ADU Rules in College Park, Maryland

College Park is an incorporated city of about 32,000 in Prince George's County, Maryland, approximately 10 miles northeast of Washington DC. As an incorporated city, College Park has its own Zoning Ordinance separate from Prince George's County's regulations. Home to the University of Maryland (UMD) flagship campus — one of the US's largest universities — College Park has significant demand for rental housing and has been working to accommodate housing growth near the UMD campus.

College Park vs. Prince George's County

• City of College Park: Incorporated city with own Zoning Ordinance — use College Park's permit process
• Prince George's County: Separate jurisdiction for unincorporated areas
• Verify which jurisdiction your property falls in

University of Maryland Context

UMD is a state institution — the campus uses separate state permitting processes. Civilian residential properties around the campus use the City of College Park Zoning Ordinance. The strong student rental market creates demand for ADUs and accessory apartments near campus.

College Park Zoning Ordinance

The City of College Park Zoning Ordinance governs all land use within College Park city limits.

Maryland ADU Rules

ADU rules in Maryland are set by each county and municipality. Verify current ADU requirements with College Park's Planning Division.

Permitted ADU Types

Per College Park Zoning Ordinance (verify current standards):

• Accessory apartments: Within or attached to primary structure
• Detached ADUs: In eligible residential zones

Verify current provisions with College Park's Planning Division.

Rental Licensing

College Park may have rental licensing or registration requirements for rental properties. Verify current rental registration requirements with the city.

Setbacks

Per College Park residential zone:

• Rear: Minimum setback
• Side: Minimum setback

Chesapeake Bay Watershed — Stormwater

College Park is in the Chesapeake Bay watershed (Paint Branch/Anacostia drainage). Stormwater management requirements apply.

Paint Branch / Northeast Branch Flood Zones

Parts of College Park near Paint Branch or the Northeast Branch of the Anacostia River may be in FEMA flood zones. Verify flood map status.

Permit Process

1. Verify jurisdiction: Confirm your property is within College Park city limits (not unincorporated Prince George's County)
2. Verify zoning: College Park Planning Division
3. Check rental licensing: If renting the ADU
4. Check flood zone: If near Paint Branch or waterways
5. Submit plans: College Park Permit Office
6. Building permit and inspections
7. CO: Required before occupancy

Contact

City of College Park Planning Division 4500 Knox Road, College Park, MD 20740 Phone: (301) 864-8666 Website: collegeparkmd.gov

Disclaimer: College Park is an incorporated city separate from Prince George's County. ADU rules are evolving following Maryland's 2024 statewide legislation. Verify current standards with the City of College Park before starting any project.