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Current Codes and Regulations

NOTICE: NEW BALTIMORE COUNTY BUILDING CODE, EFFECTIVE SEPTEMBER 3, 2024

The newly adopted Baltimore County Building Code Bill 49-24(link is external) which became effective on September 3, replacing Bill 40-15. This bill adopts, with certain amendments, the 2021 editions of the following international codes:

  • Building 
  • Energy Conservation 
  • Mechanical 
  • Residential 
  • Swimming Pool and Spa

 Learn more about the following codes, their effective dates and who to contact with questions.

Adopted by Baltimore County Council Bill Number 49-24 (link is external)effective September 3, 2024, which includes the 2021 editions of the ICC International Building Code, International Residential Code (IRC), International Mechanical Code and International Energy Conservation Code (subject to exceptions). 

  • One and Two Family Dwelling Code—2021 International Residential Code
  • Mechanical Code—2021 International Mechanical Code

MORE INFORMATION

For questions, call 410-887-3953. To purchase code books, call the International Code Council at 1-888-422-7233.

Per Section 21-7-303 of the Baltimore County Code, 2015, electrical installations shall conform to most recent edition year of the published National Electric Code (NEC, effective September 1 of the edition year of the code).   

The primary standard for minimum electrical safety requirements is the National Electric Code, NFPA 70, published by the National Fire Protection Association, latest edition. 

MORE INFORMATION

For questions, call 410-887-3960.

2021 International Energy Code: Adopted and amended by Baltimore County, Bill 49-24 (Effective date: September 3, 2024). View the International Energy Conservation Code (IECC) requirements.

  • Life Safety Code: 2018 National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) 101, adopted and amended by Baltimore County Bill 14-21 (Effective date: April 18, 2021)
  • Fire Prevention Code: 2018 Edition NFPA 1, adopted and amended by Baltimore County Bill 14-21, replaces Baltimore County Bill 3-17 (Effective date: April 18, 2021)
  • Other NFPA Codes and Standards: Adopted and amended by Baltimore County Bills 3-17 (Effective date: March 19, 2017)

MORE INFORMATION

For questions, call Fire Inspections at 410-887-4880. To purchase code books, call the National Fire Protection Association at 1-800-344-3555.   

Baltimore County Floodplain Ordinance, County Council Bill 6-24  effective May 6, 2024 regarding all Baltimore County floodplain regulations. See Article 32, Title 8 of the Baltimore County Code.(link is external)

Adopted by Baltimore County Council Bill Number 94-23 effective July 1, 2024. View the Plumbing and Gasfitting Code.

MORE INFORMATION

For questions, call 410-887-3620.

STATE OF MARYLAND

Learn more about the following State of Maryland Codes.

COMAR 09.12.53 State of Maryland adopts “ADAAG” 2010 Edition (Americans Disability Act) and “FHAA” (Federal Fair Housing Amendments Act of 1988).

MORE INFORMATION

For questions, call 410-767-0548.

COMAR 09.12.58 Maryland Building Rehabilitation Code. 2015 International Existing Building Code (IEBC) (Effective date: April 11, 2016). Note: It shall be the responsibility of the Design Professional to provide concise step-by-step compliance with Maryland Rehabilitation Code.

The livability code provides protection to the renter, violations include:

  • Defective roofs, windows, frames, stairs or steps, chimney, porches, and handrails
  • Garbage not stored in trash receptacles
  • High grass and weeds
  • Defective interior surfaces (i.e., ceilings, walls, floors, etc., as well as unsound exterior, such as paint, walls, structure or other surfaces)
  • Plumbing facilities (i.e., bathtub or shower, kitchen sink, water closet, and lavatory)
  • Rodent and insect control
  • Unsanitary or unsafe conditions

FOR LOCAL AMENDMENTS

All local amendments are free to the public upon request by calling the County Council’s Office at 410-887-3196.

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Contact Us

Building Plans Review

County Office Building
111 West Chesapeake Avenue
Room 110
Towson, Maryland 21204

Hours

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

Email

paibldgrvw@baltimorecountymd.gov

Phone

410-887-3985

Fax

410-887-4217

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