Download an Overview of the Ethics Law Here

Baltimore City Public Ethics Law, contained in Article 8 of the City Code, applies to all City officials, employees, and lobbyists. The Ethics Law ensures that City officials and employees serve the public with fairness and impartiality by prohibiting “conflicts of interest,” among other provisions.

A conflict of interest occurs when a City official or employee’s duties could be used to privately benefit themselves, a family member, or an entity with which they or a family member are affiliated.

The Ethics Law requires many officials and employees to file annual financial disclosure statements in order to help them and members of the public identify potential conflicts of interest.

Use the links below to learn more about the Ethics Law. To ensure full compliance, always check the text of Article 8 and contact Ethics Board staff directly for guidance.

Summaries of Ethics Law

• Restrictions on Participation in City Matters
• Restrictions on Other Employment and Financial Interests
• Restrictions on Gifts
• Other Prohibited Conduct
• Financial Disclosure Requirements 
• Lobbying