Baltimore County, MD Accessory Structures: Shed & Carport Rules (2026)
Shed permit rules in Baltimore County, MD, also referred to as storage shed, backyard shed, or accessory building regulations, set size limits, setbacks, and when a building permit is required.
Key Facts
- Permit threshold
- Over 120 sq ft
- Height limit
- 15 feet
- Side/rear setback
- 2.5 feet minimum
- Under 5 ft to line
- One-hour fire wall required
- Max yard coverage
- 40 percent of yard
Summary
A Baltimore County building permit is required for any shed, gazebo, or accessory structure larger than 120 square feet. The structure must sit in the rear yard, be set back at least 2.5 feet from side and rear lot lines, and cannot exceed 15 feet in height.
A building permit is required for accessory structures greater than 120 square feet... Must be located in the rear yard behind the rear foundation wall line, unless a zoning variance is obtained... Must be located 2.5 feet from the side and rear property lines... There is a height limitation of 15 feet.
Full Breakdown
Baltimore County Permits, Approvals and Inspections requires a building permit for accessory structures greater than 120 square feet, and for any structure regardless of size in a Historic District, floodplain, Chesapeake Bay Critical Area, or on the Landmarks List. The structure must be located in the rear yard behind the rear foundation wall line unless a zoning variance is obtained, may occupy no more than 40 percent of the yard, and must be at least 2.5 feet from the side and rear property lines. Any side closer than five feet requires a one-hour fire-rated wall with no openings. Structures over 400 square feet need frost-line footings.
Violations & Fines
Building without a required permit or violating setback, height, or 40-percent coverage limits is a zoning/building code violation subject to correction orders and fines by PAI.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a permit for a small shed?
How close to my fence can a shed go?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Baltimore County
How Baltimore County compares: Shed Permit Requirements by City·Compare Baltimore County to another location·View the Maryland accessory structures overview
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