Anne Arundel County Office of Planning and Zoning – Annapolis, MD

Anne Arundel County Office of Planning and Zoning

The Office of Planning and Zoning (OPZ), located at the Heritage Office Complex on Riva Road in Annapolis, is responsible for managing the physical development and land use within Anne Arundel County. This government agency enforces zoning codes, reviews development plans, and issues necessary permits to ensure safe and orderly growth.

Key Services and Divisions

• Zoning Administration: Handling variance requests, special exceptions, and interpreting the county zoning ordinance.
• Permitting Center: Processing residential and commercial building permits, trade permits (electrical, plumbing), and grading permits.
• Development Review: Evaluating subdivision plans and site development applications for code compliance.
• Code Enforcement: Investigating zoning violations and ensuring property standards are met.

Visit and Application Information

Most permit applications and fee payments have transitioned to the online Land Use Navigator system. However, the physical office remains open for specific inquiries and document drop-offs.

• Online Services: Utilization of the digital portal is highly encouraged for faster processing of applications and payments.
• Payment Methods: The office accepts checks and money orders for in-person transactions. Credit card payments are typically processed online.
• Appointments: While some walk-in services are available, scheduling an appointment is recommended for complex zoning consultations.