Maryland § 14-214
Full text of Maryland Maryland Code § 14-214, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 14-214.
(a) Except as otherwise provided in this subtitle, a person must register the offer of a franchise with the Commissioner before the person offers to sell, through advertisement or otherwise, or sells the franchise in the State.
(b) The registration requirement of this section does not apply to:
(1) a transaction by an executor, administrator, sheriff, receiver, trustee in bankruptcy, guardian, or conservator;
(2) an offer to sell or sale of a franchise that is substantially similar to a franchise already owned by the offeree or buyer; and
(3) any other transaction that the Commissioner exempts by regulation because:
(i) the transaction is not within the purpose of this subtitle; and
(ii) the registration of the transaction is not necessary or appropriate in the public interest or for the protection of investors.
(c) (1) The registration requirement of this section does not apply to the offer to sell or sale of a franchise by a franchisee for the franchisee’s own account, or the offer to sell or sale of the entire area franchise owned by a subfranchisor for the subfranchisor’s own account.
(2) A sale is not effected by or through a franchisor merely because a franchisor has a right to approve or disapprove a different franchisee.
(d) (1) The Commissioner may require by regulation that a franchisor or subfranchisor who claims under subsection (b)(3) of this section to be exempt from the registration requirements of this section:
(i) file with the Commissioner a notice of claim of exemption in the form that the Commissioner requires; and
(ii) pay a fee of $250.
(2) The franchisor or subfranchisor shall sign and verify the notice of claim of exemption.
Frequently Asked Questions About Maryland § 14-214
What does Maryland Code § 14-214 cover?
Section 14-214 is part of the Maryland Code, the codified statutory law of Maryland. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite Maryland § 14-214?
A common citation format is "Maryland Code § 14-214" (Maryland). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of Maryland law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Maryland official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Maryland attorney.
How does Maryland § 14-214 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Maryland can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Maryland.