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County adopts accessory‑dwelling rules, sets 1,200‑square‑foot maximum after debate
Summary
The Board of County Commissioners reached consensus to allow accessory dwelling units (ADUs) countywide with a maximum size limit of 1,200 square feet (or proportional limit) and standards for basements and attics; the decision implements state law requiring ADU authorization by Oct. 1, 2026.
The Washington County Board of County Commissioners approved a zoning text amendment (RZ25‑005) to permit accessory dwelling units (ADUs) in single‑family areas and other locations with standards for size, location and types, adopting a maximum of 1,200 square feet for an ADU in most cases.
Planning staffer Travis Allen summarized the amendments and the state context, telling commissioners the county must authorize ADUs for single‑family detached parcels "by 10/01/2026" under recently enacted Maryland law. Allen said the proposed changes set standards regulating location, number, size and type and included…
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