Master Planning 2020

Bruce Seeley, Coordinator
410-887-3480
masterplan@baltimorecountymd.gov


The Office of Planning is amending the county’s Master Plan 2010. The plan was adopted on February 22, 2000, and is slated for its decennial review and amendment. The plan will be amended in sections, beginning with the Rural Areas portion. Notices will be published regarding all future amendments.

Rural Areas Master Plan Amendment

On January 21, 2010, the Planning Board voted to adopt the proposed amendment to the “Rural County” chapter of Master Plan 2010. The document, entitled “Master Plan Amendment: Rural Areas” is being forwarded to the County Council for review. The Council may accept or modify the amendment, and then must adopt it by resolution.

Urban Areas Master Plan Amendment
Including the Water Resources Element

The second phase of the master plan update includes a “water resources element” (WRE). To protect the quality and quantity of all water resources in our area (public drinking water supplies, well water, stormwater, sewer outfalls and septic discharges), we must analyze the existing and future impacts of development. Strategies to reduce pollutant levels are being examined, and a plan selected which will reduce pollutant levels.

The Office of Planning, in partnership with all other County agencies, is working on a proposal for redevelopment of existing commercial properties in need of rehabilitation, with an emphasis on mixed use (commercial and residential), walkable, and transit-oriented sustainable development. This type of development will be able to accommodate our growing population, protect our existing neighborhoods, and preserve and enhance the natural environment.

Public input meetings on this amendment are scheduled as follows:

** Doors open at 6:30 p.m. for sign-in.

Where Will Baltimore County's Future Growth Occur?

Download Rural
Areas Amendment (PDF)

Download Master Plan 2010

View the Master Plan 2020 Slide Show Presentation (PDF)

What Is The Master Plan?

The Master Plan is a composite of maps and written proposals setting forth comprehensive objectives, policies, and actions to serve as a guide for the development of the county. The following is Baltimore County’s “vision” for the future:

Vision statement of Master Plan 2020:

Create and maintain safe and sustainable communities to achieve a sensible balance
of economy, equity, and environment for people to reside, work, pursue careers,
raise families, and enjoy the amenities in Baltimore County, Maryland.

How Does The Master Plan Affect Me?

Implementation of the plan’s objectives will influence the way the county is developed over the next ten years and beyond. Baltimore County has adopted five plans since 1972, with each plan building on the successes of the previous plans. The broad goals of protecting the environment, preserving agriculture, and ensuring a safe place in which to live with good civic design, will continue with each new plan. Furthermore, the county will continue working very hard to preserve and protect existing communities, the economy and the environment.

How Can I Get Involved?

The Office of Planning wants citizens to participate in the public process. The success of this project depends on comments and suggestions from all “stakeholders,” especially the residents of our community. You may attend the Public Input Meetings to present your issues and ask questions, send written comments by regular mail or by e-mail to the addresses below. Your participation in this process is encouraged and appreciated.

Comments may be sent to masterplan@baltimorecountymd.gov or by mail to

                                Baltimore County Office of Planning
                                The Jefferson Building
                                105 W. Chesapeake Ave., Suite 101
                                Towson, Maryland 21204
                                Attention: Bruce Seeley

Revised January 27, 2010