ADU Rules in Salisbury, Maryland

Salisbury is the Wicomico County seat and largest city on Maryland's Eastern Shore, with a population of about 34,000 on the Wicomico River. As an incorporated city, Salisbury has its own Zoning Ordinance separate from Wicomico County's regulations. Home to Salisbury University (SU) and serving as the regional hub for the lower Delmarva Peninsula, Salisbury is the economic and cultural center of the Eastern Shore.

Salisbury vs. Wicomico County

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

City of Salisbury Zoning Ordinance

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

Maryland ADU Rules

ADU rules in Maryland are set by each county and municipality. Verify current ADU requirements with the City of Salisbury Department of Infrastructure and Development.

Permitted ADU Types

Per Salisbury Zoning Ordinance (verify current standards):

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

Verify current provisions with Salisbury's Department of Planning and Zoning.

Setbacks

Per Salisbury residential zone:

• Rear: Minimum setback
• Side: Minimum setback

Chesapeake Bay Critical Area

Salisbury is on the Wicomico River, which is a tidal tributary of the Chesapeake Bay. Properties within 1,000 feet of tidal waters are in Maryland's Critical Area with more restrictive development standards. Verify Critical Area status for waterfront properties.

Wicomico River Flood Zones

Parts of Salisbury near the Wicomico River may be in FEMA flood zones. Verify flood map status.

Salisbury University

SU creates student rental housing demand. The university campus itself is not subject to city zoning, but surrounding residential areas are governed by the city's Zoning Ordinance.

Permit Process

1. Verify jurisdiction: Confirm your property is within Salisbury city limits (not unincorporated Wicomico County)
2. Verify zoning: Salisbury Department of Planning and Zoning
3. Check Critical Area status: If near the Wicomico River
4. Check flood zone: If near waterways
5. Submit plans: Salisbury Permit Office
6. Building permit and inspections
7. CO: Required before occupancy

Contact

City of Salisbury Department of Planning and Zoning 125 N. Division Street, Salisbury, MD 21801 Phone: (410) 548-3170 Website: salisbury.md

Disclaimer: Salisbury is an incorporated city separate from Wicomico County. Critical Area rules apply near the Wicomico River. ADU rules are evolving following Maryland's 2024 statewide legislation. Verify current standards with the City of Salisbury before starting any project.