To examine the relationship between maternal sepsis, type of infection, and short-term neonatal outcomes. We conducted a retrospective cohort study investigating pregnancies between 2005 and 2008 in California with antepartum maternal sepsis diagnosis. Comparisons were made between sepsis cases and controls, using chi-squared or Fisher's exact test. Multivariable logistic regression was performed, adjusting for maternal characteristics. Several maternal characteristics were associated with increased odds of maternal sepsis. Both obstetric and non-obstetric infections were associated with maternal sepsis (p < 0.001). The positive predictive value of maternal sepsis for preterm delivery was 55.03%. Neonates born to maternal sepsis patients had a higher risk of developing neonatal complications including neonatal shock. Maternal sepsis was associated with neonatal complications. Efforts to reduce maternal sepsis may improve neonatal outcomes. Further studies are required for a better understanding of these associations and whether prevention or more rapid diagnosis and treatment can lower these risks.