MD HB548

Housing development project applications must be evaluated under the laws and regulations in effect at the time a substantially complete application is submitted, preventing mid-process rule changes from affecting pending projects

Local regulatory authorities have 15 days to determine if an application is substantially complete and must notify applicants of deficiencies; failure to respond within 20 days results in automatic deemed-complete status

Approved housing development projects receive vested rights to the authorized use and development for at least 5 years, or longer if determined by the local authority

Development excise taxes and impact fees on residential projects (including mixed-use with residential units) cannot be collected until after construction is complete and certificate of occupancy requirements are met

Effective date: October 1, 2026