What’s Going On in Reisterstown?

Homeowner renting out their pool via the short‑term rental service Swimply (similar to Airbnb)
Neighbors report disturbances nearly every week since June — music so loud, crowds spilling into common areas, parking chaos, trash, visible alcohol, and even the smell of marijuana
One party escalated into a fight, heightening safety concerns

Seven calls for police service have been logged—ranging from noise and party complaints to a theft—but no citations or arrests have been made
A “notice of correction” was issued on July 22, 2025, citing illegal home occupation
Under a 2024 short-term rentals licensing law, homeowners must comply with guest limits, parking rules, and must not advertise residential spaces as event venues. Violations can trigger daily civil penalties of $1,000 or license revocation.

In nearby Howard County, a new law bans for‑profit parties in private homes. Offenders face a $2,500 fine for the first offense and $5,000 for repeat violations.

Tension between personal rights and community peace: The homeowner asserts their right to rent out the pool, while neighbors emphasize their right to quiet and safety.
Regulations exist, but enforcement remains limited—warning was issued, but no charges have followed despite repeated incidents.
Neighboring jurisdictions are taking tougher stances—Howard County’s new fines signal one possible direction for stronger enforcement.