edits by Shannon Rogers
The Carroll County Board of Commissioners will hold a public hearing on Thursday, July 30, 2026, to gather public input on proposed amendments to Chapter 150, Forest Conservation, of the Code of Public Local Laws and Ordinances of Carroll County.
The hearing will begin at 9:00 a.m. The proposed changes include updates required by Maryland state law, along with additional revisions recommended by county staff to modernize the existing ordinance.
The proposed amendments have been reviewed over the past several months. The Planning and Zoning Commission discussed the changes on May 6, 2026, followed by Board of Commissioners work sessions on May 14 and July 9, 2026.
Residents are encouraged to review the proposed ordinance before the hearing. Copies are available online through the county’s Notice of Public Hearing website or in the main lobby of the County Office Building at 225 N. Center Street in Westminster during regular business hours.
To participate in the legislative process, residents may attend the public hearing or submit comments by email to commissioners@carrollcountymd.gov before the hearing date.
As stated in the announcement: “The Commissioners may make amendments to the proposed legislation based upon the comments received and may do so without additional hearing. Therefore, it is important to be present or send comments.”
Questions about the public hearing or the comment process can be directed to County Attorney Tim Burke. Questions regarding the proposed amendments may be directed to Janet O’Meara, Division Manager of Resource Management.
