Baltimore vs Denver

Maryland Legal but Limited | Colorado Legal with Permit

Disclaimer: General information only — not legal advice. Verify with your local government.

Baltimore, Maryland
Status Legal but Limited
Permit Fee $200 biennial license fee per dwelling unit
Tax Rate 9.5% Baltimore Hotel Tax + 6% state lodging tax
Day Limit No limit
Renewal Biennial
Platform Tax Yes
Max Fine $500/violation for unlicensed operation; up to $1,000 for state registration violations
Denver, Colorado
Status Legal with Permit
Permit Fee $100 license fee
Tax Rate 10.75% Lodger's Tax (combined city/county/state)
Day Limit No limit
Renewal Every 2 years
Platform Tax Yes
Max Fine $999/day for unlicensed operation

Denver has more favorable STR regulations overall.

Baltimore Overview

Primary residence required; max two licenses per host. Stays must be under 90 consecutive nights. Must pass home inspection.

Full Baltimore guide →

Denver Overview

Only primary residences may be used as STRs. Hosts must obtain a Short-Term Rental license. No cap on rental days. Accessory dwelling units on the same lot are also eligible.

Full Denver guide →

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it easier to Airbnb in Baltimore or Denver?
Baltimore is classified as "Legal but Limited" while Denver is "Legal with Permit." Baltimore's permit fee is $200 biennial license fee per dwelling unit compared to $100 license fee in Denver.
Which city has higher STR taxes — Baltimore or Denver?
Baltimore charges 9.5% Baltimore Hotel Tax + 6% state lodging tax, while Denver charges 10.75% Lodger's Tax (combined city/county/state). Compare the full breakdown in the table above.
Which city has stricter fines for illegal short-term rentals?
Baltimore: $500/violation for unlicensed operation; up to $1,000 for state registration violations. Denver: $999/day for unlicensed operation.