Ding dong ditching—ringing a doorbell and running away—is not specifically addressed in Maryland law, but it can cross into illegal territory depending on the circumstances.
Trespassing Laws
- Entering Private Property:
If you step onto someone’s property without permission to ring their doorbell, you could be charged with trespassing. Maryland law (Section 6-402) prohibits entering or remaining on property that is posted against trespass or when you have been told to stay off by the owner or their agent.- Penalties: First-time trespassing can result in up to 90 days in jail and a $500 fine; repeat offenses within two years carry harsher penalties.
- Posted vs. Unposted Property:
Even if the property isn’t posted with signs or paint marks, you can still be charged if you were told to stay away.
Disturbing the Peace and Harassment
- Disturbing the Peace:
If repeated ding dong ditching causes a significant disturbance—especially late at night or repeatedly targeting the same home—it could be considered disturbing the peace, which is also a criminal offense. - Harassment or Malicious Intent:
If the prank is done with the intent to harass, intimidate, or frighten someone (such as repeatedly targeting an elderly or vulnerable person), it could escalate to harassment charges.
Real-World Application
- Minor Nuisance vs. Crime:
In most cases, a single instance of ding dong ditching is treated as a minor nuisance. However, if it involves entering posted property, ignoring warnings, causing repeated disturbances, or malicious intent, it can result in criminal charges.
Summary Table
| Action | Possible Charge | Penalty (First Offense) |
|---|---|---|
| Entering posted/private property | Trespassing | Up to 90 days jail, $500 fine24 |
| Repeated, late-night pranks | Disturbing the Peace | Misdemeanor, varies by case1 |
| Harassing or targeting individuals | Harassment | Misdemeanor, varies by case1 |
Ding dong ditching in Maryland can be illegal if it involves trespassing, repeated disturbances, or harassment. While a single, harmless prank may not result in prosecution, repeated or malicious acts can lead to criminal charges. Always respect private property and your neighbors’ peace to avoid legal trouble.
Sources
- https://www.legalreach.com/blog/is-ding-dong-ditching-illegal-it%E2%80%99s-more-serious-than-you-might-think
- https://triallawyersmaryland.com/trespassing-laws-maryland/
- https://www.avvo.com/legal-answers/is-it-allowed-to-ding-dong-ditch–5329846.html
- https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Laws/StatuteText?article=gcr§ion=6-402
- https://www.pumphreylawfirm.com/blog/is-ding-dong-ditching-as-harmless-as-pranksters-think/