Accessory Structures in Baltimore, MD (2026)
6 verified accessory structures rules for Baltimore, Maryland, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.
Verified from official government sources
ADU Rules
Baltimore's Article 32 Zoning Code does not have a general 'ADU' use, but Section 15-504 allows existing carriage houses in any Residential or OR District to be converted into a single-family detached dwelling, treated as an accessory structure on the same lot.
accessory-structures/adu-rules
Some RestrictionsADU Permits
Baltimore permits ADUs under the TransForm Baltimore Zoning Code (Article 32, adopted 2017). Detached and attached ADUs are allowed in R-1 through R-8 districts subject to dimensional standards. Permits route through the Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) and Building, Fire, and Related Codes Administration. Maryland HB 538 (2024) sets a statewide ADU framework that limits some restrictive local rules.
Baltimore ADU Permits
Some RestrictionsADU Impact Fees
Baltimore City does not charge development impact fees on residential ADUs. Only standard permit and plan-review fees apply through DHCD. Department of Public Works (DPW) charges water/sewer connection fees only when a new service line or meter is installed. Maryland does not authorize broad municipal impact fees, unlike California or Arizona.
Baltimore ADU Impact Fees
Few RestrictionsADU Owner Occupancy
Baltimore City does not require owner-occupancy for ADU properties under Article 32. Property owners may build an ADU and rent both the primary unit and ADU to separate tenants. Maryland HB 538 (2024) explicitly prohibits local owner-occupancy requirements for ADUs. HOA and condominium covenants may still impose owner-occupancy through declarations.
Baltimore ADU Owner Occupancy
Few RestrictionsADU Rental Restrictions
Baltimore requires a Rental Property License under Article 13 (Housing Code) for every rental dwelling unit, including ADUs. Annual licensing through DHCD with inspections. Short-term rentals require separate STR license under Article 15, Subtitle 47. Maryland has no statewide rent control authorization; Baltimore City voters approved rent stabilization in November 2024 (CB 24-0470 framework, with implementation by DHCD).
Baltimore ADU Rental Restrictions
Some RestrictionsShed Rules
Baltimore Building Code Section 105.2 exempts one-story detached accessory structures used as tool/storage sheds or playhouses from a building permit when floor area is 120 sq ft or less. Article 32 Sec. 15-501 still limits height to 15 ft and rear-yard coverage to 50%.