Baltimore addresses urban heat islands through the Green Network Plan, tree canopy investment, cool roof requirements in new construction, and pavement greening on vacant lots. The Climate Action Plan refresh prioritizes cooling investments in heat-vulnerable neighborhoods.
The Baltimore Green Network Plan converts vacant and derelict properties into green infrastructure, parks, and stormwater features that reduce surface temperatures. The 2017 TransForm Baltimore zoning code (Art. 32) incorporates landscape and tree canopy requirements that mitigate heat. Building code amendments require reflective or cool roofs on new low-slope commercial roofs consistent with the International Energy Conservation Code adopted by Maryland. Heat-vulnerable neighborhoods identified through the city's heat mapping receive priority for tree planting through Baltimore Tree Trust partnerships. The Department of Public Works tracks green infrastructure square footage as part of consent decree reporting.
Building permits may be denied if cool roof and landscaping standards are not met. Vacant lot owners failing to maintain greening receive Housing Code citations and may face liens for city remediation costs.
Baltimore, MD
Baltimore declared a climate emergency in 2019 and operates under the 2012 Climate Action Plan, refreshed in 2024. The Office of Sustainability tracks greenh...
Baltimore, MD
Baltimore commits to a 40% tree canopy goal, prioritizing planting in low-canopy, heat-vulnerable, and historically disinvested neighborhoods. The TreeBaltim...
See how Baltimore's heat island mitigation rules stack up against other locations.
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