ADU (Accessory Dwelling Unit) Permit in Baltimore (2026)
ADU (Accessory Dwelling Unit) permit requirements, fees, and process for Baltimore, MD. Find out if you need a permit and how to apply.
Yes, a ADU (Accessory Dwelling Unit) permit is required in Baltimore, MD.
A ADU (Accessory Dwelling Unit) permit is required in Baltimore, MD. The Baltimore City Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) — Permits and Inspections handles permit applications for Baltimore. Below you will find the current thresholds, fees, and process for obtaining a adu (accessory dwelling unit) permit in Baltimore.
When Is a Permit Required?
When a ADU (Accessory Dwelling Unit) Permit Is Required in Baltimore: All accessory dwelling unit construction
Permit Fees
ADU (Accessory Dwelling Unit) Permit Fees in Baltimore: $1,500–$5,000. Estimated timeline: 6-12 weeks.
Estimated timeline: 6-12 weeks
How to Get a ADU (Accessory Dwelling Unit) Permit in Baltimore
Verify whether your project meets the permit threshold in Baltimore: All accessory dwelling unit construction.
Prepare your permit application and plans. Contact the Baltimore City Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) — Permits and Inspections at https://www.baltimorecity.gov/zoning for required documentation.
Submit your application online at https://bldgpermits.baltimorecity.gov or in person at the Baltimore City Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) — Permits and Inspections.
Pay the permit fee: $1,500–$5,000.
Wait for plan check approval. Estimated timeline: 6-12 weeks.
Schedule required inspections through https://bldgpermits.baltimorecity.gov. All inspections must pass before project is finalized.
Important: Baltimore DHCD permit required. Many ADU projects in Baltimore involve converting rear carriage houses or building above garages.
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
Hours: Mon-Fri 8:30am-4:30pm
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 Building Code — ADU (Accessory Dwelling Unit) Requirements. Last verified April 6, 2026. View source