Md. Code, Alcoholic Beverages and Cannabis, Title 24

Md. Code, Alcoholic Beverages and Cannabis, Title 24
in effect

Md. Code, Alcoholic Beverages and Cannabis § 24-101

(a) In this title: (1) (i) the definitions in § 1–101(b) through (y) and (aa) through (hh) of this article apply without exception or variation; and (ii) the definition of “restaurant” in § 1–101(z) of this article applies, subject to § 24–104 of this subtitle; and (2) the following words have the meanings indicated. (b) “Board” means the Board of License Commissioners for Kent County. (c) “County” means Kent County.

Md. Code, Alcoholic Beverages and Cannabis § 24-103

A copy of any legislation concerning alcoholic beverages enacted by the County Commissioners under this title shall be sent to the Department of Legislative Services, 90 State Circle, Annapolis, Maryland 21401.

Md. Code, Alcoholic Beverages and Cannabis § 24-202

§24–202. IN EFFECT (a) The County Commissioners sit as the Board. (b) Each member of the Board shall receive, in addition to a County Commissioner’s salary, $300 annually for services in acting as a member of the Board. §24–202. NOT IN EFFECT ** CONTINGENCY – NOT IN EFFECT – CHAPTER 236 OF 1991 ** (a) The County Commissioners shall appoint three members to the Board. (b) Each member of the Board shall be: (1) a registered voter of the County during the member’s term of office; and (2) an individual of good moral character and integrity who reasonably reflects the citizenry of the County. (c) (1) In this subsection, “direct or indirect interest” means an interest that is proprietary or obtained by a loan, mortgage, or lien or in any other manner. (2) A member of the Board may not: (i) have a direct or indirect interest in or on a premises where alcoholic beverages are manufactured or sold; (ii) have a direct or indirect interest in a business wholly or partly devoted to the manufacture or sale of alcoholic beverages; (iii) own stock in: 1. a corporation that has a direct or indirect interest in a premises where alcoholic beverages are manufactured or sold; or 2. a business wholly or partly devoted to the manufacture or sale of alcoholic beverages; (iv) hold any other public office or employment; or (v) solicit or receive, directly or indirectly, a commission, remuneration, or gift from: 1. a person engaged in the manufacture or sale of alcoholic beverages; or 2. a license holder. (3) A person who violates this subsection is guilty of a misdemeanor and on conviction is subject to a fine not exceeding $1,000. (d) (1) The term of a member is 4 years. (2) The terms of the members are staggered as required by the terms provided for members of the Board on October 1, 2016. (e) A member who is appointed after a term has begun serves for the remainder of the term and until a successor is appointed and qualifies. (f) (1) The County Commissioners may remove a member for: (i) incompetence; (ii) misconduct; (iii) unprofessional conduct; (iv) dishonorable conduct; or (v) neglect of a duty required by law. (2) The removal procedure is as provided in this article. (g) From among its members, the Board shall elect a chair. (h) A majority of the members then serving on the Board is a quorum. (i) The chair and each other member of the Board shall receive $300 annually.

Md. Code, Alcoholic Beverages and Cannabis § 24-203

§24–203. IN EFFECT The Board may: (1) employ: (i) a secretary; (ii) inspectors, subject to § 24–204 of this subtitle; and (iii) clerical and other assistants as are necessary; and (2) set the compensation of the employees. §24–203. NOT IN EFFECT ** CONTINGENCY – NOT IN EFFECT – CHAPTER 236 OF 1991 ** (a) The Board may employ: (1) a secretary; (2) inspectors; and (3) with the approval of the County Commissioners, clerical and other assistants as are necessary to carry out the duties of the Board. (b) (1) The Board shall set the compensation of the secretary and inspectors. (2) The County Commissioners shall set the salary of the clerical and other assistants, as provided in the County budget. (c) The restrictions and penalty under § 24–202(c) of this subtitle regarding direct and indirect interests of members of the Board in alcoholic beverages activities apply to all employees of the Board.

Md. Code, Alcoholic Beverages and Cannabis § 24-204

(a) The Board: (1) shall employ one full–time inspector; and (2) may employ one additional part–time or full–time inspector. (b) An individual may not qualify or continue service as an inspector if the inspector or any member of the inspector’s immediate family has a personal or financial interest, directly or indirectly, in a license, license holder, or premises licensed under this article. (c) An inspector shall: (1) investigate all applicants for a license or transfer of license; (2) inspect at unannounced times every licensed premises in the county at least once every 90 days; (3) enforce all alcoholic beverages laws with the same power as a law enforcement officer of the State; (4) investigate all violations of the alcoholic beverages laws and report them to the Board; and (5) submit monthly reports in writing to the Board of the inspector’s activities, setting forth complaints and listing violations that the inspector observed or were reported to the inspector. (d) An inspector shall take the oath required by Article I, § 9 of the Maryland Constitution. (e) (1) Each inspector is entitled to compensation and reimbursement for travel expenses. (2) The Board shall set the rate for reimbursement of travel expenses. (3) The Board of County Commissioners shall: (i) set the compensation; and (ii) pay for the compensation and travel expenses. (f) (1) An inspector may be removed only for cause involving dishonesty, incompetence, or immoral conduct while in the performance of duty. (2) Before an inspector may be removed, the Board, in accordance with the Administrative Procedure Act, shall give the inspector: (i) written notice of all pending charges; and (ii) an opportunity to reply in a public hearing before the Board in person or by counsel.

Md. Code, Alcoholic Beverages and Cannabis § 24-205

Sections 24–201 through 24–203 of this subtitle apply in the county until the Board of County Commissioners passes the resolution for which provision is made by Chapter 236 of the Acts of the General Assembly of 1991.

Md. Code, Alcoholic Beverages and Cannabis § 24-401

(a) The following sections of Title 2, Subtitle 2 (“Manufacturer’s Licenses”) of Division I of this article apply in the county without exception or variation: (1) § 2–201 (“Issuance by Comptroller”); (2) § 2–202 (“Class 1 distillery license”); (3) § 2–203 (“Class 9 limited distillery license”); (4) § 2–204 (“Class 2 rectifying license”); (5) § 2–205 (“Class 3 winery license”); (6) § 2–206 (“Class 4 limited winery license”); (7) § 2–207 (“Class 5 brewery license”); (8) § 2–210 (“Class 8 farm brewery license”); (9) § 2–211 (“Residency requirement”); (10) § 2–212 (“Additional licenses”); (11) § 2–213 (“Additional fees”); (12) § 2–214 (“Sale or delivery restricted”); (13) § 2–215 (“Beer sale on credit to retail dealer prohibited”); (14) § 2–216 (“Interaction between manufacturing entities and retailers”); (15) § 2–217 (“Distribution of alcoholic beverages — Prohibited practices”); and (16) § 2–218 (“Restrictive agreements between producers and retailers — Prohibited”). (b) The following sections of Title 2, Subtitle 2 (“Manufacturer’s Licenses”) of Division I of this article apply in the county: (1) § 2–208 (“Class 6 pub–brewery license”), subject to § 24–403 of this subtitle; and (2) § 2–209 (“Class 7 micro–brewery license”), subject to § 24–404 of this subtitle.

Md. Code, Alcoholic Beverages and Cannabis § 24-404

(a) The license may be issued to a holder of a Class D license as well as a holder of a Class B beer, wine, and liquor (on–sale) license that is issued for use on the premises of a restaurant. (b) The hours and days of sale under a Class 7 micro–brewery license are the same as those for a Class D license.

Md. Code, Alcoholic Beverages and Cannabis § 24-502

Except as provided in § 24–503 of this subtitle, a holder of a wholesaler’s license may sell or deliver alcoholic beverages to a holder of a retail license from 6 a.m. to midnight on every day except Sunday.

Md. Code, Alcoholic Beverages and Cannabis § 24-503

(a) A holder of a wholesaler’s license may enter into an agreement with a holder of a per diem license issued under Subtitle 13 of this title to deliver beer on the effective date of the per diem license and accept returns on the same day. (b) The agreement entered into under subsection (a) of this section shall include the type of equipment, services, personnel, and supplies required to dispense draft beer.

Md. Code, Alcoholic Beverages and Cannabis § 24-601

(a) There is a Class A beer license. (b) (1) The license authorizes the license holder to sell beer at retail to consumers at the place described in the license. (2) The license holder shall sell the beer in a sealed package or container. (3) The package or container may not be opened and its contents may not be consumed on the premises where the beer was sold. (c) The annual license fee is $150.

Md. Code, Alcoholic Beverages and Cannabis § 24-602

(a) There is a Class B beer license. (b) The license authorizes the license holder to sell beer at retail at a hotel or restaurant at the place described in the license for on– and off–premises consumption. (c) The annual license fee is $300.

Md. Code, Alcoholic Beverages and Cannabis § 24-604

(a) There is a Class D beer license. (b) (1) Subject to paragraph (2) of this subsection, the license authorizes the license holder to sell beer at retail at the place described in the license for on– and off–premises consumption. (2) A license may not be issued for a drugstore. (c) The annual license fee is $300.

Md. Code, Alcoholic Beverages and Cannabis § 24-701

(a) There is a Class A wine license in the county. (b) The license may be issued to a holder of a Class 3 winery license or a Class 4 limited winery license. (c) (1) The license authorizes the license holder to sell at retail at the place described in the license wine produced at the winery. (2) Wine shall be sold in a sealed package or container that may not be opened or its contents consumed on the licensed premises. (d) The annual license fee is $150.

Md. Code, Alcoholic Beverages and Cannabis § 24-802

(a) There is a Class A beer and wine license. (b) (1) The license authorizes the license holder to sell beer and wine, at retail, at the place described in the license. (2) The license holder shall sell the beer and wine in a sealed package or container. (3) The package or container may not be opened and its contents may not be consumed on the premises where the beer or wine is sold. (c) The annual license fee is $350.

Md. Code, Alcoholic Beverages and Cannabis § 24-803

(a) There is a Class B beer and wine license. (b) (1) The Board may issue the license for use in a restaurant approved by the Board that is equipped with: (i) an indoor, outdoor, or combination indoor and outdoor dining area; and (ii) facilities for preparing and serving meals to the public. (2) The license authorizes the license holder to sell beer and wine at a hotel or restaurant, at retail, at the place described in the license, for on– and off–premises consumption. (c) The annual license fee is $1,000.

Md. Code, Alcoholic Beverages and Cannabis § 24-901

(a) There is a Class A beer, wine, and liquor license. (b) (1) The license authorizes the license holder to sell beer, wine, and liquor at retail at the place described in the license. (2) The license holder shall sell the beer, wine, or liquor in a sealed container that may not be opened or its contents consumed on the licensed premises. (c) A license may not be issued for a drugstore unless the applicant: (1) has been doing business at the location applied for in the license for at least 1 year before the date of the application for the license; (2) is the assignee of a business established for at least 1 year before the date of the application for the license at the location applied for; or (3) has been engaged in the retail drug business for at least 3 years. (d) The annual license fee is $1,750.

Md. Code, Alcoholic Beverages and Cannabis § 24-902

(a) There is a Class B beer, wine, and liquor license. (b) The Board may issue the license for use in a restaurant approved by the Board that is equipped with: (1) an indoor, outdoor, or combination indoor and outdoor dining area; and (2) facilities for preparing and serving meals to the public. (c) The annual license fee is $2,000.

Md. Code, Alcoholic Beverages and Cannabis § 24-903

(a) There is a Class C (organization or club) beer, wine, and liquor license. (b) The Board may issue the license for use by a nonprofit organization or club that: (1) operates only for the use of its members and their guests when accompanied by members; (2) meets in a clubhouse that is used exclusively for its members and guests; and (3) (i) except as provided in item (ii) of this item, has at least 100 members paying dues as required in the year immediately before the year for which the license is issued; or (ii) if the club is composed exclusively of members who served in the armed forces of the United States and is affiliated with a national organization, has at least 50 members paying the dues that were required by the national organization in the full year immediately before the year for which the license is issued. (c) The license authorizes the license holder to sell beer, wine, and liquor at retail at a club at the place described in the license, for on– or off–premises consumption. (d) The annual license fee is $500.

Md. Code, Alcoholic Beverages and Cannabis § 24-904

(a) There is a Class D beer, wine, and liquor license. (b) The license authorizes the license holder to sell beer, wine, and liquor at retail at the place described in the license for on– and off–premises consumption. (c) The license may not be issued for use by a drugstore. (d) The annual license fee is $1,500.

Md. Code, Alcoholic Beverages and Cannabis § 24-1001

(a) There is a Class B (bed and breakfast) beer, wine, and liquor license. (b) The Board may issue the Class B (bed and breakfast) license for the use of a bed and breakfast that: (1) is licensed by the county to operate as a bed and breakfast; and (2) excluding the resident management quarters, has not more than three rooms that the public for consideration may use for sleeping accommodations for a specified time. (c) The license authorizes the license holder to sell beer, wine, and liquor to a guest for on–premises consumption if: (1) the name and address of the guest appears on the registry that the bed and breakfast maintains; and (2) the guest is an occupant of a sleeping room in the bed and breakfast. (d) The license holder may sell beer, wine, and liquor during the hours and days as set out for a Class B beer, wine, and liquor license under § 24–2004 of this title. (e) The license does not authorize the sale of beer, wine, and liquor to an individual who is registered as a guest at the bed and breakfast only to obtain beer, wine, and liquor. (f) If the bed and breakfast ends operations as a bed and breakfast, the license is void. (g) The annual license fee is $350.

Md. Code, Alcoholic Beverages and Cannabis § 24-1002

(a) There is a Class B (country inn) beer, wine, and liquor license. (b) The Board may issue the Class B (country inn) beer, wine, and liquor license for the use of a country inn that: (1) is licensed by the county to operate as a country inn; (2) excluding the resident management quarters, has not more than 15 rooms that the public for consideration may use for sleeping accommodations for a specified time; and (3) has a kitchen facility for the guests that is separate from the kitchen facility for the resident management quarters. (c) The license authorizes the license holder to sell beer, wine, and liquor for on–premises consumption to a guest if: (1) the name and address of the guest appear on the registry that the country inn maintains; and (2) the guest is an occupant of a sleeping room in the country inn. (d) The license holder may sell beer, wine, and liquor during the hours and days as set out for a Class B beer, wine, and liquor license under § 24–2004 of this title. (e) The license does not authorize the sale of beer, wine, and liquor to an individual who is registered as a guest at the country inn only to obtain beer, wine, and liquor. (f) If the country inn ceases to be operated as a country inn, the license is void. (g) The annual license fee is $550.

Md. Code, Alcoholic Beverages and Cannabis § 24-1003

(a) There is a Class B wine shop and lounge license. (b) The license authorizes the holder to: (1) sell wine for on–premises and off–premises consumption; and (2) sell or serve: (i) bread and other baked goods; (ii) chili; (iii) chocolate; (iv) crackers; (v) cured meat; (vi) fruits (whole and cut); (vii) salads and vegetables (whole and cut); (viii) hard and soft cheese (whole and cut); (ix) ice cream; (x) jam; (xi) vinegar; (xii) pizza; (xiii) prepackaged sandwiches and other prepackaged foods ready to be eaten; (xiv) soup; and (xv) condiments. (c) The license holder may sell wine from 6 a.m. to 2 a.m. the following day. (d) The license holder is not subject to any requirement regarding the percentage of average daily receipts derived from the sale of food. (e) An individual under the legal drinking age may enter the licensed premises. (f) The annual license fee is $300.

Md. Code, Alcoholic Beverages and Cannabis § 24-1004

(a) There is a theater beer, wine, and liquor license. (b) The Board may issue the license to an applicant for the use of a theater that: (1) is housed in a building; (2) has a capacity to hold at least 100 permanently installed seats; and (3) regularly presents live or cinematic entertainment. (c) The license authorizes the license holder to sell beer, wine, and liquor at retail for on–premises consumption. (d) Except from 2 a.m. to 6 a.m., the license holder may sell beer, wine, and liquor when the theater is open to the public. (e) The license may not be transferred to another location. (f) The annual license fee is $500.

Md. Code, Alcoholic Beverages and Cannabis § 24-1101

(a) The following sections of Title 4, Subtitle 11 (“Additional License Privileges”) of Division I of this article apply in the county without exception or variation: (1) § 4–1102 (“Corkage — Consuming wine not purchased from license holder on licensed premises”); and (2) § 4–1103 (“Removal of partially consumed bottle of wine from licensed premises”). (b) Section 4–1105 (“Refillable container permit — Wine”) of Division I of this article does not apply in the county. (c) Section 4–1104 (“Refillable container permit –– Draft beer”) of Division I of this article applies in the county, subject to § 24–1102 of this subtitle.

Md. Code, Alcoholic Beverages and Cannabis § 24-1102

(a) The Board may issue a refillable container permit for draft beer to a holder of a Class A license, a Class B license, or a Class D license. (b) An applicant for the permit shall complete the form that the Board provides. (c) The hours of sale for the permit: (1) begin at the same time as those for the underlying license; and (2) end at midnight. (d) The Board shall adopt regulations to carry out this section. (e) The Board may charge annual permit fees of up to: (1) $50 for an applicant who holds an underlying license with an off–sale privilege; or (2) $500 for an applicant who holds an underlying license without an off–sale privilege.

Md. Code, Alcoholic Beverages and Cannabis § 24-1103

(a) The Board may issue a wine license privilege. (b) To qualify for the privilege, an applicant shall be a holder of a Class B (on–sale) beer and wine license or Class B beer, wine, and liquor license for use on a premises that qualifies as a restaurant under § 24–902 of this title. (c) (1) The privilege authorizes the holder to sell wine by the bottle for off–premises consumption without the cost of the wine counting as a part of the average daily receipts of the business required to meet the minimum 60% food sales requirement under § 24–902 of this title. (2) The privilege is not a separate class of license but is part of the existing Class B (on–sale) beer and wine license or Class B beer, wine, and liquor license of the holder of the privilege. (d) The annual fee is $100.

Md. Code, Alcoholic Beverages and Cannabis § 24-1201

(a) There is a local caterer’s license. (b) The Board may issue the license to the holder of: (1) a Class B restaurant or hotel (on–sale) beer and wine license; or (2) a Class B restaurant or hotel (on–sale) beer, wine, and liquor license. (c) The license authorizes a holder to: (1) (i) provide beer and wine at an event that is held off the premises for which the holder’s Class B restaurant or hotel (on–sale) beer and wine license is issued; or (ii) provide beer, wine, and liquor at an event that is held off the premises for which the holder’s Class B restaurant or hotel (on–sale) beer, wine, and liquor license is issued; and (2) exercise the privileges of the license only during the hours and on the days authorized for the holder’s Class B license. (d) The license holder shall provide food for consumption at the catered event. (e) The annual license fee is $100. (f) This section does not require a holder of a Class B restaurant or hotel (on–sale) beer and wine license or beer, wine, and liquor license to obtain a local caterer’s license for catering on the premises for which the Class B license is issued.

Md. Code, Alcoholic Beverages and Cannabis § 24-1301

(a) The following sections of Title 4, Subtitle 12 (“Temporary Licenses”) of Division I of this article apply in the county without exception or variation: (1) § 4–1202 (“Per diem licenses”); (2) § 4–1206 (“License to dispose of stock”); (3) § 4–1207 (“Temporary move of licensed premises”); (4) § 4–1208 (“Hours and days of sale”); and (5) § 4–1209 (“Wine permit for fund–raising event”). (b) The following sections of Title 4, Subtitle 12 (“Temporary Licenses”) of Division I of this article do not apply in the county: (1) § 4–1203 (“Class C per diem beer and Class C per diem beer and wine licenses”), which is superseded by § 24–1307 of this subtitle; (2) § 4–1204 (“Class C per diem beer, wine, and liquor license”), which is superseded by § 24–1307 of this subtitle; and (3) § 4–1205 (“License fees”), which is superseded by § 24–1308 of this subtitle.

Md. Code, Alcoholic Beverages and Cannabis § 24-1304

(a) There is a beer, wine, and liquor tasting (BWLT) license. (b) The Board may issue the license to a holder of a Class A license. (c) The license authorizes the holder to allow the on–premises consumption for tasting of: (1) beer, if the underlying license of the holder is a Class A beer license; (2) wine, if the underlying license of the holder is a Class A wine license; (3) beer and wine, if the underlying license of the holder is a Class A beer and wine license; and (4) beer, wine, and liquor, if the underlying license of the holder is a Class A beer, wine, and liquor license. (d) The license authorizes the holder to allow an individual to taste in 1 day not more than: (1) 2 ounces of beer from each offering and 6 ounces from all offerings of beer; (2) 2 ounces of wine from each offering and 4 ounces from all offerings of wine; and (3) one–half ounce of liquor from each offering and 1.5 ounces from all offerings of liquor. (e) In addition to a fee for any other license held by the license holder, the annual fee for a BWLT license is $200.

Md. Code, Alcoholic Beverages and Cannabis § 24-1307

A Class C per diem beer license, a Class C per diem beer and wine license, and a Class C per diem beer, wine, and liquor license may be issued, for a period not exceeding 3 days, to a: (1) religious, fraternal, civic, veterans’, or charitable organization, association, club, or society; or (2) hospital supporting organization.

Md. Code, Alcoholic Beverages and Cannabis § 24-1309

(a) The Board may issue a Class C multiple event beer, wine, and liquor license. (b) The license entitles the license holder to exercise any privilege conferred by the license at an event held by a volunteer fire company. (c) The number of days for which a multiple event license may be used by a single applicant may not exceed 24 per calendar year. (d) (1) The license application shall be in the form that the Board provides. (2) The applicant shall sign the form. (e) (1) A multiple event license shall be issued: (i) for one premises only; and (ii) except as provided in paragraph (2) of this subsection, to the same applicant for all events for which the license is issued. (2) The Board may: (i) approve in writing a substitute applicant; and (ii) before approving a substitute applicant, hold a hearing. (f) A server who is certified by an approved alcohol awareness program shall be on the premises for which a multiple event license is issued when alcoholic beverages are served. (g) (1) The annual fee for a license is: (i) $200 for not more than 12 events per year; and (ii) $400 for at least 13 but not more than 24 events per year. (2) The Board may not issue a refund if a license holder holds fewer events during the calendar year than the license holder is entitled to hold.

Md. Code, Alcoholic Beverages and Cannabis § 24-1310

(a) This section applies only to volunteer fire companies. (b) Alcoholic beverages may be stored on the licensed premises between individual licensed events if the alcoholic beverages: (1) are in a specially identified locked and secured location; and (2) are not sold or consumed except during licensed event hours for licensed event purposes. (c) (1) A license holder shall keep complete and accurate records of all alcoholic beverages purchased and sold on the licensed premises. (2) The records shall be: (i) maintained on the licensed premises for 2 years; and (ii) available for inspection by authorized personnel of the Comptroller, the Executive Director, and the Board. (3) The records shall include a completed pre– and post–inventory of all alcoholic beverages for each individual event. (d) Authorized personnel of the Comptroller, the Executive Director, and the Board may inspect the premises of a license holder as provided under § 6–202 of this article. (e) A license holder who violates this section is subject to: (1) for the first offense, a fine of $100; and (2) for a subsequent offense, a fine not exceeding $500 and denial of future requests for a license for an individual event or a special multiple event license.

Md. Code, Alcoholic Beverages and Cannabis § 24-1401

(a) The following sections of Title 4, Subtitle 1 (“Applications for Local Licenses”) of Division I of this article apply in the county without exception or variation: (1) § 4–102 (“Applications to be filed with local licensing board”); (2) § 4–103 (“Application on behalf of partnership”); (3) § 4–104 (“Application on behalf of corporation or club”); (4) § 4–105 (“Application on behalf of limited liability company”); (5) § 4–106 (“Payment of notice expenses”); (6) § 4–108 (“Application form required by Comptroller”); (7) § 4–109 (“Required information on application — In general”); (8) § 4–110 (“Required information on application — Petition of support”); (9) § 4–111 (“Payment of license fees”); and (10) § 4–112 (“Disposition of license fees”). (b) The following sections of Title 4, Subtitle 1 (“Applications for Local Licenses”) of Division I of this article do not apply in the county: (1) § 4–113 (“Refund of license fees”), which is superseded by § 24–1408 of this subtitle; and (2) § 4–114 (“Fees for licenses issued for less than 1 year”), which is superseded by § 24–1409 of this subtitle. (c) Section 4–107 (“Criminal history records check”) of Division I of this article applies in the county, subject to §§ 24–1402 through 24–1406 of this subtitle.

Md. Code, Alcoholic Beverages and Cannabis § 24-1403

The Board shall: (1) keep all criminal history record information in a sealed envelope available only to the members of the Board and their designees; and (2) adopt regulations to further preserve the confidentiality of criminal history records obtained.

Md. Code, Alcoholic Beverages and Cannabis § 24-1404

The hearing for a new applicant and the issuance of a license may not be delayed due to the failure of the Federal Bureau of Investigation to provide the requested criminal history records check by the date of the scheduled hearing.

Md. Code, Alcoholic Beverages and Cannabis § 24-1407

(a) (1) A license shall be issued for 6 or 12 months. (2) The term of a license begins on May 1. (b) If a license is not claimed by the applicant within 30 days after issue or renewal, the license is void. (c) When a 6–month license is issued, only one–half of the annual fee shall be charged.

Md. Code, Alcoholic Beverages and Cannabis § 24-1408

(a) If a license holder voluntarily surrenders the license before its expiration date, the Board shall grant a refund: (1) based on the number of whole months remaining before the license expiration date; and (2) calculated as 1/12 of 95% of the license fee paid for each whole month remaining before the license expiration date. (b) A refund shall be paid not later than 3 weeks after the license is surrendered to the Board.

Md. Code, Alcoholic Beverages and Cannabis § 24-1501

(a) The following sections of Title 4, Subtitle 2 (“Issuance or Denial of Local Licenses”) of Division I of this article apply in the county without exception or variation: (1) § 4–202 (“Authority of local licensing boards”); (2) § 4–205 (“Chain store, supermarket, or discount house”); (3) § 4–206 (“Limitations on retail sales floor space”); (4) § 4–207 (“Licenses issued to minors”); (5) § 4–208 (“Notice of license application required”); (6) § 4–209 (“Hearing”); (7) § 4–210 (“Approval or denial of license application”); (8) § 4–211 (“License forms; effective date; expiration”); (9) § 4–212 (“License not property”); and (10) § 4–213 (“Replacement licenses”). (b) Section 4–214 (“Waiting periods after denial of license applications”) of Division I of this article does not apply in the county and is superseded by § 24–1503 of this subtitle. (c) The following sections of Title 4, Subtitle 2 (“Issuance or Denial of Local Licenses”) of Division I of this article apply in the county: (1) § 4–203 (“Prohibition against issuing multiple licenses to individual or for use of entity”), subject to § 24–1502 of this subtitle; and (2) § 4–204 (“Prohibition against issuing multiple licenses for same premises”), subject to § 24–1502 of this subtitle.

Md. Code, Alcoholic Beverages and Cannabis § 24-1502

Multiple licenses may be issued for the same premises or to an individual for the use of that individual, a partnership, a corporation, an unincorporated association, or a limited liability company if: (1) the licenses are Class D beer or Class D beer and wine licenses; and (2) each premises is a bowling establishment that has at least 30 lanes with automatic pinsetters.

Md. Code, Alcoholic Beverages and Cannabis § 24-1503

(a) Except as provided in subsection (b) of this section: (1) if a license application is denied, the Board may not issue a license for the same location for 1 year after the denial; and (2) if a subsequent application for the same location is denied, the Board may not issue a license for that location for 2 years after the second denial. (b) This section does not apply to a license application that is denied: (1) because of a legal defect or omission; (2) solely because the Board determined expressly that the applicant is not a proper person to whom the licensed applied for should be issued; or (3) for license transfers.

Md. Code, Alcoholic Beverages and Cannabis § 24-1504

(a) The Board may authorize a license holder to install an additional bar or serving counter within a reasonable distance of the main building of the premises served by the license held by the license holder. (b) The Board shall determine what is a reasonable distance for an additional bar or serving counter. (c) An additional license is not required for an additional bar or serving counter.

Md. Code, Alcoholic Beverages and Cannabis § 24-1901

(a) The following sections of Title 4, Subtitle 5 (“Conduct of Local License Holders”) of Division I of this article apply in the county without exception or variation: (1) § 4–502 (“Storage of alcoholic beverages”); (2) § 4–503 (“Solicitations and sales outside of licensed premises”); (3) § 4–506 (“Evidence of purchaser’s age”); (4) § 4–507 (“Retail delivery of alcoholic beverages”); and (5) § 4–508 (“Display of license”). (b) The following sections of Title 4, Subtitle 5 (“Conduct of Local License Holders”) of Division I of this article apply in the county: (1) § 4–504 (“Employment of underage individuals”), subject to § 24–1902 of this subtitle; and (2) § 4–505 (“Alcohol awareness program”), subject to § 24–1903 of this subtitle.

Md. Code, Alcoholic Beverages and Cannabis § 24-1902

(a) This section applies to the holder of: (1) a Class A (off–sale) license; (2) a Class B (on–sale) license; or (3) a Class C (on–sale) beer, wine, and liquor license. (b) (1) Except as provided in paragraph (2) of this subsection, an individual under the age of 21 years may not be employed to sell, deliver, or otherwise deal with alcoholic beverages. (2) An individual at least 18 years old may be employed to: (i) stock alcoholic beverages in a premises for which a Class A license is issued; (ii) serve alcoholic beverages while acting as a server on the licensed premises other than a premises for which a Class A license is issued; and (iii) operate a lottery ticket terminal in a premises for which a Class A license is issued.

Md. Code, Alcoholic Beverages and Cannabis § 24-1903

(a) (1) The license holder or an individual designated by the license holder who is employed in a supervisory capacity shall: (i) be certified by an approved alcohol awareness program; and (ii) except as provided in paragraph (2) of this subsection, be present on the licensed premises during the hours in which alcoholic beverages may be sold. (2) The license holder or individual specified in paragraph (1) of this subsection may be absent from the licensed premises for a personal or business reason or an emergency if the absence lasts for not more than 2 hours. (3) The Board shall require the license holder to keep a log book on the licensed premises that documents each temporary absence, the length of time of the absence, and the reason for the absence, in the form that the Board requires. (b) A license holder who violates this section is subject to: (1) for a first offense, a $100 fine; and (2) for each subsequent offense, a fine not exceeding $500 or a suspension or revocation of the license or both.

Md. Code, Alcoholic Beverages and Cannabis § 24-2001

(a) (1) Unless otherwise provided in this title, from 2 a.m. to 6 a.m. on any day, an individual may not consume alcoholic beverages in a premises licensed under this title. (2) An owner, an operator, or a manager of a premises licensed under this title may not knowingly allow consumption prohibited under paragraph (1) of this subsection. (b) A person who violates this section is guilty of a misdemeanor and on conviction is subject to a fine not exceeding $50.

Md. Code, Alcoholic Beverages and Cannabis § 24-2002

(a) A holder of a Class A beer license may sell beer from 6 a.m. to 2 a.m. the following day. (b) A holder of a Class B beer license may sell beer from 6 a.m. to 2 a.m. the following day. (c) Reserved. (d) A holder of a Class D beer license may sell beer from 6 a.m. to 2 a.m. the following day.

Md. Code, Alcoholic Beverages and Cannabis § 24-2003

(a) A holder of a Class A beer and wine license may sell beer and wine from 6 a.m. to 2 a.m. the following day. (b) A holder of a Class B beer and wine license may sell beer and wine from 6 a.m. to 2 a.m. the following day. (c) Reserved. (d) Reserved.

Md. Code, Alcoholic Beverages and Cannabis § 24-2004

(a) A holder of a Class A beer, wine, and liquor license may sell beer, wine, and liquor from 6 a.m. to 2 a.m. the following day. (b) A holder of a Class B beer, wine, and liquor license may sell beer, wine, and liquor from 6 a.m. to 2 a.m. the following day. (c) A holder of a Class C beer, wine, and liquor license may sell beer, wine, and liquor from 6 a.m. to 2 a.m. the following day. (d) A holder of a Class D beer, wine, and liquor license may sell beer, wine, and liquor from 6 a.m. to 2 a.m. the following day.

Md. Code, Alcoholic Beverages and Cannabis § 24-2501

(a) A person may not serve setups, including drinking containers and ice, or serve, keep, or allow to be consumed alcoholic beverages or other component parts of mixed alcoholic drinks in a place of adult entertainment that: (1) does not hold a license under this article; and (2) allows at its location a form of sexual display or attire prohibited under § 4–605 of this article. (b) A person who operates an establishment for profit that is not licensed under this article may not knowingly allow a customer to bring alcoholic beverages for consumption into the establishment. (c) A person who violates this section is guilty of a misdemeanor and on conviction is subject to imprisonment not exceeding 2 years or a fine not exceeding $10,000 or both.

Md. Code, Alcoholic Beverages and Cannabis § 24-2502

(a) From 2 a.m. to 6 a.m. on any day, an individual may not consume alcoholic beverages in: (1) an establishment open to the public; (2) a place of public entertainment; or (3) a place at which setups or other component parts of mixed alcoholic beverages are sold under a license issued under the Business Regulation Article. (b) An owner or a manager of an establishment or a place specified in subsection (a) of this section may not knowingly allow consumption of alcoholic beverages between the hours specified in subsection (a) of this section. (c) A person who violates this section is guilty of a misdemeanor and on conviction is subject to a fine not exceeding $50.

Md. Code, Alcoholic Beverages and Cannabis § 24-2601

(a) The following sections of Title 6, Subtitle 2 (“Enforcement”) of Division I of this article apply in the county without exception or variation: (1) § 6–202 (“Inspections”); (2) § 6–203 (“Use of equipment to measure quantity and quality of alcoholic beverages”); (3) § 6–205 (“Peace officers”); (4) § 6–206 (“Charging document for unlawful sale of alcoholic beverage”); (5) § 6–207 (“Display of alcoholic beverages as prima facie evidence of sale”); (6) § 6–208 (“Regulating possession or consumption of alcohol in public places”); and (7) § 6–209 (“Adoption of standards for authorization of consumption”). (b) Section 6–210 (“State preemption of local disorderly intoxication laws”) of Division I of this article does not apply in the county. (c) The following sections of Title 6, Subtitle 2 (“Enforcement”) of Division I of this article apply in the county: (1) § 6–204 (“Power to summon witnesses”), in addition to § 24–2602 of this subtitle; and (2) § 6–211 (“Fines and forfeitures”), subject to § 24–2603 of this subtitle.

Md. Code, Alcoholic Beverages and Cannabis § 24-2701

(a) The following sections of Title 6, Subtitle 3 (“Prohibited Acts”) of Division I of this article apply in the county without exception or variation: (1) § 6–305 (“Proof of age for sale of alcoholic beverages”); (2) § 6–306 (“Defense to prosecution for sale to underage individual”); (3) § 6–308 (“Allowing on–premises consumption of alcoholic beverages not purchased from license holder”); (4) § 6–309 (“Allowing on–premises consumption or possession of alcoholic beverages by individual under the age of 21 years”); (5) § 6–310 (“Providing free food”); (6) § 6–311 (“Restrictions on purchases and sales by retail dealer”); (7) § 6–312 (“Beverage misrepresentation”); (8) § 6–313 (“Tampering with alcoholic beverage container”); (9) § 6–314 (“Sale of alcoholic beverage container with detachable metal tab”); (10) § 6–315 (“Alcoholic beverage in container without regular label presumed illicit”); (11) § 6–316 (“Maximum alcohol content”); (12) § 6–317 (“Multiple serving purchase required”); (13) § 6–319 (“On–premises consumption of alcoholic beverages not purchased from license holder”); (14) § 6–320 (“Disorderly intoxication”); (15) § 6–323 (“Possession or use of Alcohol Without Liquid machine”); (16) § 6–326 (“Sale of alcoholic beverages in powder or crystalline form prohibited”); (17) § 6–327 (“Unlicensed out–of–state sale of alcoholic beverages”); (18) § 6–328 (“Tax evasion”); (19) § 6–329 (“Destruction of evidence”); and (20) § 6–330 (“Perjury”). (b) The following sections of Title 6, Subtitle 3 (“Prohibited Acts”) of Division I of this article do not apply in the county: (1) § 6–321 (“Consumption of alcoholic beverages in public”); and (2) § 6–322 (“Possession of open container”). (c) The following sections of Title 6, Subtitle 3 (“Prohibited Acts”) of Division I of this article apply in the county: (1) § 6–304 (“Selling or providing alcoholic beverages to individual under the age of 21 years”), subject to § 24–2702 of this subtitle; and (2) § 6–307 (“Selling or providing alcoholic beverages to intoxicated individual”), subject to § 24–2703 of this subtitle.

Md. Code, Alcoholic Beverages and Cannabis § 24-2702

(a) A license holder or an employee of a license holder who is charged with a violation of § 6–304 of this article: (1) shall receive a summons to appear in court on a certain day to answer the charges placed against the license holder or employee; and (2) may not be required to post bail pending trial in any court in the State. (b) A license holder or an employee of a license holder may not be found guilty of a violation of § 6–304 of this article if: (1) the license holder or employee establishes to the satisfaction of the finder of fact that the license holder or employee used due caution to establish that the individual was not under the age of 21 years; and (2) the individual was not a resident of the State. (c) The granting of probation before judgment to a license holder or employee of the license holder for a violation of § 6–304 of this article does not bar the Board from proceeding administratively against the license holder for the violation.

Md. Code, Alcoholic Beverages and Cannabis § 24-2703

(a) A license holder or an employee of a license holder who is charged with a violation of § 6–307 of this article: (1) shall receive a summons to appear in court on a certain day to answer the charges placed against the license holder or employee; and (2) may not be required to post bail pending trial in any court in the State. (b) The granting of probation before judgment to a license holder or employee of the license holder for a violation of § 6–307 of this article does not bar the Board from proceeding administratively against the license holder for the violation.

Md. Code, Alcoholic Beverages and Cannabis § 24-2704

(a) In this section, “knowingly” means the knowledge a reasonable individual would have under ordinary circumstances based on the habits, appearance, or personal reputation of an individual. (b) A license holder or an employee of a license holder may not knowingly sell or provide an alcoholic beverage to a habitual drunkard. (c) A license holder who violates this section is guilty of a misdemeanor and on conviction is subject to: (1) for a first offense, a fine not exceeding $50; and (2) for each subsequent offense, imprisonment not exceeding 30 days or a fine not exceeding $100 or both.

Md. Code, Alcoholic Beverages and Cannabis § 24-2705

(a) An individual under the age of 21 years may not: (1) enter the licensed premises; or (2) knowingly make a false statement concerning the individual’s age to gain entrance to the establishment. (b) An individual who violates subsection (a)(2) of this section: (1) shall be issued a citation under § 10–119 of the Criminal Law Article by a police officer or alcoholic beverages inspector; and (2) is subject to the penalties provided in § 10–119 of the Criminal Law Article.

Md. Code, Alcoholic Beverages and Cannabis § 24-2706

(a) (1) A license holder or an agent or an employee of the license holder may not allow an individual under the age of 21 years to loiter about the premises for which a Class B or Class D beer license is issued. (2) An individual under the age of 21 years may not loiter or be a nuisance on the premises for which a Class B or Class D beer license is issued. (b) A person who violates this section is guilty of a misdemeanor and on conviction is subject to imprisonment not exceeding 1 year or a fine not exceeding $200 or both.

Md. Code, Alcoholic Beverages and Cannabis § 24-2802

(a) (1) The Board shall hear a case within 30 days after the violation is reported by an inspector or law enforcement officer. (2) The Board shall make a determination of the case within 15 days after the conclusion of the hearing. (b) (1) Unless another penalty is provided, for a violation of this article, the Board may impose: (i) for the first offense: 1. a fine not exceeding $1,000; 2. suspension of the license; and 3. closure of the place of business not exceeding 15 days; (ii) for the second offense: 1. a fine not exceeding $2,000; 2. suspension of the license; and 3. closure of the place of business not exceeding 30 days; (iii) for a third or subsequent offense that is different from either of the two previous offenses: 1. a fine not exceeding $2,500; 2. suspension of the license; and 3. closure of the place of business not exceeding 90 days; and (iv) for a third offense that is the same as either of the two previous offenses: 1. revocation of the license; 2. prohibition of licensure of the violator; and 3. prohibition of licensure of the premises for a period not exceeding 1 year after the revocation. (2) The penalties provided in paragraph (1) of this subsection: (i) do not limit, but are in addition to, other specific or general penalties for the same violation under this article; and (ii) are independent of any related court action based on the same violation. (c) A petition seeking judicial review may not stay an order of the Board to suspend a license or close a place of business.
Source: Open US Law by Vaquill AI (CC BY 4.0)URL: https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Laws/StatutesFetched: 10/16/2026