Baltimore’s Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) administers building permits and inspections, with applications processed through the City’s E-Permits system. Construction, alterations, demolition, changes of use, equipment installations, grading, and excavation are among the activities that can require a permit under the Baltimore City Building Code. Electrical, mechanical, and plumbing work also follows applicable trade-permit and licensing requirements.
Zoning is an important part of Baltimore’s approval process. The Office of the Zoning Administrator issues zoning authorizations and use permits and reviews projects under the Baltimore City Zoning Code. Property zoning controls matters such as permitted uses, building form, height, lot coverage, and other development standards, while projects that cannot proceed by right may require additional zoning approval or an appeal.
Historic properties have a distinctive additional review layer. Exterior work on properties within locally designated historic districts and on Baltimore City Landmarks requires approval from the Commission for Historical and Architectural Preservation (CHAP). CHAP completes its design review by issuing an Authorization to Proceed, which must be obtained before the related building permit can be issued. Development within Baltimore’s regulated floodplain also carries additional requirements, including floodplain review and applicable state or federal approvals.
Projects extending into streets, sidewalks, or other public space may need separate Department of Transportation approval. Baltimore DOT administers right-of-way and street-cut permits for excavation, temporary occupation, closures, and other work affecting the public way. Applicants should therefore identify building, zoning, historic, floodplain, and right-of-way requirements before beginning work.