Accessory Structures in Annapolis, MD

Every city handles accessory structures a little differently. In Annapolis, Maryland, there are 4 distinct rules that residents and property owners should be aware of. Some are stricter than what neighboring cities enforce, and others are more relaxed. Here is what you need to know.

ADU Rental Restrictions

Annapolis requires a rental license under Chapter 17.44 for any accessory dwelling unit, and the ADU and principal structure must stay in common ownership with the owner living in one of the two units.

Key details: Max ADUs per lot: one. Rental license required: under Chapter 17.44. Owner-occupancy: owner must live in ADU or main house. Max size (new build): 850 sq ft livable space.

Renting an unlicensed ADU, or renting one where the owner doesn't live on the property, violates § 21.64.010(F)-(G) and Chapter 17.44's licensing rules, exposing the owner to enforcement and license denial.

This is one of the stricter rules in Annapolis's municipal code. If you are unsure whether your situation complies, it is worth checking with the city before proceeding.

ADU Rules

Annapolis allows one accessory dwelling unit per lot, caps standalone ADUs at 850 square feet, requires a Chapter 17.44 rental license, and requires the owner to live in the ADU or the main house.

Key details: Units per lot: One accessory dwelling unit maximum. Size cap: 850 sq ft outside existing footprint. Owner-occupancy: Owner must live in ADU or house. License: Rental license required under Ch. 17.44. Citation: Annapolis City Code § 21.64.010.

Building an ADU without a permit, exceeding the 850-square-foot cap, skipping the required rental license, or renting without the owner living on site draws code enforcement action and required correction.

Shed & Carport Rules

Annapolis classifies carports and garages as accessory structures allowed by right, but its bulk regulations table sets numeric yard setbacks for them: in the R1 single-family district: 30 feet front, 8 feet interior side, 20 feet corner side, and 5 feet rear.

Key details: Front setback (R1): 30 feet minimum. Interior side setback: 8 ft (5 ft in rear quarter). Corner side setback: 20 feet minimum. Rear setback: 5 feet minimum. Use classification: Accessory use, permitted by right.

Building without a compliant permit is a Zoning Code violation; absent a specific penalty, § 1.20.010 makes it a misdemeanor punishable by up to a $1,000 fine or six months' imprisonment, with each day a separate offense.

ADU Owner Occupancy

Annapolis requires the property owner to live in either the accessory dwelling unit or the principal structure: an investor-owned ADU rented out while the owner lives elsewhere is not allowed.

Key details: Owner-occupancy: Owner must live in ADU or house. Ownership: ADU and house share one owner. Per-lot limit: One ADU per lot. Size cap: 850 sq ft if not in existing footprint. Licensing: Rental license required, Chapter 17.44.

Violating the owner-occupancy requirement is a Zoning Code misdemeanor under § 21.36.030, fined as set by the City Council; operating an unlicensed ADU also triggers the penalties in Chapter 17.44's rental licensing provisions.

Compared to other cities, Annapolis takes a harder line on adu owner occupancy. The enforcement and penalty structure reflects that.

The Bottom Line

Annapolis is tougher than many cities when it comes to accessory structures. Out of the 4 rules covered here, 2 are rated strict. If you are a homeowner, renter, or business owner in Annapolis, take the time to understand these requirements before they become a problem. Most violations come with fines, and some repeat violations can escalate.

This guide is based on Annapolis's current municipal code. Local rules can and do change, so check the individual ordinance pages for the latest details, penalties, and FAQs.