Bill > HB513

This bill modifies Maryland's laws regarding rooster ownership by introducing new restrictions and definitions starting January 1, 2027. The legislation defines a "rooster" as a male chicken at least 6 months old with fully developed adult plumage capable of crowing, and an "enclosure" as a confinement structure that prevents interaction with other roosters. The bill prohibits keeping roosters movement-constrained through enclosures or tethers, with 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 maintain more hens than roosters. Violations are now considered civil offenses, with penalties escalating from a warning for the first offense to up to $500 per rooster for a second offense and up to $1,000 per rooster for third or subsequent offenses. The law can be enforced by state or local law enforcement officers or local animal control authorities, and it does not prevent local governments from implementing more stringent rooster-related regulations. The bill will take effect on October 1, 2025, giving stakeholders time to adapt to the new requirements.

Education, Transportation and Infrastructure

https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/HB0513?ys=2025RS