Department of Natural Resources Outlines Fee Reductions

Cuts Will Aid Maryland Small Businesses, Property Owners and Seniors

Following Maryland Governor Larry Hogan’s announcement that the state is eliminating or reducing $51 million in state-issued fees, the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) outlined its proposals:

• Golden Age Pass holders will no longer have to pay a fee to use state park boat launches or ramps. The $10 pass entitles Maryland adults, ages 62 and older, to a lifetime of free day-use entry into all state parks, as well as half price camping Sunday through Thursday.

• The Forest Product Operator Licensing Fee, which requires renewal every year, will be reduced from $30 to $20 a year. These licenses are required to engage in a forest products business, including sawmills, firewood dealers, and pulpwood and logging contractors.

• The Certified Tree Expert Licensing Fee, which requires renewal every two years, will be reduced from $25 to $20. These licenses are required to advertise or practice tree care services in Maryland.

• The Forest Conservation & Management Program Property Fee, which requires participating landowners to pay a $50 fee plus an additional .22 percent enrollment fee on assessed woodland value, will be simplified to a flat $50 fee.

• The Game Husbandry Licensing Fee, which requires renewal every year, will be reduced from $10 to $5 a year. The state requires these licenses for anyone who raises, breeds, protects or sells game birds in Maryland.

“We are committed to improving customer service while enhancing our natural resources, and share in Governor Hogan’s goal to reduce the burden of fees on consumers and business owners,” DNR Secretary Mark Belton said. “These targeted reductions will benefit citizens across the state, reducing fees on small businesses, aiding conservation efforts and management goals, and improving public access to our waterways.”