Is Airbnb & Short-Term Rentals Legal in Maryland? (2026)
Yes — Airbnb & Short-Term Rentals are legal in Maryland as of 2026.
Law changed in 2026: In the 2026 legislative session, several bills were introduced, including the 'Jillian and Lindsay Wiener Short–Term Rental Fire Safety Act' (SB624) to enhance fire safety, and SB666, which addresses the rights of tenants to operate short-term rental...
Quick Answer
Short-term rentals are legal in Maryland. In the 2026 legislative session, several bills were introduced, including the 'Jillian and Lindsay Wiener Short–Term Rental Fire Safety Act' (SB624) to enhance fire safety, and SB666, which addresses the rights of tenants to operate short-term rentals. Ho...
What the Law Says
Maryland state law requires the collection of a 6% sales and use tax on short-term rentals. All other regulations, including licensing, zoning, and safety standards, are handled at the county level.
— Maryland Property & Housing Code (Justia)
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| State-Level Rules | Legal; check local ordinances |
| Local Permit Requirements | Legal; may need business license |
| Violation Penalties | Must collect and remit applicable lodging/occupancy taxes. |
| Pending Legislation | None known |
In the 2026 legislative session, several bills were introduced, including the 'Jillian and Lindsay Wiener Short–Term Rental Fire Safety Act' (SB624) to enhance fire safety, and SB666, which addresses the rights of tenants to operate short-term rentals.
Enforcement Reality
Enforcement is a combination of state and local efforts. The state requires a short-term rental license, and counties like Prince George's and cities like Baltimore have their own additional licensing and inspection requirements.
A primary violation is operating without the required state license, which can lead to fines of up to $1,000. In jurisdictions like Baltimore, another common mistake is renting out a property that is not the owner's principal residence, which is a specific requirement of the local ordinance.
Local Exceptions
State law sets the baseline. These cities or counties have additional rules that may differ:
Bottom Line
Airbnb & Short-Term Rentals are legal in Maryland. You can operating a short-term rental without violating state law, though federal rules and local ordinances may still apply. Always verify current law before acting.
Maryland vs. the Rest of the US
Across the US, operating a short-term rental is fully legal in 35 states, restricted in 15, and illegal in 0. Maryland falls in the LEGAL category.
View the full 50-state map →Neighboring States
Laws change at state lines. Here is how bordering states compare on Airbnb & Short-Term Rentals:
Frequently Asked Questions
Is operating a short-term rental legal in Maryland?
Do you need a permit to run an Airbnb in Maryland?
Does the law on operating a short-term rental change at the Maryland border?
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Reviewed by cross-referencing the cited state statute against current legislative databases and regulatory publications.
Sources & Verification
This page was reviewed by Ethan Harper by comparing the legal status against the cited state statute. AllowedHere is an informational resource and does not provide legal advice. Consult a licensed attorney for guidance specific to your situation.
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