Search and Check Baltimore City Permits

This page helps users handle permits in Baltimore City, Maryland, including permit searches, applications, inspections, payments, and staff contacts for common questions.

Baltimore City permits are handled through the E-Permits Portal and the Baltimore City Department of Housing and Community Development.

E-Permits portal permit search

Use Baltimore City Accela Citizen Access to search permit and inspection records online. You can view permit and license registration information without creating an account.

Have as much detail ready as possible before searching:

• Record number or record type
• Project name or date range
• Site address or parcel number
• Contractor license information
• Contact name or business name

The record number is the best search detail when you have it. If not, use address, parcel, license, or contact information to narrow the results.

• Open the search permits and inspections records page.
• Choose the search type from the drop-down menu.
• Enter the permit, address, parcel, license, or contact details you have.
• Select the matching blue record number in the results.
• Use the “Record Info” menu to review details such as status, attachments, or processing information.

Status note: A green checkmark in processing status means that a task is completed. It does not by itself mean the task was accepted, approved, or passed.

Permit applications and E-Permits accounts

Permit applications are processed online through the E-Permits system. An account is needed to start a new permit application, continue an application, schedule inspections, create amendments, and use all portal services.

If you had a previous account, create a new E-Permits account. If you used ePlans or ProjectDox, use the same email account so prior records can connect correctly. Permits created before February 3, 2025 may need to be connected through the PIN record number process.

Users may also visit 417 E Fayette Street to complete an application at a kiosk, Monday through Friday, 8:30 AM to 3:30 PM. For the best portal experience, use Google Chrome or Microsoft Edge.

Permit information to prepare

Permit applications require basic project details and may require additional documents based on the permit category and type of work.

• Applicant role in the project
• Property owner address and contact information
• Property address for the permit
• Description of the work, event, or change of use
• Estimated cost of the project or work
• Existing and proposed use of the address
• Contractor name and license number, when required
• Supporting documents in PDF format, when applicable

Some permit categories also require drawings, plans, structural details, site plans, fire-related letters, or other supporting documents.

Common permit categories

Baltimore City permit requirements vary by project type. Choose the permit category that best matches the work before starting an application.

• One and Two Family Combo Permit for many residential construction, alteration, trade, and underpinning projects
• Commercial and Multifamily Combo Permit for commercial, multifamily, and many trade-system projects
• Use and Occupancy Permit for new construction, tenant changes, ownership changes, use changes, vacant building notice removal, and public swimming pools
• Razing and Moving Permit for demolition or moving a building or structure
• Temporary Event Permit for temporary events on private property

Minor repairs may not need a permit unless an item is completely replaced or significantly changed. Renovations, modifications, and reconstructions generally require permit review.

Inspections, payments, and permit status

All permits require inspections by Department of Housing Building and Trade Inspectors. Inspections can be scheduled online through the E-Permits system after logging into an account.

Permit fees can be paid through the online system or at the One-Stop Shop Permit Center before a permit is issued. Online check payments are free, while credit card payments are subject to a small fee. After payment, the permit is sent by email.

Application status can be reviewed in real time through the E-Permits portal. Users can also check permit status without logging in by using Advanced Search, selecting “Permits and Inspections,” and entering permit details.

Special referrals and ePlans review

Some permits require review by another department or agency before approval. Referral needs depend on the property, project location, and type of work.

• Properties in City Historic Districts may require CHAP review and a Notice-To-Proceed.
• Floodplain properties may trigger floodplain review.
• Design review may apply to listed development types, signs, districts, or larger projects.
• Forest conservation review may apply to grading or building permits involving disturbance of 5,000 square feet or more.
• Temporary structures, temporary events, Minor Privilege items, and zoning issues may require additional review.

Certain projects require ePlans review through ProjectDox. The Plans Review section reviews construction plans for architectural, structural, electrical, mechanical, and plumbing code compliance.

If you are unsure whether ePlans review is required, contact the Plans Review Office before submitting.

Existing permits and unpermitted work

Before reporting construction without a visible permit, check whether a permit exists for the property. Baltimore City provides an existing permit search for that review.

Major construction without a visible permit can be reported by calling 311 and choosing the option for “Construction Without Building Permit.” Users outside Baltimore City can call (443) 263-2220.

To contest a fine for unpermitted work, submit the Request for Reduction of Surcharge form to the Building Official at 417 E. Fayette Street, Room 202, Baltimore, MD 21202.

Permit contacts

Use these contacts for permit, licensing, inspection, zoning, plans review, and related review questions.

• Permits Office — 417 E Fayette Street. Phone: (443) 984-1809. Email: [email protected]
• Construction and trade licensing — Email: [email protected]
• Construction inspection questions related to issued permits — Phone: (410) 396-3470. Email: [email protected]
• Zoning Office — Phone: (410) 396-4126. Email: [email protected]
• Plans Review Office — 417 E. Fayette Street, Rm. 101. Phone: (410) 396-3460. Email: [email protected]
• Green Building Compliance — Email: [email protected]
• City Operator — City Hall - Room 250, 100 N. Holliday St, Baltimore, MD 21202. Phone: (410) 396-3100. Hours: Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM
• 311 service — Call 3-1-1 within City of Baltimore. Outside City call: (443) 263-2220