Land Acquisition and Planning

Local Program Open Space Grants Process How to Apply

The Local Program Open Space Manual and the Manual's Table of Contents are available in Microsoft Word. The Application Forms, General Instructions and Other Forms from the Manual have been updated and are available for individual download via the links below.

These documents are also available in PDF format. You will need to download Adobe Acrobat, if you do not have it installed on your computer.

Application Forms (MS Word):

General Instructions & List of Supporting Documents

Other Forms:


Recreation Communication Boards Pilot Program

On May 9, 2024, the Governor of Maryland signed HB 420 (Chapter 568) into law creating a pilot program for the purchase and installation of communication boards in public play areas at State and local parks. The law can be found in Natural Resources Article §5-2B. The communication board is intended to improve play area accessibility by displaying photos, symbols, or illustrations to enable individuals with limited language skills to communicate. The pilot program is effective from July 1, 2024 through June 30, 2028, for a period of four (4) years, and is subject to funding availability.

This program is only eligible to local governing bodies, defined in the legislation as the Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission and the governing body of any county or Baltimore City. For more information, please see the ​Play Area Accessibility – Recreation Communication Boards Pilot Program memorandum.


Contacts - Who to Call​