No, chopping down a cactus in your Maryland yard will not land you in jail under any specific state property law. This notion appears to be another urban myth from “weird laws” lists, with no basis in Maryland statutes—unlike Arizona’s felony protections for native saguaros.​
Maryland Plant Regulations
Maryland enforces strict rules on invasive plants via the Department of Agriculture’s Prohibited Invasive Plant List, effective January 2026, banning sales and possession of species like Japanese barberry or burning bush after phase-out periods. Cacti aren’t listed as invasive or protected; common yard varieties (non-native ornamentals) can be removed freely unless locally designated or part of an HOA landscape plan.
Property Removal Rules
General property laws allow owners to remove vegetation on their deed-held land, subject to tree ordinances in counties like Montgomery (permits for large trees) or nuisance complaints if debris affects neighbors. No criminal penalties target cacti specifically; focus remains on invasives displacing natives. Check local zoning for yard alterations to avoid civil fines.
