What does "Critical Areas" under zoning mean?
All property within 1,000 feet of a shoreline of the Chesapeake Bay and its tributaries lies within the "critical area." These areas have been identified by State law and under Annapolis zoning. They are classified as restricted for development, mainly in terms of the maximum amount of "lot coverage" per zoning lot, though there are other environmental restrictions that must be met. These regulations are in the form of an overlay zone which applies to a property in addition to those regulations of its underlying zoning classification. Contact a current planner to discuss specifics on lot coverage and other critical area regulations.

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1. If someone is interested in building a new house on a vacant lot recently purchased, which city agencies would be involved in the review process of this permit application?
2. I live in Eastport and want to add a family room and a second floor bedroom to my newly purchased dwelling. What should I do?
3. I have my eye on a commercial building for a possible coffee shop but am apprehensive about signing a tenant lease. What should I do?
4. Can an architect or engineer licensed in Virginia design and certify drawings for a project in Maryland?
5. Can an upper floor over a garage be remodeled to be used as a sewing room?
6. Can an owner add on to their house for their elderly mother-in-law?
7. What is zoning?
8. What are setback requirements for dwellings and storage sheds?
9. What is an administrative adjustment?
10. What is a variance?
11. What does "Critical Areas" under zoning mean?
12. Are temporary signs or banner signs permitted in the City?
13. Are off-site signs permitted?
14. What is a Planned Development?
15. I would like to do some renovations to my house. Are there any programs that can assist me?