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Glen Burnie Zoning Regulations & Building Permits Guide

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Key Zoning Facts

Building Code Edition
2018 IBC (Maryland Building Performance Standards)
ADUs Allowed
Yes
Primary District
R-1 Residential (Low Density)
Max Height
Per district standards

Glen Burnie Zoning Overview

Glen Burnie is an unincorporated Census Designated Place (CDP) in Anne Arundel County, Maryland. Zoning and land use regulations are administered by the Anne Arundel County Office of Planning and Zoning.

Development Process

Development in Glen Burnie follows Anne Arundel County procedures:

  1. Zoning Verification — Confirm your proposed use is permitted
  2. Site Plan Review — For qualifying projects
  3. Building Permit — Required for most construction
  4. Inspections — Multiple inspections during construction
  5. Certificate of Occupancy — Final approval

Key Contacts

  • Anne Arundel County Office of Planning and Zoning: 410-222-7450
  • Zoning Administration: 410-222-7437
  • GIS/Map Room: 410-222-7463
  • Address: 2664 Riva Road, MS 6403, Annapolis, MD 21401

Important Note

Since Glen Burnie is unincorporated, Anne Arundel County regulations apply. Some setback requirements vary by district and development type. Contact the county for specific guidance on your property.

Disclaimer: This guide provides general information about zoning in Glen Burnie and should not be relied upon as legal advice. Zoning codes are subject to change. Always verify current regulations with the Glen Burnie planning department or municipal code before making development decisions.

Regulatory Layers That Apply in Glen Burnie

Your property is subject to ALL of these regulatory layers. Each one can impose additional requirements beyond the others.

Federal

State — Maryland

  • Building Code: 2015 IBC (Maryland amendments)
  • State ADU Override: Yes (Maryland Accessory Dwelling Unit regulations)
View Maryland zoning overview

County — Anne Arundel County

  • Role: Zoning and land use regulation

City / Municipal

The city's zoning ordinance, building codes, and local permits form the primary layer of land-use regulation for your property.

Overlay Districts

No overlay districts identified.

Private Restrictions

  • HOA / CC&Rs common: Yes
  • Check HOA CC&Rs and deed restrictions for additional requirements.

Primary Zoning Districts

R-1Residential (Low Density)
Min Lot
30,000 sq ft (or 15,000 sq ft for duplex)
Max Height
Per district standards
Front Setback
40 ft (Critical Area), 20 ft (multifamily)
Side Setback
7 ft
Rear Setback
30 ft (multifamily)
R-2Residential (Low-Medium Density)
Min Lot
20,000-10,000 sq ft
Max Height
Per district standards
Front Setback
30 ft (Critical Area), 20 ft (multifamily)
Side Setback
7 ft
Rear Setback
30 ft (multifamily)
R-5Residential (5 units/acre)
Min Lot
10,000-5,000 sq ft
Max Height
Per district standards
Front Setback
25 ft
Side Setback
15 ft
Rear Setback
30 ft

ADU Rules in Glen Burnie

ADUs:Allowed
Max Size
800 sq ft OR 50% of principal dwelling (whichever is smaller)
Max Height
Per zoning district
Rear Setback
Per zoning district
Side Setback
Per zoning district
Parking
NO additional parking required
Owner Occupancy
Owner-occupancy or rental restrictions may apply
Permit Timeline
Consult Planning Department

Permit Costs & Timelines

Permit Costs & Timelines

Specific permit fee schedules for Glen Burnie are available from the local planning department. Fees vary based on project type, scope, and valuation.

Check Glen Burnie permit fees →

Official Sources

Frequently Asked Questions

What zoning district is my property in Glen Burnie?
Use the Anne Arundel County Land Use and Zoning Viewer to search by address.
Can I build an ADU in Glen Burnie?
Yes, ADUs are permitted in most residential zones (except R-22). Maximum 800 sq ft or 50% of principal dwelling, whichever smaller. No additional parking required.
What are the setback requirements?
Setback requirements vary by zoning district. Contact Anne Arundel County Planning at 410-222-7450.