Bill > SB580

This bill adds Washington County to the list of Maryland counties where existing agricultural buildings used for agritourism can be repurposed without requiring a full building permit, under specific conditions. An "agricultural building" is defined as a structure designed to house farm equipment, agricultural products, or livestock, but not a residence. The bill allows such buildings to be used for agritourism (tourism activities related to farming) without triggering a change of occupancy permit, provided certain safety standards are met. These standards include limitations on the number of occupants (either 50 or 200 people depending on the county), ensuring that the building has adequate ground-level exits, and maintaining the structural integrity of the building. The agricultural building does not need to comply with all standard building code requirements for bathrooms, sprinkler systems, or elevators. The bill specifies that these provisions will take effect on June 1, 2025, and provides a framework for the state's Department of Public Safety to adopt regulations implementing these provisions. This legislation aims to support agricultural businesses by making it easier to adapt existing farm structures for tourism-related activities while maintaining basic safety standards.

Education, Transportation and Infrastructure

Washington County Senators

https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/SB0580?ys=2025RS