Building Permits in Essex, MD

MD (unincorporated Baltimore County, ZIP 21221), a small at-grade accessory concrete slab of 120 square feet or less (a walkway or equipment pad) is generally exempt from a building permit under the 2021 IRC. A slab that forms part of a building foundation or will support a structure requires a permit from the Baltimore County Department of Permits, Approvals and Inspections (PAI). Call Miss Utility at 811 before any excavation.

MD (unincorporated Baltimore County, ZIP 21221), a freestanding deck not more than 30 inches above grade and not more than 200 square feet is generally exempt from a building permit under the 2021 IRC. A deck attached to the dwelling, or one higher than 30 inches, requires a building permit from the Baltimore County Department of Permits, Approvals and Inspections (PAI) because the ledger connection and guards are structural. Apply through the county's Cityworks PLL portal at cityworkspro.baltimorecountymd.gov/PLLPortal/.

MD (unincorporated Baltimore County, ZIP 21221), a fence 6 feet or less in height is generally exempt from a building permit under the 2021 IRC; a fence taller than 6 feet requires a building permit from the Baltimore County Department of Permits, Approvals and Inspections (PAI). County zoning still regulates fence height, especially in front yards and on corner lots. Confirm height limits with Baltimore County PAI.

MD (unincorporated Baltimore County, ZIP 21221), an at-grade uncovered concrete or paver patio is generally exempt from a building permit under the 2021 IRC. Adding a roof, cover, or screen enclosure makes it an accessory structure that requires a building permit from the Baltimore County Department of Permits, Approvals and Inspections (PAI).

MD (unincorporated Baltimore County, ZIP 21221), a retaining wall 4 feet or less measured from the bottom of the footing to the top of the wall, with no surcharge, is generally exempt from a building permit under the 2021 IRC. A wall over 4 feet, or any wall supporting a surcharge (slope or load), requires a building permit and engineered design from the Baltimore County Department of Permits, Approvals and Inspections (PAI). Provide drainage behind the wall.