Maryland Animal Hoarding (2026)

Key Facts

General cruelty: CR Section 10-604
Aggravated cruelty: CR Section 10-606
Felony max: 3 years prison
Penalty: Animal forfeiture available

Full Breakdown

Md. Code Ann., Criminal Law Section 10-604 makes it a misdemeanor to deprive an animal of necessary sustenance, inflict unnecessary suffering, or cruelly kill an animal. Section 10-606 elevates aggravated cruelty to a felony. While Maryland lacks a hoarding-specific statute, prosecutors apply the cruelty law to hoarding cases involving large numbers of animals kept in conditions that cause suffering. Local jurisdictions may enact additional animal welfare ordinances under Section 10-617, but the state cruelty floor applies uniformly. Convictions can include forfeiture of animals and prohibitions on future ownership.

Violations & Penalties

Misdemeanor up to $1,000 fine and 90 days; felony aggravated cruelty up to 3 years and $5,000.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is animal hoarding a specific crime in Maryland?

Maryland does not have a stand-alone hoarding statute, but hoarding is prosecuted under general animal cruelty laws when conditions cause suffering or deprive animals of food, water, shelter, or care.

Can hoarders be banned from owning animals?

Yes. Courts may order forfeiture of all animals and prohibit future ownership as a condition of sentencing or probation, in addition to fines and possible jail time.

Maryland Animal Cruelty Law Covers Hoarding Statewide