Prince George's County Adopts Permanent Rent Stabilization Protections

Prince George's County has enacted a comprehensive rent stabilization framework that creates new protections for many rental units across the county. The Permanent Rent Stabilization and Protection Act establishes limits on excessive rent increases and lays out procedures for landlords to seek a fair return and for capital improvement adjustments, while also specifying exemptions for certain property types including senior housing and other specified categories.

County materials available on the implementation pages explain draft regulations and provide procedural guidance for both landlords and tenants. The pages include information on the Fair Return standard that property owners may use to request rent adjustments, the rules governing capital improvement pass throughs, and the exemptions that apply to certain buildings and uses. The implementation portal also lists links for landlords, a public comment portal where residents can submit feedback on draft rules, and an FAQ section addressing common questions about how the ordinance affects rent increases and appeals. Residents and property owners can access these resources at https://www.princegeorgescountymd.gov/departments-offices/housing-community-development/permanent-rent-stabilization-and-protection-act-2024

The ordinance alters the local housing landscape by introducing formal mechanisms for balancing tenant protections with property owners' claims for adequate returns. For renters, the law offers new protections from sudden or excessive rent hikes and clarifies the process for challenging increases. For landlords, the law provides defined pathways to apply for adjustments based on operating costs and capital investments, subject to the county standards and review procedures.

Local officials characterize the act as a major step in addressing housing affordability within the county while ensuring legal avenues exist for owners to maintain viable properties. As implementation continues, community members should review the draft regulations and FAQs, participate in public comment opportunities, and consult the county implementation materials for timelines and procedural steps on appeals and exemptions.