DNR Activities During State of Emergency

Information for our Patrons, Customers, and Friends

Governor Larry Hogan and the Maryland Department of Natural Resources are taking proactive steps to minimize the spread of the COVID-19 pandemic in Maryland.

Following Governor Hogan’s emergency actions to protect public health during the COVID-19 pandemic, the Maryland Department of Natural Resources will remain operational, but we are implementing changes to certain department activities, customer service functions, and scheduled events to minimize the spread of the virus.

Grace period extended to all Maryland license holders

Governor Hogan has issued an executive order related to licenses, permits, registrations, and other authorizations that may be expiring or up for renewal during the state of emergency. The executive order immediately grants a grace period of 30 days after the date of termination of the state of emergency.  This includes items processed at our Maryland Department of Natural Resources Licensing Service Centers. By reducing the number of people at our service centers, we greatly reduce the possibility of spreading the virus. With that in mind, we are asking our customers to take advantage of this grace period.

Additionally, our online COMPASS portal provides 24/7 self service access to our entire product catalog of recreational licenses, permits and stamps; off-road vehicle registrations; magazine subscriptions; and donation options in support of your favorite Department of Natural Resources programs.

State parks taking precautions

The Maryland Department of Natural Resources and Maryland State Parks are enacting enhanced measures to mitigate the risk of contact with the COVID-19 virus. This includes enhanced cleaning protocols at our state park public facilities, restrooms, ranger stations, nature centers, and other public buildings. Additionally, in accordance with the governor’s executive order, we are cancelling all events and gatherings of groups larger than 50 10 people and restricting access by the public to certain park buildings and facilities. We will continue to adjust operations as events warrant. Park patrons are encouraged to check the individual website page of their favorite park for updates. 

Hunting Education Classes

The Maryland Natural Resources Police are suspending traditional, in-person classroom hunting education courses.until further notice. Potential hunter education students are encouraged to take the online field of study course. UPDATE: Upon completion of the course, students will receive a voucher, that is good for one year, to take a field day workshop to satisfy the hunter education requirement.

For all information regarding Maryland Department of Natural Resources activities, customer service functions, and scheduled events, please check our website, social media accounts and online calendar.

The health and safety of the public is paramount, and we encourage you to keep track of the latest factual information regarding COVID-19 at the Maryland Department of Health website.