HOA Laws in Maryland

Homeowners associations in Maryland are governed by the Maryland Homeowners Association Act, found in the Real Property Article, Title 11B. Condominiums are governed by the Maryland Condominium Act, Title 11. This guide summarizes the areas boards ask about most. It is general information, not legal advice.

The governing statute

The Homeowners Association Act sets baseline rules for Maryland HOAs, covering open meetings, records, disclosures, and enforcement, alongside your recorded documents. Most Maryland HOAs are also incorporated as nonprofit corporations, so the Corporations and Associations Article governs corporate matters such as member and board meetings, director duties, quorum, and voting. Condominium communities should look primarily to the Condominium Act.

Meetings and open-meeting rules

Board meetings must generally be open to owners with notice, and minutes must be kept, subject to limited matters that may be handled in closed session. Notice and procedures follow the statute and your bylaws.

Elections and voting

Directors are elected by the members as provided by the statute and the governing documents. Legislation enacted in 2025 (Senate Bill 758 / House Bill 1534) added new statutory requirements for association elections, so boards should confirm their process matches the current rules.

Records access and owner inspection

Owners have the right to inspect and copy association records, and under the 2025 law an association may not charge an owner to examine the association's financial statements or meeting minutes in person, or to receive them electronically on request.

Assessments, liens, and foreclosure

Associations may levy assessments and, using the procedures of the Maryland Contract Lien Act, establish and enforce a lien for unpaid amounts, including foreclosure subject to statutory notice. Boards typically involve an attorney for liens and foreclosure.

Fines and enforcement

Associations may adopt and enforce rules and impose reasonable charges for violations, subject to notice and an opportunity to be heard as provided by the statute and the documents.

Resale disclosures

When a home is sold, the association must provide statutory disclosures to the buyer, giving key financial and governance information within required timeframes.

Owner protections on common restrictions

Maryland limits certain HOA restrictions, including on solar collectors and the display of the United States flag, subject to reasonable conditions. Review the specific statute before denying a related request.

Where to get official help

The Homeowners Association Act and the Condominium Act appear in the Real Property Article of the Maryland Code. For a specific situation, consult a Maryland attorney experienced in community association law.