Maryland School Mapping Data Requirements and SB 540 Grant Explained
Why Maryland Is Taking Action on School Mapping Data
In a continued effort to enhance school safety, the state of Maryland has introduced groundbreaking legislation designed to provide Maryland school mapping data to every public school with detailed, accurate, and interoperable facility maps. With the passage of Senate Bill 540 (SB 540), Maryland schools are now eligible for state-level funding to support the creation of digital school maps that align with new state-approved standards for emergency response and facility planning.
This article breaks down what Maryland school leaders need to know about Maryland school mapping data standards, how to access SB 540 funds, and why acting quickly is critical.
What Is SB 540?
SB 540, also known as the School Facility Mapping and Emergency Data Standards Act, was passed to improve statewide emergency preparedness. The bill empowers the Interagency Commission on School Construction (IAC) to implement a statewide school mapping program and distribute funding to Local Education Agencies (LEAs).
The funding covers the development of high-quality digital maps that can be used by:
- School administrators
- Local law enforcement
- Fire departments and EMS
- Facilities and operations teams
The maps are intended to be standardized, interoperable, and actionable in real time.
What Is Required Under the Maryland School Mapping Data Standards?
To qualify for SB 540 funding, Maryland schools must comply with newly adopted school mapping data standards developed by the IAC. These standards ensure consistency and usability across the state.
Here’s what your school maps must include:
- Digital Format – No paper-based-only solutions; maps must be accessible digitally.
- GIS-Compatible – Use of industry-standard geospatial data formats (e.g., shapefiles, GeoJSON).
- Layered Content – Includes floorplans, ingress/egress points, room numbers, hallways, stairwells, and utility control points.
- Emergency Asset Tagging – Fire extinguishers, AEDs, trauma kits, and gas/electrical shut-offs must be clearly marked.
- True North Orientation & XY Coordinates – Ensures alignment with first responder systems.
- Metadata & Version Control – Maps must include details such as version number, update logs, and authorship.
- Update Capability – Districts must be able to revise and publish new versions of maps as buildings change.
All of this ensures that first responders and school staff have a common operating picture during a crisis.
Who Can Apply for the Funding?
All Maryland public school districts (LEAs) are eligible to apply for grant funding to develop compliant mapping data.
Applications are reviewed and processed through the IAC Safe Schools Grant Portal, with rolling deadlines aligned to the state fiscal year. Early application is encouraged due to anticipated high demand.
Link to IAC Maryland School Mapping Grant Application
Benefits of Compliant School Mapping
Implementing digital maps aligned with the Maryland school mapping data standards brings more than just compliance—it builds resilience and saves lives. Key benefits include:
- Faster emergency response due to map sharing with dispatch and field units
- Improved facility planning and building maintenance tracking
- Enhanced drill planning and reunification strategies
- Increased funding eligibility for future safety and infrastructure upgrades
Why GeoComm Is Maryland’s Trusted Mapping Partner
With over 30 years of experience in public safety mapping, GeoComm is uniquely positioned to help Maryland schools meet and exceed the SB 540 requirements.
Here’s why GeoComm stands out:
- Compliant by Design: Our maps are built to meet the IAC’s Maryland School Mapping Data Standards.
- Proven at Scale: We’ve successfully mapped over 1,400 schools in statewide programs like Iowa, ensuring readiness and reliability.
- Public Safety Expertise: Our maps are used by 911 dispatchers, law enforcement, and EMS across the nation.
- Interactive, Dynamic Maps: Go beyond static floorplans with real-time, editable digital maps available on desktop and mobile.
- End-to-End Support: From data conversion to ground-truthing and map maintenance, our team handles it all.
Applications Are Being Accepted Now: July 15, 2025 – September 30, 2025
Ready to act? Contact us to speak with your regional expert and learn how you can secure Maryland funding and protect your students and staff with confidence.
Final Thoughts
Maryland’s investment in school safety through SB 540 is a powerful step forward—and schools that act early will be better positioned to protect their communities. By partnering with an experienced mapping provider like GeoComm, districts can ensure they’re not only compliant but also setting the gold standard for emergency preparedness.
