Overview
Maryland uniquely requires $2.50 per machine licensing through Circuit Court Clerks in each county. The state specifically recognizes micro markets in law and has complex local tax variations. Business registration requires Maryland Business Express portal navigation.
Each county has different requirements and Baltimore City operates independently.
Business Registration
Business registration is required for vending operators in Maryland.
Registration Agency
Registration Types
- Business entity registration
- Federal Tax ID required
- Beneficial ownership reporting to FinCEN
Register through Maryland Business Express. Business insurance requirements apply.
Sales Tax
Tax Application
- General sales tax applies to vending: Yes
- Food tax variation: Same as general
- Local rates possible: Yes
- Resale certificate required: No
- Filing frequency: monthly, quarterly, or annually
6% state rate plus complex county and municipal variations. Vendor license required for roadside.
Registration
Vending Operator License
Vending operator license is required in Maryland.
License Name: Vending Machine License
Issuing Authority: Circuit Court Clerk in each county
Fee: $2.5
Renewal: May 1 through April 30
Machine Registration
Machine registration is required in Maryland.
Per-machine fee: $2.5
Decal/tag required: No
Renewal: annual (May 1 - April 30)
Health Permit & Food Code
Health permits are required for:
- Food service facilities
- Micro markets
Agency: Maryland Department of Health
Food Code: 2017 FDA Food Code (Maryland modified)
Inspections: Risk-based
Micro Markets
Micro markets are recognized in state code.
Permit required: Yes
Specific Requirements
- Defined in Maryland Health-General Code Section 21-301
- Regulated as food service facility
Product Restrictions
Restricted Products
- Alcohol: Prohibited in vending machines
- Tobacco: Special tax and licensing requirements
- CBD/Hemp: Follow Maryland cannabis regulations
- Age Verification: Must comply with placement restrictions
Placement Rules
Schools
Check local district policies
Public Buildings
Allowed with proper permits
Private Property
Property owner permission required
ADA & Accessibility
Must meet ADA requirements
Electrical & Fire Code
Follow local codes
Local Permits
Maryland has home rule, meaning local jurisdictions can impose additional requirements.
Typical Local Requirements
- County business license
- Health department permits
Example Localities
Baltimore City
$2.50 per machine through Circuit Court. Additional health permits required.
Penalties & Enforcement
Common Violations
- Operating without machine license
- Tax violations
Penalties
- $100-500 per machine
- Back taxes plus 25% penalty
Key Contacts
Maryland Comptroller
Phone: (410) 260-7980
Maryland Department of Health
Phone: (410) 767-6500
Frequently Asked Questions
What is unique about Maryland's vending licensing?
$2.50 per machine license from Circuit Court Clerk in each county where machines operate.
How are micro markets regulated?
Specifically defined as food service facilities under Maryland law with permits required.
When do licenses renew?
Vending machine licenses run May 1 through April 30 annually.
What are Maryland's tax complexities?
6% state rate plus complex local variations by county and municipality.
Do I need Baltimore City permits?
Yes, Baltimore City has its own health department and additional requirements.
What registration is required first?
Register through Maryland Business Express, get Federal Tax ID, and report beneficial ownership.