Baltimore Zoning & Permits
Zoning rules, permit requirements, and building codes for Baltimore, MD. Source-cited from official municipal code.
Quick Facts
Population
585,708
Total Zone Types
28
Planning Department
Baltimore City Department of Planning
Zoning Map
Interactive online map
County
Baltimore City (independent city)
Metro Area
Baltimore-Columbia-Towson
Baltimore Zoning System
The Baltimore zoning system includes 28 total zone classifications: 10 residential zones (R-1, R-2, R-3, R-4, R-5, and others) and 6 commercial zones (C-1, C-1-A, C-1-E, C-2, and others), as well as 3 mixed-use zones (OR-1, OR-2, OR-3) and 3 industrial zones (M-1, M-2, M-3). Baltimore's zoning is governed by the Baltimore City Zoning Code, administered by the Baltimore City Department of Planning. Baltimore is an independent city in Maryland — it is not part of Baltimore County, which is an entirely separate jurisdiction surrounding the city. Baltimore adopted a comprehensive zoning code rewrite in 2017 (Zoning Code Update). Baltimore's housing market reflects its industrial heritage, major population decline from 1950s peak (950,000) to current 585,000, significant vacant housing stock, and active revitalization in inner neighborhoods (Federal Hill, Fells Point, Canton, Hampden). Maryland has no statewide ADU preemption, so Baltimore sets its own ADU rules. The city maintains an interactive zoning map for property lookup.
View Baltimore Zoning Map (interactive online map)
Building & Planning Departments
The Baltimore Building Department (Baltimore City Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) — Permits and Inspections) handles all building permit applications, inspections, and code enforcement. You can reach them by phone at (410) 396-3360 or apply online through their permit portal. Office hours: Mon-Fri 8:30am-4:30pm. For zoning questions and land use determinations, contact the Baltimore City Department of Planning at (410) 396-7526. Zoning information is available online. Always verify current requirements directly with the department before beginning any project, as regulations and fees may have changed since this data was last verified.
Building Department
Baltimore City Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) — Permits and Inspections
(410) 396-3360
Visit WebsiteFrequently 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 Zoning Code (2017 Rewrite); DHCD Housing Programs. Last verified April 6, 2026. View source