Montgomery County, MD Public Conduct: Public Urination (2026)
Key Facts
- Governing law
- Montgomery County Code § 32-17A
- Covers
- Public places and places visible from them
- Exception
- Enclosed, designated public restrooms
- Penalty tier
- Class A violation
Summary
Montgomery County makes it a Class A violation to urinate or defecate in any public place, place open to the public, or anywhere visible from one.
Except as provided in subsection (c), a person must not urinate or defecate, whether or not the act is actually viewed by another person, in: (1) a public place; (2) a place open to the public; or (3) any other place where the person may be seen from a public place or place open to the public... A person who violates this Section has committed a Class A violation.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: 2026 S-90: Montgomery County Code contains legislation effective through May 7, 2026 | Zoning Updated Effective: April 13, 2026 | COMCOR Regulations effective as of July 1, 2026).
Full Breakdown
Montgomery County Code § 32-17A bars urinating or defecating in a public place, a place open to the public, or any other spot where the person can be seen from one of those places: even if no one actually witnesses it. The only carve-out is using an enclosed public restroom or similar facility clearly marked as a bathroom, toilet, or lavatory. A violation is a Class A offense, the county's top civil/criminal violation tier.
Violations & Fines
Class A violation: up to $1,000 fine and 6 months imprisonment criminally, or up to $500 (first offense) / $750 (repeat) as a civil citation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does it matter if no one saw me?
Can I use a portable toilet at an event?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Montgomery County
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