Harford County, Maryland Short-Term Rental Regulation: A Guide For Airbnb Hosts

What are Short-Term Rental (Airbnb, VRBO) Regulations in Harford County, Maryland?

Short-term rentals, such as those listed on Airbnb and VRBO, have become increasingly popular in Harford County, Maryland. However, before starting a short-term rental business, it's important to understand the local regulations and requirements. This article will provide an overview of the short-term rental regulations in Harford County and the city of Havre de Grace.

Starting a Short-Term Rental Business in Harford County

In Harford County, there are currently no specific regulations or licensing requirements for short-term rentals at the county level. However, it's important to note that individual cities and municipalities within the county may have their own rules and regulations.

For example, the city of Havre de Grace has specific requirements for short-term rentals outlined in Chapter 147, Article II of the City Code. All short-term rentals in Havre de Grace must obtain a license from the city. The license application is available online, and the process includes an inspection of the property to ensure compliance with building, fire, property maintenance, and zoning codes.

In Havre de Grace, short-term rentals are only allowed within a dwelling or accessory dwelling unit, and there is a cap on the total number of licenses available. Owners interested in operating a short-term rental when the cap has been met will be placed on a waiting list.

Hosts in Havre de Grace must also comply with additional requirements, such as displaying emergency contact information and the license number on the front door of the dwelling, as well as including the license number in any online listings or advertisements.

It's crucial for property owners in Harford County to research and understand the specific regulations in their city or municipality before starting a short-term rental business. Failure to comply with local laws and obtain the necessary licenses can result in fines and penalties.

When in doubt, contact your local planning and zoning department or consult with a local real estate attorney familiar with short-term rental regulations in your area. By staying informed and compliant, you can successfully operate a short-term rental business in Harford County, Maryland.

Short-Term Rental Licensing Requirements in Harford County

Unlike some other counties in Maryland, Harford County does not currently have specific licensing requirements for short-term rentals at the county level. However, it's important to note that individual cities and municipalities within the county may have their own regulations and requirements.

For example, the city of Havre de Grace has a detailed process for obtaining a short-term rental license, as outlined in Chapter 147, Article II of the City Code. To operate a short-term rental in Havre de Grace, property owners must:

• Submit a completed Short-Term Rental License Application, available on the city's website.
• Pay the required fees, which can be done conveniently online through the city's partnership with MyGovernmentOnline.
• Schedule and pass an inspection of the property to ensure compliance with building, fire, property maintenance, and zoning codes.
• Provide proof of liability insurance with a minimum coverage of $500,000.
• Display the license number and emergency contact information on the front door of the dwelling and include the license number in all online listings and advertisements.

The city of Havre de Grace has a cap on the total number of short-term rental licenses available. If the cap has been met, interested owners will be placed on a waiting list.

The processing time for a short-term rental license in Havre de Grace may vary depending on the volume of applications and the availability of inspectors. It's best to contact the city directly for an estimated timeline.

Failure to obtain the necessary license and comply with local regulations can result in fines and penalties. In Havre de Grace, operating a short-term rental without a license may lead to a fine of $500 for the first offense and $1,000 for each subsequent offense.

Property owners in other parts of Harford County should contact their local planning and zoning department to inquire about any specific short-term rental regulations in their city or municipality. By staying informed and compliant with local laws, owners can successfully operate a short-term rental business in Harford County, Maryland.

Required Documents for Harford County Short-Term Rentals

While Harford County does not currently have specific licensing requirements for short-term rentals at the county level, the city of Havre de Grace, located within Harford County, has its own set of requirements for operating a short-term rental. According to Chapter 147, Article II of the Havre de Grace City Code, the following documents are required to obtain a short-term rental license:

Short-Term Rental License Application: This application form, available on the city's website, must be completed and submitted to the Department of Planning. The application contains the requirements and documentation set forth by the Department of Planning.

Life Safety Compliance Verification: The host must complete a life safety compliance verification, which indicates the location of smoke alarms, carbon monoxide detectors, and fire extinguishers within the dwelling.

Certificate of Use and Occupancy: The dwelling unit must be maintained in compliance with the City's Building, Fire, Property Maintenance, Zoning, and other appropriate laws and codes, as well as the County's Health Department regulations. A certificate of use and occupancy from the City of Havre de Grace is required as proof of compliance.

Proof of Homeowners' Association Approval (if applicable): If the property proposed for a short-term rental is governed by a Condominium or Homeowners' Association, the owner must submit proof that short-term rentals are allowed or provide an official letter from the governing Association demonstrating that the property can be used as a short-term rental in the respective community.

These documents must be submitted to the Department of Planning in Havre de Grace as part of the short-term rental license application process. The application and required documents can be submitted online through the city's website or in person at the Department of Planning office.

It is important to note that while Harford County does not currently have specific licensing requirements for short-term rentals, property owners in other cities or municipalities within the county should contact their local planning and zoning department to inquire about any specific short-term rental regulations and required documents in their area.

Harford County Short-Term Rental Taxes

When operating a short-term rental business in Harford County, Maryland, it's essential to understand the various taxes that apply to your rental income. The two main types of taxes you'll need to be aware of are the Harford County Hotel Occupancy Tax and the Maryland State Sales Tax.

Harford County Hotel Occupancy Tax

Harford County imposes a Hotel Occupancy Tax on all short-term rentals, including those listed on platforms like Airbnb and VRBO. The tax rate is 6% of the total room rental receipts, excluding any exempt or non-transient rentals (stays longer than 30 days).

As a short-term rental operator, you are responsible for collecting this tax from your guests and remitting it to the Harford County Revenue Collections office on a monthly basis. The tax report and payment are due on or before the 25th day of each month, covering the tax collected during the preceding calendar month.

Maryland State Sales Tax

In addition to the Harford County Hotel Occupancy Tax, short-term rental operators in Maryland are also required to collect the state sales tax from their guests. The current Maryland state sales tax rate is 6% of the total room rental receipts, including any cleaning fees.

As with the Hotel Occupancy Tax, you are responsible for collecting the state sales tax and remitting it to the appropriate tax authority, which in this case is the Comptroller of Maryland. The filing frequency and due dates for the state sales tax will be assigned when you register with the Comptroller's office.

Possible Write-Offs and Deductions

As a short-term rental business owner, you may be eligible for certain write-offs and deductions that can help reduce your tax liability. Some common expenses that may be deductible include:

1. Mortgage interest
2. Property taxes
3. Utilities
4. Cleaning and maintenance costs
5. Supplies and amenities provided to guests
6. Depreciation of furniture and equipment used in the rental business
7. Advertising and marketing expenses

It's important to keep accurate records of all your rental income and expenses throughout the year to ensure you can take advantage of any available deductions. Consult with a tax professional familiar with short-term rental regulations to determine which expenses are deductible in your specific situation.

By understanding and complying with the Harford County Hotel Occupancy Tax and Maryland State Sales Tax requirements, as well as taking advantage of available write-offs and deductions, you can effectively manage the tax obligations of your short-term rental business.

Maryland Statewide Short-Term Rental Rules

While most short-term rental regulations in Maryland are determined at the county or municipal level, there are a few statewide rules that Harford County hosts should be aware of.

Maryland Sales and Use Tax

Short-term rental operators in Maryland are required to collect the state sales tax from their guests. The current Maryland state sales tax rate is 6% of the total room rental receipts, including any cleaning fees. Hosts are responsible for collecting this tax and remitting it to the Comptroller of Maryland on a regular basis, as determined by their assigned filing frequency.

Maryland Department of the Environment (MDE) Rental Requirements

The Maryland Department of the Environment (MDE) has several requirements for rental properties, including short-term rentals, to ensure the health and safety of guests. These requirements include:

1. Compliance with the Residential Rental Property Lead Law, which involves providing tenants with information about lead hazards and ensuring that properties built before 1978 are registered and inspected for lead-based paint hazards.
2. Adherence to the Maryland Lead Law, which requires rental property owners to disclose known lead-based paint hazards to tenants and to distribute specific educational materials.

Harford County hosts should familiarize themselves with these MDE requirements and ensure their properties are in compliance.

Statewide Licensing and Registration

While there is no statewide short-term rental license or registration requirement in Maryland, hosts should be aware that many counties and municipalities have their own licensing and registration processes. In Harford County, for example, the city of Havre de Grace requires short-term rental operators to obtain a license from the Department of Planning.

It's crucial for Harford County hosts to research and understand the specific regulations in their city or municipality, as failure to comply with local laws and obtain necessary licenses can result in fines and penalties.

By staying informed about both statewide and local short-term rental rules, Harford County hosts can ensure they are operating their businesses legally and responsibly.

Does Harford County Strictly Enforce STR Rules?

Harford County does enforce its short-term rental regulations, although the level of enforcement varies depending on the specific municipality. According to discussions on BiggerPockets and Reddit, hosts in cities like Havre de Grace, which has a detailed licensing process, face more stringent enforcement compared to other areas in the county.

On the BiggerPockets forum, a host mentioned that Havre de Grace officials actively monitor listings and issue fines for violations, making it challenging for hosts to operate without proper permits. They advised other investors to thoroughly research the specific requirements in their target area before launching a short-term rental business.

However, some hosts on Reddit have suggested that enforcement may be less strict in other parts of Harford County where regulations are not as clearly defined. These hosts argue that the county's enforcement resources are limited, allowing some operators to fly under the radar.

Despite the potential for varying levels of enforcement, most experienced hosts on these platforms agree that operating within the legal framework is the safest and most sustainable approach. They caution against attempting to skirt the rules, as the risks of fines and legal issues often outweigh any short-term benefits.

Compared to more lenient cities, Harford County cannot be considered extremely Airbnb-friendly due to its patchwork of local regulations and the strict enforcement in certain municipalities. The regulatory landscape creates barriers for hosts looking to operate multiple properties or rent out entire homes on a short-term basis without proper permits and licenses.

In conclusion, while some hosts may attempt to operate despite the rules, the majority of successful Airbnb hosts in Harford County prioritize compliance to avoid penalties and maintain long-term viability. Prospective hosts should carefully research the specific regulations in their target area and weigh the risks and rewards of operating in this market.

How to Start a Short-Term Rental Business in Harford County

Starting a short-term rental business in Harford County, Maryland, can be a rewarding venture. However, it's essential to follow the proper steps to ensure compliance with local regulations and set yourself up for success. Here's a comprehensive guide on how to get started:

1. Research local regulations: Before investing in a property or listing your existing home as a short-term rental, thoroughly research the specific regulations in your city or municipality within Harford County. While the county itself does not have countywide short-term rental regulations, some cities, like Havre de Grace, have their own licensing requirements and zoning restrictions. Familiarize yourself with these rules to avoid potential fines or legal issues.
2. Choose the right property: Consider factors such as location, amenities, and potential rental income when selecting a property for your short-term rental business. Look for properties in desirable areas with easy access to popular attractions, restaurants, and shopping. If you plan to rent out a portion of your primary residence, ensure that your home is well-maintained and can accommodate guests comfortably.
3. Obtain necessary licenses and permits: If your property is located in a city with short-term rental regulations, like Havre de Grace, apply for the required licenses and permits. This process may involve submitting an application, paying fees, and passing property inspections. Allow ample time for the approval process and be prepared to provide documentation such as proof of ownership, liability insurance, and a floor plan of your rental space.
4. Set up your rental space: Create a welcoming and functional space for your guests. Invest in quality furnishings, linens, and amenities that will make their stay comfortable and memorable. Consider hiring a professional photographer to capture appealing images of your rental for online listings. Ensure that your space meets all safety requirements, such as smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors, and fire extinguishers.
5. Create a detailed listing:Craft an attractive and informative listing on popular short-term rental platforms like Airbnb and VRBO. Include accurate descriptions, high-quality photos, and a list of amenities and nearby attractions. Be transparent about your rental's rules, such as pet policies, occupancy limits, and quiet hours. Set competitive rates based on your property's features and local market demand.
6. Manage your bookings and guests: Establish a system for managing bookings, communicating with guests, and coordinating cleanings between stays. Respond promptly to inquiries and maintain a friendly, professional demeanor. Consider using a property management software or hiring a property manager to streamline these tasks, especially if you plan to manage multiple rentals.
7. Comply with tax obligations: Short-term rental operators in Harford County must collect and remit the 6% Maryland state sales tax and the 6% Harford County Hotel Occupancy Tax. Register with the appropriate tax authorities and set up a process for collecting and reporting these taxes on a regular basis. Keep accurate records of your rental income and expenses for tax purposes.
8. Promote your listing: In addition to maintaining an attractive listing on short-term rental platforms, promote your rental through social media, local tourism websites, and word-of-mouth referrals. Encourage satisfied guests to leave positive reviews, as these can greatly influence future bookings.
9. Provide excellent guest experiences: Prioritize guest satisfaction by maintaining a clean, well-stocked rental and being responsive to their needs during their stay. Consider providing local recommendations, maps, and other helpful resources. By delivering exceptional experiences, you can earn repeat bookings and positive reviews that will help your business thrive.

Starting a short-term rental business in Harford County requires careful planning, compliance with local regulations, and a commitment to providing quality guest experiences. By following these steps and staying informed about industry best practices, you can build a successful and rewarding venture in this growing market.

Who to Contact in Harford County about Short-Term Rental Regulations and Zoning?

When starting a short-term rental business in Harford County, it's essential to reach out to the appropriate local authorities for guidance on regulations and zoning requirements. Here are the key contacts and resources for Harford County hosts:

Harford County Department of Planning & Zoning: This department oversees zoning administration, permits, and licenses in Harford County. Contact them for questions about zoning regulations, required permits, and the application process for short-term rental licenses in specific municipalities.

1. Address: 220 S. Main Street, 2nd Floor, Bel Air, MD 21014
2. Phone: 410-638-3103
3. Email: planningzoning@harfordcountymd.gov
4. Website: https://www.harfordcountymd.gov/164/Planning-Zoning

Harford County Permit Center: The Permit Center is a one-stop shop for county permits, licenses, and inspections. Reach out to them for information on the specific requirements and application process for short-term rental permits in your area.

1. Address: 220 S. Main Street, Bel Air, MD 21014
2. Phone: 410-638-3122
3. Website: https://www.harfordcountymd.gov/1107/Permits-Licenses

Maryland Department of the Environment (MDE) Lead Poisoning Prevention Program: Contact the MDE for information on lead paint disclosure requirements and rental property registration under Maryland's lead laws.

1. Phone: 410-537-4199 or 1-800-776-2706 (in-state)
2. Email: mde.leadreg@maryland.gov
3. Website: https://mde.maryland.gov/programs/land/leadpoisoningprevention/pages/leadregistration.aspx

In addition to these official resources, Harford County hosts may find valuable information and support through local real estate and short-term rental communities:

Harford County Real Estate Investors Association (HCREIA): This group provides networking opportunities, educational resources, and support for real estate investors in Harford County. While not exclusively focused on short-term rentals, their events and forums may offer insights into local regulations and best practices.

1. Website: https://www.harfordcreia.com/
2. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HarfordREIA/

BiggerPockets Maryland Forum: BiggerPockets is a popular online community for real estate investors. Their Maryland-specific forum includes discussions on short-term rentals, local regulations, and investor experiences in Harford County and surrounding areas.

Website: https://www.biggerpockets.com/forums/64-maryland

By engaging with these local authorities and connecting with experienced investors in the area, Harford County hosts can navigate the regulatory landscape and set their short-term rental businesses up for success.

What Do Airbnb Hosts in Harford County on Reddit and Bigger Pockets Think about Local Regulations?

To gain insight into the experiences and opinions of Airbnb hosts in Harford County regarding local regulations, we searched relevant forums and threads on Reddit and Bigger Pockets. While there weren't many discussions specifically focused on Harford County, we found a few relevant comments and experiences:

Reddit user mentions friend's experience with Airbnb in Harford County: In a thread about owning a condo in Ocean City, Maryland, a Reddit user mentioned having a close friend who owns a condo near the beach in Harford County and also lists it on Airbnb. This suggests that some property owners in Harford County are successfully operating short-term rentals.

Bigger Pockets forum post about starting an LLC in Harford County: An investor on the Bigger Pockets forum asked for advice on what address to use when registering an LLC for real estate investing purposes in Harford County. While not directly related to short-term rentals, this post indicates that there are investors actively pursuing real estate opportunities in the county.

Reddit comment about rising property assessments in Harford County: In a discussion about property tax assessments in Maryland, a Reddit user shared their experience of receiving a significantly higher assessment for their townhouse lot in Harford County. They mentioned filing an appeal to contest the 90% increase in the land value portion of the assessment. Although not specific to short-term rentals, this highlights the importance of staying informed about local property tax policies and assessment practices.

Overall, the limited discussions found on Reddit and Bigger Pockets suggest that while some property owners in Harford County are engaging in short-term rentals, there isn't a prominent online community of hosts actively sharing their experiences and opinions regarding local regulations. Prospective hosts may need to rely on direct communication with local authorities and experienced investors in the area to navigate the regulatory landscape and make informed decisions about starting and operating a short-term rental business in Harford County.

Disclaimer: While we here at BNBCalc strive to keep all of our regulation guides updated and accurate with all the latest local laws, we still do not suggest using them as your sole or primary source for local regulations. We also do not recommend you rely on the third-party sources we link to or reference, and we are not responsible for any of the information on these third-party sites. These guides are for entertainment purposes only and only provide basic information and should not be considered as legal advice.

We highly recommend directly contacting the responsible parties for each and hearing what their officials have to say. Ultimately, it's your responsibility as an investor to ensure you fully comply with the local laws, and it's best to speak with professionals before making an investment decision.