# Business Regulation (GBR)

## Title 17. Miscellaneous State Business Licenses

### Subtitle 21. General Prohibited Acts; Penalties

#### Section 17-2101

In this subtitle, "license" has the meaning stated in Sec.Sec. 17-101 and 17-201 of this title.

#### Section 17-2102

A person may not do any business in the State for which a license is required under this title unless the person has an appropriate license.

#### Section 17-2103

A person may not fail to display a license, license sticker, or metal tag as required by this title.

#### Section 17-2104

With the approval of the Comptroller or the Executive Director, as appropriate, the chief license inspector, an assistant license inspector, or an agent of the Field Enforcement Division of the Alcohol and Tobacco Commission shall begin proceedings to prosecute each person who:

(1) is required to get a license from a clerk under this title; but

(2) fails to get the license or to pay an adequate license fee.

#### Section 17-2105

In a prosecution for selling goods without an appropriate license, proof that the defendant displayed or offered the goods for sale or kept a place of business where the goods were displayed or offered for sale is prima facie evidence that the defendant sold goods.

#### Section 17-2106

(a) Except as otherwise specifically provided in this title, a person who violates this subtitle is guilty of a misdemeanor and, on conviction, is subject to a fine not exceeding $300 or imprisonment not exceeding 30 days.

(b) Each agent or officer of a corporation convicted of violating this subtitle who actually engaged in the unlicensed business is individually subject to the penalties provided by law.

(c) The penalty provided in this section does not affect any other penalty specifically provided by law for a violation of a license law.

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Md. Code Ann., Bus. Reg. (as displayed at mgaleg.maryland.gov, October 16, 2026)