Baltimore City Launches Map Detailing Proposed Bill’s Community Impact

Baltimore City launched an interactive map to help residents visualize how proposed zoning changes will impact city neighborhoods. 

Last week, the City of Baltimore launched a Housing Options and Opportunities Interactive Map to help residents visualize how proposed zoning changes will impact Baltimore City neighborhoods. Residents can use this tool to see how the bill, if passed, could possibly impact their block and surrounding areas.

According to the press release:

“This legislation is about lowering housing costs and giving homeowners the flexibility to make reasonable, safe upgrades to their property if they choose to,” said Mayor Brandon M. Scott. “We’re specifically focused on areas where it is nearly impossible to build multifamily housing due to outdated, strict zoning codes. This interactive map gives residents a clear look at the potential changes that would be allowed under this bill, so our communities can engage in this conversation with transparency and confidence.”

Users can easily search their address or explore their neighborhood on the map to see what properties in their vicinity meet the bill’s requirement for adding additional units. The map’s findings also show several impacts of the bill:

  • Most Homes Will Not be Affected: The vast majority of Baltimore homes are under 1,500 square feet and would see no impact under the bill.
  • Duplex Options for Some Homes: Properties around 1,500 – 2,250 sq. ft., could be converted into duplexes — but only if the homeowner chooses to pursue the conversion.
  • Minority of Homes Can Add 3-4 Additional Units: Only the largest homes would qualify to be converted into 3 (2,250 sq. ft.+) or 4 (3,000 sq. ft. +) units, representing a small fraction of Baltimore’s homes.
  • Multifamily Homes Aren’t New: The map highlights pre-existing multifamily homes that most city blocks already have, showing that duplexes, triplexes, and fourplexes are not new to Baltimore’s neighborhoods.

Housing is set to be a significant focus during the upcoming legislative session, with counties working proactively to develop local solutions to complex problems. Check out: