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Permits are required for:

  • Any additions, alterations or structural modifications to existing dwellings, including those located in historic districts.
  • Structural work or when a new bedroom or kitchen are created. However, if your house is in or part of a Baltimore County Historical District or is on Baltimore County's Landmarks List, a building permit is required for any work on the exterior or any work that affects the exterior appearance, including repair or removal of any part of the house, fence or accessory structure. 
  • When creating a weatherproof enclosure of an existing porch or deck, including in historical areas. Enclosing a porch or deck is considered an addition because it extends the "indoor" area of the house and is subject to the same setback limitations as the house itself. 

Permits are not required for siding or roof repair. However, if a property is in part of a Baltimore County Historical District or is on Baltimore County's Landmarks List, a building permit is required for any work on the exterior or any work that affects the exterior appearance, including repair or removal of any part of the house, fence or accessory structure.

All electrical or plumbing work requires a permit and must be obtained by a licensed electrician and plumber.

Required Documents

You must provide the following when submitting your permit application.

About the Application Process

To learn more about the application process, read the steps and watch the videos below, or view the FAQ or full tutorial video playlist.

 Apply for a Permit

Once you have reviewed the process outlined above and have gathered your required documentation, apply for your permit online using the buttons below.

Commercial Permits

For Projects Involving Food Service/Health Care

These applications should be submitted for projects involving food service or health care (i.e. restaurants, hospitals, medical daycares, assisted living centers or nursing homes), which require review by the Environmental Health Division.

 

Residential Permits

 

Explore Permits, Approvals and Inspections

 

Contact Us

Department of Permits, Approvals and Inspections

County Office Building
111 West Chesapeake Avenue
Towson, Maryland 21204

Hours

Monday through Friday
8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Phone

Director

C. Pete Gutwald