On this page 6
When a permit is required
Permit triggers and exempt work for Berlin
A permit is required for new construction, additions, alterations, demolition, sign installation, fencing, and grading/excavation within Town limits. Residential rental properties also require a rental license from the Town.
Note: Not separately published; consult the Town's adopted building code exemptions and the Planning Department at 410-629-1483. Historic District properties should assume no exterior modification is automatically exempt -- confirm with the HDC or Planning Department.
- Completed permit application
- Site plan or survey
- Construction drawings as appropriate to project type
- Historic District Commission application (if applicable)
- Contractor license information
- Building code
- The Town enforces the 2012 International Building Code for permit issuance and related inspections. Note: This is an older edition than the statewide 2021 Maryland building code; property owners and contractors should confirm the current adopted edition with the Town at 410-629-1483, as Maryland encourages adoption of current codes and the 2021 edition is mandated statewide. International Property Maintenance Code is also enforced.
- Permit validity
- Not specified in publicly available materials; confirm with the Planning Department
- Owner-builder
- Maryland MHIC exemption for owner-occupied primary residences applies; confirm with the Town
- Contractor requirements
- MHIC license required for home improvement work on residential properties per Maryland state law. Confirm any additional Town of Berlin contractor licensing requirements with the department.
Application process
Typical processing: Contact the department at 410-629-1483 for current turnaround times
- 01 Confirm the property is within Berlin Town limits.
- 02 Determine whether Historic District Commission (HDC) review is needed. If the property is in Berlin's Historic District, any exterior modification requires an HDC application and public meeting review before or alongside the building permit process.
- 03 Download and complete the appropriate permit application form (Building Permit, Demolition, Fence, Sign, Grading/Excavation).
- 04 Prepare required supporting documents (site plan, construction drawings, contractor license information).
- 05 Submit the completed application with required fee to the Planning and Zoning Department at #3 Bay Street.
- 06 Staff reviews the application for completeness and code compliance.
- 07 Once approved, permit is issued. Post permit on job site before beginning work.
- 08 Schedule required inspections as work progresses.
- 09 Receive final inspection and certificate of use and occupancy upon completion.
Typical processing time: Contact the department at 410-629-1483 for current turnaround times
Fee schedule
Effective January 12, 2026
Fees submitted with the permit application at the department office
Fees change periodically. Confirm at the official fee schedule ↗ (effective January 12, 2026) before budgeting.
Required inspections
Scheduling and sequence
- 410-629-1483 (phone)
Typical sequence: Staff conducts routine exterior property inspections for International Property Maintenance Code compliance; building permit inspections are conducted at required milestones. HDC may require compliance inspection for authorized exterior work. Final inspection required before certificate of use and occupancy is issued.
Frequently asked
Common questions about Berlin permits
01 Do I need a building permit in Berlin, MD? ▸
02 How much does a building permit cost in Berlin, MD? ▸
03 How do I apply for a building permit in Berlin, MD? ▸
04 How long does it take to get a building permit in Berlin, MD? ▸
05 How do I schedule a building inspection in Berlin, MD? ▸
Educational reference. Permit rules and fees change — confirm current requirements directly with Town of Berlin Planning and Zoning Department before applying. Jaspector is not legal advice.