Department of Natural Resources Policy -
Policy for Vehicle Assignment
Policy Number:     94:12
Effective Date:     August 8, 1994 (Reviewed: May 2003)
I. Purpose
It is the intent of the policy to establish equitable criteria by which vehicles are assigned to employees. The assignment of a vehicle shall be considered when it serves to benefit the state and the Department of Natural Resources; and, is necessary for the employee to complete his/her assigned duties and responsibilities in an effective and efficient manner.

II. Scope
This policy applies to all units within the Department of Natural Resources (DNR).

III. Policy
Vehicles will be assigned based on one of the following criteria:

  1. Cabinet Secretary and Deputy Secretary as promulgated by Department of Budget and Fiscal Planning Regulation.

  2. The vehicle as defined below is necessary for emergency response or to respond to public safety situations.

    Public Safety is defined as situations in which an employee is responsible on a local, regional, or statewide basis where an immediate threat to health, safety, life or property exists; and where response may be required at any time. These situations may include, but are not limited to, natural disaster, law enforcement, wildfire, wildlife emergencies facility breakdown/closures, natural resource protection, and similar events.

    Emergency vehicle is a vehicle as defined in Transportation Article 11-118 of the Annotated Code or is equipped with specialized equipment/supplies and used regularly to respond to emergency needs or other immediate and essential requirements to maintain the Department’s operations.

    Service Vehicle is a vehicle as defined in Transportation Article 22-201 of the Annotated Coed and is so designated by the MVA. It may be equipped with specialized equipment/supplies and use regularly to respond to emergency needs or other immediate and essential requirements to maintain the Department’s operation.

  3. The assignment of a vehicle is a direct benefit to the Department in the execution of its mission, goals, and objectives; and, in providing services to the citizens of Maryland; and,

    The duties and responsibilities of the employee require a vehicle; and, official use excluding commute is in excess of 10,000 miles per year; or, a vehicle is required for the efficient and cost effective operation of a state program regardless of miles traveled.

    Posted February 6, 2004