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MarylandHB 02402026 Regular SessionHouseWALLET

Local Comprehensive Plans - Guidance Materials and Notification to the Department of Planning

Sponsored By: Sponsor information unavailable

Signed by Governor

Local Government - GenerallyAwareness and OutreachCommittee ChangesIntergovernmental Cooperation -see also- AdmAgn; Cmts; etc.Local Government MandatesNoticesPlanning, Department ofPlans and ProposalsStandards and Best PracticesTimeZoning and Planning

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Bill Overview

Analyzed Economic Effects

3 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 0 costs, 1 mixed.

Stronger checks and annual planning reports

Beginning October 1, 2026, each planning commission files an annual report by July 1 for the prior calendar year with the local legislative body. The report lists local laws or rules adopted or changed to carry out the planning principles. It includes the measures and indicators required by law. At least once within five years after a plan is adopted or reviewed, the report adds a narrative on how the plan is being put into action. That narrative covers trends, tools like comprehensive rezoning, needed program, regulatory, or financing changes, State or federal obstacles and fixes, future land challenges, and possible plan updates. Also at least every 10 years, charter counties and other local jurisdictions must confirm they are implementing the planning principles and the development regulations and sensitive areas elements, aligned with their plan revision process.

Ten-year local plan reviews with guidance

Beginning October 1, 2026, each planning commission reviews its comprehensive plan at least once every 10 years. The plan is revised or amended as needed to include all required elements and the planning principles. A commission may plan by geographic sections, but each section must be reviewed at least every 10 years. When a review starts, the commission must notify the Maryland Department of Planning. Within 60 days of that notice, the Department sends guidance on State laws, best practices, and other resources. The Department develops and keeps these materials with input from other State agencies.

Counties can adopt planning rules

Beginning October 1, 2026, a charter or code county with a comprehensive plan may adopt regulations to implement the planning principles in its plan. This gives counties clear authority to make local rules to carry out plan goals. These local rules can add requirements for property owners and developers.

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Sponsors & Cosponsors

Sponsors

There is no primary sponsor on record.

Cosponsors

There are no cosponsors for this bill.

Roll Call Votes

All Roll Calls

Yes: 180 • No: 26

Senate vote • 4/8/2026

Floor Amendment {913427/1 (Senator Ready) Rejected

Yes: 15 • No: 25 • Other: 7

Senate vote • 4/8/2026

Third Reading Passed

Yes: 42 • No: 1 • Other: 4

House vote • 3/5/2026

Third Reading Passed

Yes: 123 • No: 0 • Other: 12

Actions Timeline

  1. Approved by the Governor - Chapter 122

    4/14/2026

  2. Returned Passed

    4/9/2026House

  3. Third Reading Passed (42-1)

    4/8/2026Senate

  4. Floor Amendment {913427/1 (Senator Ready) Rejected (15-25)

    4/8/2026Senate

  5. Second Reading Passed

    4/7/2026Senate

  6. Favorable Adopted

    4/7/2026Senate

  7. Favorable Report by Education, Energy, and the Environment

    4/6/2026Senate

  8. Hearing 3/24 at 1:00 p.m.

    3/13/2026Senate

  9. Referred Education, Energy, and the Environment

    3/6/2026Senate

  10. Third Reading Passed (123-0)

    3/5/2026House

  11. Favorable Adopted Second Reading Passed

    3/4/2026House

  12. Favorable Report by Economic Matters

    3/3/2026House

  13. Hearing 2/12 at 1:00 p.m.

    1/19/2026House

  14. First Reading Economic Matters

    1/14/2026House

  15. Pre-filed

    9/16/2025House

Bill Text

  • Enacted

    4/14/2026

    PDF

  • Third Reading

    3/4/2026

    PDF

  • First Reading

    1/14/2026

    PDF

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