Municipalities - Enforcement of Ordinances and Resolutions

SB 820 increases the maximum criminal fine municipalities can impose for certain ordinance violations from $1,000 to $5,000. It directly affects municipalities (which enforce local rules) and residents or businesses cited for violations classified as misdemeanors or municipal infractions. The bill amends Maryland law to raise the fine limit in Sections 6-101 (for misdemeanor violations) and 6-102 (for municipal infractions like zoning or littering violations). This change allows local governments to levy higher penalties for specific offenses without creating new violations. The policy change takes effect October 1, 2025.