Bill > SB375

This bill establishes new regulations for keeping roosters in Maryland, effective January 1, 2027. The legislation defines a rooster as a male chicken at least 6 months old with fully developed adult plumage or capable of crowing, and introduces restrictions on keeping roosters in confined spaces using enclosures or tethers. The bill provides several exceptions for commercial poultry producers, schools, animal shelters, animal welfare organizations, 4-H or Future Farmers of America program members, and individuals who can prove they have more hens than roosters. Importantly, the bill changes the enforcement approach from a criminal misdemeanor to a civil offense, with a graduated penalty structure: a first offense results in a warning, a second offense incurs a civil penalty of up to $500 per rooster, and third or subsequent offenses carry a penalty of up to $1,000 per rooster. The law may be enforced by state or local law enforcement officers or local animal control authorities. The bill also preserves the ability of local governments to enact more stringent rooster-related regulations and does not limit existing laws or regulations regarding rooster keeping. The legislation will take effect on October 1, 2025, giving stakeholders time to prepare for the new restrictions.

Education, Transportation and Infrastructure

https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/SB0375?ys=2025RS