Spotted Lanternfly inHoward County, MDSPOTTED LANTERNFLY GUIDE
Howard County confirmed SLF in 2023 as the infestation frontier expanded through central Maryland. The suburban-exurban mix of Howard County — with extensive natural corridors and residential neighborhoods — has facilitated spread. The Patuxent River corridor and Ellicott City's historic stream areas are showing growing populations.
Maryland statewide quarantine is in effect as of March 2026. Contact MD MDA for compliance guidance.
Highest activity zones
SLF Hotspots in Howard County, MD
Patuxent River corridor
Active zone
Route 40 corridor
Active zone
Ellicott City historic area
Active zone
Columbia town center area
Active zone
US-29 corridor
Active zone
Primary SLF food source
Tree of Heaven in Howard County, MD
Tree of Heaven is established along Howard County's stream corridors and road margins, particularly the Patuxent River corridor and Route 40. Ellicott City's historic area along the Tiber Branch has both ToH coverage and high foot traffic — a key monitoring zone.
Identify Tree of Heaven →Local action resources
What To Do in Howard County, MD
Report a Sighting
Every sighting in Howard County, MD maps the invasion front. Report directly to MD MDA.
Report Now →Squish on Sight
See a spotted lanternfly? Kill it immediately — it is legal and encouraged in all states. Learn the best kill methods.
Full Fight Guide →Map ToH in Your Block
Tree of Heaven removal cuts off SLF food supply. Add ToH sightings to the community map to guide removal efforts.
View Sighting Map →Statewide resources
Full MD State Guide
County-level data, quarantine zones, treatment guides, and agency resources for the entire state.
See the full MD guide →Community intelligence
Live Sighting Map
See where SLF has been spotted near you in Howard County, MD. Add your own sighting to help map the front.
Open the Map →Free weekly fight briefing
Fight SLF in Howard County, MD.
One email per week. Your zip code. Your threat level. Your action plan. Know exactly what to do this week in Howard County, MD.