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Short-Term Rental Regulations
in Wicomico County, MD

Last verified: March 2026 · Report an update

Zoning & Conditions

Short-term rentals (STRs) are defined as lodging for less than 31 days. Owners must maintain a valid Rental Owner’s License, register each unit with the Housing & Community Development Department (HCDD), and pass annual internal/external inspections. Requirements include smoke/CO alarm compliance, posting emergency contacts and floor plans, maintaining a guest registry, and obtaining HOA approval if applicable.

How to Obtain a Permit

1. Obtain a Rental Owner’s License from the HCDD by submitting an application and paying the required fee. 2. Register the specific STR dwelling unit by filing a registration form with HCDD (deadline for existing units is March 1, 2025). 3. Schedule and pass an annual internal and external property inspection conducted by HCDD.

Official Resources

Official Wicomico County STR regulation source

Frequently Asked Questions

Are short-term rentals allowed in Wicomico County, MD?
Short-term rentals (STRs) are defined as lodging for less than 31 days. Owners must maintain a valid Rental Owner’s License, register each unit with the Housing & Community Development Department (HCDD), and pass annual internal/external inspections. Requirements include smoke/CO alarm compliance, posting emergency contacts and floor plans, maintaining a guest registry, and obtaining HOA approval if applicable.
Is a permit required to operate a short-term rental in Wicomico County?
Yes, a permit is required to operate a short-term rental in Wicomico County. 1. Obtain a Rental Owner’s License from the HCDD by submitting an application and paying the required fee. 2. Register the specific STR dwelling unit by filing a registration form with HCDD (deadline for existing units is March 1, 2025). 3. Schedule and pass an annual internal and external property inspection conducted by HCDD.
How do I get a short-term rental permit in Wicomico County?
1. Obtain a Rental Owner’s License from the HCDD by submitting an application and paying the required fee. 2. Register the specific STR dwelling unit by filing a registration form with HCDD (deadline for existing units is March 1, 2025). 3. Schedule and pass an annual internal and external property inspection conducted by HCDD.

Disclaimer

This information is for general reference only and may not reflect the most current regulations. STR regulations change frequently. Always verify requirements with official local government sources before operating a short-term rental.

Last verified: March 2026 · Suggest a correction