Maryland § 15-203
Full text of Maryland Maryland Code § 15-203, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 15-203.
(a) An innkeeper may refuse to provide lodging or services to or may remove from a lodging establishment an individual who:
(1) refuses to pay or is unable to pay for lodging or services;
(2) while on the premises of the lodging establishment is under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or other intoxicating substance so as to create a public nuisance;
(3) while on the premises is disorderly so as to create a public nuisance;
(4) destroys, damages, or defaces property of the lodging establishment or its guests, or threatens to do so;
(5) the innkeeper reasonably believes is using the lodging establishment for the unlawful possession or use of a controlled dangerous substance in violation of Title 5 of the Criminal Law Article or for the consumption of alcohol by an individual under the age of 21 years in violation of § 6–304, § 6–307, § 6–308, or § 6–309 of the Alcoholic Beverages and Cannabis Article;
(6) the innkeeper reasonably believes possesses property that may be dangerous to other individuals, such as firearms or explosives; or
(7) refuses to abide by any conspicuously posted rule or policy of the lodging establishment.
(b) (1) If an innkeeper seeks to remove an individual from a lodging establishment as provided under this section, the innkeeper shall:
(i) notify the individual, either orally or in writing, that the lodging establishment refuses to provide further lodging or services to the individual and that the individual should immediately leave the lodging establishment; and
(ii) if the individual has paid for lodging or services in advance, refund any unused portion of the advance payment, but the lodging establishment may withhold payment for a full day’s lodging if the individual was lodged for a portion of a day.
(2) If an individual attempts to remain in a lodging establishment after having been requested to leave under the provisions of this section, an innkeeper may:
(i) if the individual is a guest, lock the door of the individual’s room;
(ii) remove the individual’s baggage and other personal property; and
(iii) using no more force than necessary, eject the individual from the lodging establishment.
Frequently Asked Questions About Maryland § 15-203
What does Maryland Code § 15-203 cover?
Section 15-203 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 § 15-203?
A common citation format is "Maryland Code § 15-203" (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 § 15-203 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.