In an effort to make Montgomery County more inclusive to all residents, regardless of gender or gender identity, the County Council unanimously passed Bill 4-22, Human Rights and Civil Liberties – Public Accommodations – Gender Inclusive (PDF). The bill requires that all single occupancy public bathrooms in the Montgomery County are identified with gender inclusive signage. The legislation became effective on Nov. 7, 2022.

This bill applies to all County government buildings and any building with an existing publicly accessible single occupancy toilet with an entry door that can be locked inside by an occupant. The bill does not apply to private restrooms in a residence, a hotel or motel, or restrooms that are only accessible from a private room or office.

Any business can comply with this law by having a sign that

  • does not indicate a specific gender, and
  • contains descriptive language (such as ‘restroom,’ ‘bathroom,’ or ‘toilet’) or a picture that indicates the restroom’s availability for use regardless of gender or gender identity.

The Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) will enforce existing restrooms and the Department of Permitting Services (DPS) will enforce new and renovated construction.  If you see a building or restaurant with a single occupancy public bathroom not in compliance, please call 311, visit 311 online or email hhsmail@montgomerycountymd.gov.

Read Gender Inclusive Restrooms - Bill-22 (PDF)