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SetbackIQ

Short-term rentals in Montgomery County, MD

You need a DHCA license ($500 a year) and must rent your primary residence. With you away, the cap is 120 nights a year. With you present, no cap. No more than six adult guests.

A person last checked these rules on October 20, 2026. This is guidance only, so confirm with Montgomery County before you build.

The details

  • An ADU can't be on a lot with a licensed short-term rental.Medium confidence
  • License under Chapter 54, § 54-43, with proof of primary residence.High confidence

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SetbackIQ reads the zoning, flood zone, historic district, and environmental maps for your lot. Then it applies these rules.

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Common questions

Can I rent my home or ADU by the night in Montgomery County?
You need a DHCA license ($500 a year) and must rent your primary residence. With you away, the cap is 120 nights a year. With you present, no cap. No more than six adult guests.

Sources

  1. Montgomery County Zoning Ordinance Article 59-3 use standards (Zoneomics copy of the official text). Checked 2026-10-21
    [Urban farming] One fowl may be kept for every 1,000 square feet of lot or parcel area; roosters are prohibited... [This standard] does not apply to the keeping of bees... Home Occupation (No Impact): the maximum number of visits and deliveries... is 5 per …
  2. Montgomery County DHCA, Short-term rentals. Checked 2026-10-21
    [Operators] must get a license or renewal from DHCA, under Chapter 54, Sec. 54-43... proof of primary residence... The annual license fee is $500 for a short-term rental.

Disclaimer: This is general information, not legal or professional advice for any one property. Codes change. SetbackIQ is not a zoning determination, a permit, or a survey, and it does not replace an architect, engineer, or lawyer. Confirm with your building and zoning offices before you build, buy, or sign a contract.