Observing Laws
Tenants, landlords and neighbors all must observe federal, state and local laws, which affect their residency or property holding in an area. Violators are subject to action by local enforcement agencies. Students also may be subject to disciplinary action by the University Judicial System for off-campus misconduct. Some of the laws most frequently called into question by tenants, landlords and/or neighbors in Salisbury are outlined here. If you rent in another jurisdiction (e.g., Ocean City), you should find out how such laws are written and enforced in that area from its local authorities.
- Nondiscrimination - Federal and state laws and University policy prohibit discrimination with regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, marital status or handicap.
- Illegal Occupancy (City of Salisbury) - Occupancy in single-family dwellings is restricted to no more than four unrelated persons; occupancy in townhouses is restricted to no more than three unrelated persons. Enforcement may require all tenants to move out, with fines ranging from $25-50 per day up to a $300 maximum and court action.
For more information on
the City of Salisbury
Guidelines on renting a property with multiple
roommates go to:
www.ci.salisbury.md.us/Portals/0/
CityCodes/Title152007.pdf
and take a look at section 15.24.490 on page 52.
- Noise Ordinance (City of Salisbury) - This law prohibits the use of audio equipment between the hours of 11 p.m. and 7 a.m. in such a manner as to be plainly audible at a distance of 50 feet from the building or vehicle in which it is located. This is a misdemeanor offense carrying a $100 fine upon conviction.
- Keeping a Disorderly House (State of Maryland) - The definition of a disorderly house includes a place conducted in such a manner as tends to disturb the peace and order of the neighborhood, or the public generally. This is a misdemeanor often carrying a $50-300 fine and/or 10 days to six months imprisonment upon conviction. In addition, the Bureau of Inspections routinely conducts safety inspections of properties against which such complaints have been filed.
- Alcoholic Beverages (State of Maryland) - There are a series of laws governing the use of alcoholic beverages. State law requires that a person be 21 years of age or older to purchase, possess or consume alcoholic beverages, with fines ranging from $50-100 for most offenses. It is also against the law to furnish alcoholic beverages to persons under age 21. Conviction for this offense can result in a fine of up to $1,000 and/or two years imprisonment. Persons furnishing alcohol at parties also need to be aware of possible civil liability in cases where guests or third parties are injured as a result of alcohol being furnished.
- Trash (City of Salisbury) - Trash receptacles, either plastic or metal, must be kept at the rear of the property and placed on the sidewalk on the morning of the day of collection. Receptacles must be removed from the sidewalk by 9 p.m. on the day of collection. Violations of this ordinance carry fines ranging from $25-50 per day up to a maximum of $300.
Student Handbook
The purpose of the Code of Conduct is to provide students of Salisbury University with information on expectations regarding responsible citizenship and standards of conduct associated with membership in the university community. Students are responsible for knowing and complying with these policies and regulations, which are incorporated into this code.
The Code of Conduct applies to all currently enrolled students. Student hosts are responsible for their guests and, therefore, should inform them of Salisbury University policies.
