MarylandHB 10712026 Regular SessionHouse

Environment - Stormwater Management for Agritourism

How does this bill affect your finances?

Personalize government policy and PRIA will tell you what this bill means for your household, plus every other piece of legislation we track. PRIA reads each provision against your financial profile to show you exactly what matters to your wallet.

Free to download

Bill Overview

Analyzed Economic Effects

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

Clearer stormwater rules for agritourism

The state defines agritourism for stormwater rules with the Agriculture Department. Beginning October 1, 2026, reviewers use new guidance tailored to farm tourism sites. The rules consider a standard plan for temporary parking areas. They also consider using pasture, meadows, and cropland to treat runoff.

Montgomery agritourism plan review and report

Beginning October 1, 2026, Montgomery County and the Montgomery Soil Conservation District must review how the county approves agritourism stormwater plans. They must consult the state environment department, study other counties, and recommend fixes. A report is due to the Governor and General Assembly by December 31, 2026. This is a study and coordination step, not a payment or fee.

New rules for grading and stormwater plans

The Maryland Department of the Environment sets a single, coordinated approval process for grading, sediment control, and stormwater plans. Approvals must look at the combined impacts of both plans. Beginning October 1, 2026, reviewers and applicants use the latest precipitation data in designs. The goal is clearer steps and fewer delays for permits.

Counties may shift reviews to soil districts

Beginning October 1, 2026, any county or town may pass an ordinance letting its soil conservation district review and approve stormwater plans. This is optional. It can change who does technical reviews and how fast plans move. Effects vary by local capacity.

Sponsors & Cosponsors

Sponsor

Linda Foley
Democratic • House

Cosponsors

Regina T. Boyce
Democratic • House
David Fraser-Hidalgo
Democratic • House
Anne R. Kaiser
Democratic • House
Bernice Mireku-North
Democratic • House
Lily Qi
Democratic • House
Pam Queen
Democratic • House
Natalie Ziegler
Democratic • House

Roll Call Votes

All Roll Calls

Yes: 167 • No: 7

Senate vote • 4/8/2026

Third Reading Passed

Yes: 43 • No: 0 • Other: 2

House vote • 3/18/2026