No, Maryland prohibits squatted trucks under Transportation Article § 24-111, classifying them as unsafe vehicles with altered suspension systems that exceed height limits. The Maryland State Police and local law enforcement actively enforce this statute, particularly in Baltimore City and Prince George’s County, where modified trucks have drawn recent scrutiny. Violators face fines up to $500 and mandatory inspections, with 2026 legislative proposals seeking stricter penalties for repeat offenders.
Key Regulations for Squatted Trucks in Maryland
- Height Restrictions: Vehicles modified to exceed 14 feet in height violate § 24-111, triggering automatic citations during roadside inspections.
- Suspension Alterations: Any aftermarket modifications lowering or raising suspension beyond factory specifications are deemed illegal, per Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA) guidelines.
- Local Enforcement: Baltimore City and Prince George’s County police departments prioritize squatted truck crackdowns, collaborating with MVA inspectors to impound non-compliant vehicles.
The Maryland General Assembly’s 2024 session introduced HB 1243, which would classify squatted trucks as “unsafe vehicles” subject to immediate registration suspension. Courts have consistently upheld these restrictions, citing federal safety standards under 49 CFR § 571.105. Dealers and owners must verify compliance with MVA’s Vehicle Equipment and Inspection Manual before modifications.