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County administrator: Maryland law preempts local control over small halfway houses; commissioners to pursue 2027 legislation
Summary
The county administrator told commissioners that Maryland statute allows small halfway houses in residential zones and that prior 2026 efforts did not change state law; commissioners said they will pursue similar legislation during the 2027 General Assembly and urged residents to stay engaged.
The county administrator told the Board of County Commissioners that state law limits the county’s ability to regulate small residential halfway houses. "The Health General Article of Maryland Code 8-406 mandates that small halfway houses of 4 to 8 individuals are permitted to locate in all residential zones," the county administrator said.
The administrator said the county elevated constituent concerns to the county delegation during the 2026 session but "no meaningful legislation came out of the session." The board plans to pursue similar measures in 2027 and encouraged residents to contact Senator Quarterman, Delegate Bridal, and Delegate Valentine. The administrator also said the county would continue to ensure halfway houses comply with applicable regulations and "will continue working to protect the health, safety, and welfare of the citizens of Washington County."
