Chapter 26 requires properties be free of trash, overgrown vegetation (12-inch max), inoperable vehicles, and structural decay. DHCA enforces with fines up to $500/day.
Montgomery County Code Chapter 26 establishes comprehensive housing and building maintenance standards. Properties must be maintained free of conditions that constitute blight, including accumulated trash or debris, overgrown vegetation exceeding 12 inches, abandoned or inoperable vehicles, broken windows or doors, peeling paint on exterior surfaces, and deteriorated roofing or siding. The DHCA Division of Housing and Code Enforcement inspects properties upon complaint through MC311. Inspectors may also identify violations during routine area surveys. Property owners receive a written notice of violation with a compliance deadline, typically 30 days for most conditions. The county may abate hazardous conditions and bill the property owner if they fail to comply. Vacant properties are subject to additional registration and maintenance requirements under the county vacant property registry.
Civil fines up to $500 per day per violation. The county may abate conditions and place a lien on the property for costs incurred. Chronic offenders face escalating penalties. Criminal prosecution possible for willful neglect.
Montgomery County, MD
Montgomery County Code §31-14 prohibits parking heavy commercial vehicles (over 10,000 lbs, 21+ ft, 8+ ft high) on public residential roadways. One light com...
Montgomery County, MD
Abandoned vehicles in Montgomery County are subject to state and county law. MD Transportation Code §25-201+ defines abandonment; county can tag and tow vehi...
Montgomery County, MD
Maryland has no shared fence cost statute. Each owner responsible for their own fence. Spite fence provision under MD RP Art. §14-120.
Montgomery County, MD
Montgomery County prohibits barbed wire, razor wire, and electric fences in residential zones under Ch 59. HOAs commonly restrict chain-link fencing. Approve...
Montgomery County, MD
Maryland’s Tracey’s Law (2014) treats all dog breeds equally under negligence standard. No breed-specific strict liability. Dangerous dogs behavior-based.
Montgomery County, MD
Montgomery County requires dogs on leash in public. Off-leash in designated parks only. Rabies vaccination required statewide. MD Criminal Law §10-619 covers...
See how Montgomery County's property blight rules stack up against other locations.
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