# § 5-406 Approval standards.

Current through 2026-07-17. Source: City of Balt., Md., Ord. 26-129. Published by the Baltimore City Department of Legislative Reference.

## § 5-406 Approval standards.

Balt., Md., Code art. 32, § 5-406 (2026)

(a) As a guide to its decision on the facts of each case, the Board of Municipal and Zoning Appeals or the City Council must consider the following, where appropriate:

  (1) the nature of the proposed site, including its size and shape and the proposed size, shape, and arrangement of structures;

  (2) the resulting traffic patterns and adequacy of proposed off-street parking and loading;

  (3) the nature of the surrounding area and the extent to which the proposed use might impair its present and future development;

  (4) the proximity of dwellings, churches, schools, public structures, and other places of public gathering;

  (5) accessibility of the premises for emergency vehicles;

  (6) accessibility of light and air to the premises and to the property in the vicinity;

  (7) the type and location of adequate utilities, access roads, drainage, and other necessary facilities that have been or will be provided;

  (8) the preservation of cultural and historic landmarks and structures;

  (9) the character of the neighborhood;

  (10) the provisions of the City’s Comprehensive Master Plan;

  (11) the provisions of any applicable Urban Renewal Plan;

  (12) all applicable standards and requirements of this Code;

  (13) the intent and purpose of this Code; and

  (14) any other matters considered to be in the interest of the general welfare.

(b) The Board of Municipal and Zoning Appeals or the City Council, may not approve a conditional use or sign unless, after public notice and hearing and on consideration of the standards required by this subtitle, the Board or Council finds that:

  (1) the establishment, location, construction, maintenance, or operation of the conditional use or sign would not be detrimental to or endanger the public health, safety, or welfare;

  (2) the use or sign would not be precluded by any other law, including an applicable Urban Renewal Plan;

  (3) the authorization would not be contrary to the public interest; and

  (4) the authorization would be in harmony with the purpose and intent of this Code.

*History: Ord. 16-581*

*History: Ord. 17-015*

*History: Ord. 22-181*

*History: *