Once every four years Baltimore County citizens have an opportunity to ensure that vacant lands adjoining their community are only developed in ways that preserve and enhance their quality of life.  This opportunity, known as the Comprehensive Zoning Map Process, is about to begin again. 

CEDS just completed a series of workshops on how to use rezoning and other options to preserve land from development.  To view the workshop presentation click the following text: CZMP PowerPoint.

An example of a rezoning issue can also be viewed by clicking the following title: Brown Property Rezoning Issue.

By early 2008, the County will release a listing of proposed rezonings.  CEDS will be holding a series of workshops shortly thereafter on how to ensure that property is not rezoned in a way that harms neighborhood quality of life.  To schedule a workshop for your area contact CEDS at 410-654-3021 or Help@ceds.org.

Each parcel of land in the County is assigned to one of 37 zoning classifications, such as RC-2: Resource Conservation Agricultural or DR-1: Density Residential One-Acre Lot.  A number of uses are permitted within each zone.  So the best way to ensure that vacant land next to your community is only developed with compatible uses is to make certain each parcel is appropriately zoned.  Achieving this goal is the purpose of the Comprehensive Zoning Map Process.

In 2004, more than 45,000 acres of lands were assigned to more appropriate zoning categories through the Comprehensive Zoning Map Process.  Many of these rezonings were a result of action by citizens and community associations. 

CEDS has produced a publication which explains how you can determine if the lands within or nearby your community are zoned properly.  The publication also explains how to change the zoning to a more appropriate classification through the Comprehensive Zoning Map Process.  To download a free copy of this publication click on the following title:

 Proactive Neighborhood Planning & the Baltimore County Comprehensive Zoning Map Process