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1. What kind of information can I obtain on an inmate housed in your facility?

We can release the name, charge, and bond of any inmate. All other information is restricted.

2. What kind of inmates do you house?

As a pretrial facility, we house a wide range of inmates. Criminal charges may range from DWI to first-degree murder. While we do house high-security inmates, we take every precaution to ensure that every inmate is safe at all times.

3. If I am a victim of a crime, how do I get notified when someone gets released?

Victim Information and Notification Everyday (VINE) is an automated notification system that helps you exercise your rights as a crime victim. When you register for the VINE service, you will receive a phone call or email to notify you of court dates related to your case. VINE will also contact you about the release, escape, or transfer of your offender. VINE can also notify you on the compliance status of a sex offender. Recently, Maryland has added Probation and Parole to the list of notifications VINE can make. Now you can be alerted when your offender is being reviewed for Parole, has upcoming parole hearing, change in supervision, if re-arrested, is due to be released, or more.

4. Are the inmates I see working along the roads in Caroline County from our jail?

Sometimes, yes. The Maryland State Highway Administration (SHA) also uses inmate labor to clean the shoulders of roads.

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1. What can I expect when I arrive?

Your first days and weeks as an inmate can be challenging. It is important to remember that the many rules exist for your safety and the safety of our staff. After initial booking, you will be moved into one of the wings (often called “tiers”) of the jail. Our staff will issue you some basic supplies like a uniform and personal hygiene products. Like all institutions, the jail runs on a schedule. After the initial shock wears off, you will find that much of life behind bars involves routines.

2. Can I bring a cell phone or personal computer?

No, these items are not permitted.

3. Can people visit me?

Normally, yes. Please see our Visitors section.

4. Can I make a phone call?

Yes, you can make collect calls. You also can use your commissary account to make calls.

5. Can people send me money?

Cash, no; money orders, yes. Your family and friends can send you money orders. The money will be deposited in your account and you can use this money to purchase items from the inmate commissary.

6. Will I be locked in a cell 24 hours a day?

No, inmates are allowed to congregate in day rooms, engage in recreation and attend nondenominational spiritual services, and participate in other programs we hope will foster mature behavior and a sense of personal responsibility.

7. What if I am a “weekender”?

Some inmates are sentenced to weekends at the jail. Inmates sentenced to weekend detention must pay a fee of $25 per weekend. Please bring a money order payable to Caroline County government every time you report. You may bring one change of undergarments. All other property will be placed in secure storage until you are released.

8. What if something happens to me while I am in jail?

Every one of our correctional officers is trained to provide a safe environment. If you are threatened, harassed, assaulted, or harmed in any way, please report this immediately to an on-duty correctional officer. You also have the right to complain to the Warden. Our inmates receive medical and dental services while incarcerated. Normally, Inmates on prescription medications will continue to receive those medications through our onsite nurse.

9. How is contraband handled?

From time to time, inmates will try to smuggle in contraband. Contraband includes anything prohibited to inmates. The most common examples are cell phones, cigarettes, lighters, illicit drugs, and improvised weapons. Possession of contraband is a criminal offense and will be prosecuted.

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1. When can we visit?

Visitation normally occurs on the weekend and times are based on the inmate’s last name. Go to the visitation section to see exact times, requirements, and rules of visitation. Longer or alternate visitation hours may be arranged for persons who need to travel more than two hours to the jail. Please contact Support Services at 410-479-4126 to get more information. Visiting is a privilege and can be suspended or terminated if inmates or visitors violate the rules and regulations. Visitors who violate rules may be prohibited from future visits.

2. What do we need to bring to visit an inmate?

You must show state or federally issued photo identification to visit an inmate.

3. What can we bring for an inmate?

Visit the Visitation page for clothing you may bring an inmate.

4. Can we bring clothes for a court appearance?

Yes. Please contact Support Services at 410-479-4126 to get more information on bringing clothing for court.

5. Can we send money?

Yes. you can send an inmate a money order which he or she can use to purchase items from the inmate commissary. You can send the money order to the inmate.

6. What can an inmate buy through the commissary?

Inmates can buy clothing, food, and personal hygiene products with the funds they have in their inmate accounts. Commissary orders are placed through an automated system via the inmate telephone and commissary items are delivered weekly. Commissary purchases may not exceed $75 in any given week.

7. Can we send mail?

Yes, except for legal correspondence, all inmate mail is monitored. The mailing address of the Jail is 101 Gay Street, Denton, Maryland 21629. Inmates can receive money orders, letters, signed greeting cards, soft cover books shipped directly from a book store, and newspapers that are sent directly from the publishers.

8. Can we send email?

No, inmates do not have access to the Internet or cell phones.

9. How can I find out an inmate’s court date?

You can use the Maryland Judiciary Case Search.

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1. How do I comment on or complain about a County service?

Comments or complaints can be submitted to the County Commissioners Office via this form , or by calling the office at 410-479-0660.

2. How can I get appointed to a county board or commission?

We are always looking for qualified and dedicated individuals to serve on a variety of important citizen-driven boards, commissions, and advisory groups. Learn more about opportunities to get involved and apply for appointment by visiting the Citizen Boards and Commissions section of our site.

3. How does my agency or group receive funding from the County?

With nearly 80% of the county budget spent on mandated services and agencies, there is little room for new funding. However, groups are always welcome to request funding and support. The Office of Finance facilitates the annual budget process on behalf of the County Commissioners.

4. Where can I find information on Caroline County for my school project?

The Caroline County Public Library staff does an exceptional job of assisting students looking for information on Caroline County for school reports and projects. Requests for Caroline County Project Packets may be made by phone, email, U.S. Mail, or by visiting their website and submitting a request electronically. Contact a librarian for assistance.

You can also email the Information Desk at info@carolib.org, write to a Librarian at Caroline County Public Library, 100 Market Street, Denton, MD 21629, or call them at 410-479-1343.

5. Can I put my event on the county’s online calendar?

The County Meetings and Events calendar on this site is only for meetings and events of the County government, boards, commissions, and departments and its allied agencies. The Caroline County Office of Tourism maintains an online calendar of community events, and requests to have your event included on that calendar can be submitted using this form .

6. How do I get on a vendor list or find out about bids?

Please visit the Purchasing and Procurement section of this website for information about vendor lists, bids, and requests for proposals.

7. What is the difference between the District Court Commissioners and the County Commissioners?

District Court Commissioners are part of the judicial branch of state government. Their duties involve issuance of warrants of arrest, or bail or pre-trial release issues, incarceration pending hearing; and issuance of civil interim peace orders and civil interim protective orders. Caroline County District Court can be reached at 410-819-4600.

The County Commissioners are elected officials who govern the county, fulfilling both the legislative and executive functions. They are not associated with the judicial branch or court system in any way. The County Commissioners have the authority to locally enact, amend, and repeal public local laws that are applicable to the incorporation, organization, or government of the county. There are three County Commissioners, who are elected by county-wide vote to four year terms.

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1. When should I call 911?

You should call 911 when you need emergency response from Police, Fire and/or Emergency Medical personnel.

2. When calling 911, what is the basic information that I need to know?

When you call 9-1-1, you should provide your address, phone number, and reason for calling.

3. What number do I call for a controlled burn?

Please, call the non-emergency line at (410) 479-2222 to schedule a controlled burn.

4. What if the caller is speech or hearing impaired?

The 9-1-1 call takers are trained to detect data signals unique to telecommunication devices for the speech and hearing impaired. These calls are immediately connected to a special device that allows communications with the caller.

Text Telephone (TTY/TDD) Users: Wait until your call is answered, then press the space bar or any touch tone key several times to send data signal to identify your call as TTY/TDD call.

5. Will they keep me on the phone and ask other questions?

In an emergency, the more information responders have, the better they can help. The actual dispatch of emergency services has already happened as soon as the location of the emergency is known. The 9-1-1 call taker relays the information that they receive to first responders in the field and remains on the phone with the caller to obtain additional information and provide instructions. The 9-1-1 Center utilizes a state-of-the-art network of computers, telephones and radios to communicate and dispatch information to others even while they are on the phone with you. The 9-1-1 call taker will use this time to confirm the name, address, and ask any additional questions. For example:

Suspect or vehicle information for crimes in progress.

Age of patient and are they conscious and breathing?

What is on fire and are there any other dangers?

6. What happens if I call 9-1-1 and there is a busy signal?

Please hang up and dial 9-1-1 again. As long as your local telephone service is operating, this situation is highly unlikely. The enhanced 9-1-1 network has several back-up systems to ensure that 9-1-1 calls are answered.

7. I am interested in a career as a Dispatcher. How do I find out more?

Visit the Jobs Center for current openings within the Emergency Communications division.

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1. How do I become an EMT?

You can become an EMT by attending a class at a community college or the Maryland Fire and Rescue Institute. Becoming an EMT requires 175 hours of classroom training and 100 hours of clinical internship prior to licensure. Upon successfully obtaining a license to practice, the EMT then undergoes a clearance process with the county for medical director approval to render care.

You do not have to be affiliated with a department to obtain an EMT license, however, an EMT must either volunteer or become employed by a local department in order to provide care.

2. What is the difference between an EMT and a Paramedic?

An EMT and a Paramedic both perform similar job functions and usually work together to crew an ambulance. The main difference between an EMT and Paramedic is education and training. Becoming an EMT requires 175 hours of classroom training and 100 hours of clinical internship prior to licensure. To become a paramedic, an individual must be an EMT for at least 12 months first, and undergo a training program of approximately 1,100 hours of classroom instruction and clinical rotations. 

3. Is Caroline County DES currently recruiting?

Please, visit the Jobs Center for a listing of current openings within the Emergency Medical Services division.

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1. What is emergency management?

Emergency management is the prevention of, protection from, mitigation of, response to, and recovery from disasters and emergencies that threaten or cause widespread loss of life, injury, or other health impacts, property damage or destruction, social or economic disruption, or environmental degradation from natural, technological, or human-caused sources.

2. How do I sign up for emergency alerts?

You can sign up for emergency alerts by registering for Smart911 here.

Be sure to download the app to make managing your account simple:

Download the Smart911 app for Apple.

Download the Smart911 app for Android.

3. What is the difference between a watch and a warning?

A weather watch is when conditions are favorable for severe weather to develop, while a weather warning is issued when conditions are expected in the specified area of the warning.

4. What should I have in my disaster supply kit?

A disaster supply kit should be stocked with the necessary items for your family's unique needs. Here are some suggested items to get you started:

• Credit card or cash
• Emergency tools
• battery powered or hand crank radio, NOAA Weather Radio if possible
• Extra set of car keys
• First aid kit, including prescription medicines
• Flashlight and plenty of extra batteries
• One blanket or sleeping bag per person
• One change of clothing and footwear per person
• Special items for infant, elderly, or disabled family members
• Three-day supply of water (one gallon per person per day) and food that won't spoil
• Sanitation and personal hygiene items
• Dust masks for all family members
• Glasses and contact lens solution
• Important family documents such as family and emergency contact information and copies of insurance policies.
• Pet supplies such as food, extra water, leash, crate, and medications

5. What if I have to evacuate my home?

If you need to evacuate your home, having some essential supplies on hand will make you and your family more comfortable:

Prepare a disaster supply kit in an easy-to-carry container such as a duffel bag or small plastic trash can. Include the following:

• Battery powered radio and extra batteries
• Bottled water
• Change of clothing for each person
• First aid supplies (including prescription medications)
• Food
• Sleeping bag or bedroll for each
• "Special needs" items for any household member (infant formula or items for people with disabilities or older people)
• Tools

It is also a good idea to include some cash and copies of important family documents (birth certificates, passports, and licenses) in your kit.

6. What is the Tri-County Siren Alarm System?

Emergency managers in Caroline, Talbot and Queen Anne's Counties have realized a need for an additional means of warning our communities of imminent danger or the need to turn on radios, televisions or computers for information. It is hoped that the "Imminent Danger" signal will never be needed; however, it will be available should something occur. The "Warning" signal might be used when a severe weather warning is issued for the area. When the crisis is ended, an "All Clear" signal will be sounded.

Tri-County Siren Alarm System:

Warning:
2 minute steady signal
Turn to your local emergency alert station

Imminent Danger:
2 minute wavering tone (like a fire siren signal – only faster)
Take protective actions

All Clear:
30 second steady tone
Emergency has ended

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1. How can my firm be considered for audit services?

The county’s current contract with its independent audit firm will expire in 2016. These professional services are awarded every five years based on a competitive process. To be placed on the vendor list to receive notice regarding future RFPs for audit services, complete this form.

2. How do I become a county vendor?

Visit the Purchasing and Procurement section of the county website to learn more about doing business with the county.

3. How do I know how the county is spending its money?

The County Commissioners and Finance Office are committed to transparency regarding the expenditure of taxpayer funds. The current fiscal year Budget shows how the County intends to spend its revenues this year. You can view the most recent county government audit here. You can also view weekly expenditures.

4. How do I request money from the county?

Money is allocated each year to county government departments (like the Department of Emergency Services), allied public agencies (like the Library), and non-profits (like the Volunteer Fire Companies) through the budget process. Budget allocation requests must be submitted in writing to the Finance Office. See the Budget section (link) for more information.

The county does not make financial allocations to individual members of the public.

5. When can a vendor expect to receive payment for services rendered?

Checks are processed every Monday and mailed on Wednesday of each week. In order for payment to be processed, invoices, purchase orders, and receiving forms must be submitted to the Finance Office by noon on Friday. The schedule may be changed from time to time due to holidays.

6. When are county employees paid?

County employees are paid biweekly. Pay day is a Tuesday. Timecard processing is from Wednesday to Tuesday, every other week. Employees are required to receive payment by direct deposit or a prepaid card. Checks are not issued.

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1. How do I apply for a job with the county government?

You may apply either in person or download an application. With the exception of the Department of Corrections, we only accept job applications when we are advertising for a position. Applications can be also mailed, faxed, or emailed upon request.

2. Where can I find information regarding available jobs in Caroline County Government?

We advertise with in local newspapers (Star Democrat and Times Record), the county website, and job recruiting websites.

3. What benefits are provided to county employees?

The county government offers an exceptional benefits package to employees. Benefits include health, life, and long term disability insurance, an excellent pension plan, and paid vacation, personal, and sick leave. We also provide access to deferred compensation plans and the opportunity to purchase vision and dental insurance through our other providers at very affordable rates. The Employee Assistance Program enables employees to access a wide variety of resources, including financial planning, legal assistance, and counseling. The county also provides educational assistance, so employees can continue to increase their skills and knowledge and be prepared to take advantage of opportunities for advancement.

4. Where should wage garnishment information be sent?

Please send to:
Caroline County Office of Finance
109 Market Street
Room 123
Denton, MD 21629

5. How can a company verify employment for a County employee?

Employment verifications can be mailed or faxed in writing or general information can be provided by telephone. The address is
Caroline County Department of Human Resources
109 Market St.
Room 123
Denton, MD 21629

The telephone number is 410-479-4105.

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1. What is the significance of "principal residence" on my tax bill?

Your tax bill must indicate your property as a "principal residence" in order to be eligible for Homestead credit benefits. You also must have filed a one-time Homestead Application as well as having the Principal Residence designation in order to receive the Homestead Credit. Also, if your property is not designated as a "principal residence," you are not eligible for the semi-annual payment schedule option and your tax bill will only reflect the annual payment due on September 30. Should you feel that your property has been designated incorrectly, please contact the supervisor of assessments for Caroline County, 207 South Third Street, Denton, Maryland 21629 at 410-819-4450.

2. Are there any tax programs that provide tax relief based on income?

The State Homeowner's Property Tax Credit Program provides property tax credits for homeowners of all ages who qualify on the basis of a comparison of their tax bill to their income. Anyone whose combined gross household family income is below $30,000 should consider filing an application. Applications can be picked up at the Caroline County Tax Office at 109 Market Street Room 133, Denton, Maryland 21629 or the State Department of Assessments for Caroline County at 207 South Third Street, Denton, Maryland 21629 at 410-819-4450. The cutoff for this credit for taxpayers under age 70 is September 1.

3. What is the Homestead Credit?

The Homestead Credit is a credit against state, county, and municipal property taxes. It is designed to decrease the tax liability for owner occupied properties that experience rapidly increasing assessments. There is a cap of 10% on state-taxable assessment increases from one year to the next. There is a 5% cap on county-taxable assessment increases from one year to the next. You must apply to the state department of assessments for a one-time application for this credit. It is no longer automatically calculated. If you would like additional information on the Homestead Credit, please visit the SDAT website.

4. What is the County Senior Credit?

This credit is for seniors 70 and over who have owned property in Caroline County for 15 years. You can download the senior credit form from our site. If you currently receive a Homeowners Credit from the state you will also receive the senior credit without having to fill in the county form. Once you have filed a form with the county, you do not need to file again.
Download the form here

5. Are there other exemptions that taxpayers can apply for?

The State of Maryland provides for other exemptions including those for disabled veterans and blind persons. More information is available at the State Department of Assessments and Taxation website.

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1. What are my options for paying my taxes?

Taxes can be paid by check, money order, cash, or credit card. All checks should be made payable to Caroline County Tax Office. Payments by mail should be addressed to Caroline County Tax Office, PO Box 459, Denton, Maryland 21629. If you are over-nighting payment, the address is 109 Market Street, Room 133, Denton, Maryland 21629. When making payments by mail, please be sure to include your 8-digit property tax account number on all checks or money orders and attach the annual or semi-annual stub from your tax bill to insure all remittances are made properly. Walk-in payments may be made at the Caroline County Tax Office at 109 Market Street, Room 133, Denton, Maryland 21629. The online system is available on this site. The Tax Office is open Monday through Friday (except holidays) 8:30 a.m. until 4:30 p.m.

2. I would like to pay my taxes with a credit card. How can I do this?

Caroline County accepts credit card payments for property taxes through Value Payment Systems either online or at the counter. Value Payment Systems charges a fee, currently 2.5% for credit and $3.95 for debit, for using the service. For more details, contact the Caroline County Tax Office at 410-479-4066 or use this site to make a payment.

3. I am unable to make full payment of my taxes at this time. May I make partial payments?

Partial payments are not accepted. Tax payments must be made in full, or the full amount of a semi-annual installment must be paid. Failure to make full payment by April 1 will result in your property being included in our June tax sale process.

4. Where are the tax bills mailed? Does the bill get mailed to my mortgage company?

All bills are mailed to the property owner. The address for the property owner is supplied by the State Department of Assessments and Taxation. Please contact your mortgage company to see if they need your tax bill for payment of your taxes. Mortgage companies usually use a tax service to collect all the payments owed to the counties. We provide a tape to the tax services, so you may not need to provide a copy of the bill.

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1. How do I find my property in the tax records?

You can find property tax records online at the Maryland Department of Assessments and Taxation (SDAT) website. For most people, the easiest way to find a property is by an address search.

2. Who assesses my property?

The Maryland Department of Assessments and Taxation (SDAT) assesses all property in Maryland. Under state law, Caroline County is required to partially fund the local SDAT office but the employees work for the state, not the County Commissioners.

3. How do I appeal my assessment?

Property value can be appealed within 60 days after purchase. To appeal your three-year tax assessment, complete and return the form that comes with your Assessment Notice within 45 days of the notice date. Homeowners can appeal any year between July 1 and December 31 for the following year's assessment. Call the Supervisor of Assessments for Caroline County at 410-819-4450.

4. How is the County tax rate set?

The County Commissioners set the property tax rate for Caroline County. The rate is set as part of the annual budget process. The ordinance adopting the tax rate is normally passed in late May every year.

5. How is my tax bill calculated?

The assessed value of the property is certified to the County by the Department of Assessment and Taxation. The assessed value is multiplied by the county, state, and municipal tax rates.

6. What is the county’s property tax rate?

The current rate for real property is $.98 per $100 of assessed value.

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1. What if I have questions concerning my tax bill?

The name, address, property description, and assessment shown on the property tax bill were certified to us by the State Department of Assessments and Taxation. Any questions you may have with regard to your name, address, property description, or assessed value should be directed to the supervisor of assessments for Caroline County at 207 South Third St, Denton, Maryland 21629. The phone number is 410-819-4450.

Any changes to your mailing address should also be sent to the supervisor of assessments for Caroline County. Address changes may also be submitted to the Caroline County Tax Office by using the back of the payment stub on your tax bill. The Tax Office will then forward the address information to the supervisor of assessments for Caroline County. Other property tax inquiries can be made to the Caroline County Tax Office at 410-479-0410

2. What if I receive a bill for property that I no longer own?

Return the bill to Caroline County Tax Office and include a short note explaining why the bill is being returned and the name and address of the new owner, if known. If your property was sold In June, you will get a bill because the cut off for the July 1 billing is May 30. The supplemental billing in August should automatically correct the ownership record and send a bill to the correct owner.

3. What if I don't get my bill?

Bills are mailed in early July. If you do not receive a bill by mid-month of the mailing date contact the Caroline County Office at 410-479-0410 or use this web site to obtain a duplicate bill.

4. What if I have a tax sale lien on my property?

Annual bills and the first installments of semi-annual bills are due on or before September 30 and become delinquent on October 1. The second semi-annual installment is due on or before December 31 and becomes delinquent January 1. Delinquent taxes are subject to interest and penalty at the rate of 1% per month of interest and a 3% penalty on county and municipal taxes as of January 1. Interest and penalties are applied to the net amount of the bill after any credits are applied.

Taxes which remain delinquent on April 1 of each year receive a final legal notice. Town assessments for water and sewer and other fees approved as tax liens by the town code are added to this notice and must be paid to the town in order to not be sold at tax sale. Payments made after mid-April must be in the form of cash, money order or certified check. Credit card payments may be made through Value Payments until two days before the date of sale. Delinquent taxes will result in the sale of the property tax lien through public tax sale.

The tax sale is held on the second Wednesday in June as determined by the comptroller. On this date the county will sell its first lien on the property to a tax sale purchaser. To remove this lien or "redeem the property," the owner or other person with a legal interest in the property may pay all outstanding fees and charges at any time until the right of redemption has been finally barred by decree of the circuit court in which the foreclosure proceeding is filed.

For more information regarding property redemption and tax sale, contact the Caroline County Tax Office at 410-479-0410.

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1. When are property taxes due?

Taxes are due on July 1 of the tax year and may be paid without interest on or before September 30 of the tax year.

2. What is the semi-annual billing program and how does it work?

The State of Maryland has enacted legislation allowing real property taxes on a homeowner's "principal residence" and “commercial property” to be paid on an optional semi-annual payment schedule. Simply, this means that instead of paying your entire bill by September 30, only one half of the balance due is payable as of that date. The remaining half is not payable until December 31. This second installment will contain an additional service charge over and above the property tax amount to offset the lost interest to the county.

If your property has been designated by the State Department of Assessments and Taxation as your "principal residence," the tax bill shows both the first and second payments, as well as the dollar amount of the service charge. If you pay your taxes directly to the county, you may choose either the annual or semiannual payment by simply paying that amount. If you pay your taxes as part of your payment to a mortgage holder or escrow account servicer and have not made an election to the contrary, you will be considered a semi-annual property taxpayer on your principal residence. Homeowners who wish to avoid the current service charge may pay the full taxes due by September 30. To do so, contact your mortgage company or escrow service in writing before May 1.

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1. Do I live on a private road, a county road or a state highway?

This can be confusing, particularly few new residents. The County uses a color-code system to distinguish between public and private roads. Public road signs are white letters on a green background. Private road signs are white letters on a blue background. If you don’t see a sign, give us a call and we’ll try to answer your question.

The following roads are Maryland State Highways.

2. How do I report a pothole or wash-out?

Submit a County Service Request to report a pothole or wash out.

3. It has snowed. When will the county plow my road?

We have an established plan for plowing roads. Naturally, during extreme weather it will take us longer to complete a cycle of snow removal. There are also times when we will pull equipment off the roads for safety reasons.

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1. Can I burn my trash?

No, you can burn wood and brush outdoors but burning solid waste is prohibited.

2. Do you offer single stream recycling?

Not yet, but this is something we are considering.

3. Does the county promote recycling?

Absolutely, recycling is an important part of our solid waste management strategy. We provide recycling containers at the courtesy drop-off sites and at locations throughout the county.

4. Where do I take my trash?

Please follow these links to see our sections on trash and recycling.