Do I Need a License to Rent My House in Baltimore City? Complete Guide

If you own a house in Baltimore City and are thinking about renting it out-whether for a few weeks on Airbnb or for a year‑long lease-you’re probably wondering if a license is required. The answer isn’t a simple yes or no; it depends on the type of rental, the neighborhood’s zoning rules, and a handful of city and state regulations. This guide walks you through exactly when a license is needed, how to get one, what you’ll pay, and what happens if you skip the paperwork.

Key Takeaways

• All short‑term rentals (less than 30 days) in Baltimore City need a Baltimore short term rental license and must be registered with the Department of Housing & Community Development.
• Long‑term leases (30 days or more) generally do not require a separate rental license, but they must still comply with zoning and building codes.
• The application process includes an online form, a property inspection, a fee ranging from $50‑$250, and proof of insurance.
• Exemptions exist for owner‑occupied homes, certain historic districts, and properties covered by a Homeowners Association that has its own rules.
• Violating Baltimore’s rental rules can lead to fines up to $5,000 per day and a possible shutdown of the rental operation.

What the City Calls a Rental License

Baltimore City Short-Term Rental License is a city‑issued permit that allows homeowners to rent out a dwelling for periods shorter than 30 consecutive days. It is managed by the Baltimore City Department of Housing & Community Development (DHCD) and is required for any listing on platforms like Airbnb, Vrbo, or local classifieds.

Short‑Term vs. Long‑Term Rentals: Do Both Need Licenses?

Baltimore distinguishes rentals by length of stay:

• Short‑term rentals: stays of less than 30 days. A short‑term rental license is mandatory, regardless of whether you rent a single room or the entire house.
• Long‑term rentals: leases of 30 days or more. These generally fall under standard landlord‑tenant law and do not need a separate license, but they still must obey zoning, building codes, and the Maryland Short‑Term Rental Act (2022) for safety standards.

How to Apply for a Baltimore City Rental License

1. Create an account on the DHCD online portal. You’ll need your property address, tax ID, and proof of ownership.
2. Complete the Rental License Application form. Provide details such as maximum occupancy, parking provisions, and the type of rental (whole‑home or private‑room).
3. Upload a recent Certificate of Occupancy and your homeowner’s insurance policy that lists short‑term rental coverage.
4. Schedule a mandatory on‑site inspection. A city inspector will verify fire safety measures, egress routes, and compliance with the Zoning District regulations.
5. Pay the applicable fee (see the table below). Fees are non‑refundable but may be waived for certain low‑income housing projects.
6. Receive your license via email within 10‑14 business days. Print a copy and display it prominently at the rental entrance.

Typical Fees and Timelines

Exemptions and Special Cases

Not every property needs a license. You may be exempt if:

• Your home is owner‑occupied and you rent out only a portion of the house and the total guest nights stay under 30 per year.
• The property lies within a Historic District that has a preservation agreement limiting short‑term rentals.
• A Homeowners Association (HOA) has its own rental approval process and the city grants a waiver after HOA sign‑off.

Even if you qualify for an exemption, you still must comply with basic safety rules-smoke detectors, carbon monoxide alarms, and accessible egress.

Consequences of Skipping the License

Baltimore takes unlicensed rentals seriously. Penalties can include:

• A daily fine of $500 for each day the violation continues, capping at $5,000 per incident.
• Immediate suspension of the rental listing on any platform, enforced through a city‑issued cease‑and‑desist order.
• Possible civil action by neighbors or the HOA for nuisance or code violations.
• In extreme cases, the property could be placed under a city‑managed stewardship program until compliance is achieved.

Quick Checklist for Baltimore Landlords

• Determine if your rental is short‑term (<30 days) or long‑term (≥30 days).
• Verify zoning compliance in the Zoning District map.
• Gather required documents: proof of ownership, Certificate of Occupancy, insurance, and HOA approval (if applicable).
• Complete the online DHCD application and schedule the inspection.
• Pay the appropriate fee and keep the license visible at the property.
• Set up a system to track guest nights to avoid exceeding exemption thresholds.
• Stay updated on any changes to Baltimore’s rental regulations (the city reviews its rules every two years).

Frequently Asked Questions