Short-Term Rental Regulations
in Montgomery County, MD

Short-term residential rentals are subject to Montgomery County licensing and are permitted only when the dwelling is the owner’s or owner-authorized resident’s primary residence; maximum of 6 adults total and no more than 2 adults per bedroom; only habitable rooms used by guests; smoke and carbon monoxide detectors and functioning sanitation required; accessory dwelling units (ADUs) may not be used as STRs; applicants must comply with Chapter 59 zoning standards and must notify specified neighbors/parties and designate an emergency representative who resides within 15 miles.

Yes, a permit is required to operate a short-term rental in Montgomery County. 1) Submit a short-term residential rental license application through the Montgomery County DHCA licensing process (application must include State Sales Tax & Use Registration number and signed certifications required by County Code Chapter 54). 2) Certify compliance with zoning (Chapter 59), occupancy limits, life-safety requirements (smoke/CO detectors), neighbor/municipality/HOA notifications as applicable, designate a local emergency representative, and pay required fees. 3) Licenses are issued by the Director, subject to inspections by the Department, and must be renewed annually.

1) Submit a short-term residential rental license application through the Montgomery County DHCA licensing process (application must include State Sales Tax & Use Registration number and signed certifications required by County Code Chapter 54). 2) Certify compliance with zoning (Chapter 59), occupancy limits, life-safety requirements (smoke/CO detectors), neighbor/municipality/HOA notifications as applicable, designate a local emergency representative, and pay required fees. 3) Licenses are issued by the Director, subject to inspections by the Department, and must be renewed annually.