Baltimore County Executive Kathy Klausmeier has 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 is not intended to stop residents from having parties at their own homes, officials said in a Sept. 8 press release. 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,” Klausmeier said in a statement. “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 home 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.
Police Chief Robert McCullough said the parties jeopardize the safety of the residents, event guests and officers who respond. “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,” he said.
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 bill 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.
The 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 Klausmeier. It would take effect immediately upon enactment.
—Baltimore County Press Release