Columbia, Maryland
Short-Term Rental Regulations — Howard County
Allowed (Permit Required)
STR Status
Permit: RequiredFee: $50Owner Occupancy Required
$50License Cost
Permit & Licensing
Permit RequiredYes
License Cost$50
Business License RequiredNot specified
WaitlistNot specified
Owner Requirements
Owner Occupancy RequiredYes
Primary Residence RequiredNot specified
Insurance RequiredNot specified
Limits & Restrictions
Parking RequiredYes
Taxes & Fees
Transient Occupancy Tax / TOTContact city for rates
Zoning Restrictions
- residential district mean
- residential districts
Official Sources
Data confidence: 52%Last updated: May 12, 2026
Short-term rental rules in Columbia, Maryland
Short-term rentals (Airbnb, Vrbo) in Columbia, Maryland are allowed with a permit. Operators must obtain a permit (fee: $50). The property must be owner-occupied.
Frequently asked questions
Are short-term rentals allowed in Columbia, Maryland?
Short-term rentals (including Airbnb and Vrbo) are allowed with a permit in Columbia, Maryland. The property must be owner-occupied.
Do I need a permit to run an Airbnb in Columbia?
A short-term rental permit is required, the fee is $50.
Always verify before you buy. Short-term-rental rules change often and may not be fully current here. Confirm directly with Columbia, Howard County, or Maryland authorities — and consult a qualified attorney — before purchasing property or operating an STR. This is not legal advice.