Occupancy Limits: Gaithersburg vs Takoma Park
How do occupancy limits rules compare between Gaithersburg, MD and Takoma Park, MD?
Takoma Park has fewer restrictions than Gaithersburg.
Gaithersburg, MD
Montgomery County
Montgomery County limits STR occupancy to a maximum number of guests based on the licensed sleeping areas. The STR license application requires disclosure of bedrooms and sleeping capacity. Events and parties that exceed listed occupancy are prohibited under the license conditions.
View full Gaithersburg rules →Takoma Park, MD
Montgomery County
Montgomery County STR regulations require properties to meet housing code standards under Chapter 26, which sets occupancy limits based on room size and habitable space. STR properties must pass DHCA inspection. Maximum occupancy is determined by the number of bedrooms and the square footage of habitable rooms rather than a flat per-unit cap.
View full Takoma Park rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Gaithersburg | Takoma Park |
|---|---|---|
| Basis | Bedrooms listed on license | - |
| Standard | 2 persons per bedroom typical | - |
| Events/Parties | Prohibited beyond occupancy | - |
| Advertising | Must match licensed capacity | - |
| Occupancy Rule | - | Per housing code (Ch. 26) |
| Flat Cap | - | None specified in Ch. 54 |
| Inspection | - | DHCA inspects properties |
| Safety | - | Smoke/CO detectors required |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Gaithersburg FAQ
How many guests can I have in my Gaithersburg STR?
Occupancy is based on the number of bedrooms listed on your county STR license, generally two persons per bedroom. You must not exceed the licensed capacity.
Can I host a party at my short-term rental in Gaithersburg?
No. Events and gatherings that exceed the listed occupancy are prohibited under Montgomery County STR license conditions.
Takoma Park FAQ
Is there a maximum guest count for STRs in Takoma Park?
Montgomery County does not set a flat occupancy cap for STRs. Limits are based on housing code standards (Chapter 26) including minimum square footage per occupant and bedroom count.
Are STR properties inspected?
Yes. DHCA may inspect properties during licensing and in response to complaints. Properties must meet housing code standards including smoke detectors, CO detectors, and adequate egress.
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