Permit Requirements: Gaithersburg vs Takoma Park
How do permit requirements rules compare between Gaithersburg, MD and Takoma Park, MD?
Gaithersburg and Takoma Park have similar restriction levels.
Gaithersburg, MD
Montgomery County
Short-term rentals in Gaithersburg require a license under Montgomery County Bill 41-19 and County Code Chapter 54. Hosts must obtain a short-term rental license from the county, pass safety inspections, and comply with a 120-day annual cap. The city defers to county licensing for STR regulation.
View full Gaithersburg rules →Takoma Park, MD
Montgomery County
Short-term rentals in Takoma Park require a Montgomery County short-term residential rental license costing $500 annually under MoCo Code Chapter 54, Article III. The property must be the owner's primary residence. Takoma Park is not among the municipalities that ban STRs. Applications take 30-60 days for approval. License numbers must be posted on all listing platforms.
View full Takoma Park rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Gaithersburg | Takoma Park |
|---|---|---|
| Law | MoCo Code Ch 54 (Bill 41-19) | - |
| License Required | Yes, from county DHCA | - |
| Primary Residence | Required | - |
| License Display | On all listing platforms | - |
| Annual Renewal | Required | - |
| License Fee | - | $500 per year |
| Residency | - | Must be primary residence |
| Approval Time | - | 30-60 days |
| Code | - | MoCo Ch. 54, Art. III |
| STRs Allowed | - | Yes, in Takoma Park |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Gaithersburg FAQ
Do I need a permit to list my Gaithersburg home on Airbnb?
Yes. You must obtain a short-term rental license from Montgomery County Department of Housing and Community Affairs before listing. Your license number must appear on all listings.
Can I rent an investment property as a short-term rental in Gaithersburg?
No. Montgomery County requires the property to be your primary residence. Investment properties without a primary resident are not eligible for an STR license.
Takoma Park FAQ
Can I run an Airbnb in Takoma Park?
Yes. Takoma Park is not among the Montgomery County municipalities that prohibit short-term rentals. You need a $500 annual license from MoCo DHCA, and the property must be your primary residence.
How long does the license approval take?
Applications are typically processed within 30 to 60 days. Neighbors are notified and can file challenges within 30 days of the application.
What happens if I operate without a license?
You will receive a violation notice and must immediately remove all advertising. Continued operation may result in fines and enforcement action by DHCA.
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