What must a Maryland short-term rental host post inside the unit?
Quick answer
Two things, since October 1, 2026: an evacuation diagram showing every exit from the unit (and from the building, if it is in one) and a list of emergency phone numbers for police and fire rescue, both posted conspicuously (Public Safety 9-1103(a)). The host must also provide a working fire extinguisher and working smoke and carbon monoxide alarms.
What does the law say? Key facts and official sources
| Item | What the law says | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Effective | October 1, 2026 (HB 1221, Chapter 9 of 2026; cross-filed SB 624) | MGA bill page HB 1221 |
| Who | Hosts of a unit offered for short-term rental for less than 30 consecutive days (9-1102) | Public Safety 9-1102 |
| Evacuation diagram | Conspicuously post an evacuation diagram identifying all exits from the unit and, if applicable, from the building (9-1103(a)(1)) | Public Safety 9-1103 |
| Emergency numbers | Conspicuously post a list of emergency telephone numbers for law enforcement and fire rescue services (9-1103(a)(2)) | Public Safety 9-1103 |
| Equipment | A working fire extinguisher, and working smoke alarms and carbon monoxide alarms (9-1103(a)(3), (4)) | Public Safety 9-1103 |
| Inspections | By July 1, 2028, each county and Baltimore City must require annual inspections for compliance with 9-1103 (9-1105(b)) | Public Safety 9-1105 |
| Penalty | The subtitle (9-1101 to 9-1106) has no penalty section and states no dollar fine | Public Safety 9-1106 |
| Last verified | October 30, 2026 | Astor Ventures |
Does the law set a format for the diagram?
No. The text only requires the diagram to be posted conspicuously and to identify all exits from the unit and, if applicable, from the building (9-1103(a)(1)). It sets no size, template or language.
Which phone numbers go on the list?
Emergency telephone numbers for law enforcement and fire rescue services (9-1103(a)(2)). The law does not list other numbers you must add.
Will an inspector check the postings?
Counties and Baltimore City must require annual inspections of short-term rental units for compliance with 9-1103 by July 1, 2028, unless the county prohibits short-term rentals (9-1105(a), (b)).
Want it done in an afternoon? The Maryland short-term rental fire safety kit gives you an evacuation diagram shell, an emergency numbers sign and an alarm and extinguisher log with 10-year replacement flags, with the official text quoted. One-time payment of $39, instant download.
What else do people ask?
When did this start?
October 1, 2026.
Is there a fine?
The subtitle states no dollar fine; county rules may add measures (9-1106).
Do booking sites ask about this?
Yes. Booking services must notify hosts of these rules and require each host's compliance documentation (9-1104).
Is this legal advice?
No. General information only.
Related guides
← Maryland short-term rental fire safety kit · All guides · All kits