ADU Rules in Annapolis, Maryland

Annapolis is Maryland's state capital and the Anne Arundel County seat, with a population of about 40,000 on the western shore of the Chesapeake Bay at the mouth of the Severn River. Known as the "Sailing Capital of the United States" and home to the US Naval Academy, Annapolis has a compact historic downtown with colonial-era architecture. The city's Chesapeake Bay location means Critical Area rules apply to many properties. ADU rules are set by the city's local Zoning Code.

Annapolis Zoning Code

The City of Annapolis Zoning Code governs all land use within Annapolis city limits.

Maryland ADU Rules

ADU rules in Maryland are set by each county and municipality. Verify current ADU requirements with the City of Annapolis Department of Planning and Zoning.

Permitted ADU Types

Per Annapolis Zoning Code (verify current standards):

• Accessory apartments: Within or attached to primary structure
• Detached ADUs: In eligible residential zones
• Carriage house conversions: In appropriate historic contexts

Verify current provisions with Annapolis Department of Planning and Zoning.

Size Limits

Per Annapolis Zoning Code:

• Maximum floor area per zone
• Lot coverage restrictions apply

Setbacks

Per Annapolis residential zone:

• Rear: Minimum setback
• Side: Minimum setback

Chesapeake Bay Critical Area

This is a critical consideration for Annapolis. Properties within 1,000 feet of tidal waters (Chesapeake Bay, Severn River, South River, and their tributaries and wetlands) are in Maryland's Critical Area. Development in the Critical Area is subject to more restrictive standards:

• Reduced lot coverage allowances
• Enhanced buffers from tidal wetlands
• Impervious surface restrictions

Annapolis has extensive Critical Area coverage. Verify Critical Area status before planning any ADU.

Historic Districts

Annapolis has significant historic districts, including:

• Historic District of Annapolis: One of the best-preserved colonial American towns
• Multiple National Register properties and landmarks

Properties in historic districts require review by the Historic Preservation Commission.

Naval Academy Proximity

The US Naval Academy is a federal campus — it does not affect civilian residential zoning. Civilian properties use the City of Annapolis Zoning Code.

Permit Process

1. Verify Critical Area status: If near the Bay, Severn River, or tidal waterways
2. Verify zoning: Annapolis Department of Planning and Zoning
3. Historic Preservation review: If in a historic district
4. Submit plans: Annapolis Department of Inspections
5. Building permit and inspections
6. CO: Required before occupancy

Contact

City of Annapolis Department of Planning and Zoning 145 Gorman Street, 3rd Floor, Annapolis, MD 21401 Phone: (410) 263-7961 Website: annapolis.gov

Disclaimer: Critical Area rules significantly restrict development near the Chesapeake Bay and tidal waterways in Annapolis. ADU rules are evolving following Maryland's 2024 statewide legislation. Verify current standards with the City of Annapolis before starting any project.