Maryland Health - General Section 21-321
§ 21-321.
  (a)   Except as provided in subsection (d) of this section, before a food establishment is constructed, remodeled, or materially altered, or before an existing building or structure is converted or remodeled for use as a food establishment, properly prepared plans and specifications for the construction, remodeling, or alteration of a food establishment shall be submitted to:
    (1)   The Department, if the food establishment is:
      (i)   Except as provided in paragraph (2) of this subsection, a food processing plant; or
      (ii)   A chain or franchise operation planning to construct 2 or more facilities in the State from a single uniform set of plans; or
    (2)   For all other food establishments, including a soft drink manufacturing plant, to the appropriate county health department.
  (b)   The plans or specifications required under subsection (a) of this section shall include:
    (1)   Layout and arrangement of work areas;
    (2)   Construction materials;
    (3)   The location, size, manufacturer, and model number of equipment and facilities; and
    (4)   Any other information that may be required for the proper review of the plans and specifications.
  (c)   Unless the required plans and specifications are approved by the Department, a person may not:
    (1)   Construct, remodel, or alter a food establishment; or
    (2)   Convert or remodel an existing building or structure for use as a food establishment.
  (d)   The provisions of this section do not apply to the construction, remodeling, or alteration of any areas in a food establishment used solely for office space, or recreational areas.