Rental Housing Program

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Rental Housing Program 

A City of Bowie Rental License is required for all types of rental situations even when the property owner or family member resides at the property. RentaRentls include:

  • Short-Term like Airbnb™, VRBO®, Home Away®, etc.
  • Basement, Partial home or In-law suite
  • Group Homes, Assisted living or Congregate living in a single-family home
  • Single-Family homes, townhouses and condos
  • Apartments

Inspections are a condition of every license. 

Download the Rental License Application

Inspections have gone virtual! View virtual inspection procedures.

Rental License Fees 

Annual rental license fees are as follows: 

  • $110 for all rental types except apartments in established complexes
  • $60 for a multifamily-apartment units in established complexes
  • Application fee - $50 (This fee is waived on renewals if the application is submitted before the license expires.)

Issuing a Rental License 

Upon receipt of a Rental License Application and the associated  fees above, a "Temporary Certificate" will be issued and an inspection date scheduled. If the property complies with the Bowie City Code, the rental license will be issued. 

Properties with violations will be allowed 60 days to make repairs and pass a second inspection. A rental license will not be issued to a non-conforming property.

Property owners and tenants are provided with a report of any violations noted and the owner is afforded an opportunity to make corrections. A re-inspection will be conducted to confirm compliance. A $50 fee may be charged for additional inspections. Failure to comply with the City Code may result in the issuance of civil fines, revocation of the rental license and court ordered abatement and injunctions. 

Inspections House Inspection Graphic Opens in new window

Rental inspections are conducted yearly to ensure compliance with the Bowie City Code. Inspections are scheduled Monday thru Friday, between 9:30 a.m. and 7 p.m. and take approximately 30 minutes to complete. View our Virtual Inspection process.

This video provides an idea of what to expect during your inspection.