Short‑Term Rentals In Laurel: Licensing And Limits

Thinking about turning your Laurel property into a short‑term rental? The rules are different depending on whether your address sits inside the City of Laurel or in unincorporated Prince George’s County. It can feel confusing at first. This guide breaks down who licenses you, what you need to apply, day and guest limits, tax obligations, and a simple checklist to stay compliant. Let’s dive in.

City vs. County: Who licenses you

If your address is inside the City of Laurel, you follow the City’s residential rental licensing program. If your address is outside the city boundary in unincorporated Prince George’s County, you must use the County’s Short‑Term Rental program.

• To verify jurisdiction, use county mapping tools and permitting guidance, or call to confirm your address. Start with the County’s permitting information page for boundary checks and PGAtlas resources. Prince George’s County permitting process overview
• City of Laurel rental licensing details are posted here: City of Laurel Residential Rental Licenses
• Prince George’s County STR rules and application live here: County Short‑Term Rental Licensing (DPIE)

If you are inside the City of Laurel

The City runs a residential rental license and inspection program that covers single‑family homes, townhomes, condos, duplexes, and apartments.

• Annual fee is listed as $40 per unit. Inspections are required and typically recur on a multi‑year cycle for properties with fewer than 12 units.
• You submit a City application, complete an initial inspection, correct any violations, and renew on schedule. See current rules and timelines at the City link above. City of Laurel Residential Rental Licenses
• Private covenants still apply. If an HOA or condo prohibits short‑term rentals, you cannot operate even with a City license.

If you are in unincorporated Prince George’s County

The County’s Department of Permitting, Inspections and Enforcement (DPIE) licenses short‑term rentals through its Momentum portal. A temporary license may be issued while your application is reviewed.

What to gather before you apply:

• Proof the home is your primary residence when required (Homestead Property Tax Credit documentation).
• Photos of life‑safety equipment: smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors if applicable, and a mounted, charged 2A:10BC fire extinguisher on the path to an exit.
• A posted floor plan that shows escape routes (photo of the posting).
• Liability insurance. County materials reference a $1,000,000 minimum policy.
• Neighbor and HOA notifications, list of platforms you will use, and required attestations (ownership, no outstanding taxes or liens, compliance with codes). Some applicants must complete human‑trafficking awareness training.
• Application fee paid through the portal. The County refers to its fee schedule for current amounts, and public reporting has cited a $150 annual owner fee during program rollout. Confirm the current fee when you apply.

Start here for the official checklist and portal access: County Short‑Term Rental Licensing (DPIE)

Operating limits and guest rules

County materials and platform guidance indicate annual hosting caps based on owner occupancy. Platform help pages state owner‑occupied homes may host up to 180 days per calendar year, and non‑owner‑occupied homes up to 90 days. Always verify the current text in County rules before you list. Platform summary of local STR limits

News coverage of the County’s ordinance also described guest occupancy expressed per bedroom with a total cap and restrictions on extremely short stays. Check the latest County page for exact numbers and definitions. Ordinance reporting and background | County STR Licensing page

Taxes: state and local

Short‑term stays are subject to Maryland’s 6 percent sales and use tax. You should register for a state sales and use tax account and follow the Comptroller’s filing schedule. Comptroller of Maryland sales and use tax

Prince George’s County also imposes a local hotel or occupancy tax. Rates and collection practices can change. Some platforms collect and remit certain taxes, yet you remain responsible for correct registration and filing. Confirm the current County occupancy tax rate and filing method with the County Treasurer or DPIE.

HOA, condo, and lease restrictions

Your HOA, condo bylaws, or lease may prohibit short‑term rentals regardless of City or County licensing. The County application requires you to notify and comply with your association if applicable. When in doubt, review governing documents and seek written confirmation. County STR Licensing page

Step‑by‑step compliance checklist

Step 0 — Confirm your jurisdiction

• Check whether your address sits inside the City of Laurel or in unincorporated Prince George’s County using the County’s permitting resources or by contacting the City or DPIE. Permitting process overview

If you are inside the City of Laurel

• Complete the City rental license application and pay the fee. Schedule the initial inspection.
• Correct any violations and keep your property in compliance with life‑safety and maintenance standards.
• Renew on the City’s schedule and maintain records. City of Laurel licensing

If you are in Prince George’s County (DPIE program)

• Gather documents: homestead proof (if applicable), insurance certificate, safety photos, floor plan posting, neighbor and HOA notices, and attestations.
• Register for Maryland sales and use tax and verify local occupancy tax steps. Comptroller guidance
• Apply online via the County’s Momentum portal and pay the application fee. A temporary license may be issued during review. County STR Licensing
• Post required materials inside the unit. Include your license or registration number in all online listings as required.
• Keep records current and file taxes on schedule. Update DPIE if your contact info or insurance changes.

Enforcement and penalties

Prince George’s County DPIE enforces the STR program. Operating without a license or violating program rules can result in citations, fines, license denial or revocation, and potential exclusion from the program. To report a suspected unlicensed STR, contact PGC311 by dialing 3‑1‑1 inside the County or 301‑883‑4748 from outside. The City of Laurel enforces its own rental licensing and inspections program within city limits. For current enforcement details and appeals, review the County STR page. County STR Licensing

Plan your move with local guidance

Short‑term rental rules can shape your buy or sell decision, from financing and HOA selection to long‑term value and income plans. If you are weighing a purchase or sale that includes potential STR use in Laurel or nearby markets, let’s talk about the best path for your goals. Connect with Lauren H. Thompson for thoughtful, client‑first guidance backed by deep regional experience.

FAQs

How do I confirm if my Laurel address is in the City or the County?

• Use the County’s permitting resources for boundary checks and PGAtlas, or call the City of Laurel or DPIE to confirm your address. Start here: Permitting process overview

What is the City of Laurel rental license fee and inspection schedule?

• The City lists an annual fee of $40 per unit with inspections on a multi‑year cycle for smaller properties. See details: City of Laurel Residential Rental Licenses

How many days can I host in Prince George’s County?

• Platform and County materials indicate owner‑occupied homes may host up to 180 days per year and non‑owner‑occupied homes up to 90 days. Verify current limits with the County. Platform summary | County STR page

What taxes apply to short‑term rentals in Laurel?

• Maryland’s 6 percent sales and use tax applies, and Prince George’s County also levies a local occupancy tax. Register with the Comptroller and confirm local filing with the County. Comptroller guidance

Do HOAs and condos in Laurel allow short‑term rentals?

• Many associations restrict or prohibit STRs. Licensing does not override private covenants. Review your governing documents and get written confirmation. County STR Licensing

How are guest counts and very short stays handled in the County?

• News coverage of the County ordinance describes per‑bedroom and total guest caps, plus limits on extremely short stays. Check the latest County page for exact rules. Background reporting | County STR Licensing