Site Plan for Permit in Baltimore, MD | Fast Drawings

Example of a detailed residential site plan showing the property layout, existing improvements, access, dimensions, and surrounding site features.

Planning a home addition, detached garage, deck, parking pad, shed, fence, swimming pool, porch, or another residential project in Baltimore?

Your permit application may require a site plan showing where the proposed work will be located on the property. A clear drawing helps permit reviewers understand the relationship between the project, property boundaries, the existing house, adjoining rowhouses, alleys, streets, driveways, easements, setbacks, and other site improvements.

Baltimore City’s permit resources include separate guidance for applications that require drawings, sketches, or site plans. The exact documents depend on the type of construction and the scope of the proposed work.^[1]

What Is a Residential Permit Site Plan?

A residential site plan is a scaled overhead drawing of a property. It shows the arrangement of existing structures and the location of proposed construction within the lot.

A site plan is different from a floor plan. A floor plan shows rooms, doors, walls, stairs, and interior spaces. A site plan focuses on the exterior property and helps answer questions such as:

• Where will the proposed structure or improvement be located?
• What are its outside dimensions?
• How far will it be from each property line?
• How close will it be to the existing house or an adjoining building?
• Will it affect an alley, driveway, sidewalk, easement, or public right-of-way?
• How much of the lot will be occupied by buildings or paving?
• Does the proposed location appear consistent with the property’s zoning district?

A site plan is usually only one part of the permit package. Depending on the work, Baltimore may also require floor plans, elevations, structural details, engineering calculations, product information, historic-preservation approval, or a survey prepared by a Maryland-licensed land surveyor.

Confirm That the Property Is in Baltimore City

This guide focuses on permits reviewed by Baltimore City. Baltimore City and Baltimore County are separate permitting jurisdictions with different zoning codes, application systems, and review procedures.

Baltimore City provides CityView and other interactive mapping tools that can be used to research parcel information, ownership, zoning, historic districts, plan boundaries, and nearby development activity.^[2]

Before preparing the final permit package, confirm that the address is within Baltimore City and identify the correct zoning district and any special review areas that affect the property.

Baltimore Projects That May Require a Site Plan

The required documents depend on the project. A site plan is commonly requested when construction changes the building footprint, yard layout, parking arrangement, access, or location of an exterior improvement.

What a Baltimore Residential Site Plan Should Show

The exact information depends on the project and permit category. A useful residential site plan should provide enough detail for reviewers to understand the property without having to guess.

1. Property Address, Block, and Lot Information

Identify the full project address clearly. When available, include the property’s block and lot numbers so the drawing can be matched to City records and the permit application.

2. Property Lines and Lot Dimensions

Show the property boundaries and the known length of each lot line. These measurements create the framework used to place the proposed work and calculate setbacks.

Baltimore’s formal Site Plan Review Manual also instructs applicants to show property lines and dimensions clearly and to distinguish existing boundaries from proposed changes.^[3]

Use an existing boundary survey when one is available. Public maps and aerial imagery can assist with drafting, but they do not certify the legal location of a property line.

3. Existing Buildings and Improvements

Show the existing house, additions, garages, sheds, decks, porches, steps, retaining walls, fences, parking areas, driveways, and other improvements that affect the project.

On a Baltimore rowhouse lot, this may include the adjoining party-wall buildings, rear extensions, alley, rear yard, existing deck, parking pad, and accessory structures.

4. Proposed Construction

Clearly label the proposed project and show its length, width, and location. Use different line styles, shading, notes, or a legend to distinguish proposed work from existing construction.

The City’s formal site-plan checklist asks plans to identify the location and size of existing and proposed improvements, including additions, walls, fences, paving, porches, and similar projections.^[3]

5. Setback and Separation Measurements

Show the distance from the proposed work to the front, rear, and side property lines where applicable. Also show the distance between the project and nearby buildings, accessory structures, equipment, or other improvements.

Baltimore does not have one universal residential setback. Requirements vary among detached, semi-detached, rowhouse, and multi-family zoning districts. The City’s zoning tables also regulate lot coverage, impervious surface, building height, and yard dimensions by district.^[4][5]

6. Streets, Alleys, Sidewalks, and Access

Label adjoining streets, alleys, sidewalks, footways, driveway entrances, curb cuts, and other access points that relate to the property.

Alleys are especially important for many Baltimore properties because rear garages, parking pads, trash collection, and construction access may depend on the alley.

7. Driveways and Parking Areas

Show existing and proposed driveways, parking pads, garages, aprons, and paved surfaces. Include dimensions and indicate how vehicles will enter from the street or alley.

Baltimore’s residential building code states that driveway entrances located on a public right-of-way must comply with Department of Transportation rules and permit requirements. Parking areas must also comply with the Zoning Code and City Planning Commission regulations.^[6]

8. Easements and Rights-of-Way

Show known utility, drainage, access, sewer, alley, or other easements. Also identify public rights-of-way that touch or cross the project area.

Easement information may be found on a property survey, recorded subdivision plat, deed, title report, or other official land record.

9. North Arrow, Scale, and Legend

Include a north arrow, written or graphic drawing scale, clear labels, and a legend when different lines or symbols are used.

Baltimore’s formal site-plan standards ask for a north arrow, a legend, and a written and graphic scale so the drawing can be interpreted consistently.^[3]

10. Lot Coverage and Impervious Surface

Show the footprint of existing and proposed buildings and paved areas when lot coverage or impervious-surface limits are relevant.

Baltimore’s residential zoning tables establish different maximum lot-coverage and impervious-surface limits depending on the zoning district and building type. This means a project may fit physically in the yard but still exceed the permitted coverage for the property.^[4][5]

11. Drainage and Paved-Surface Direction

Show relevant slopes, drains, downspouts, paved areas, and drainage directions when the project changes existing runoff.

Baltimore’s residential code requires stormwater from paved surfaces to be properly conveyed and prohibits discharging drainage across adjoining property. It also restricts runoff across sidewalks except at an approved driveway with a depressed curb.^[6]

12. Existing and Proposed Uses

Label what each major structure or area is used for, such as dwelling, garage, storage shed, parking pad, deck, pool, or proposed addition.

This helps reviewers understand whether the structure is accessory to the residence and whether a change in use is part of the application.

Special Considerations for Baltimore Rowhouse Properties

Baltimore’s many rowhouse lots can create site-planning issues that are different from those on a detached suburban property.

A rowhouse site plan may need to show:

• The full width and depth of the narrow lot
• Party walls shared with adjoining buildings
• The existing rear extension or porch
• Rear-yard depth and lot coverage
• The public alley or footway behind the property
• Rear parking pads or garages
• Deck stairs and landings
• Fences and gates affecting access
• Existing and proposed roof projections

Rowhouse zoning districts have their own lot-coverage, impervious-surface, front-yard, rear-yard, and side-yard standards. Some requirements also vary according to whether a lot borders an alley or whether full lot coverage is permitted in the applicable district.^[5]

Baltimore Home Addition Site Plans

A home addition changes the footprint of the principal building, so the site plan should make the existing and proposed portions easy to distinguish.

Show:

• The existing house footprint
• The proposed addition footprint and dimensions
• Distances to the rear and side property lines
• Nearby buildings and accessory structures
• Decks, porches, stairs, and roof projections
• The alley, street, driveway, or parking area
• Existing and proposed lot coverage

An addition that attaches to an existing garage or accessory structure may change how that structure is treated under the Zoning Code. Baltimore considers an accessory structure attached to the principal building by a wall or roof to be part of the principal structure.^[7]

Baltimore Shed and Detached Garage Site Plans

Detached sheds, garages, and workshops are accessory structures. Their placement can be affected by the zoning district, required yards, lot coverage, rear-yard coverage, height, alley access, and relationship to the principal house.

Baltimore’s Zoning Code states that an accessory structure must be on the same lot as the principal use. Unless another rule applies, accessory structures may not occupy more than 50% of the required rear yard, may not exceed 15 feet in height, and must comply with the yard requirements of the zoning district.^[7]

A useful accessory-structure site plan should show:

• The shed or garage dimensions
• The structure height when relevant
• Rear- and side-yard placement
• The existing house
• Other backyard structures
• Alley or driveway access
• Parking-pad dimensions
• Existing and proposed rear-yard coverage

Baltimore Deck and Porch Site Plans

Deck and porch applications may need a site plan together with structural drawings. The site plan explains the project’s location, while the structural drawings explain how the deck, stairs, landings, posts, beams, and footings will be constructed.

A deck site plan should normally identify:

• The deck footprint and outside dimensions
• The distance to property lines
• The house and adjoining structures
• Stairs and landings
• Posts or footings when requested
• Fences and gates
• Alley or rear-yard access
• Existing sheds, garages, and parking pads

Rooftop decks have additional structural and code requirements and should not be treated as a simple ground-level deck project.

Baltimore Pool and Spa Site Plans

A pool site plan should show more than the outline of the water area. Reviewers may also need to understand the location of the deck, equipment, barriers, gates, nearby buildings, property lines, and access.

Baltimore’s Building Code requires pools, spas, and hot tubs to comply with the applicable swimming-pool code, other building-code provisions, Health Department regulations, and the location requirements of the Zoning Code.^[8]

A useful pool site plan can show:

• The pool or spa dimensions
• The pool deck or paved area
• Distances to property lines and structures
• Pool equipment and mechanical pads
• Fences, barriers, and gates
• Overhead or underground utilities when known
• Easements and drainage areas

Baltimore Driveway and Parking-Pad Site Plans

Driveway and parking projects can affect zoning, alley access, paving, drainage, curb cuts, and the public right-of-way.

The site plan should show:

• The proposed driveway or parking-pad dimensions
• The surface material
• The street or alley connection
• The curb, sidewalk, or public right-of-way
• The garage or house served by the parking area
• Existing and proposed drainage direction
• Distances to property lines

Work affecting a public right-of-way may require separate Department of Transportation approval. Baltimore’s Right-of-Way Permit Section handles permits for certain uses and work within City rights-of-way.^[9]

Check Baltimore Zoning Before Finalizing the Layout

A project can fit physically within the yard but still conflict with zoning requirements.

Zoning can affect:

• Front-, side-, and rear-yard setbacks
• Maximum lot coverage
• Maximum impervious surface
• Building and accessory-structure height
• Rear-yard coverage
• Parking and driveway arrangements
• Permitted residential uses
• Historic or special planning review

Baltimore’s detached and semi-detached districts have different bulk and yard standards from its rowhouse and multi-family districts. Do not copy a setback from another property without confirming the zoning classification and rules that apply to the subject lot.^[4][5]

Site Plan Versus a Licensed Property Survey

A drafting-based site plan and a licensed boundary survey are different services.

A drafting-based plan does not establish or certify legal property boundaries.

A licensed survey may be required when:

• The City specifically requests a survey or sealed existing-conditions plan.
• The property corners or boundaries cannot be identified reliably.
• The project is close to a property line or easement.
• A boundary disagreement exists.
• Certified elevations or topographical information are required.
• The project involves subdivision or a lot-line adjustment.
• An architect, engineer, lender, or title company requires certification.

Baltimore’s formal Site Plan Review Manual requires the existing-conditions drawing used in that process to include the seal and signature of a Maryland-licensed land surveyor. A typical small residential permit may follow a different checklist, so the project-specific requirements should always control.^[3]

How Baltimore’s Online Permit Process Works

Baltimore City accepts permit applications through its E-Permits system. Applicants create an account, begin the correct permit application, submit project information, and follow the instructions provided for the selected permit category.^[10]

Some permit types require plans review through ProjectDox. The City advises applicants to check whether the proposed permit requires an ePlans submission and to upload the requested drawings and documents through the assigned project.^[11]

The general process may include:

1. Creating an E-Permits account
2. Selecting the correct permit category
3. Completing the online application
4. Uploading drawings and supporting documents when required
5. Responding to review comments
6. Submitting revised plans when requested
7. Paying the required fees
8. Receiving the permit and approved plans

The drawing requirements vary according to the project. A simple residential improvement may use a smaller drawing package, while a major addition or complex development may require plans prepared by licensed professionals.

Common Site Plan Mistakes That Can Delay Review

Property Lines Are Missing or Unclear

The proposed structure cannot be evaluated properly when the drawing does not clearly show the lot boundaries.

The Proposed Work Has No Dimensions

Show the length and width of the addition, deck, garage, shed, pool, driveway, or other project.

Setback Measurements Are Omitted

A project outline without distances to property lines does not give reviewers enough information to evaluate its placement.

Existing and Proposed Work Look Identical

Use labels, shading, line styles, or a legend to show what already exists and what will be built or removed.

The Alley or Parking Area Is Left Off

Rear alleys, garages, and parking pads are important features on many Baltimore lots. Leaving them off can make the site layout incomplete.

Lot Coverage Is Not Considered

A rear addition, shed, garage, deck, or parking area may increase lot coverage or impervious surface beyond what the zoning district allows.

Drainage Is Directed Toward a Neighbor

New paving and construction should not direct runoff across adjoining property. Show relevant drainage information when the project changes existing surface flow.

Online Parcel Lines Are Treated as Surveyed Boundaries

Online maps can help with preliminary drafting, but they do not normally establish the precise legal location of a boundary. Use a licensed survey when legal accuracy is required.

What to Send When Ordering a Baltimore Site Plan

Providing complete information at the beginning helps the drafting process move faster.

Helpful documents and details include:

• The full property address
• A description of the proposed work
• The proposed length, width, and height
• The preferred project location
• An existing boundary survey or location drawing
• A recorded plat or previous site plan
• Architectural or contractor drawings
• A marked-up sketch showing the proposed placement
• Measurements from the project to property lines
• Photographs of the front, rear, and project area
• Permit-review comments or correction notices
• Known information about alleys, easements, utilities, or drainage

When no survey is available, public property information, aerial imagery, photographs, and customer-supplied measurements may be used as drafting references. These sources do not certify the legal boundary.

Fast Residential Site Plan Drawings for Baltimore

USA Site Plans prepares clear residential site plans for homeowners, contractors, builders, permit expediters, property managers, and design professionals.

Depending on the available information and selected service, the drawing can show:

• Property boundaries and lot dimensions
• The existing house and accessory structures
• The proposed construction footprint
• Setback and separation measurements
• Streets, sidewalks, alleys, and access
• Driveways, garages, and parking pads
• Known easements and utilities
• Fences, decks, porches, pools, and paving
• A north arrow, scale, dimensions, labels, and legend
• Additional project notes requested by the customer

The completed drawing can be used as part of a permit application when an unsigned drafting-based site plan is acceptable. Baltimore City makes the final decision regarding the documents and professional certifications required for approval.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Every Baltimore Residential Project Require a Site Plan?

No. The required documents depend on the type and scope of work. Projects that add a structure, enlarge a building, change parking, alter a driveway, or affect the exterior site layout are more likely to require a site plan.

Is Baltimore City the Same Permitting Authority as Baltimore County?

No. Baltimore City and Baltimore County have separate permit departments, zoning regulations, maps, and application procedures. Confirm the jurisdiction before preparing or submitting the permit package.

Can I Use an Old Property Survey?

An older survey can be a helpful starting point when it still accurately represents the property. A new survey may be required when structures have changed, boundaries are uncertain, or the City requests current certified information.

Can I Use a GIS Parcel Map Instead of a Survey?

A GIS map can support preliminary research and drafting, but it does not normally certify the legal property boundary. A Maryland-licensed surveyor should be used when certified boundary or elevation information is required.

Do I Need to Show the Rear Alley?

Show the alley when it borders the property, provides access, affects parking, or relates to the proposed project. Alley dimensions and access can be important for rear garages, decks, fences, and parking pads.

Are USA Site Plans Drawings Signed or Sealed?

Standard USA Site Plans drawings are not signed or sealed by a Maryland-licensed architect, engineer, or land surveyor. When Baltimore requires professional certification, structural engineering, or a licensed survey, the appropriate Maryland-licensed professional must be used.

Does Ordering a Site Plan Guarantee Permit Approval?

No. Baltimore City makes the final permitting and zoning decisions. A clear and complete drawing can reduce preventable questions, but additional drawings, surveys, calculations, revisions, or professional certifications may still be requested.

Official Baltimore Sources

1. 
   Baltimore City — Permit Guidelines and Forms
   
2. 
   Baltimore City — CityView Property and Planning Map
   
3. 
   Baltimore City — Site Plan Review Manual
   
4. 
   Baltimore City Zoning Code — Detached and Semi-Detached Residential Bulk and Yard Regulations
   
5. 
   Baltimore City Zoning Code — Rowhouse and Multi-Family Bulk and Yard Regulations
   
6. 
   Baltimore City Residential Code — Driveways and Other Paved Surfaces
   
7. 
   Baltimore City Zoning Code — Accessory Structure General Regulations
   
8. 
   Baltimore City Building Code — Swimming Pools, Spas, and Hot Tubs
   
9. 
   Baltimore City Department of Transportation — Right-of-Way Permits
   
10. 
    Baltimore City — Building Permits and E-Permits
    
11. 
    Baltimore City — Permits Requiring ProjectDox ePlans Review
    

Permit forms, zoning standards, fees, drawing requirements, and online procedures can change. Confirm the current requirements with Baltimore City or the government authority responsible for the property before submitting an application.