How to convert SFH to MFH in Baltimore County

[Heather Canoles]

Is it possible to legally convert a SFH to a MFH (i.e. legal basement apartment) in Baltimore County, MD?

A few months ago, I had a very frustrating search for a duplex to buy, but every time I called the county to verify a listing's legality, I got bad news. I then asked if it was even possible to have a duplex/MFH in Baltimore County. The answer was "it's hard".

So now I am just trying to find the laws/codes I would need to follow to legally convert a basement into an apartment. Does anyone know where I can find this? I feel like I've googled to no end, but maybe I'm missing something. I've tried reading through the zoning regulations, but it doesn't tell me how to make a legal MFH. It just says that that it is legal in some areas

I hope someone can help. Thanks.