Building Permit Data System (BPDS)

This permits dataset includes any permit that is greater than or equal to $50,000 in value and all permits with use codes 40-49 (new residential) and 60-65 (new mixed use). Historically, BMC receives the permits from participating jurisdictions and geocodes them. In recent years, some jurisdictions have started geocoding their own permits. When this is the case, BMC incorporates the geocoded points as given, and does not include them in its own geocoding process. NOTE: The BPDS data schema has been updated as of 06/12/2026. The dataset now includes additional fields and some old fields have been slightly renamed. This points layer has been recreated from the main permits database and represents the current authoritative data. In addition, the BPDS data is now published as feature service with a single layer. (The old sub-layers can be recreated from the new data by using the Permit Category field in filters or definition queries.) The simplified classification of permit types and uses are found in the Permit Category (pmt_cat) field: Residential, New Construction Residential, Alterations Non-Residential, New Construction Non-Residential, Alterations Mixed Use, New Construction There is no category for Mixed Use alterations; alterations to Mixed Use always get classified as Residential or Non-Residential. Expanded building permit data can be found on the BMC website. Field Names The new data schema as of 06/12/2026 includes additional fields and some slightly renamed fields. Download a list of field names, aliases and descriptions. Download a list of all of the Permit Use and Permit Type values. Update Cycle The data is updated approximately once every three months. Usage Note Over the years, building permit points were geocoded using a variety of software and reference data. The Baltimore Metropolitan Council made every effort to ensure accurate geocoding; however, there may be inaccuracies or inconsistencies in how the points were placed. For best results, the Baltimore Metropolitan Council recommends aggregating the building permit points to a larger geography (ex. Census tract, zip code) when analyzing the data. Technical Contact For questions or comments, contact Crystal McDermott, Transportation Planner, at [e-mail] or 410-732-0500.