Adjoining landowners are owners of land with common boundaries, and have mutual rights, duties, and obligations related to their adjoining pieces of land.
In Maryland, adjoining landowners, also known as adjacent property owners, have certain rights and responsibilities concerning their shared property boundaries. These include the duty to not use their property in a way that would harm the adjoining property, the right to maintain and make reasonable use of their property, and obligations regarding boundary fences and trees. Maryland follows the common law for most issues concerning adjoining landowners, which means that case law often determines the specific rights and duties. For example, if a tree straddles a property line, both owners are responsible for the tree and may be liable for damages caused by the tree. Additionally, local ordinances and zoning laws may impose further regulations on adjoining landowners, such as rules about fence heights and setbacks. It is important for adjoining landowners to communicate and cooperate to resolve any boundary or land use issues and to consult with an attorney if legal disputes arise.