Baltimore, MD Local Law
Your complete guide to renter protections in Baltimore, MD. Learn about local ordinances, rent control status, security deposit rules, and how city law works alongside Maryland state protections.
No
Rent Control
45
Days to Return Deposit
1 month's rent
Max Deposit
3
Local Protections
Max Deposit shows the short version — read the full rule below.
Current rent regulation status
No Local Rent Control
Baltimore does not have local rent control. Maryland state law governs rent increase practices.
Without local rent control, landlords in Baltimore may raise rent with proper written notice as required by Maryland law. There is no cap on the amount of increase, but it must not be retaliatory or discriminatory.
Baltimore-specific laws and ordinances
Baltimore Rental Registration and Inspection Program
Right to Counsel for tenants facing eviction
Maryland security deposit interest requirement (at least 1.5% a year)
Local ordinances work alongside Maryland state law. Where local protections are stronger, the local rule typically applies. View full Maryland state protections.
Laws that apply to all Maryland renters
Max Security Deposit
1 month's rent (reduced from 2 months by HB 693, eff. 2024-10-01)
Deposit Return Deadline
45 daysdifferent timing if the tenant was evicted or abandoned the unit
Entry Notice Required
24 hoursnot a fixed minimum: you may agree in writing to less than 24 hours
Governing Statute
Maryland Code
Something else? Contact our team
No, Baltimore does not currently have local rent control. Maryland state law governs rent increase rules. Landlords must typically provide proper written notice before raising rent.
In Baltimore, the Maryland state limit of 1 month's rent (reduced from 2 months by HB 693, eff. 2024-10-01) applies. Landlords must return deposits within 45 days after you move out.
Baltimore tenants benefit from several protections: Baltimore Rental Registration and Inspection Program; Right to Counsel for tenants facing eviction; Maryland security deposit interest requirement (at least 1.5% a year). These are in addition to Maryland state law.
You can contact the Baltimore local housing authority or code enforcement department to file complaints about habitability issues, discrimination, or landlord violations. Visit your local housing authority's website for details. You can also file with the Maryland attorney general's office for state-level violations.
Upload it now and see your first red flags in the free preview.
Check my lease free