What fire safety rules apply to Maryland short-term rentals?
Quick answer
Since October 1, 2026, a Maryland host of a unit rented for less than 30 consecutive days must post an evacuation diagram showing all exits, post emergency numbers for police and fire rescue, provide a working fire extinguisher, and provide working smoke and carbon monoxide alarms (Md. Code, Public Safety 9-1103). Booking platforms must ask for each unit's compliance documentation, and counties must require annual inspections by July 1, 2028.
Key facts and official sources
| Item | What the law says | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Law | Md. Code, Public Safety 9-1101 to 9-1106 (2026 Md. Laws chs. 9 and 10, HB 1221 / SB 624) | Official source |
| Effective | October 1, 2026 | Official source |
| Who | Short-term rental units offered for less than 30 consecutive days | Official source |
| Host duties | Post evacuation diagram and emergency numbers; working fire extinguisher; working smoke and CO alarms | Official source |
| Booking platforms | Must notify hosts of the rules and require each host's compliance documentation for each unit | Official source |
| Inspections | By July 1, 2028 each county and Baltimore City must require annual inspections; counties may charge a fee | Official source |
| Fine | The subtitle itself sets no fixed dollar fine; counties may add their own short-term rental rules | Official source |
| Last verified | October 17, 2026 | Astor Ventures |
Want it done in an afternoon? The Maryland short-term rental fire safety kit turns these rules into fill-in templates, a checklist and a tracker, with the official sources quoted. One-time payment, instant download.
FAQ
Does the Maryland law apply to rentals of 30 days or more?
No. Public Safety 9-1102 says the subtitle applies only to a unit offered for short-term rental for less than 30 consecutive days.
What is the fine for not following the Maryland short-term rental fire safety law?
The subtitle (9-1101 to 9-1106) does not set a dollar fine. Practical consequences come from booking platforms, which must require compliance documentation, and from county inspections and county rules.
Do I need an inspection now?
Counties and Baltimore City must require annual inspections by July 1, 2028. Some counties already have their own short-term rental rules, so check your county.
Is this legal advice?
No. General information only.
Related guides
← Maryland short-term rental fire safety kit · All guides · All kits