In a key step in the city’s $3 billion plan to address vacant homes, Baltimore is set to name a “permit czar” and a complementary advisory board to
streamline its permitting process.
The introduction of the czar comes alongside a broader initiative dubbed “Bmore FAST” by Mayor Brandon M. Scott. In addition to the czar, the Mayor’s Office will create an advisory group made up of critical stakeholders in contracting and development, small businesses, and architecture. This group will serve to recommend further reforms to the permitting process.
“Baltimore stands at a historic crossroads with our $3 billion investment plan to transform vacant properties over the next 15 years and significant amounts of investment pouring into every corner of our city,” said Mayor Brandon M. Scott. “To maximize this unprecedented opportunity, we must ensure our development processes don’t become roadblocks to progress. The Bmore FAST initiative provides a clear roadmap for making Baltimore’s development processes more efficient while maintaining our commitment to safety and community interests.” – Baltimore City Press Release
The czar’s appointment will follow the city’s June 2026 budget approval. The czar will oversee various city departments that handle permits, such as the Departments of Planning, Public Works, and Transportation.
Baltimore City’s permitting process has been particularly challenging historically. The appointment of the czar and the advisory board comes alongside a recently launched e-permitting platform initiative to improve transparency for permit applicants by providing clear timelines and status updates.
As Baltimore City embarks on its $3 billion, 15-year plan to revitalize 35,000 vacant properties, officials emphasize that effective permit reform is crucial to avoid hindering the ambitious redevelopment efforts.
In the long run, city officials are considering centralizing the permitting process under a single office. In the meantime, the czar’s role is seen as critical to addressing system bottlenecks and improving efficiency.
