County Mandates Emergency Safety Plans for Multifamily Rentals

The Montgomery County Council approved Executive Regulation 21-25 on Feb. 24, 2026, requiring operators of multifamily rental buildings (three or more dwelling units) to develop and submit an Emergency Safety Plan (ESP) as part of their annual Fire Code Compliance (FCC) permit process. The Department of Permitting Services will review and approve each plan, which must address emergencies including fires, flooding, power outages, severe weather, and water outages. Plans must be resubmitted every three years; the ESP review fee is $95, and failure to comply may result in permit denial, civil citation, or a mandatory court appearance. Apartment-style condominiums are exempt.