Md. Code, Local Government § 1–707

(a) This section applies only to code counties and municipalities.

(b) It is the policy of the State to authorize each code county and

municipality to displace or limit competition in the area of port regulation to:

(1) provide for safe harbors free of congestion and navigational

hazards;

(2) protect marine life and wildlife; and

(3) prevent water pollution and erosion.

(c) Notwithstanding any anticompetitive effect, a code county or

municipality may:

(1) grant one or more franchises or enter into contracts for the

placement or construction of structures in or on the waters of the county or

municipality;

(2) issue licenses for wharves and piers; or

(3) issue permits for mooring piles, floating wharves, buoys, and

anchors.