When the Code Official has reasonable
cause to believe that a violation of this article exists or when entry
is required for periodic inspections and monitoring to determine compliance
with this article, the Code Official may enter the structure or premises
at reasonable times to inspect. Prior to inspection, the Code Official
must make reasonable efforts to locate the owner or other person having
charge or control of the structure or premises to request entry. If
entry is refused or not obtained, the Code Official is authorized
to pursue recourse as provided by law, including seeking an administrative
search warrant from the Circuit or District Courts of Harford County.
The Code Official may not enter a premises or structure under this
section without permission or without a search warrant unless a condition
at the premises or structure poses a reasonable threat of imminent
harm to public health or safety before permission or a warrant could
be obtained.
In addition to being subject to an injunctive action under §
250-40 of this article, any person who violates any NOV or order issued under this article is liable to pay a civil penalty not exceeding $1,000 per day per violation, to be collected in a civil action. Each day a violation occurs is a separate violation.