Property Maintenance in Worcester County, MD (2026)

2 rules for unincorporated Worcester County, Maryland.

Verified from official government sources

Note: These county rules apply to unincorporated areas of Worcester County. If you live within an incorporated city, that city's own rules apply: see the city list below.

Property Blight

In unincorporated Worcester County, Maryland, a dilapidated, burned-out, fallen-down or decayed structure that is unattended, unusable and beyond reasonable hope of rehabilitation is a public nuisance under § PH 1-101(a)(11). Owners face a civil infraction for every day it stands, and the County Commissioners can abate it and place the cost as a lien on the property.

Worcester County MD Dilapidated Building Nuisance Abatement

Significant Restrictions

Worcester County Code § PH 1-101(a)(11)

(a) Certain conditions to be declared nuisances. The existence of any of the following conditions in the County which are found to be dangerous or prejudicial to the maintenance of property values, health, safety or general welfare of the people of the County by the duly designated County department or official are hereby declared to constitute a public nuisance: ... (11) Any dilapidated, burne...

Full ordinance details →Official source ↗

Vacant Lot Maintenance

In unincorporated Worcester County, Maryland, a vacant lot becomes a public nuisance if rubbish, household trash or junk is dumped or accumulated there creating a fire hazard or harboring rats, mice, snakes or vermin, or if it holds an unprotected hole, pit or pool. The owner and the person who caused the condition are both liable.

Worcester County MD Vacant Lot Rubbish and Hazard Nuisance Rules

Some Restrictions

Worcester County Code § PH 1-101(a)(3), (a)(12) and (d)

(3) Any placing, leaving, dumping or accumulation of rubbish, household trash or junk causing or threatening to cause a fire hazard, or causing the inhabitation therein of rats, mice, snakes, or vermin of any kind or the accumulation of stagnant water causing or threatening to cause the breeding of insects which is or may be dangerous or prejudicial to the public health. ... (12) Any unattended...

Full ordinance details →Official source ↗

All Worcester County ordinances

See every category we cover for Worcester County: parking, noise, fences, fires, animals, pools, and more.

Worcester County Ordinance Hub →