Building Permits in Baltimore

Baltimore City regulates construction through its Baltimore City Building Code and permit administration.

When a Permit Is Required

Section 105.1 requires a permit before listed work including constructing, altering, adding to, repairing, rehabilitating, demolishing or moving a structure; changing use; installing or altering regulated equipment; certain lot-line changes; grading or excavation; and specified historic-property work. Exemptions must be checked in the current code rather than inferred from a generic list.

Maryland Code Framework

Maryland's Building Codes Administration states that the Maryland Building Performance Standards use the 2021 IBC, IRC and IECC, with state modifications; the 2021 cycle became effective at state level May 29, 2023, with local implementation required by May 29, 2024. Baltimore may have local modifications permitted by Maryland law.

Permit Process

Confirm zoning and project jurisdiction, identify required building/trade permits, submit the required plans, complete plan review and corrections, pay assessed fees, obtain permits before regulated work, and complete required inspections and occupancy/final approvals.

Occupancy and Completion

Baltimore's code notes that the IBC term certificate of occupancy is called an occupancy permit in Baltimore City. The code separately provides for a certificate of completion after satisfactorily completed permitted work under its stated conditions.

Fees, Timing, and Professionals

Fees are governed by the current city fee provisions and project type. No generic review-time estimate is stated. Professional-design and seal requirements depend on Maryland law, Baltimore code, occupancy, and project scope.

Official Sources

Use the current Baltimore City Building Code together with Maryland Building Codes Administration guidance.