Is Airbnb legal in Ocean City?

In Ocean City, MD, Airbnb hosts must adhere to specific regulations to legally operate short-term rentals. Here is a summary of the key rules governing these rentals:

1. Licensing Requirement: All hosts are required to obtain either a rental or business license from the city. Hosts of single-family homes or condos must obtain an R1/rental license, while those renting other property types need a business license.

2. Application Process: Hosts can register online or submit a physical application by mailing it to the Finance Department or dropping it off at City Hall. The licensing fees are $141 for a business or rental license, with additional fees for extra rooms; properties in R-1 Zones require a $191 fee.

3. Noise Control Permit: A separate noise control permit is necessary, marked with code 9900 in addition to the relevant rental classification.

4. Control Number: Once licensed, hosts must incorporate their Control Number into their Airbnb listing to complete the registration with the city.

5. Annual Renewal: Licenses must be renewed yearly, with notices sent out in early March for rental licenses and April for business licenses. Renewals can be processed online or by mail.

6. Occupancy Limits: The city is currently considering new regulations that would limit occupancy to two guests per bedroom plus two additional guests, with children under six excluded from this count.

7. Minimum Length of Stay: Proposed regulations also include introducing a minimum stay requirement of five to seven days for rentals in the R-1 residential district, aimed at reducing disruptive short stays, such as party bookings.

8. Compliance with Additional Rules: Hosts must also comply with any additional rules tied to leases or homeowners' association agreements.

9. Increased Regulations On The Horizon: Ocean City officials are actively working on developing and implementing stricter regulations for short-term rentals to address community concerns regarding their impact.

Overall, while Airbnb is legally permitted in Ocean City, prospective hosts should be prepared for ongoing regulatory changes and should fully understand their obligations within this framework.