Annapolis OKs 1-Year Moratorium On Short-Term Rentals

ANNAPOLIS, MD — The Annapolis City Council on Monday approved a one-year ban on new short-term rental licenses for any units that are not occupied by their owners.

The yearlong ban, which does not apply to renewals of existing licenses or active licenses, is now in effect. The initiative was passed by lawmakers in an 8 to 1 vote.

A report will be drawn up during the moratorium's midway point to analyze any discoveries.

Both Annapolis Mayor Jared Littmann and Ward 2 Alderman Karma O'Neill pushed the measure ahead before lawmakers.

The two lawmakers previously proposed a temporary pause in December to determine how many short-term rentals were operating without a license and if they qualified under licensing requirements.

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At that time, officials had noted that just half of short-term rentals were officially licensed, WBAL reported.

Ward 7 Alderman Rob Savidge was the only member to vote against the moratorium on Monday. He previously referred to the licensing move as a "very drastic measure."

The passage also comes months after the City Council passed an ordinance in October barring new short-term rental licenses on a blockface when 10% of its units are short-term rentals.