There are three types of Maryland fishing license disability exemptions: Daily group exemptions, annual group exemptions, and annual individual exemptions.
Daily group exemptions can be applied to non-profit organizations (verified 501(c)(3) determination) taking individuals with physical or mental disabilities fishing from shore in tidal or nontidal waters. The primary caregiver or representative of the organization attending to the disabled individuals is also exempt with the one day exemption.
Annual group exemptions can be applied to non-profit organizations (verified 501(c)(3) determination) and government agencies and facilities that are providing fishing clinics or instructional opportunities to:
- Individuals who are serving in the Armed Forces or are a veteran under a doctor’s care for physical or mental disability reasons;
- Individuals under age 24 who are participating in an outdoor education event (i.e. youth center or summer camp);
- Individuals who are participating in an outdoor event for underserved or special need individuals.
The representative of the governmental entity or nonprofit organization instructing individuals at this event is included in the license exemption.
Annual individual exemption can be applied to a patient who is under treatment by a State-approved mental health facility or an individual who attends or resides in a State-approved facility for developmentally disabled individuals. The caregiver or family member of a patient who is under treatment by a State-approved mental health facility, or the designee of a mental health care facility or private group home is also covered by the license exemption. Documentation from the administrator of the mental health care facility, treating physician or psychologist is required.
