5 rules for unincorporated Prince George's County, Maryland.
Verified from official government sources
Accessory dwelling units are not currently permitted in Prince George's County. The 2022 Zoning Ordinance allows only a guest house (no separate dwelling). Under Maryland's ADU Act of 2025 (HB 1466), the county must adopt an ADU-authorizing law by October 1, 2026.
Under the 2022 Zoning Ordinance (Sec. 27-5202), a shed or detached accessory structure may not sit in a required front yard. It may go in a side or rear yard, but any structure over 10 feet tall needs an extra foot of setback for every foot above 10.
Sec. 27-5202(c)(5)
…an accessory structure, other than a fence or wall, that is more than ten feet in height is set back from the nearest side or rear lot line one foot for every foot…the structure's height exceeds ten feet.
Converting a garage into living space in Prince George's County requires DPIE building permits and must meet the 2022 Zoning Ordinance. Because accessory dwelling units are not permitted, a converted garage cannot become a separate, independent dwelling with its own kitchen.
Sec. 27-5203(a)(2)
Unless otherwise specifically permitted, an accessory use in a residential dwelling in a Rural and Agricultural or Residential base zone shall be limited to twenty percent (20%) of the gross floor area of the dwelling.
A carport is an accessory structure under the 2022 Zoning Ordinance. Per Sec. 27-5202, it cannot sit in a required front yard or corner-lot side yard, may go in a side or rear yard, and must meet the underlying zone's setback and height limits, plus any DPIE building permit.
Sec. 27-5202(c)(6)
…accessory uses and structures shall comply with the minimum yard depth standards and structure height limits applicable in the zone where the structure is located.
The 2022 Zoning Ordinance has no 'tiny house' use, and a manufactured home, recreational vehicle, or travel trailer may not be used as a dwelling except a limited transient use. A movable tiny home on wheels cannot serve as a permanent residence or accessory dwelling.
Sec. 27-5303(b), Transient Manufactured Home or Recreational Vehicle Residence
The manufactured home or recreational vehicle shall be located on a lot with an area of at least five acres. … The Temporary Use Permit shall be valid for no more than 120 cumulative days per any one year…
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