Short-Term Rental Regulations
in Bethesda, MD

Airbnb listings are allowed in Bethesda, MD, but with restrictions. STRs must be the owner's or authorized resident's primary residence; accessory dwelling units (ADUs) are ineligible. Occupancy is limited to a maximum of six adults total and two adults per bedroom. Rentals must not be prohibited by HOA, condominium documents, or lease agreements. A permit is required before you can host. These rules apply to all short-term rental platforms (Airbnb, Vrbo, Booking.com, etc.) — not just Airbnb specifically. See the official source linked on this page for full requirements. Last verified 2026-05-14.

STRs must be the owner's or authorized resident's primary residence; accessory dwelling units (ADUs) are ineligible. Occupancy is limited to a maximum of six adults total and two adults per bedroom. Rentals must not be prohibited by HOA, condominium documents, or lease agreements.

Yes, a permit is required to operate a short-term rental in Bethesda. 1. Apply online via the DHCA licensing portal or through an MC311 service request. 2. Pay the annual licensing fee ($500 for STRs). 3. Undergo a review process (30-60 days) which includes verification of primary residency and potential housing code inspections.

1. Apply online via the DHCA licensing portal or through an MC311 service request. 2. Pay the annual licensing fee ($500 for STRs). 3. Undergo a review process (30-60 days) which includes verification of primary residency and potential housing code inspections.

Vrbo is permitted in Bethesda, MD under the same restrictions that apply to Airbnb — local rules govern the rental itself, not the specific platform. You must hold a valid permit before hosting on Vrbo. Last verified 2026-05-14.

Short-term rental hosts in Bethesda are typically responsible for lodging, occupancy, and applicable sales taxes — these usually apply even where hosting is allowed without a permit. Rates and remittance rules vary by jurisdiction (state, county, and city can each levy a share); confirm the current rates with the official source linked on this page. Platforms such as Airbnb and Vrbo collect some taxes automatically, but the host remains liable for any not collected on their behalf.

We are not currently tracking any recent short-term rental ordinance changes for Bethesda. STR rules change frequently — verify the current requirements with the city or county before listing, using the official source linked on this page.