Gaithersburg, MD Short-Term Rentals: Permit Requirements (2026)

Short-term rentals (stays under 30 consecutive days) in Gaithersburg are regulated under Montgomery County Code Chapter 54, established by County Bill 41-19. All hosts must obtain a short-term rental license from the Montgomery County Department of Housing and Community Affairs before listing or operating. The license application requires proof of property ownership or landlord consent, a floor plan showing rental areas, proof of adequate insurance, and a self-certification of safety compliance including working smoke and carbon monoxide detectors on every level. Properties must be the host primary residence — investment properties without a primary resident are not eligible for an STR license. The county conducts random compliance inspections. Hosts must post their license number on all listing platforms including Airbnb, VRBO, and Booking.com. License renewal is required annually. The city of Gaithersburg defers to the county licensing framework and does not issue a separate municipal STR permit. HOA and condominium association rules may impose additional restrictions or outright bans on short-term rentals in communities like Kentlands and Lakeforest.