Maryland Renters: Trash and Recycling Fees Explained

Understanding who pays for trash and recycling services can make a difference in your monthly expenses as a Maryland renter. With clear rules set by state law, it's important to know what your landlord is allowed to charge for, and how it must be disclosed in your lease. Here’s what Maryland tenants need to know about trash and recycling fees.

Your Rights as a Maryland Renter: Utilities and Services

In Maryland, a landlord can require renters to pay for certain utilities, including trash and recycling removal, but only if this is clearly spelled out in your lease agreement. The Maryland Code, Real Property Title 8, sets out landlord and tenant obligations and details what can or cannot be charged to tenants.^[1] If trash and recycling charges are not listed in your lease—or if they are, but not broken down clearly—you may not be legally obligated to pay them.

What Must Be Stated in Your Lease?

• Whether the landlord or tenant is responsible for trash and recycling payments
• How charges are calculated (flat rate, pass-through, etc.)
• Any additional service fees or administrative costs

Always check your written lease carefully, or ask your landlord to clarify if fees are not clear.

How Landlords Can Charge for Trash and Recycling

There is no statewide law in Maryland prohibiting landlords from charging separately for trash or recycling, but the lease must make these charges explicit. Some local counties and cities may have further restrictions or regulations, so it’s wise to check local rules through your county’s housing department or Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development.

When Are Trash and Recycling Fees OK?

• The lease clearly itemizes the fees
• Charges are not used to unfairly profit landlords beyond the actual cost of service or as allowed by local law
• No local law or county regulation prohibits this practice (check your county – for example, Montgomery and Baltimore County have specific rules on utility billing)

Relevant Forms and How to Use Them

• Security Deposit Dispute (Form DR 50): Use if you believe charges withheld for trash/recycling from your deposit are unfair or not authorized by your lease. Download and instructions (Maryland Courts) – Complete and file where your rental is located to start your small claims action.
• Complaint Against Landlord (District Court Form): Useful if you want to file a formal complaint about improper or undisclosed charges for trash/recycling. Access forms here.

These forms can help renters challenge unlawful deductions or unexplained charges regarding trash and recycling services.

What Agency Handles Tenant Disputes?

The Maryland District Court handles landlord-tenant cases, including disputes about fees or utility charges. This is the main tribunal where you can file complaints or seek resolution if you believe a landlord is charging incorrectly.

Action Steps for Maryland Renters

• Read your lease agreement carefully for any mention of trash or recycling charges
• Contact your landlord in writing if you have questions or spot unexpected fees
• File a complaint with your local office or District Court if you believe a charge is unlawful
• Keep good records of all communications and copies of your lease/forms

If you’re unsure about your rights in Maryland, reach out to local tenant services or legal aid for free assistance.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can a Maryland landlord add trash fees if it wasn’t in my lease?
   Generally, if your lease does not list a charge for trash or recycling, your landlord cannot require payment during the current lease term. Any new fees typically need to be disclosed and agreed upon at lease renewal.
2. What if I think I’m being charged too much for trash service?
   Ask your landlord to provide copies of actual service bills and compare them to what you are charged. If you suspect overcharging, you can contact your local housing department or file a complaint with the Maryland District Court.
3. Do Maryland counties have their own rules for utilities?
   Yes, some counties like Montgomery and Baltimore have detailed rules about utilities passed to tenants. Always check with your local county government or housing agency for additional protections or fees.
4. Can trash/recycling fees be deducted from my security deposit?
   Only if your lease permits it and if you have unpaid charges after moving out. Disputes can be brought to small claims court using the official Security Deposit Dispute form.
5. Where do I file a complaint if my landlord won’t fix a billing issue?
   You may file with your county’s housing office or with the Maryland District Court, which handles landlord-tenant matters statewide.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development – Renters
• Maryland District Court (Landlord-Tenant Division)
• Maryland Courts Landlord-Tenant Help and Forms
• Montgomery County Tenant Resources
• Baltimore County Tenant-Landlord Help

---

1. Maryland Code, Real Property Title 8 – Landlord and Tenant
2. Maryland District Courts Official Website
3. Maryland Landlord-Tenant Court Forms

Categories

Renter Rights & Legal Protections Lease Agreements & Renewals Rent, Fees & Security Deposits Moving In: Inspections & Disclosures Moving Out & Ending a Lease Maintenance, Repairs & Habitability Health & Safety Standards Evictions & Lease Violations Roommates, Subletting & Shared Housing Discrimination & Fair Housing Laws Accessibility & Disability Accommodations Utilities, Services & Billing Affordable Housing & Rental Assistance Rent Control & Rent Stabilization Privacy Rights & Landlord Entry Security, Locks & Emergency Protections Dispute Resolution & Legal Aid Retaliation & Harassment Protections Mobile Home & Manufactured Housing Rights Special Housing Types & Situations