Maryland laws by category

Maryland requires a Wear and Carry Permit from the State Police to wear, carry or transport a handgun, openly or concealed, on your person or in a vehicle (Md. Code, Criminal Law 4-203). Exceptions may apply — read the full rule.

In Maryland, alcohol is mostly handled locally, and the state generally restricts alcohol sales in grocery and chain stores (Talbot County is the noted exception for grocery beer and wine). Exceptions may apply — read the full rule.

Radar detectors are legal in passenger vehicles — Maryland has no state ban on them.

In Maryland, Forest Service rules cover open air burning in or within 200 feet of woodland, or near flammable material that could carry fire to woodland, outside incorporated towns (COMAR 08.07.04). Exceptions may apply — read the full rule.

In Maryland, you need a freshwater fishing license from age 16. Licenses are issued by the Maryland Dept. of Natural Resources (MDNR).

Maryland's general sales and use tax rate is 6% (Tax–General § 11-104(a)), collected on a cents-per-dollar bracket schedule. Exceptions may apply — read the full rule.

Recreational cannabis is legal in Maryland for adults 21 and older (effective July 1, 2023), and a medical program also operates. It is regulated by the Maryland Cannabis Administration.

In Maryland, everyone who hunts any wildlife or accompanies, aids or assists a hunter must wear fluorescent orange or pink. Exceptions may apply — read the full rule.

Maryland sports betting is legal at licensed retail sportsbooks and through licensed online/mobile apps, regulated by Maryland Lottery and Gaming. You must be 21 or older and physically present in Maryland when you place a bet.

Maryland requires anyone born on or after July 1, 1972 to hold a Certificate of Boating Safety Education to operate any mechanically propelled vessel on Maryland waters.

Maryland bans selling, bartering, displaying or offering to sell a switchblade or spring-ejected shooting knife (Md. Crim. Law 4-105; up to 12 months and $500). Exceptions may apply — read the full rule.

Maryland has no drone-specific privacy crime; Econ. Dev. 14-301 reserves all UAS regulation to the State and preempts local drone rules.