Maryland Landlord License: Rules, Requirements, and What You Need to Know

When you own a rental property in Maryland landlord license, a state-specific requirement for certain rental property owners that defines legal responsibilities and tenant protections. Also known as Maryland rental property registration, it’s not a universal license like a business permit—it’s a set of rules that vary by county and city, and ignoring them can cost you big time. Unlike states that require a statewide license, Maryland leaves most landlord rules to local governments. So if you’re renting out a house in Baltimore, you’re under different rules than if you’re renting in Montgomery County or Prince George’s.

Here’s the truth: Maryland rental regulations, the local and state laws governing how landlords can collect rent, handle security deposits, and evict tenants are strict. For example, in Baltimore City, landlords must register every rental unit annually, pay a fee, and pass a property inspection. In Montgomery County, you need to get a rental license before you even show the place to a tenant. And forget about just tossing a lease together—Maryland requires specific disclosures, like lead paint hazards for homes built before 1978, and written notice for rent increases. These aren’t suggestions. They’re legal obligations.

And it’s not just about paperwork. tenant rights Maryland, the legal protections renters have against unfair eviction, retaliation, or unsafe housing conditions are strong. If you don’t return a security deposit within 45 days after a tenant moves out—with a written itemized list of deductions—you could owe them double the amount. Late fees? They can’t be arbitrary. Repairs? You have to act within a reasonable time. These aren’t just nice-to-haves; they’re enforceable by law. A single complaint to the local housing authority can trigger an inspection, fines, or even a court case.

What about out-of-state owners? If you live in Virginia or D.C. but rent a property in Maryland, you’re still bound by the same rules. You can’t hire a friend to manage things and ignore the law. Many landlords think they’re safe if they don’t live on-site—but Maryland doesn’t care where you live. It cares if you’re collecting rent. That makes you a landlord under the law.

There’s no single Maryland landlord license you can apply for online. Instead, you need to check your county’s website—Baltimore City, Anne Arundel, Howard County—all have their own portals, fees, and inspection checklists. Some require proof of insurance. Others demand a criminal background check. Skip this step, and you risk losing your right to collect rent or evict a bad tenant in court.

What’s the payoff for doing it right? Cleaner tenant turnover. Fewer disputes. And peace of mind knowing you’re not one missed notice away from a lawsuit. The posts below break down exactly what you need to do in each major Maryland county, how to handle security deposits legally, what notices are required, and how to avoid the most common mistakes landlords make. Whether you own one apartment or ten, this isn’t about bureaucracy—it’s about protecting your investment and your reputation.