Kent County Enterprise Zones

What is an Enterprise Zone?

The Maryland Enterprise Zone Program is a local economic development program established by the Maryland General Assembly that gives local governments the legal authority to offer economic incentives, including real property and income tax credits.

The State reimburses the local jurisdiction 50 percent of the revenue lost as a result of offering businesses located in its zone the property tax credit; however, this is subject to approval in the annual budget.

Creating an Enterprise Zone does not change or otherwise affect local zoning control, regulations, and ordinances.

An Enterprise Zone is a valuable incentive to promote job creation and capital investment within the existing business community and an essential tool to position Kent County to compete with surrounding jurisdictions to attract new businesses to our communities.

Who oversees this program?

The Maryland Department of Commerce was designated as the State agency responsible for coordinating the program. However, each zone is the creation and the responsibility of municipal and county governments. Through the establishment of local standards and the offering of additional local economic development incentives, the applicant can create an enterprise zone that meets its economic needs.

Kent County's program is administered through the County Department of Economic and Tourism Development.

What steps should be taken to begin?

Contact Kent County’s Department of Economic and Tourism Development to ensure the location of your business is included in the designated Enterprise Zone.
Complete the application below and deliver it to the Kent County Department of Economic and Tourism Development.
The application must be approved by the Town Council or the County Commissioners as eligible for the credit. The property tax credit is granted to the property “owner”.