ORDINANCE 2025-04 SHORT-TERM RENTAL

LENGTH OF STAY/PETITION PROCESS FAQ's

Division of Rental Housing Or
Rental License Information

Ordinance 2025-04 helps protect our neighborhoods while allowing responsible short-term rentals.
Learn more about the ordinance.

PETITION PROCESS FAQ’s

A: Yes, properties in R-1 (single-family) and MH (mobile home) neighborhoods have a 5 day minimum length of stay.

A: The Council can decide to hold a special election or wait until the next regularly scheduled election.

A: The ordinance will remain in effect unit an election is held. If the petition is valid and if the Council does not or can not hold an election within 60 days of the date that the petition was submitted to the clerk (April 21, 2025) , then the Town cannot enforce the ordinance beginning on the 61st day (June 21, 2025) until an election is held.

LENGTH OF STAY FAQ’s

A: The ordinance ONLY applies to R-1 and MH single-family districts. These neighborhoods make up less than 4% of Ocean City’s rentals. The ordinance does NOT affect condos, townhomes, hotels, or any building outside the R-1 or MH Zones.

A: The ordinance regulates short-term rentals in Ocean City to preserve the character and homeowner expectations of residential neighborhoods. This protects quality of life and the original intent of zoning laws.

A: There are over 9,000 short-term rental licenses that remain outside of these areas. 11,000 hotel rooms and 20,000+ condos/townhouses/homes remain unrestricted including the entire ocean block.

A: This ordinance aims to protect the residents who purchased homes expecting long-term residential character. It addresses concerns about noise, parking, and property upkeep while preserving the residential character of R-1 (single-family) and MH (mobile home) neighborhoods.

A: The ordinance safeguards homeowners by:

  • Limiting commercial rental activity in R-1 and MH zones to protect residential integrity.
  • Requiring proper licensing and adherence to safety regulations.
  • Mitigating disruptions caused by excessive noise, overcrowding, and inadequate property maintenance.

Visit our online zone map to search your address to find out what zone you are located in.