R-8 Zoning Multifamily?

Question

I'm looking at a home that's zoned "R8", contains a single family home that I'd like to convert to multi-family.

R8 includes both single family and multi-family. Does that mean I'm all set and can break it up in to separate units, or do I need to get a permit or rezone or other things?

Also, if I do need to request it, is there a risk that it would get rejected for reasons other than the place being unfit for it? Like if the neighborhood already has too many MFH, then they stop allowing it?

Yannik Cudjoe-Virgil · Answer

@Tony Vicente you need to call zoning and ask them what you can do. If it's not already grandfathered in as a multi-unit, you take the lot area divided by 750 sqft/du (for R-8 zoning), and that's how you come up with how many units you can do. See zoning doc here. Please verify with zoning and ask them for a verification letter so you can have approval on hand.

Ozzy Sirimsi · Answer

You are basically changing the dwelling and Baltimore City is not gonna let you do it without getting your money :D))

Justin Williams · Answer

Currently in Baltimore City, per Section 9-701 of the Zoning Code, a conversion from single-family to multi-family (two or more units) in a residential zoning district is only permitted in the R-7 through R-10 zoning districts. Additionally, in the R-7 and R-8 Zoning Districts, you need a Conditional Use Ordinance from the City Council to authorize the conversion. It's a somewhat arbitrary process given that if you were to build from the ground up, you could do multifamily by right. There is legislation pending that would allow it to be done without a City Council Ordinance, but it's unclear if this legislation will pass.

There are occasionally opportunities for grandfathering if there is evidence of legally established conversions that were done previously, but no permit records exist to show it was done.

In addition to those above-referenced issues related to conversions, the additional unit(s) would require a parking space and enough lot area/gross floor area to meet the requirements in 9-703.

So to measure the risk, if you're in R-7 & R-8 it is entirely up to the local councilmember who covers the area as to whether or not they would be willing to introduce the legislation.

Marie B. · Answer

Were you able to get through the process? I have a vacant basement that I want to convert to a 4th unit but I’m not sure if the process or where to start to make sure it’s legal.

Eliott Elias · Answer

Ask the city.

Richard Adjou · Answer

I'm starting to go through the process now. Trying to convert a basement into a separate unit. Was there any feedback for you during the process?

Ozzy Sirimsi · Answer

For sure, it is a long process, and it you are converting a basement or something, mot likely to fail.

Debra Irvine · Answer

I'm going to look at some properties this weekend in Baltimore and one of the properties is in a R--8, so it look as if its a townhome so I would have to get permission from the council to convert to a 3 unit building? Is that a long process?

R-8 Zoning Multifamily?

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