State Law Guide - Updated January 2026
Maryland HOA Laws and Homeowner Rights
Under Maryland Homeowners Association Act (Md. Code, Real Property § 11B-101 et seq.), Maryland homeowners have specific rights when facing HOA fines and violations. Minimum 15 days written notice to cure violation before sanctions (§ 11B-111.10).
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Your Rights Under Maryland Homeowners Association Act
Maryland law provides important protections for homeowners facing HOA enforcement actions. Understanding these rights can help you identify procedural defects that may void improper fines.
Dispute Settlement Procedures
15-day cure period, hearing rights, notice requirements before fines
Books and Records Access
Right to inspect/copy HOA records; 15-21 day response required
Assessment Liens and Charges
Super priority limited to 4 months or $1,200; fines excluded from priority
Enforcement by Consumer Protection
AG enforcement authority for HOA Act violations
Initial Sale Disclosures
Seller disclosure requirements for developments with 12+ lots
Common HOA Violations in Maryland
HOAs can only enforce rules that are properly documented in the governing documents (CC&Rs). Here are common violation types that Maryland homeowners face.
Maryland-Specific Issues
- -snow/ice removal (Mid-Atlantic winters)
- -crabgrass/lawn maintenance
- -Chesapeake Bay stormwater compliance
- -exterior weathering (coastal humidity)
- -historic district modifications
Common Nationwide Issues
- -architectural modifications
- -landscaping
- -parking
- -noise complaints
- -pet violations
- -rental restrictions
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Maryland HOA Oversight
Maryland AG Consumer Protection Division (mediation); Montgomery/Prince George's County CCOC
Maryland has state-level HOA oversight. You can file complaints and seek assistance for disputes.
Visit Maryland AG Consumer Protection Division (mediation); Montgomery/Prince George's County CCOCFrequently Asked Questions
How long do I have to fix an HOA violation in Maryland before being fined?
Under Maryland Code § 11B-111.10, you must receive at least 15 days written notice to cure a violation before the HOA can impose any fine or sanction. The notice must specify the violation, required corrective action, and the cure period.
Can a Maryland HOA foreclose on my home for unpaid fines?
While HOAs can place liens that include fines, the "super priority lien" that takes precedence over mortgages is limited to 4 months of regular assessments (max $1,200) and explicitly excludes fines, late charges, and attorneys' fees. Foreclosure based solely on fines faces significant legal limitations.
What are my hearing rights if my Maryland HOA claims I violated a rule?
You have the right to request a hearing, receive at least 10 days advance notice of the hearing date, present evidence and witnesses, and cross-examine any HOA witnesses. The hearing is held in executive session, and the HOA must record results in meeting minutes.
Is there a cap on how much a Maryland HOA can fine me?
Maryland does not have a statutory cap on violation fines. However, late payment fees are limited to $15 or 10% of the overdue amount, whichever is higher. Fine amounts are typically set in the HOA's governing documents and must be reasonable.
Where can I file a complaint against my Maryland HOA?
File complaints with the Maryland Attorney General's Consumer Protection Division at 410-528-8662 or consumer@oag.state.md.us. Montgomery and Prince George's County residents can also use their Commission on Common Ownership Communities (CCOC) programs.
Can I access my Maryland HOA's financial records?
Yes. Under § 11B-112, you have the right to examine and copy HOA books and records during normal business hours with reasonable notice. The HOA must respond to written requests for financial statements or minutes within 21 days (or 45 days for records older than 3 years).
Official Maryland Resources
- Maryland HOA Act Full Text(Statute)
- Maryland AG Consumer Protection(Government)
- Maryland Small Claims Court(Courts)
- Maryland People's Law Library - HOA(Reference)
- Montgomery County CCOC(Government)
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Based on Md. Code, Real Property § 11B-101 et seq.