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.