Can I Build Tiny Home in Baltimore, MD? (2026)
Find out if you can build a tiny home in Baltimore, MD. Rules, permit requirements, costs, and next steps.
Tiny homes on permanent foundations are allowed in Baltimore, MD. Tiny homes on wheels are not permitted as permanent dwellings.
A tiny home is a small dwelling unit — typically under 400 sq ft — that can be built on a permanent foundation or on wheels. In Baltimore, MD, the rules differ significantly depending on whether the structure is on a permanent foundation (treated as a dwelling unit under building code) or on wheels (treated as a recreational vehicle under vehicle code). Tiny homes on permanent foundations must meet a minimum size of 150 sq ft in Baltimore.
Tiny Home Rules in Baltimore
Tiny Home Rules in Baltimore: Foundation-based tiny homes: Permitted. Tiny homes on wheels (THOWs): Not permitted as permanent dwelling — classified as recreational vehicle. Minimum size: 150 sq ft. Tiny homes on permanent foundations allowed under Maryland Building Code standards. Baltimore's vacant lot problem has prompted interest in tiny home infill projects, but minimum lot and zone standards apply. DHCD has piloted micro-housing programs in some neighborhoods. Tiny homes on wheels not permitted as permanent residences.
Costs & Fees
Building permit fees for tiny homes in Baltimore follow the same schedule as other new construction. Contact the Baltimore City Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) — Permits and Inspections at (410) 396-3360 for current fee information.
Next Steps
Next steps for building a tiny home in Baltimore: 1. Determine foundation vs. wheeled — the rules are fundamentally different. 2. For foundation tiny homes, obtain a building permit from the Baltimore City Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) — Permits and Inspections. 3. For wheeled tiny homes, verify whether your property allows RV siting. 4. Check if your tiny home could qualify as an ADU on your property.
Baltimore City Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) — Permits and Inspections
Phone: (410) 396-3360
Website: https://www.baltimorecity.gov/zoning
Online Permits: https://bldgpermits.baltimorecity.gov
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Baltimore City the same as Baltimore County?
No — they are completely separate jurisdictions. Baltimore City is an independent city and not part of Baltimore County. Baltimore County is a separate county government that surrounds the city. If your property is in Baltimore City, it is governed by Baltimore City agencies, codes, and regulations. Baltimore County properties use Baltimore County's separate permitting, zoning, and planning departments. This is a common source of confusion for newcomers to Maryland.
Can I build an ADU or convert my carriage house in Baltimore City?
Yes — Baltimore City allows accessory dwelling units. Many Baltimore properties have rear carriage houses (built in the 19th-early 20th century) that are excellent candidates for ADU conversion. You'll need a building permit from DHCD. No owner-occupancy requirement, no parking required, and no significant impact fees. Baltimore DHCD has programs that may provide financial assistance for eligible ADU projects as part of the city's housing strategy.
What are Baltimore's rules for short-term rentals?
Baltimore requires a Short-Term Residential Rental License ($200/year). An inspection is required before the license is issued. Maximum occupancy is 2 persons per bedroom and you need 24/7 emergency contact availability. Maryland state sales tax plus Baltimore City hotel rental tax apply — STR platforms collect and remit these taxes. Baltimore has a robust STR market given its proximity to DC, the Inner Harbor, and major universities.
My Baltimore home was built before 1978 — what should I know about lead paint?
Baltimore has significant lead paint issues in its older housing stock. Maryland's Lead Poisoning Prevention Program has specific requirements for pre-1978 rental properties. If you're doing renovation, you must follow EPA's Renovation, Repair, and Painting (RRP) Rule for lead-safe work practices. Rental properties must be registered with the Maryland Department of the Environment and pass periodic lead inspections. Baltimore City has additional lead abatement requirements and resources through DHCD.
How does Baltimore's CHAP historic preservation review work?
Baltimore's Commission for Historical and Architectural Preservation (CHAP) reviews exterior changes to contributing structures in 22+ locally designated historic districts and portions of National Register Historic Districts. If your property is in a CHAP district, you must obtain a Certificate of Approval (CoA) before making exterior changes — including window replacement, door changes, siding, and additions. Interior changes don't require CHAP review. CHAP meetings are held monthly and most straightforward applications are approved administratively.
Are there programs to help renovate vacant Baltimore rowhouses?
Yes — Baltimore DHCD operates several programs targeting vacant properties including the Baltimore Housing Rehab Program, Vacants to Value (V2V) initiative, and Homeownership Incentive Program. Baltimore City Land Bank manages a portfolio of city-owned vacant properties for sale to developers and owner-occupants. These programs prioritize neighborhoods experiencing revitalization like Remington, Oliver, Greektown, and Cherry Hill. Contact DHCD at dhcd.baltimorecity.gov for current program availability.
Source: Baltimore City Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) — Permits and Inspections — Building Regulations. Last verified April 6, 2026. View source