2013 Maryland Code
LAND USE
§ 4-204 - Zoning regulations -- Amendment, repeal, and reclassification.

§4-204.

(a) Zoning regulations and boundaries may be amended or repealed.

(b) (1) If the purpose and effect of a proposed map amendment is to change a zoning classification, the legislative body shall make findings of fact that address:

(i) population change;

(ii) the availability of public facilities;

(iii) present and future transportation patterns;

(iv) compatibility with existing and proposed development for the area;

(v) the recommendation of the planning commission; and

(vi) the relationship of the proposed amendment to the local jurisdiction’s plan.

(2) The legislative body may grant the amendment to change the zoning classification based on a finding that there was:

(i) a substantial change in the character of the neighborhood where the property is located; or

(ii) a mistake in the existing zoning classification.

(3) The legislative body shall keep a complete record of a hearing on an application for reclassification and the votes of the members of the legislative body.

(4) A legislative body may not allow the filing of an application for a reclassification of all or part of any land for which a reclassification has been denied by the legislative body on the merits in the 12 months before the date of the application.

(5) The provisions of § 4-203(b) of this subtitle concerning public hearings and notice apply to applications for reclassification.