MD HB149

Counties and municipalities may designate assistant State fire marshals with State Fire Marshal approval, and the State Fire Marshal must adopt regulations establishing minimum training, certification, and eligibility standards for these positions

"High-rise building" is redefined as a building where the floor of an occupiable story is greater than 75 feet above the lowest level of fire department vehicle access

Residential rental high-rise buildings undergoing "substantial renovation" (alterations costing 40% or more of assessed building value) must install automatic fire sprinklers beginning October 1, 2026, along with additional fire safety features including smoke alarms in sleeping areas, 2-hour fire-rated stairwell enclosures, and smokeproof exit enclosures

The State Fire Prevention Commission must establish a new licensing and regulatory program for fire alarm system technicians and fire alarm system companies, including professional standards, liability insurance requirements, and fee schedules

The Act takes effect October 1, 2026