Annapolis's Accessory Structures: The Rules That Matter

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.

Carport Rules

Annapolis treats carports as accessory structures under Title 21 (Planning and Zoning), Chapter 21.64. They must comply with the underlying district setbacks, height, and lot coverage in Chapter 21.50 (Bulk Regulations Tables) and require a building permit from the Department of Planning and Zoning before construction.

Key details: Authority: Annapolis Code Title 21, Ch. 21.64. Setbacks: Per district (Ch. 21.50 Bulk Regs Tables). Setback Formula: Minimum + extra distance based on height. Front Yard: Generally not permitted. Critical Area: Stormwater mitigation if added impervious.

Building a carport without a permit, encroaching into a required yard, exceeding height or lot coverage, or adding new impervious surface in the Critical Area without mitigation is a zoning and building violation enforceable by the Department of Planning and Zoning. Remedies include stop-work orders, removal, retroactive permitting, and fines under the City Code; structures in the Historic District added without a Certificate of Approval may face additional remedies under Chapter 21.56.

Shed Rules

Annapolis requires building permits for sheds over 144 square feet. Sheds must meet setback requirements and may not be placed in front yards. Historic District sheds require Historic Preservation Commission review.

Key details: Permit Threshold: Over 144 sq ft. Setbacks: 5 feet from rear and side lines. Front Yard: Prohibited. Historic District: HPC review required.

Unpermitted shed over 144 sq ft: retroactive permit and double fees. Setback violation: relocation required. Historic District without HPC approval: $250/day.

ADU Rules

Annapolis allows ADUs through a special exception process. ADUs limited to 700 sq ft or 50% of primary dwelling, whichever is less. Historic District ADUs require HPC design review. Owner occupancy of primary or ADU required.

Key details: Max Size: 700 sq ft or 50% primary. Approval: Special exception required. Historic District: HPC design review. Owner Occupancy: Primary or ADU required.

Unpermitted ADU: stop-work order and $500/day. Occupancy without certificate of occupancy: $250/day.

Garage Conversions

Annapolis allows garage conversions to habitable space with a building permit. Historic District conversions require Historic Preservation Commission review. Conversions that create a separate dwelling unit are treated as ADUs requiring a special exception.

Key details: Permit: Required for all habitable conversions. ADU Threshold: Separate kitchen = ADU special exception. Historic District: HPC review for exterior changes. Parking: Replacement may be required.

Unpermitted conversion: stop-work order and required permits. Unauthorized ADU creation: $500/day until special exception obtained.

The Bottom Line

Annapolis's accessory structures rules are a mixed bag. Some areas are strict, others are relaxed, and the details matter. The best approach is to check the specific rule that applies to your situation rather than assuming Annapolis is broadly strict or permissive.

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.