Baltimore rental license requirements

This page is a simple, plain-language explanation of how Baltimore's residential rental licensing rules generally work. It does not replace official guidance from the City and is not legal advice, but it can help you understand what to expect before you start.

Who needs a Baltimore rental license?

In general, a license is required when:

• You own a non-owner-occupied dwelling unit located inside Baltimore City (not Baltimore County), and
• You rent that property (or part of it) to tenants under a lease agreement for residential use.

Important: Baltimore City and Baltimore County have different rules. DHCD registration/licensing rules apply to properties within Baltimore City limits only.

Common examples

If you are unsure whether your property is inside Baltimore City limits, we can help you check that. The City of Baltimore has the final say on borderline cases.

Key parts of the licensing process

The Baltimore residential rental license process generally has these main parts:

What the inspection typically looks at

The inspector uses Baltimore City's DHCD Rental License Inspection Form checklist. Common items include:

• Railings for steps with more than 3 risers
• Metered/active gas and electric service
• No exposed live wiring; outlet/switch cover plates in place
• Working smoke detectors + CO alarms (where applicable)
• Hot/cold running water (hot water ≥110°F) + no plumbing leaks + toilets flush
• Windows/doors function + locking mechanisms work
• No openings in walls/ceilings allowing weather intrusion
• Gutters/downspouts directing water away from structure
• Operable heat supply system
• Sanitation/cleanliness, rodent burrows, signs of infestation
• Basement bedroom egress and other immediate health/safety threats

If something doesn't meet the standard, the inspector may note it as a correction. You can request a city review of failed items A-L within 15 business days.

Documents you'll need

Typical documentation requested during the process may include:

• DHCD Rental License Inspection Form (completed and signed by eligible inspector, PDF preferred)
• Property registration details (entered in DHCD portal)
• Basic ownership information and contact details
• Lead compliance/registration evidence (for pre-1978 properties, Maryland Lead Rental Registry documentation)
• Use & Occupancy permit (if changing unit counts or use of property)
• Any supporting documents the city requests as they review the application

Special considerations

Maryland Lead Rental Registry

For pre-1978 rental properties, Maryland requires registration/annual renewal in the Lead Rental Registry under an MDE tracking number. This is commonly checked at licensing/renewal time.

2026 Rule Changes

Baltimore Ord. 24-403 (Strengthening Renters' Safety Act) is effective Jan 1, 2026 and affects multiple rental licensing sections. We stay current with rule changes and update workflows accordingly.

Exemptions

Housing Authority of Baltimore City rentals are exempt. Government-owned properties and certain nonprofit religious/charitable/educational ownership may be exempt from registration fees.

How we fit into this process

Our role is to make this easier for owners by:

• Confirming that your property appears to fall under Baltimore's rental license rules and is within city limits
• Handling annual registration and fee calculation through the DHCD portal
• Coordinating the inspection with eligible inspectors or working with an existing inspection that meets city standards
• Organizing your documents and ensuring timely submission within validity windows
• Tracking license renewals and annual registration deadlines
• Coordinating Maryland Lead Rental Registry requirements when applicable