Hampstead introduces higher rental-license fee, proposes prorating and stiffer late penalties

HAMPSTEAD, Md. — The Hampstead Town Council on May 20 introduced a resolution to increase fees for rental housing licenses and to change how the town prorates and enforces those licenses.

The introduced measure would raise the two‑year rental housing license fee from $75 to $100. Town staff described a proposed prorating schedule in six‑month increments so a newly rented property would pay a reduced fee if licensed partway through the two‑year term; staff described the incremental drops as moving from $100 down in stages to $75, then $50 and $25 as the license term elapses.

Town staff also explained the proposed late‑payment penalties: if a license application is more than 30 days past the due date the fee amount doubles to $200; continued noncompliance can be pursued under the town code with municipal citation fines of $100 per day. During the discussion there was a brief clarification about whether the daily fines begin on day 30 or day 60; staff confirmed the code provision and said they would apply the town—s enforcement timeline accordingly.

Council members were told staff will cross‑reference assessment records and property addresses to identify rentals missing licenses and update the town—s list. Christina Swisher was named during the meeting as the staff member who will review assessments and property records to ensure the town has a complete inventory of rental housing.

The resolution (2025‑03) was introduced and moved for consideration; introduction is an initial step and not final adoption. Council members who supported the introduction said the change is intended to improve timely compliance and better align fees with the town—s costs for inspection and follow‑up.

Town staff said they will return with final language and enforcement dates when the resolution is advanced for final adoption at a subsequent meeting.