Baltimore Permit Exempt Work and Stormwater Guide

Baltimore lists ordinary repairs and some one- and two-family work as permit-exempt, but stormwater, grading, historic, zoning, and code limits can still control the project.

Permit takeaway

Baltimore's work-exempt guidance says exemption from permit requirements does not authorize work that violates building, fire, related codes, or other laws and ordinances.

Zoning and placement

Stormwater management plans, grading permits, easements, maintenance agreements, performance bonds, adjacent-owner permissions, and historic review can affect work before a building permit is issued.

Building and trade review

Ordinary repairs may not require permits, but alterations, renovations, modifications, reconstructions, exterior historic changes, grading, and regulated equipment work should be checked.

Call before applying when

Call before starting if the project involves grading, stormwater, exterior historic work, structural alterations, retaining walls, drainage, or work near adjacent properties.

Documents to prepare

• Project scope
• Exemption basis if relying on one
• Stormwater or grading information if applicable
• Historic or zoning information if applicable

Inspection planning

• Confirm exemption before starting
• Secure stormwater or grading approval if required
• Apply for permits if scope changes
• Keep approval records

Official sources

• Baltimore Work Exempt from Permit
• Baltimore Stormwater Approved Plan Prerequisite
• Baltimore Building Code Section 105 Permits

This guide is a planning summary. Always verify the current requirements with the local office before starting work.