Annapolis, MD Environmental Rules: Erosion Control (2026)
Key Facts
- Governing chapter
- City Code Ch. 17.08
- Small-project exemption
- Under 5,000 sq ft (2,000 waterfront)
- Stabilization deadline
- 3 days steep slopes, 7 days rest
- Bond required
- >5,000 sq ft or 100 cu yd
- Max penalty
- $10,000 fine, 1 year jail
Summary
Annapolis requires a grading permit before disturbing land, plus an erosion and sediment control plan approved by the Anne Arundel Soil Conservation District; projects disturbing under 5,000 square feet (2,000 on waterfront lots) can qualify for an exemption instead.
Except as set forth in Section 17.08.040, no person shall do and no owner allow, any grading of land without first having obtained a grading permit from the Director. Each permit shall authorize only the improvements set forth in the application and accompanying drawings, but each permit may cover any number of contiguous lots.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 2025 Update 2).
Full Breakdown
Chapter 17.08 bars grading land in Annapolis without a Director-issued permit and an erosion and sediment control plan approved by both the Department and the Anne Arundel Soil Conservation District. Permits require plans, fees, right-of-entry for inspection, and, for projects disturbing more than 5,000 square feet or moving over 100 cubic yards, a performance bond. Grading within 100 feet of tidal waters, wetlands, or the 100-year floodplain is barred outright except for shoreline stabilization or in-kind retaining-wall replacement. Small disturbances (under 5,000 square feet, or 2,000 on waterfront lots, with limits on cuts, fills, and slope) can skip the permit but must still file a standard sediment control plan.
Violations & Fines
Grading without an approved plan draws a stop-work order and municipal-infraction fines set by City Council resolution; failing to maintain required erosion controls is a state misdemeanor punishable by up to $10,000 and one year in jail per violation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a permit to regrade my yard in Annapolis?
How fast must disturbed soil be stabilized?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Annapolis
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