Accessory Structures in Washington County, MD (2026)
2 rules for unincorporated Washington County, Maryland.
Verified from official government sources
ADU Rules
Washington County, Maryland's Zoning Ordinance flatly bars turning a garage, shed or other accessory building into living quarters. Section 4.10(b)(1) makes it unlawful countywide unless the Ordinance specifically authorizes an exception, such as a guest house approved through the Residential, Transition District or a special exception in a rural district.
Washington County MD Bans ADUs as Living Quarters
Heavy RestrictionsWashington County, MD Zoning Ordinance § 4.10(b)(1)
In addition to the other requirements of this Ordinance, an accessory use shall not be permitted unless it strictly complies with the following: 1. No accessory structure shall be used for living quarters, the storage of contractors' equipment, the storage of animals, or the conducting of any business unless otherwise provided in this Ordinance.
Shed & Carport Rules
Washington County's Zoning Ordinance lets a single-story utility or storage shed of 100 square feet or less sit just 8 feet from any lot line, far closer than the standard accessory-structure setback. Section 23.6 overrides the general rule in Section 23.5(b), which otherwise ties accessory building setbacks to the structure's own longest dimension.
Washington County, Maryland Shed Setback Rule
Some RestrictionsWashington County, MD Zoning Ordinance § 23.6
The requirements of Section 23.5 notwithstanding, the minimum distance to a lot line in any District from a single-story utility or storage shed not exceeding 100 square feet shall be eight (8) feet.
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