FAQs • Frederick, MD • CivicEngage

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When is a home considered Overcrowded?: Maximum occupancy is determined by assessing the square footage of sleeping areas, minimum room sizes, and occupancy loads.

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1. What is the maximum height that I can allow my grass to grow?: Grass and weeds must be maintained at 10 inches or less.

2. How many yard sales are allowed in a year?: A person may have up to four (4) yard sales per calendar year each lasting a maximum of 3 consecutive days. A permit is required for any additional yard sales.

3. Can I store an unlicensed vehicle on my land?: Yes, you may store 1 unlicensed vehicle on your property provided it is covered with a fitted car cover (not a tarp) and is in good condition.

4. Can I post yard sale signs on traffic control devices and light poles?: No, city code strictly prohibits any signs from being posted on utility poles.

5. When do I have to remove snow and ice?: Property owners must remove snow and ice from all sidewalks abutting their property within 12 hours after snow has ceased falling.

6. Who is responsible for trimming trees and shrubs that hang into or over a roadway or sidewalk?: It is the property owner’s responsibility. Trees and shrubs must be trimmed so that limbs shall not be closer than nine (9) feet above the sidewalk and fifteen (15) feet above any street or alley.

7. Can I operate a business from my home?: Home occupations are permitted as a conditional use in all R, D, NC, and GC zoning districts provided all use requirements are met. For more information contact Planning at 301-600-1499.

8. Are permits required for minor repairs and maintenance on my home?: Building permits are required for construction or erection of a structure; construction of an addition to a structure; altering, modifying, or improving a structure; demolishing, moving, or removing a structure; or making a change of use and occupancy classification. If you are unsure if a permit is required, please contact the Building/Permit Department at 301-600-3808.

9. Am I allowed to park my vehicles on my lawn?: A person may not park a motor vehicle on grass, mulch, or any other surface that is not a paved area.

10. Can Basketball hoops be placed in the street as long as they do not obstruct traffic?: No, basketball hoops are prohibited from being placed in the public right of way.

11. Is my Landlord required to provide heat?: Yes, every owner or operator of any building who rents or leases one or more dwelling units must supply heat to the occupants of those units from Oct 1st to May 1st.

12. Can my landlord retaliate against me for reporting problems with my rental unit?: Maryland Landlord tenant law prohibits retaliation by a landlord against a tenant. For more information, contact the Frederick County District Court at 301-600-2000.

13. When is a home considered Overcrowded?: Maximum occupancy is determined by assessing the square footage of sleeping areas, minimum room sizes, and occupancy loads.