Rental Housing License Details

Obtaining the License

Ready to get your license? - Steps, Requirements, and Documents

1. The application shall include:

   - A description of the dwelling unit by unit number (if appropriate), house number, street name, zip code, and the name of the complex if the dwelling unit is located in a named complex; AND

2. The name and address of:

   - The owner of record and the managing operator;

   - If the owner is a corporation, the name and address of the resident agent; and

   - The homeowners association or common ownership community, if applicable; AND

3. The name and business address of an adult individual who:

   - Is a resident of Maryland;

   - Is customarily present is a business office in Maryland; and

   - Who shall be designated by the owner as the owner's authorized agent for receiving notices, court process, and other papers on behalf of the owner; however, an owner who is a natural person, resident of Maryland, and who is customarily present in a business office in Maryland may designate themselves as the authorized agent; AND

4. - The type of dwelling unit;

   - The number of units and stories;

   - Date and type of construction;

   - Type of smoke detectors;

   - Type of heating system;

   - Type of water heating;

   - Source of water;

   - Type of sewage disposal; and

   - Certification from the homeowner that the homeowner association or common ownership community fees for that dwelling unit are not more than 30 days past due.

5. After submitting an application the Director (director of Howard County Department of Inspections, Licenses and Permits or the Director's Authorized Designee) shall inspect the dwelling. The Director shall issue a license if the dwelling unit meets the requirements of the Howard County Property Maintenance Code for Rental Housing.