Anne Arundel County, MD Building Safety: Childcare Center Rules (2026)
Key Facts
- Adopting code
- NFPA 101 Life Safety Code (2018), as amended
- Sliding-door clear width
- At least 28 inches
- Door sill height limit
- No more than 1/2 inch
- Deadbolt lock design
- Captured-key or interior-latch only
- Violation penalty
- $125-$1,000 civil fine (Class D)
Summary
Family day-care homes in Anne Arundel County must meet Life Safety Code exit standards: a required sliding-door exit needs a simple single lock and a clear 28-inch opening, and deadbolts on other exits must use captured-key or approved interior-latch designs.
"Special means of escape requirements. For family day-care homes, deadbolt locks shall be provided with approved interior latches, or these locks shall be of a captured key design from which the key cannot be removed from the interior side of the lock when the lock is in the locked position."
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: 2026 S-93: County Code is current through May, 2026).
Full Breakdown
Anne Arundel County adopts NFPA 101, the 2018 Life Safety Code, as its Fire Prevention Code under § 15-3-104, then amends key sections for family day-care homes. A sliding door used as a required exit may have only one easily operated lock, no obstructing draperies or storm doors, a sill no higher than half an inch, and must open to a clear width of at least 28 inches, unlocked and tested daily before care begins. Deadbolts on other exits need approved interior latches or a captured-key design so the key can't be pulled out while locked. Violating the Fire Prevention Code is a Class D civil offense.
Violations & Fines
Violating the Fire Prevention Code is a Class D civil offense: $125 for a first violation, $500 for a second, and $1,000 for a third or later violation (Code § 9-2-101).
Frequently Asked Questions
Does this rule apply to Glen Burnie and Severna Park day-care homes?
Does Annapolis follow this county rule?
Who enforces these exit and lock requirements?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Anne Arundel County
Compare Anne Arundel County to another location·View the Maryland building safety overview
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