Permit Extensions

When is this required?

Most building permits are valid for a period of 6 months, if your permit expires and work has not yet been completed, you can apply for an extension.

​

Permits expire if:

1. The work authorized by the permit is not begun on the site within 180 days after the permit is issued

2. The work authorized by the permit is abandoned or suspended on the site for 180 days or more.

3. When inspections occur, the expiration date is extended by 180 days.

​

Criteria for Approval: Must have an existing expired building permit (or active)

​

Required Supporting Documents: None required

​

Fees:

1. If applied for within or before the 30 day period following the permit’s expiration, the fee is $52.

2. If applied for 30-60 days following expiration, the fee is 50% of the original permit fee.

​

How to Apply:

1. Make an account on epermits: https://cels.baltimorehousing.org/permit/Account_Setup_01.aspx

2. Log onto your account: https://cels.baltimorehousing.org/permit/Account_Login.aspx

3. Click “add application” & Acknowledge the statement

4. For the permit category, select: “Permit extension/Change(or Add) contractor (requires original permit number)”

5. Continue to complete the project information page as if you are re-applying for the same exact permit and click continue.

6. On the “Step 1” page, enter the property address, and enter the original permit number, click the verify button for both, and then click next.

7. On the “Step 2” page, select “Permit Extension”, and then click next

8. Complete the “Step 3” page by adding your contractor, then click submit

​

Approval Timeline:

About 1-2 business days. (sometimes within hours of submission)

​

Department Contact Info:

Baltimore City Department of Housing & Community Development

Phone: 443-984-1809

Email: dhcd.permits@baltimorecity.gov

​

Additional Information:

1. Applications must be made within 60 days after the permit expires and each extension is limited to a period of 180 days or less, unless otherwise authorized by the Building Official.

2. If a permit has been expired for more than 60 days, you must file an application for permit reinstatement (see reinstatement guide).

3. A permit issued to comply with a condemnation notice or demolition order expires if:

   1. The work authorized by the permit is not begun on the site within 30 days after the permit is issued.

   2. The work authorized by the permit is not completed within 90 days after the permit is issued.

4. For a permit issued to comply with a condemnation notice or demolition order:

   1. The application for an extension must be made before the permit expires and each extension must be limited to a period of 90 days or less.

   2. The expiration date of a permit does not in any way extend the time required to comply with a violation notice or order.

5. See Baltimore City Article 00 Building, Fire, and Related Codes section 105.5 for more information: https://legislativereference.baltimorecity.gov/city-codes