How to License a Group Home in Maryland: Pick the Right Agency First (DDA, OHCQ, DHS, BHA)

Ready to open a group home in Maryland? Your very first decision is which agency governs it, because that choice changes everything else.

Maryland licenses group homes by population: DDA for developmental disability residential services, OHCQ for assisted living, DHS for residential child care, and BHA for behavioral health residential programs. We have spent 20+ years clearing the path in all 50 states, and we'll do it for you.

Choose the right Maryland agency

Confirm your category before you sign a lease, because it drives your facility standards, staffing, and documentation. For DDA Medicaid waiver services, each participant must have a private, single-occupancy bedroom unless residents choose to share.

Facility, zoning, funding, and staffing

Plan for fire and life-safety inspections, accessibility appropriate to your residents, and, for pre-1978 rentals, Maryland lead paint rules. Zoning is local, so confirm county or municipal codes early. Maryland's DHCD runs a Group Home Program that helps finance housing, but it is a funding resource, not the licensing agency. Staff for the roles your category requires, with background checks, training, and quality assurance.

Key takeaway: In Maryland, choose the right agency for your population first, DDA, OHCQ, DHS, or BHA, then align facility, zoning, funding, and staffing before you apply.

Start Any Program. In Any State.®

Getting ready to open a group home in Maryland? Book a video consultation at waivergroup.com/videoappointment, call 302.888.9172, or email inquiries@waivergroup.com.