Maryland Rental License: What Landlords Need to Know

When you rent out a property in Maryland, a U.S. state with specific landlord-tenant laws that vary by county and city. Also known as Maryland rental regulations, it requires more than just a lease agreement—some areas demand a formal rental license. Not every landlord in Maryland needs one, but if you’re in Baltimore, Montgomery County, or Prince George’s County, you’re likely required to register and pay a fee. Skip this step, and you could face fines, eviction delays, or even lose the right to collect rent.

The Maryland rental license, a local government-issued permit that confirms your property meets safety and habitability standards. Also known as rental registration, it’s not about being a business owner—it’s about protecting tenants. Cities check for working smoke detectors, lead paint disclosures, proper wiring, and clean plumbing. In Baltimore, landlords must renew every two years and pay up to $100 per unit. In Montgomery County, you need a certificate of occupancy before renting. These aren’t suggestions—they’re legal requirements enforced by local housing departments. What’s more, if you’re renting a single-family home in a city that requires a license, you still need it—even if you live there too. And if you’re renting out a basement apartment or accessory dwelling unit, the rules get even tighter. Some counties require separate inspections for each unit, even if they’re on the same lot.

It’s not just about paperwork. A Maryland rental license, a tool that ties your property to local housing codes and tenant protection systems. Also known as property compliance status, it gives tenants the right to report violations without fear of retaliation. If your unit fails inspection, you can’t legally rent it until it’s fixed. And if you try to evict someone while unlicensed, the court might throw out your case. That’s why so many landlords in Maryland now use property management tools to track renewal dates and inspection deadlines. You’ll also find that some insurance policies won’t cover you unless you’re licensed. Banks may even ask for proof of licensing before approving a rental property loan.

There’s no statewide license, so you can’t just apply once and be done. You need to check your county’s website—each one has its own portal, fee structure, and deadlines. And while some landlords think they can avoid it by renting to family or charging below market rate, that doesn’t matter. If someone is paying to live there, the law sees it as a rental.

What you’ll find below are real, practical guides on what happens when you ignore these rules, how to get your license without the headache, and what tenants in Maryland can legally demand from you. Whether you’re a first-time landlord in Frederick or managing five units in Annapolis, these posts cut through the noise and give you exactly what you need to stay legal—and profitable.