Ocean City Voters Reject Short-Term Rental Ordinance

Ocean City, Maryland voters narrowly rejected a proposed ordinance that would have imposed minimum stay requirements for short-term rentals in single-family and mobile home neighborhoods, with 834 votes against and 800 in favor. The ordinance would have required a minimum five-night stay beginning in 2025, increasing to a 31-night minimum by 2027, and would have impacted over 4,000 homes. Proponents argued the rule would preserve community character and address noise and overcrowding, while opponents, including the Ocean City Maryland Property Rights group, contended it would harm property rights and the local tourism economy. The referendum was initiated by a petition led by this group. The close vote highlights ongoing community divisions over balancing neighborhood quality of life with economic interests. Following the election, the City Council is expected to revisit the issue to seek alternative solutions regarding short-term rentals.