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Grading, easements and demolition in Prince George's County, MD

On a developed lot, grading needs no permit if you disturb no more than 5,000 sq ft at a time and under 100 cubic yards, change grade by 12 in or less without altering drainage, and stabilize bare soil promptly (§ 32-127). In the Critical Area every grading job needs a permit. Demolition needs a DPIE permit, and a HAWP at historic sites.

A person last checked these rules on October 20, 2026. This is guidance only, so confirm with Prince George's County before you build.

The details

  • No accessory structure may sit in a recorded easement or over a known utility.High confidence
  • Grading exception text from § 32-127(a)(6).High confidence

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Common questions

When do grading, easements or tearing something down need approval in Prince George's County?
On a developed lot, grading needs no permit if you disturb no more than 5,000 sq ft at a time and under 100 cubic yards, change grade by 12 in or less without altering drainage, and stabilize bare soil promptly (§ 32-127). In the Critical Area every grading job needs a permit. Demolition needs a DPIE permit, and a HAWP at historic sites.

Sources

  1. Prince George's County Zoning Ordinance §§ 27-2500 (definitions), 27-5102, 27-5202, 27-5203 (accessory uses). Checked 2026-10-21
    [Family] A group of not more than five individuals all or a part of whom are not related by blood, marriage, adoption, or legal guardianship... Family child care home, small: ...up to eight children... Family child care home, large: ...9 to 12 children... A…
  2. Prince George's County Code Subtitle 32, §§ 32-127 (exceptions to grading permit), 32-131 (soils report), 32-160 (slopes). Checked 2026-10-21
    [excluding property within the Chesapeake Bay Critical Area Overlay Zone, no grading permit is required for] (6) Grading, as a maintenance measure, or for landscaping or construction purposes on existing developed lots or parcels, provided: (A) The aggregat…

Disclaimer: This is general information, not legal or professional advice for any one property. Codes change. SetbackIQ is not a zoning determination, a permit, or a survey, and it does not replace an architect, engineer, or lawyer. Confirm with your building and zoning offices before you build, buy, or sign a contract.