9-09-2026 4:33am

House Parties Over

Baltimore County Executive Kathy Klausmeier Announces Legislation to Stop Commercial House Parties in Residential Neighborhoods

New legislation would prevent residential properties from becoming commercial party venues

TOWSON, MD — Baltimore County Executive Kathy Klausmeier announced legislation to prohibit commercial house parties in residential neighborhoods, taking aim at large, for-profit events that turn residential properties into party venues.

The proposal targets events that are advertised to the general public, charge admission or fees for food, drinks or entertainment, and operate from residential properties. The legislation comes as large commercial parties at residential properties have become an increasing concern in Baltimore County.

The legislation is not intended to stop residents from having parties at their own homes. Private celebrations, family gatherings and other social events would remain allowed.

“We want people to enjoy their homes and have parties with their family and friends,” said Baltimore County Executive Kathy Klausmeier. “What we’re stopping are commercial parties where homes are being advertised as venues, tickets are sold, and large crowds cause disruptions in communities. We are protecting the peace and enjoyment of our neighborhoods.”

Over the summer in one Baltimore County neighborhood, residents reported hundreds of people attending pool parties at a residential property multiple times each week. A party flyer advertised admission, for a fee, for a gathering with capacity for more than 100 people. Neighbors reported significant disturbances associated with the events, which also required large amounts of public safety resources to respond to the area.

“Commercial house parties held on private property jeopardize the safety of our residents, those in attendance, and the officers called to respond to them,” said Police Chief Robert McCullough. “This legislation provides the police department with additional enforcement that more effectively addresses these parties and, equally important, establishes clear consequences for those who organize the events.”

Under the proposed legislation, a commercial house party would be defined as a gathering on residential property that is advertised or promoted to the general public and for which a fee is charged for entry, food, drinks or entertainment. The prohibition would apply to commercial parties held at pools, yards or other areas of residential properties.

The legislation would prohibit a person from promoting, organizing or hosting a commercial house party on residential property. The Baltimore County Police Department would enforce the prohibition.

The bill would also establish misdemeanor penalties of up to $2,500 for a first violation and up to $5,000 for a second or subsequent violation within 24 months. A citation could be issued without a prior notice of violation.

The legislation would specifically exclude private gatherings that are not open to the general public and do not charge a fee for entry, food, beverages or entertainment. It would also exempt qualifying nonprofit, religious and political fundraisers, permitted events, and activities otherwise authorized under Baltimore County zoning regulations.

Baltimore County's proposal follows similar action in Howard and Montgomery counties.

The legislation will be introduced to the Baltimore County Council at the request of County Executive Klausmeier. It would take effect immediately upon enactment.