Maryland Dog Poop Laws by County: What Every Dog Owner Should Know<
Maryland is a great state for dog lovers, with walkable cities, scenic parks, and friendly communities. But no matter where you live—whether it’s Baltimore, Annapolis, or a quiet rural town—you’re legally required to clean up after your dog. While Maryland doesn’t have a statewide dog poop law, most counties and cities have local ordinances in place.
This guide breaks down dog poop laws by county across Maryland so you can avoid fines, respect your neighbors, and do your part to keep public spaces clean and welcoming for all.
Does Maryland Have a Statewide Dog Poop Law?
No, Maryland does not have a single statewide law requiring dog waste cleanup. Instead, cities and counties regulate this issue through animal control, public health, or sanitation ordinances. In almost all areas, dog owners must pick up and properly dispose of their dog’s feces on public and private property not their own.
Leaving dog poop behind can result in citations, fines, and even community complaints.
Dog Poop Laws by Major Maryland Counties
Baltimore City
Baltimore enforces strict pet waste rules. According to Baltimore City Code Article 11, Subtitle 6, pet owners must remove feces left by their dogs on public property or other people’s private property. The law also requires owners to carry a means of removal, such as a bag, when walking their dogs. Violators can face fines starting at $100.
- Applies to sidewalks, parks, alleys, and private lawns
- Waste stations are located in public areas like Patterson Park
- Repeat violations may lead to higher fines
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Montgomery County
Montgomery County requires immediate cleanup of dog waste. Chapter 5 of the Montgomery County Code includes a provision that pet owners must remove dog feces promptly from public and private property. The fine for noncompliance starts at $100 and can increase with each offense.
Dog owners must carry waste bags when walking their pets, especially in areas like Rock Creek Regional Park or Bethesda’s city streets.
Prince George’s County
Prince George’s County enforces a pet waste ordinance as part of its animal control code. Owners must clean up after their pets in public spaces and on other people’s property. The minimum fine is $50 for the first offense and may increase up to $200 for repeated violations.
The county promotes responsible pet ownership through public signage, community reminders, and enforcement patrols in local parks.
Anne Arundel County
Anne Arundel County includes a pet waste provision under its public nuisance laws. The county code requires dog owners to remove feces immediately. Local cities like Annapolis may enforce even stricter rules. Fines typically start at $50 and escalate with repeat offenses.
Dog-friendly parks such as Quiet Waters Park have waste stations and frequent patrols by park staff.
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Howard County
Howard County enforces pet waste cleanup under Chapter 17 of its code. It is illegal to leave dog waste on public sidewalks, parks, or someone else’s lawn. The fine starts at $75 and increases with additional offenses. Owners must carry and use waste removal equipment when in public.
The Columbia Association and many HOAs have their own additional pet waste policies with stricter enforcement.
Dog Waste Laws in More Maryland Counties
| County | Cleanup Required? | Fine Range | Enforcement Body |
|---|---|---|---|
| Baltimore City | Yes | $100+ | Animal Control / Code Enforcement |
| Montgomery | Yes | $100–$500 | Montgomery Animal Services |
| Prince George’s | Yes | $50–$200 | Animal Management Division |
| Anne Arundel | Yes | $50+ | County Code Enforcement |
| Howard | Yes | $75+ | Animal Control & HOAs |
How Are Dog Poop Laws Enforced?
Dog waste laws are enforced at the local level by animal control, code enforcement officers, and sometimes HOA managers. While many violations are complaint-driven, some areas have regular patrols, especially in parks and dense neighborhoods.
- Residents can report offenders to city or county services
- Parks may have rangers or maintenance staff issuing tickets
- HOAs may impose separate penalties or restrictions
Best Practices to Avoid Fines and Stay Responsible
- Carry waste bags every time you take your dog outside
- Dispose of poop promptly in public bins or at home
- Check park signage and HOA guidelines for specific rules
- Teach family and pet sitters to follow local laws
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Are There Any Exceptions?
Only in very limited circumstances. People with verified physical disabilities may be exempt from waste cleanup laws under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), especially if they are assisted by a service dog. However, many still choose to comply when possible or seek help from caregivers.
Otherwise, no matter the location, dog owners are expected to clean up after their pets in all public and shared spaces.
Conclusion
Maryland dog poop laws may vary slightly by county or city, but one thing is clear: picking up after your pet is mandatory. Whether you live in Baltimore, Silver Spring, or a small town in rural Maryland, cleaning up dog waste helps protect the environment, promotes public health, and keeps your community happy.
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