The Oakland Zoning Ordinance was originally enacted on June 3, 1974. The most recent version of the Ordinance was adopted December 2, 2002 and may be purchased at Oakland Town Hall or viewed online by clicking this link. Please click on the following link to view the Document Oakland Zoning Map (250.03 KB) and a Document Zoning Map (714.23 KB) showing individual parcels. We also offers interactive webmaps that include a zoning layer. Planning & Land Management staff helps administer the Oakland Zoning Ordinance and provides final review and approval of all required zoning permits.
The following amendments to the Ordinance have been adopted:
- December 17, 2015 Amendments: Document Amendment 1 (200.42 KB) , Document Amendment 2 (47.64 KB)
- Document December 2, 2019 Amendments regarding Group Homes, TVRs & Solar (80.96 KB)
- Document February 1, 2021 LED sign amendments (274.41 KB)
- Document July 5, 2022 amendment regarding vacation rentals (45.23 KB)
Contact
For more information please contact Bruce Metz or Chad Fike at 301-334-1920.
The Town of Oakland can be contacted at 301-334-2691 or by email. Town Hall is located at 15 South 3rd Street; Oakland, MD 21550.
Zoning Permits
Erecting most structures or changing the use of land or buildings within the Town of Oakland requires a zoning permit. In most cases a building permit from the Department of Permits & Inspection Services will also be required. Certain smaller structures such as fences, signs, and small sheds will require a site plan and zoning permit even if a building permit is not required. Please call with details of any proposed project to determine which permits will be required.
Application Process
Zoning permit applications are made at the Oakland Town Hall by the property owner or authorized agent of the owner. The zoning permit application must then be brought to the Department of Planning and Land Management at the Courthouse for final review and approval. If necessary, a building permit will also be initiated at this time. Construction may not begin until all required building and zoning permits are issued.
Site Plans
Every application for a zoning permit shall be accompanied by a layout plan showing the location and dimensions of proposed buildings and structures in relation to property and street lines. An Engineers site plan will be required for new construction (i.e. buildings, homes, additions, garages, etc.)
Fees
Required zoning permit fees are paid at the Town Hall. Please contact Town Hall for the current fee schedule.
Appeals for Special Exceptions, Variances & Interpretations
The Board of Appeals consists of five (5) members and two alternates appointed by the Mayor and confirmed by the Town Council. The term of office of the members is three (3) years. The Board may grant zoning approval for Special Exception Uses following a public hearing and findings of fact consistent with the provisions of the Ordinance, and provided the use complies with conditions and standards in the Ordinance.
- A Variance is a request for the Board of Zoning Appeals to vary or adapt the strict application of certain specific requirements of the Zoning Ordinance.
- An Interpretation Hearing may be requested where it is alleged there is error in any order, requirement, decision or determination made by the Zoning Administrator.
Please contact Town Hall for additional information.
