Councilman Marks Proposes Ban On "Panhandle Lots" In Honeygo Overlay District

PERRY HALL - Baltimore County Councilman David Marks has proposed a total ban on “panhandle lots” in White Marsh’s Honeygo Overlay District.

Bill 11-23 would update the regulations on developments in the Overlay District. According to Baltimore County zoning regulations, panhandle lots are homes where the only connection to a road is through a long driveway.

Panhandle lots are already restricted throughout much of the Honeygo Overlay District. Bill 11-23 would extend the ban to the rest of the area.

“Panhandle lots are sometimes used to unnecessarily cram homes into a development. They are banned in much of the Honeygo area; my legislation would extend that restriction.” Marks wrote.

The bill makes an exception for the area east of Honeygo Boulevard, south of Joppa Road, west of Cowenton Avenue, and north of I-95, and the area east of Cowenton Avenue, south of Joppa Road, and north of Panorama Drive. In these areas, panhandle lots will be permitted.

The bill also alters the open space standards, requiring housing developments in the district to provide an outdoor open area for residents.

The public parks and open spaces have been an area of significant focus for Marks since he took office in 2010. He has facilitated the construction of 11 new parks in District Five, including six in Perry Hall.

The final reading and vote on Bill 11-23 will occur on March 20 at 6 p.m. during a county legislative session. If passed, the bill will take effect on April 3.