MarylandHB 05192026 Regular SessionHouse

Anne Arundel County - Alcoholic Beverages - Entertainment Permits

Sponsored By: Andrew C. Pruski (Democratic)

Signed by Governor

Alcoholic Beverages - Local BillsAlcoholic Beverages LicensesAlcoholic Beverages - By SubdivisionAnne Arundel CountyArt, Music, and Cultural Affairs -see also- EthAff; Mus; etcBoundariesGaming and GamblingNamesPermits -see also- Building PermitsResidential Property -see also- Apartments; CondominiumsTelevision -see also- Cable TelevisionZoning and Planning

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Analyzed Economic Effects

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

New entertainment rules for Anne Arundel bars and restaurants

Beginning July 1, 2026, these rules apply only in Anne Arundel County. Without an entertainment permit, a licensed bar or restaurant may have only piped in background music or one TV on the premises or adjacent areas. To issue any permit, the county Board must find you can control patrons, you will not unduly disturb neighbors, the permit is needed for the public, it will not harm public welfare, and you meet fire, health, and building rules.

Anne Arundel full entertainment permits with limits

Beginning July 1, 2026, a Full Entertainment permit lets you have a permanent dance floor, a stage, floor shows, and other legal entertainment. It is available to Class B, C, D, and, with limits, BLX and H licensees. For BLX and H, the Board may not issue the permit if the premises is within 1,000 feet, measured in a straight line door to door, of a school or place of worship. Exception: a Class H at the Annapolis Mall may be within 1,000 feet of a school. If outside, the event area must be at least 100 feet from residentially zoned property. Annual fees are $0 for Class C, $200 for beer and wine, and $400 for beer, wine, and liquor. You must meet the Board’s findings to get a permit.

Anne Arundel permits for music and DJs

Beginning July 1, 2026, Background Entertainment permits are available to Class B, BLX, D, or H licensees. They allow recorded or piped in music and more than one TV; no dancing or floor shows. General Entertainment permits add live music with up to four musicians, trivia, karaoke, and DJs; no dancing or floor shows. If outside, the event area must be at least 100 feet from residentially zoned property. Fees are $100 per year for Background; $200 per year for beer-and-wine or $300 for beer, wine, and liquor for General. You must meet the Board’s findings to get a permit.

Sponsors & Cosponsors

Sponsor

Andrew C. Pruski
Democratic • House

Cosponsors

There are no cosponsors for this bill.

Roll Call Votes

All Roll Calls

Yes: 176 • No: 0

Senate vote • 4/6/2026

Third Reading Passed

Yes: 46 • No: 0

House vote • 3/20/2026