Takoma Park, MD Rental Property Rules: Rent Control (2026)

Takoma Park's rent stabilization program has been in effect since 1981 and is codified in Chapter 6, Article 4 of the Takoma Park Code. It is one of the oldest and most comprehensive rent control programs in the Washington DC metropolitan area. The program limits annual rent increases to the change in the Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers (CPI-U) for the Washington-Arlington-Alexandria metropolitan statistical area. The allowable increase percentage is published annually by COLTA based on the most recent 12-month CPI data. Most rental units in Takoma Park are covered, including apartments, condominiums, and single-family homes rented to tenants. Exemptions are limited and include units first offered for rent after certain dates and owner-occupied units with no more than one rental unit. Landlords must provide tenants with at least 30 days written notice before a rent increase takes effect, and the notice must state the amount of the increase and the new rent. Increases exceeding the CPI cap require approval from COLTA through a petition process where the landlord must demonstrate financial hardship such as increased operating costs, capital improvements, or fair return on investment. COLTA holds hearings on petitioned increases and tenants have the right to participate. The rent stabilization program also includes provisions for rent reductions if services or amenities are reduced. Landlords must register rental properties with the city and maintain compliance with housing code standards. Contact COLTA at 301-891-7215 or the Takoma Park Housing Division for assistance.