Department of Consumer Protection and Business Licensing

Who We Are

The Baltimore City Department of Consumer Protection and Business Licensing serves as the central agency responsible for overseeing business licensing and enforcing consumer protection laws. The Department ensures that all businesses operating within the City are properly licensed, comply with applicable ordinances and regulations, and conduct business fairly and responsibly.

The Department also investigates complaints of unfair, abusive, or deceptive trade practices to protect consumers and uphold a fair, transparent, and accountable marketplace.

In addition, the Department houses the Board of Consumer Protection and Business Licensing, which conducts hearings and adjudicates matters to ensure that enforcement actions and licensing decisions are carried out with fairness, consistency, and integrity.