Free tool · Maryland
Is my HOA fine valid in Maryland?
Unless the declaration or bylaws state otherwise, Maryland sets a statutory demand-cure-hearing procedure before a fine (§ 11B-111.10), and — importantly — a fine by itself cannot be foreclosed on; only assessments can feed the lien.
This is general information, not legal advice, and it does not decide whether your fine is valid. For your specific situation, a licensed Maryland attorney is the right resource.
Check your notice
Answer a few questions about the Maryland fine or violation notice you received, and see how it compares to what the law requires.
What Maryland law requires before an HOA can fine you
Governing framework: Maryland Homeowners Association Act (Md. Real Prop. Title 11B).
Before imposing a fine, the association must give a written demand to cease and desist stating the violation and the action required to abate it. For a continuing violation it must allow at least 15 days to cure; for a one-time violation it must state that a repeat may be sanctioned after notice and an opportunity for a hearing.
Statute: Md. Real Prop. § 11B-111.10
If a violation continues or recurs within 12 months, the owner is entitled to written notice of the right to request a hearing (at least 10 days to request), held by the board, where the owner may present evidence and cross-examine witnesses.
“present evidence and cross-examine witnesses” — Md. Real Prop. § 11B-111.10
Statute: Md. Real Prop. § 11B-111.10
A community-association lien may be foreclosed only for delinquent assessments, interest, and reasonable costs and attorney’s fees — fines are excluded, so a fine cannot ride along on the assessment lien.
Statute: Md. Real Prop. § 14-204
Timing the Maryland statute sets
HOA disputes often turn on short statutory windows — these are worth knowing early.
At least 15 days to cure a continuing violation
For a continuing violation, the pre-fine written demand must give the owner at least 15 days to correct it.
Md. Real Prop. § 11B-111.10
At least 10 days to request a hearing
When a hearing right is triggered, the owner has not less than 10 days to request the hearing.
Md. Real Prop. § 11B-111.10