The Montgomery County Council approved legislation on Tuesday, October 20, aimed at cracking down on illegal street racing and street takeovers throughout the county.
Bill 27-26, sponsored by Councilmember Andrew Friedson, prohibits coordinating, promoting or knowingly facilitating street takeovers, which involve large, unauthorized gatherings where participants block public roads to race or perform dangerous driving stunts.
The legislation establishes fines of up to $5,000 for violations, five times the standard $1,000 maximum for a Class A violation under existing county law. It also provides the Montgomery County Department of Police (MCPD) with additional enforcement tools, including the authority to seize and tow vehicles involved in illegal street takeovers.
“Residents deserve to feel safe on our roads and in their neighborhoods,” Friedson said. “I am proud the Council stepped up to pass this bill and meet this public safety need.”
Acting Police Chief Darren Francke said street takeovers have involved stolen vehicles, assaults and property damage, adding that the legislation gives police additional tools to address these incidents.
The measure builds on existing Maryland traffic and criminal laws and is intended to improve enforcement against illegal racing and street takeovers across Montgomery County.
