Maryland (MD) Building Permit & Cost Directory
Explore municipal permit requirements, Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) contractor wages, and real-time residential cost calculators across all 24 counties in Maryland for 2026.
Maryland Residential Building Code & Licensing Overview
Statewide compliance standards and contractor mandates
Residential home renovations in Maryland are regulated under the state building code adapted from the International Residential Code (IRC). Permits are mandated for all structural repairs, complete roof replacements exceeding 100-200 square feet, HVAC compressor and furnace retrofits, and electrical service upgrades.
General contractors and trade specialists must carry valid state licenses and verified worker's compensation coverage.
Homeowners may pull permits on their primary dwelling, assuming full civil liability for code compliance and passing inspections.
Find Your County in MD
Type your county or city name below to instantly isolate local building departments and cost calculators.
All Maryland Counties (24)
Click any county below to calculate local permit costs, view inspector notes, and check trade wages.
Allegany County
Est. Permit: $158 • BLS $33.72/hr
Anne Arundel County
Est. Permit: $158 • BLS $33.72/hr
Baltimore City
Est. Permit: $158 • BLS $33.72/hr
Baltimore County
Est. Permit: $158 • BLS $33.72/hr
Calvert County
Est. Permit: $158 • BLS $33.72/hr
Caroline County
Est. Permit: $158 • BLS $33.72/hr
Carroll County
Est. Permit: $158 • BLS $33.72/hr
Cecil County
Est. Permit: $158 • BLS $33.72/hr
Charles County
Est. Permit: $158 • BLS $33.72/hr
Dorchester County
Est. Permit: $158 • BLS $33.72/hr
Frederick County
Est. Permit: $158 • BLS $33.72/hr
Garrett County
Est. Permit: $158 • BLS $33.72/hr
Harford County
Est. Permit: $158 • BLS $33.72/hr
Howard County
Est. Permit: $158 • BLS $33.72/hr
Kent County
Est. Permit: $158 • BLS $33.72/hr
Montgomery County
Est. Permit: $158 • BLS $33.72/hr
Prince Georges County
Est. Permit: $158 • BLS $33.72/hr
Queen Annes County
Est. Permit: $158 • BLS $33.72/hr
Saint Marys County
Est. Permit: $158 • BLS $33.72/hr
Somerset County
Est. Permit: $158 • BLS $33.72/hr
Talbot County
Est. Permit: $158 • BLS $33.72/hr
Washington County
Est. Permit: $158 • BLS $33.72/hr
Wicomico County
Est. Permit: $158 • BLS $33.72/hr
Worcester County
Est. Permit: $158 • BLS $33.72/hr
Frequently Asked Questions: Maryland Building Permits
How much does a building permit typically cost in Maryland?
Across Maryland, the baseline residential permit filing fee averages $158.08. Total permit costs are calculated based on valuation formulas (typically $5 to $15 per $1,000 of project value) plus electrical, mechanical, and plan review inspection surcharges.
Do I need a building permit for roof replacement in Maryland?
Yes. In virtually all Maryland county jurisdictions, roof replacements involving more than 100 square feet (1 roofing square) or involving any structural decking, rafter, or truss repair require a formal building permit and at least one in-progress or final roof inspection.
What is the average trade wage for contractors in Maryland?
According to the latest Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), the median hourly rate for licensed residential construction trades in Maryland is approximately $33.72/hr, varying based on metropolitan vs rural location.