption of alcohol purchased by customers who also buy premium cigars or pipe tobacco. Permits unlicensed tobacconists to authorize customers to bring alcoholic beverages onto premises under specified conditions.
What it would do: Authorizes Class 3 winery license holders to acquire bulk wine from Class 4 limited winery license holders, and authorizes Class 4 limited winery license holders to sell and deliver bulk wine to Class 3 winery license holders.
What it would do: Repeals the requirement that applicants for certain alcoholic beverage licenses in Prince George's County be registered voters, while maintaining residency and taxpayer requirements where applicable.
What it would do: Prohibits Wicomico County from issuing new Class A beer, wine, and liquor licenses to Class B license holders after July 1, 2026, limits issuance to one license per county councilmanic district, and requires license holders to purchase liquor only from county dispensaries rather than wholesalers.
What it would do: Requires the Montgomery County Board of License Commissioners to adopt regulations gathering information about the number and location of off-premises alcoholic beverage retail establishments and to consider the density's impact on public health and safety when issuing or renewing licenses.
Introduced or inactive
16 of 28 shown
What it would do: Authorizes Class 1 wholesalers to distribute cannabinoid beverages to off-premises alcohol retailers with a new permit, allows local licensing boards to issue such permits, exempts these cannabinoid beverage sales from sales and use tax, and directs collected tax revenue to the General Fund.
What it would do: Prohibits the Board of License Commissioners for Prince George's County from approving the transfer or sale of a Class A beer, wine, and liquor license. Requires license holders to return the license to the Board if it expires or they no longer wish to hold it, and prohibits the Board from reissuing returned licenses.
What it would do: Establishes a manufacturer's limited beer, wine, and liquor permit in Baltimore County that allows holders of Class 5 brewery licenses with on-site consumption permits to contract with licensed caterers to serve non-manufactured sealed beer, wine, and liquor at private events, subject to Board approval and regulations.
What it would do: Alters notice requirements for alcoholic beverage license applications in Prince George's County by replacing newspaper publication with notices on the Board's website, social media, and email, while maintaining the 30-day advance notice period and conspicuous posting requirement at the application location.
What it would do: Repeals the limit of 215 Class B beer, wine, and liquor licenses that the Board of License Commissioners for Prince George's County may issue, allowing unlimited issuance of such licenses.
What it would do: Allows food retailers, pharmacies, and retail service stations located within 3,000 feet of a Class A license holder to purchase that license or apply to a local licensing board for a Class A beer or wine license, subject to distance requirements from places of worship, schools, and residential properties.
What it would do: Authorizes the Board of License Commissioners for Prince George's County to issue Class A beer or Class A beer and wine licenses for retail grocery establishments located inside the Capital Beltway that meet specified criteria, and exempts such licenses from the prohibition on issuing multiple licenses to one person or entity.
What it would do: Specifies that the inspector for the Board of License Commissioners for Caroline County is either the county codes administrator or an individual the Board appoints as inspector, and requires the Board to specify the inspector's duties including administration and enforcement of county alcoholic beverages laws.
What it would do: Prohibits the Wicomico County Board of License Commissioners from issuing Class A beer, wine, and liquor licenses to establishments with more than 3,500 square feet of retail floor space, limits one license per councilmanic district and three total in the county, and restricts new licenses to Class B license holders before July 1, 2026.
What it would do: Establishes a Class L beer, wine, and liquor license that local licensing boards may issue to holders of manufacturer's licenses, authorizing them to sell beer, wine, and liquor for on-premises consumption and provide free samples, with an annual fee of $250 and hours matching the underlying manufacturer's license.
What it would do: Establishes a Class C-PCL premium cigar lounge alcoholic beverages license allowing customers to consume their own alcohol while purchasing cigars or pipe tobacco. Prohibits tobacconist licenses adjacent to health care or child care facilities and exempts licensed lounges from Clean Indoor Air Act requirements.
What it would do: Establishes a Class L beer, wine, and liquor permit in Frederick County that the Board of License Commissioners may issue to holders of a manufacturer's license who also hold a Class DBR brewery license or Class DDS distillery permit, authorizing on-premises sales by the glass and limited free tastings.
What it would do: Allows food retailers located within 3,000 feet of a Class A license holder to offer to purchase that license at fair market value, or if rejected, to apply to a local licensing board for a Class A beer or beer and wine license, which is presumed in the community's best interest.
What it would do: Establishes a Class 1 distillery on-premises consumption permit in Carroll County that authorizes holders of Class 1 distillery licenses to sell food, nonalcoholic beverages, and distilled spirits for on-premises consumption, subject to Carroll County Health Department approval for food and beverages.
What it would do: Establishes a new alcoholic beverage tax category for ready-to-drink cocktails defined as distilled spirits mixed with nonalcoholic beverages, 12% or less alcohol by volume, in containers not exceeding 16 ounces, taxed at 60 cents per gallon or 15.85 cents per liter, effective July 1, 2026.
What it would do: Repeals the prohibition on boards of license commissioners from issuing Class A alcoholic beverages licenses to chain stores, supermarkets, and discount houses, while maintaining the prohibition for Class B and Class D licenses.
Showing the 25 furthest along of 37. Subscribers see all of them, filtered and searchable. Bill titles link to the Maryland Legislature's own page.
What counts as alcohol legislation
In scope: Direct-to-consumer shipping and delivery; three-tier, distribution and franchise; licensing and retail permits; excise taxes and fees; hemp and THC beverages; and underage sales and liability.
Questions
Does Maryland have an alcohol law?
Yes. Maryland enacted 105 alcohol laws in the 2025 and 2026 sessions, among them HB 1101, HB 1203 and HB 121. Each is listed on this page with what it requires.
When do Maryland's alcohol laws take effect?
HB 1101 on 1 July 2026, HB 1203 on 1 July 2026, HB 121 on 1 July 2026, HB 1286 on 1 July 2026 and HB 1425 on 1 July 2026. The others have no single date in their text.
Which alcohol bills are moving in Maryland?
9 bills not yet law have passed a committee or a chamber, the furthest along SB 972 (vetoed), HB 339 (passed chamber) and HB 611 (passed chamber).
What does Maryland legislate on most in alcohol?
Licensing and retail permits (129 bills), Excise taxes and fees (6 bills) and Direct-to-consumer shipping and delivery (5 bills).
Are these summaries reviewed by a lawyer?
No. Which bills count as Alcohol bills, and the line on what each law requires or each bill would do, are drafted by software from the bill's own text and not reviewed by an attorney. Every bill links to the legislature's own record: read the text before relying on it. The list covers bills from the 2025 and 2026 sessions.
Other practice areas in Maryland
- AI in Maryland58
- Cannabis in Maryland55
- Children's Online Safety in Maryland11
- Cybersecurity in Maryland28
- Data center and energy in Maryland21
- Data Privacy in Maryland40
- Employment in Maryland155
- Healthcare in Maryland335
- Insurance in Maryland208
- Intellectual Property in Maryland12
- Packaging and PFAS in Maryland21
- Payments and fintech in Maryland16
- Rental housing in Maryland59
- Tobacco and nicotine in Maryland14
- Transportation in Maryland17
- All jurisdictions
Alcohol legislation in other jurisdictions
52 more currently hold bills in this tracker
- Massachusetts153
- New York118
- New Jersey114
- Mississippi56
- Montana53
- Texas49
- West Virginia48
- Oklahoma44
- Michigan39
- Pennsylvania38
- Iowa36
- Virginia33
- Illinois32
- Missouri32
- California31
- Hawaii30
- Rhode Island27
- South Carolina27
- Connecticut25
- Tennessee25
- Washington25
- Florida24
- Indiana24
- New Hampshire24
- Kentucky20
- Louisiana20
- Maine18
- Alabama17
- Arkansas16
- Delaware16
- Congress16
- Minnesota15
- North Carolina15
- Nebraska15
- Arizona14
- Georgia13
- Idaho13
- Vermont13
- Kansas11
- Colorado10
- New Mexico10
- Oregon10
- District of Columbia9
- Ohio9
- South Dakota9
- Alaska7
- North Dakota6
- Nevada6
- Utah6
- Wisconsin6
- Puerto Rico3
- Wyoming3
Know when Maryland's alcohol law changes
An alert when a bill moves, and one report a month on what changed in every state and Congress.