Gaithersburg, MD Short-Term Rentals: Registration Rules (2026)

Montgomery County Code Chapter 54 requires all short-term rental operators to complete a formal registration and licensing process through the Department of Housing and Community Affairs (DHCA). The process includes submitting an application with proof of primary residence (such as a utility bill, voter registration, or tax records showing the property as the primary address), a floor plan identifying rental areas and bedrooms, self-certification of safety compliance (smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors, fire extinguisher, emergency egress), proof of insurance, and registration with the Maryland Comptroller and Montgomery County Finance for tax collection. The DHCA issues a license number that must appear on all listing platform advertisements, website postings, and marketing materials. Operating or advertising without a visible license number is a violation. The county maintains a public registry of licensed STR properties. Licenses are non-transferable and tied to both the operator and the specific property address. Annual renewal requires updated certifications. The county coordinates with Airbnb, VRBO, and other platforms to verify license numbers on listings.