High Performance Homes Tax Credit

The property tax credit for High Performance Homes, as defined in Section 11-2-203.2 of the Baltimore County Code, is based on the percentage of energy efficiency achieved within a residential structure. A corresponding decrease of that percentage is deducted from the Baltimore County real property tax obligation; any other charges or fees listed on your bill are not included in the calculation of the credit.

As with all Property Tax Credits, granting this credit is subject to funding availability.

Note: The credit runs with the property and a change of ownership does not result in a lapse of the tax credit.

ELIGIBILITY

Three methods of energy efficiency measurement are approved for use in Baltimore County.

HOME ENERGY RATING SYSTEM INDEX

The Home Energy Rating System (HERS) Index, developed by the Department of Energy, measures the overall energy efficiency for new construction as well as renovated properties. To qualify for the credit:

  • A newly constructed residence must receive a HERS Rating of 70 or lower
  • Renovated structures must achieve an increase in energy efficiency of at least 30 percent and a HERS Rating, completed before and after the renovation, must be submitted with the application

LEADERSHIP IN ENERGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL DESIGN RATING SYSTEM

The Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) System is a rating system offered by the U.S. Green Building Council. The amount of the tax credit is as follows:

  • LEED Silver homes provide a 40 percent property tax reduction
  • LEED Gold homes provide a 60 percent property tax reduction
  • LEED Platinum homes provide a 100 percent property tax reduction

NATIONAL GREEN BUILDING STANDARD RATING SYSTEM

The National Green Building Standard (NGBS) rating system is approved by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI). The amount of the tax credit is as follows:

  • NGBS Silver provides a 40 percent property tax reduction
  • NGBS Gold provides a 60 percent property tax reduction
  • NGBS Emerald provides a 100 percent property tax reduction

APPLY FOR THE TAX CREDIT

The application for the High Performance Homes Tax Credit must be submitted no later than June 1 immediately preceding the first taxable year for which the credit is sought. The credit runs for three consecutive years beginning with the first year it is awarded.

Follow the steps below to apply for the High Performance Homes Tax Credit.

STEP 1: GATHER REQUIRED DOCUMENTATION

You must submit a copy of:

  • The certificate indicating the efficiency level of your property provided by your builder, contractor or rater
  • Any other relevant documentation

Note: If your application is for a renovated structure, you must submit a HERS Rating completed before and after the renovation.

STEP 2: DECIDE HOW YOU WANT TO APPLY

Apply Online

To apply for the High Performance Homes Tax Credit online, you'll need:

  • A valid email address
  • All documentation from Step 1 above

Apply Now

Apply by Mail or In Person

To apply by mail or in person, you must:

Send or bring your application to:

Office of Budget and Finance
Property Tax Credit Administration
High Performance Homes Tax Credit
400 Washington Avenue, Room 150
Towson, Maryland 21204