Animal Ordinances in Annapolis, MD: What Residents Actually Need to Know

If you live in Annapolis or are thinking about moving there, animal ordinances are one of those things you probably won't think about until they affect you directly. Annapolis has 4 specific rules on the books covering different aspects of animal ordinances, and some of them might surprise you.

Beekeeping

Annapolis does not have a specific municipal beekeeping ordinance. Maryland Dept of Agriculture requires hive registration. Zoning and property size constraints apply. City encourages urban agriculture as consistent with Chesapeake Bay goals.

Key details: Registration: Maryland Dept of Agriculture required. Setback: 8 feet from property lines recommended. City Ordinance: No specific municipal code. Urban Agriculture: City-encouraged.

Unregistered hives: MDA enforcement. Nuisance swarms: abatement order.

Exotic Pets

Annapolis follows Anne Arundel County animal code prohibiting wild, exotic, and vicious animals as pets. Skunks, raccoons, and opossums are specifically prohibited. Small rodents, rabbits, ferrets, birds, fish, and non-poisonous reptiles are permitted.

Key details: Prohibited: Skunks, raccoons, opossums, wild animals. Permitted: Rodents, rabbits, ferrets, birds, fish, non-poisonous reptiles. Venomous Reptiles: Dangerous animal permit required. Enforcement: AA County Animal Services (410) 222-8900.

Keeping prohibited exotic animal: citation, animal confiscation, fines up to $500 per animal.

Compared to other cities, Annapolis takes a harder line on exotic pets. The enforcement and penalty structure reflects that.

Dog Leash Laws

Annapolis requires dogs to be on leash in all public areas including waterfront parks, City Dock, and Truxtun Park. Dogs must be under the direct control of their owner at all times. Off-leash areas are limited.

Key details: Leash Requirement: All public areas. Max Leash Length: 6 feet. City Dock: Leash required. Off-Leash: Quiet Waters dog beach (seasonal).

Dog at large: $50 first offense. Dog not under control: $75. Repeat offenses: increased fines and possible animal control action.

Breed Restrictions

Annapolis has no municipal breed-specific legislation (BSL). Maryland law prohibits county and municipal breed bans following the 2014 Court of Appeals ruling. All dogs are governed by individual behavior under the dangerous dog designation process.

Key details: BSL: None – MD law prohibits breed bans. Dangerous Dogs: Behavior-based, not breed-based. State Law: HB 421 (2014). HOAs: May have separate restrictions.

No breed-ban violations possible. Dangerous dog violations: $500+ fines, confinement orders, or humane euthanasia for 'vicious' designations.

The rules around breed restrictions in Annapolis lean permissive, but that does not mean anything goes.

The Bottom Line

Annapolis's animal ordinances rules are a mixed bag. Some areas are strict, others are relaxed, and the details matter. The best approach is to check the specific rule that applies to your situation rather than assuming Annapolis is broadly strict or permissive.

Keep in mind that Annapolis can amend these rules at any council meeting. For the most current version of any rule mentioned here, check the specific ordinance page, where we track updates as they happen.