Maryland § 6-321

Full text of Maryland Maryland Code § 6-321, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 6-321.

    (a)    In this section, “public property” includes property that is:

        (1)    a structure, road, parking area, or grounds; and

        (2)    located on land owned, leased, or operated by:

            (i)    the State;

            (ii)    a county;

            (iii)    a municipality;

            (iv)    the Washington Suburban Sanitary Commission;

            (v)    the Maryland–National Capital Park and Planning Commission;

            (vi)    the Montgomery County Revenue Authority; or

            (vii)    the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority.

    (b)    (1)    Except as provided in paragraphs (2) and (3) of this subsection, an individual may not consume an alcoholic beverage:

            (i)    on public property;

            (ii)    on the mall, adjacent parking area, or other outside area of a shopping center;

            (iii)    on an adjacent parking area or other outside area of any other retail establishment; and

            (iv)    in a parked vehicle located in an area described under item (i), (ii), or (iii) of this paragraph.

        (2)    An individual may consume an alcoholic beverage on:

            (i)    public property if authorized by the governmental entity that has authority over the property; or

            (ii)    private property described under paragraph (1)(ii) through (iv) of this subsection if authorized by the owner of the property.

        (3)    If the owner or operator of a motor home or chartered bus has consented to the consumption of the alcoholic beverages, paragraph (1) of this subsection does not apply to passengers:

            (i)    in the living quarters of a motor home equipped with a toilet and central heating; or

            (ii)    of a chartered bus in transit.

    (c)    (1)    A violation of this section is a Code violation and a civil offense.

        (2)    A person who violates this section:

            (i)    shall be issued a citation under § 10–119 of the Criminal Law Article; and

            (ii)    is subject to a fine not exceeding $100.

Frequently Asked Questions About Maryland § 6-321

What does Maryland Code § 6-321 cover?

Section 6-321 is part of the Maryland Code, the codified statutory law of Maryland. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.

How do I cite Maryland § 6-321?

A common citation format is "Maryland Code § 6-321" (Maryland). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.

Is this the official text of Maryland law?

No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Maryland official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Maryland attorney.

How does Maryland § 6-321 apply to my situation?

Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Maryland can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.

Sources & Verification

Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Maryland.