Maryland § 6-409
Full text of Maryland Maryland Code § 6-409, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 6-409.
(a) A person may not refuse or fail to leave a public building or grounds, or a specific part of a public building or grounds, during the time when the public building or grounds, or specific part of the public building or grounds, is regularly closed to the public if:
(1) the surrounding circumstances would indicate to a reasonable person that the person who refuses or fails to leave has no apparent lawful business to pursue at the public building or grounds; and
(2) a regularly employed guard, watchman, or other authorized employee of the government unit that owns, operates, or maintains the public building or grounds asks the person to leave.
(b) A person may not refuse or fail to leave a public building or grounds, or a specific part of a public building or grounds, during regular business hours if:
(1) the surrounding circumstances would indicate to a reasonable person that the person who refuses or fails to leave:
(i) has no apparent lawful business to pursue at the public building or grounds; or
(ii) is acting in a manner disruptive of and disturbing to the conduct of normal business by the government unit that owns, operates, or maintains the public building or grounds; and
(2) an authorized employee of the government unit asks the person to leave.
(c) A person who violates this section is guilty of a misdemeanor and on conviction is subject to imprisonment not exceeding 6 months or a fine not exceeding $1,000 or both.
Frequently Asked Questions About Maryland § 6-409
What does Maryland Code § 6-409 cover?
Section 6-409 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 § 6-409?
A common citation format is "Maryland Code § 6-409" (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 § 6-409 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.