Maryland Equine Laws: Guide
Maryland, often referred to as the birthplace of American horse racing, is home to thousands of horse farms, equestrian events, and a growing number of backyard poultry enthusiasts. Whether you’re boarding Thoroughbreds in Baltimore County or raising a trail horse and a few hens in rural Garrett County, understanding Maryland equine laws is essential to staying compliant, safe, and confident in your land use.
This guide covers everything you need to know about owning horses—and chickens—legally in Maryland, from zoning and liability to animal welfare and fencing.
Why Maryland Equine Laws Matter
In a state as agriculturally and residentially diverse as Maryland, animal ownership laws aren’t one-size-fits-all. Your responsibilities as a horse owner—especially one who also raises poultry—will depend on your county’s zoning, the nature of your land use, and state-level liability, animal health, and cruelty laws.
Whether you’re a backyard homesteader or planning a multi-animal setup, tools like chickencoopcalculator.com can help you design a legally compliant layout with proper fencing, shelter, and animal spacing.
Maryland’s Equine Activity Liability Law
Are horse owners protected from lawsuits if someone gets injured?
Yes. Maryland has adopted the Equine Activity Liability Act (Courts and Judicial Proceedings § 5-604), which limits a horse owner’s liability for injuries related to the inherent risks of equine activities.
The law protects owners if:
-
The injury results from natural horse behavior like spooking, bucking, or falling
-
The rider or participant was aware of the risks
-
The owner did not act with gross negligence or intentional harm
However, posting warning signs is not explicitly required under Maryland law—though it is highly encouraged to protect yourself and notify others of inherent risks.
Zoning and Land Use: Horses and Chickens on the Same Property
Can you raise chickens and horses together in Maryland?
Yes, but zoning varies by county and municipality. While agricultural and rural areas are generally permissive, suburban or urban zones often place limits on both livestock and poultry.
Local ordinances may regulate:
-
Number of horses or poultry allowed based on acreage
-
Setback requirements for barns, coops, and manure storage
-
Rooster bans in residential zones
-
Permits or licenses required for livestock in non-agricultural zones
For example, Montgomery County allows chickens with restrictions in residential areas but may limit horse ownership based on lot size. Anne Arundel County also requires special permits for small-scale livestock operations.
Need help figuring out what your land can legally support? Use chickencoopcalculator.com to measure animal capacity, coop dimensions, and fencing needs before you build.
Maryland’s Animal Cruelty and Welfare Laws
What are your legal obligations for caring for horses and chickens in Maryland?
Under Maryland Criminal Law § 10-604 to § 10-606, animal cruelty—including neglect and failure to provide care—is a criminal offense.
You must legally provide:
-
Nutritious food and clean water
-
Shelter from heat, cold, and precipitation
-
Adequate space to move and rest comfortably
-
Veterinary care when needed
Convictions may result in fines, imprisonment, and loss of ownership rights. If you’re managing multiple species, it’s crucial to prevent overcrowding, odor, and contamination.
Use chickencoopcalculator.com to ensure you’re giving every animal the space, comfort, and safety required under Maryland law.
Equine Health: Coggins Testing and Biosecurity
Do horses in Maryland require a Coggins test?
Yes. A negative Coggins test for Equine Infectious Anemia (EIA) is mandatory in Maryland when:
-
Transporting a horse within or out of state
-
Participating in shows, trail rides, or exhibitions
-
Selling or transferring ownership of a horse
Failure to comply can result in removal from events or transportation penalties. Annual testing is the norm in Maryland, especially for any horses interacting with others.
If you’re also raising poultry, keep in mind that cross-species contamination is a risk. Maintain separate feed, tools, and living spaces. With chickencoopcalculator.com, you can design species-specific zones that reduce disease transmission and meet Maryland’s health and safety expectations.
Maryland Fencing and Livestock Containment Laws
Are fences legally required for horses in Maryland?
Yes. Maryland generally follows a “fence-in” policy, meaning horse and livestock owners must contain their animals on their own land. If a horse escapes and causes damage or injury, you are liable.
Fencing recommendations:
-
Minimum height: 4.5 to 5 feet for horses
-
Avoid barbed wire; use wood, woven wire, or electric fencing
-
Chickens should be kept in secure, predator-proof coops and runs
Planning a fencing system for both horses and poultry? Use chickencoopcalculator.com to calculate footage, zone areas, and material needs.
Selling, Leasing, and Boarding Horses in Maryland
Do you need a contract to sell or board a horse in Maryland?
It’s not required by law—but it’s best practice. A written agreement protects both parties and ensures mutual understanding of responsibilities and financial terms.
Include the following in your contract:
-
Horse’s description, health status, and identification
-
Terms of sale, lease, or boarding (costs, services, duration)
-
Emergency care protocols and liability disclaimers
-
Disclosures about behavior or known medical conditions
Even if you’re selling eggs or chicks on the side, keep simple sales records and receipts for transparency and accountability.
Public Trail Riding and Equine Access in Maryland
Can you legally ride horses on public land in Maryland?
Yes, Maryland offers a wide network of horse-friendly trails and parks, but rules can vary by site.
Popular equestrian trail destinations include:
-
Fair Hill Natural Resources Management Area
-
Green Ridge State Forest
-
Patapsco Valley State Park
-
Rosaryville State Park
Trail etiquette and rules:
-
Ride only on designated equestrian trails
-
Remove manure in parking and rest areas
-
Follow yield guidelines (horses generally have right of way)
-
Carry proof of Coggins testing when riding publicly
Check with the Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) or park-specific sites for permits and trail maps.
Managing Horses and Chickens on a Maryland Homestead
Running a multi-species setup in Maryland? You’re not alone. Homesteaders across the state keep horses and backyard poultry together—but doing it legally and efficiently requires planning.
Mixed-animal management tips:
-
Keep housing and feeding areas separate to reduce disease risk
-
Rotate pastures and chicken runs to prevent overgrazing
-
Compost manure to control odor and flies
-
Store grain and feed in sealed, weather-proof containers
Plan your animal zones, fencing, and coop size using chickencoopcalculator.com. It’s specifically designed for mixed-use homesteads like yours.
When to Seek Legal or Agricultural Help
Should you talk to a lawyer or ag extension agent in Maryland?
Yes—especially if you:
-
Run a boarding, breeding, or poultry business
-
Need a zoning variance or land use permit
-
Are writing a contract for animal sales or leasing
-
Have experienced a livestock-related injury or complaint
Agricultural attorneys and local extension offices can help ensure you meet Maryland’s livestock regulations and protect your operation from liability.
Conclusion
Maryland is a state that honors its agricultural roots—but it’s also a place where animal ownership is carefully regulated. From zoning and fencing to liability and animal care, understanding Maryland equine laws is key to raising horses and poultry safely and legally.
Before you build your coop or paddock, use chickencoopcalculator.com to design a plan that meets both legal and practical standards for your homestead.
Be proactive. Plan smart. Enjoy the Maryland farm life—legally, ethically, and confidently.
