Maryland Horse / Livestock Bill of Sale Overview
Maryland regulates livestock transactions through the Maryland Department of Agriculture's Animal Health Program. Maryland has an active equine industry including Thoroughbred breeding and racing, fox hunting, and competitive equestrian sports. The state requires a negative Coggins test for all equine change of ownership. Maryland may require notarization of bills of sale for higher-value transactions. Written bills of sale are standard and recommended.
6%
Sales tax
No
Brand inspection
Required
Health certificate
Required
Coggins test
Maryland Livestock Transfer Requirements
Here's what you need to know for a smooth horse or livestock transaction in Maryland:
Important: Maryland Health Documentation
Maryland requires a current negative Coggins test for all equine change of ownership. Ensure your Coggins test is within the required timeframe before completing the sale. For interstate transport, both a Certificate of Veterinary Inspection and negative Coggins are required.
What the Seller Must Provide
- Signed Bill of Sale: Complete bill of sale with animal description, sale price, and both parties' information
- Current Negative Coggins: EIA test within 12 months performed by an accredited veterinarian
- Registration Papers: Signed transfer section on breed registration certificate (if registered)
- Health Records: Vaccination history, deworming schedule, and veterinary records
- Disclosure of Known Issues: Any known health problems, lameness, vices, or behavioral issues
What the Buyer Should Obtain
- Signed Bill of Sale: Original copy with both signatures
- Coggins Test Certificate: Copy of the current negative Coggins report
- Registration Certificate: With signed transfer (if registered animal)
- Health Certificate: If transporting across state lines, CVI within 30 days
How to Fill Out a Maryland Horse Bill of Sale
Follow these steps to properly complete your Maryland horse or livestock bill of sale.
Enter Seller Information
Include the seller's full legal name, farm or ranch name (if applicable), Maryland mailing address, phone number, and email. If the seller is a licensed dealer or breeder, include the license or business registration number.
Enter Buyer Information
Include the buyer's full legal name, farm or ranch name, Maryland address, phone number, and email. The buyer's location determines which local tax rates apply to the transaction.
Describe the Animal
Provide a detailed description: species (horse, cattle, goat, etc.), breed, registered name and number (if applicable), sex, age or date of birth, color, height (in hands for horses), weight, and all identifying markings, brands, tattoos, or microchip numbers.
Document Health Status
Record the Coggins test date and result (for equines), health certificate number and date, vaccination history, and deworming schedule. Attach copies of all health documentation to the bill of sale.
State Sale Price and Terms
Enter the agreed purchase price in both numbers and words. Note the payment method and any installment terms. State whether the sale is as-is or includes warranties (soundness, breeding, vice-free, etc.). Disclose any known health issues or behavioral concerns.
Sign and Complete Documentation
Both buyer and seller sign and date the bill of sale. Print two copies. Transfer breed registration papers by signing the transfer section. Ensure Coggins and health certificates are current. Complete any required brand inspections before transport.
Maryland Brand Inspection Requirements
Maryland does not have a brand inspection requirement or state brand board. The state's equine identification relies on breed registration papers, Coggins test documentation (which includes physical descriptions), microchips, and lip tattoos. Maryland's proximity to major racing and competition centers means thorough identification documentation is standard practice.
Maryland Health & Veterinary Requirements
Maryland requires a negative Coggins test within 12 months for all equine change of ownership, shows, races, and entry to boarding facilities. Interstate imports require a CVI issued within 30 days and negative Coggins. Maryland has specific cattle import requirements and requires entry permits for all livestock. The Maryland Department of Agriculture actively monitors for diseases including Equine Herpesvirus, Potomac Horse Fever (which was first identified in Maryland), and avian influenza in poultry.
Maryland Livestock Fees & Taxes
Here's a breakdown of the typical costs associated with a horse or livestock transaction in Maryland:
| Fee / Tax | Amount |
|---|---|
| Coggins Test | $25 - $50 |
| Health Certificate (CVI) | $30 - $70 |
| State Sales Tax | 6% |
| Import Permit | No fee |
| Brand Inspection | Not required |
Sample Maryland Horse Bill of Sale
Below is a preview of our Maryland-specific horse bill of sale. Your customized document will include all fields required for Maryland livestock transactions.
STATE OF MARYLAND
HORSE / LIVESTOCK BILL OF SALE
Equine & Livestock Transfer Document
SELLER:
Name: [Seller Name]
Farm/Ranch: [Farm Name]
Address: [Maryland Address]
BUYER:
Name: [Buyer Name]
Farm/Ranch: [Farm Name]
Address: [Maryland Address]
ANIMAL DESCRIPTION
Species: [Species] Breed: [Breed]
Registered Name: [Name]
Reg. #: [Number] Sex: [Sex]
Coggins Date: [Date] Result: [Negative]
Sale Price: $[Amount]
Maryland Horse / Livestock Bill of Sale FAQ
Answers to common questions about Maryland horse and livestock bills of sale, health requirements, and transfer regulations.
Official Maryland Resources
Use these official state resources to verify requirements, check import regulations, and access government information for your Maryland livestock transaction.
Maryland Department of Agriculture
Livestock regulations and agricultural services
Maryland State Veterinarian
Animal health, Coggins testing, and import requirements
USDA APHIS — Veterinary Services
Federal animal health regulations and accredited veterinarians
USDA — Interstate Livestock Movement
Federal requirements for transporting livestock across state lines
Other Maryland Bill of Sale Templates
Need a different type of bill of sale for Maryland? We offer state-specific templates for every type of property transfer.
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Create Your Maryland Horse / Livestock Bill of Sale
Answer a few questions and download your Maryland-compliant document in minutes. Includes Coggins test and health certificate fields.
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