Maryland Health - General Section 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.