MD HB149

Counties and municipal corporations may designate assistant 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" definition updated to buildings where an occupiable floor is greater than 75 feet above fire department vehicle access level

Beginning October 1, 2026, automatic fire sprinklers must be installed in residential rental high-rise buildings undergoing "substantial renovation" (renovations costing 40% or more of the building's assessed value)

Substantially renovated high-rise rental buildings must also include smoke alarms in sleeping areas, 2-hour fire-rated stairwell enclosures, smokeproof exit enclosures, at least two smoke compartments per floor, and reduced exit travel distances

State Fire Prevention Commission must adopt regulations to license and regulate fire alarm system technicians and fire alarm system companies, including professional standards, liability insurance requirements, and fee schedules