SALISBURY, Md. — The Wicomico County Council passed new zoning legislation on Feb. 4, requiring all dog kennels to be at least 1,000 feet from the nearest home. However, County Executive Julie Giordano said a review found no existing kennels meet this requirement, effectively forcing all to relocate or shut down.
The original recommendation from the county’s Planning and Zoning Commission suggested a 200-foot setback, but after public input and council discussions, it was increased to 1,000 feet. Giordano said only four properties in the county could accommodate the new requirement, and it’s unclear if they are commercially zoned. The bill includes a three-year sunset clause for compliance, but current kennels are not grandfathered in, leaving owners uncertain about their future. “We’ve decided that it certainly should be reconsidered,” said Council President John Cannon. “It was somewhat impromptu that we chose 1,000 feet, and we’ll address that within the year.” Since the bill has already passed, the council cannot amend it for another year, creating uncertainty for kennel owners. Business owner Misty Messick said she cannot afford to invest in her business while its future remains in limbo. Giordano plans to veto the bill at the Feb. 18 council meeting and is urging kennel owners to voice their concerns. Cannon, however, said public protest is unnecessary, as the council is aware of the issue and plans to reevaluate the law.