Towson, Md.(August 21, 2007)—As Baltimore County prepares to welcome back college students for another year, it is taking steps to remind college officials and residents about county code requirements that regulate the number of unrelated individuals that may live in an individual home in the county.

In scheduled meetings with community leaders, county officials are asking them to assist the county in ensuring that the number of individuals living in homes across the county does not exceed county regulations. The Baltimore County zoning code specifically states that unless a structure is zoned as a "boarding or rooming house" no more than two unrelated individuals may reside in that home. The code does exempt hotels, motels, and apartment buildings from this regulation. Boarding and Rooming Houses require a specific permit and are allowed only in single-family detached dwellings.

Code Enforced

"The county is very proud of the many resources that its colleges and universities bring to our communities," said Baltimore County Executive Jim Smith. "At the same time, we know that it is very important that students living in our neighborhoods abide by the rules. I encourage families throughout the county to assist us in ensuring that regulations limiting the number of individuals who live in a home are enforced. Adherence to these codes is good for the neighborhood and good for our college students."

In addition to meeting with communities and college officials, members of the county's Office of Community Conservation are working with management companies across the county to encourage them to control the number of students living in apartment complexes near college campuses.

"I am very pleased that the county is taking such a comprehensive approach to this issue," said Baltimore County Council Chair Sam Moxley. "These are the kinds of action that people ought to expect of their government."

Report Violations

Community leaders responded favorably to the county's efforts. "If communities and the county government work together on this issue, it will be good for everyone," said Rogers Forge Community Activist Don Gerding. "I encourage community members to report violations to the county immediately. It is also imperative that landlords register their properties with the county under the rental registration program." If a home is being occupied by more than two unrelated individuals in your community, please contact Baltimore County Code Enforcement at 410-887-3351 to report the violation.