Deck Permit in Baltimore, MD (2026)

Everything you need to know about getting a deck permit in Baltimore: fees, requirements, exemptions, and direct links to the Department of Housing & Community Development (DHCD).

Verified from official Baltimore sources — Last checked April 2026

Quick Facts for Baltimore

Permit Fees

$10 for each 100 square feet or fraction of 100 square feet of deck area above footing.

A 300 sq ft deck: approximately $30 in building permit fees plus any plan review fees.

Processing Time

Most permits are valid for 6 months. Processing time varies.

Apply Online

Yes — via Baltimore ePermits

Building Code

International Building Code with Baltimore City amendments

Do You Need a Deck Permit in Baltimore?

Permit Exemption

A permit is required to build a deck on a residential house. Check with DHCD for any specific exemptions.

If your deck does NOT meet all exemption criteria, you must obtain a permit before construction. Building without a required permit can result in fines, stop-work orders, and required demolition.

Baltimore-Specific Deck Rules

Baltimore has a dedicated "Deck & Balcony Construction Details" document for plan review
Fees are based on square footage ($10 per 100 sq ft) — not valuation-based like most cities
Online ePermits system available — payments by check are free, credit card has a small fee
Permit holders must schedule all necessary inspections
Baltimore has many historic districts — check if your property requires historic review
One-Stop Shop Permit Center available for in-person assistance

How to Get a Deck Permit in Baltimore

1

Check if your deck needs a permit

Review the exemption criteria above. If your deck exceeds any threshold, a permit is required.

2

Prepare your plans

You'll need a site plan, deck dimensions, framing details, and footing specifications. Check Baltimore's specific documentation requirements.

3

Submit your application

Apply through Baltimore ePermits . Pay the permit fee at submission.

4

Build and schedule inspections

Once approved, post your permit visibly and schedule required inspections (typically footing, framing, and final).

Official Baltimore Resources

Baltimore ePermits — Apply for Permits Online Fee Schedule Deck-Specific Requirements

Estimate Your Deck Cost

Get an instant cost estimate for your deck project in Baltimore.

Deck Cost Calculator

Sources

https://www.baltimorecity.gov/dhcd/our-work/permits-inspections/building-permitshttps://dhcd.baltimorecity.gov/pi/e-permitshttps://codes.baltimorecity.gov/us/md/cities/baltimore/code/building-codes/II/109

Data verified April 2026. Fees, processing times, and requirements are subject to change. Always confirm current information with Baltimore's Department of Housing & Community Development (DHCD).