Before You Build in Annapolis, MD: Permit & Rule Checklist (2026)

Annapolis follows Maryland's common-law fence rules. The finished side must face neighbors. Boundary fence disputes are civil matters. Maryland's spite fence statute (RP §14-120) prohibits fences built solely to annoy.

Annapolis Chapter 17.34 requires a building permit for all fence installations. Historic District fences additionally require Historic Preservation Commission approval before a permit is issued.

Annapolis Code §21.60.070 limits fences to 4 feet in front yards and 6 feet in side and rear yards. Historic District fences require Historic Preservation Commission review. Finished side must face outward.

Annapolis pool safety rules include anti-entrapment VGB-compliant drain covers, required depth markings, and prohibition on use during electrical storms. Annual inspection for permitted pools. Bay waterfront pool drainage must comply with Critical Area rules.

Annapolis follows Maryland's pool barrier law requiring fences at least 48 inches high with self-closing, self-latching gates. Building permits required. Chesapeake Bay waterfront pools must address stormwater compliance.

Above-ground pools in Annapolis require the same 48-inch barrier fencing as in-ground pools. Steps and ladders must be removable or lockable when the pool is unattended. Building permit required for pools over 24 inches deep.

Annapolis allows ADUs through a special exception process. ADUs limited to 700 sq ft or 50% of primary dwelling, whichever is less. Historic District ADUs require HPC design review. Owner occupancy of primary or ADU required.

Annapolis allows garage conversions to habitable space with a building permit. Historic District conversions require Historic Preservation Commission review. Conversions that create a separate dwelling unit are treated as ADUs requiring a special exception.

Annapolis treats carports as accessory structures under Title 21 (Planning and Zoning), Chapter 21.64. They must comply with the underlying district setbacks, height, and lot coverage in Chapter 21.50 (Bulk Regulations Tables) and require a building permit from the Department of Planning and Zoning before construction.

Annapolis requires building permits for sheds over 144 square feet. Sheds must meet setback requirements and may not be placed in front yards. Historic District sheds require Historic Preservation Commission review.

Annapolis fire pits must be UL-listed appliances with a 15-foot setback from all structures. Attended at all times. No burning of trash, leaves, or yard debris. Dense Historic District lots require extra care given proximity to neighbors.

Annapolis allows small recreational fires for personal use or cooking in UL-listed appliances with a 15-foot setback from structures. Burning trash, leaves, and debris is prohibited. Bonfires require a Fire Marshal permit.

Annapolis participates in the Anne Arundel County water system. Outdoor irrigation restrictions activate during drought or water emergency declarations. Chesapeake Bay-friendly landscaping with native plants and rain gardens is strongly encouraged.

Annapolis requires a permit to remove trees over 8 inches DBH on city property and in the Historic District. Street trees are city property and may not be trimmed without city approval. Chesapeake Bay Critical Area buffer trees have heightened protections.

Tree removal in Annapolis requires permits for trees in the Historic District or Chesapeake Bay Critical Area buffer. Dead or hazardous trees may be removed with notice to the city. Replacement planting required in critical areas.