Maryland Right to Farm Protections Under AG 5-403

Maryland's Right to Farm law shields agricultural operations from private nuisance suits brought by neighbors when the farm has been operating for at least one year and follows generally accepted agricultural management practices. Each county must establish an agricultural reconciliation committee to mediate disputes between farms and neighbors before any lawsuit may proceed. The protection applies to noise, dust, odors, and nighttime operations typical to farming. The law does not shield negligent or unlawful conduct, environmental violations, or activities that pose public health risks.

Farms operating outside accepted practices may lose their nuisance immunity and face damages, injunctions, and county code enforcement penalties.