All boards & commissions
Filter by type or statusPlanning Commission
Reviews subdivisions, site plans, special exceptions, and zoning text amendments. Makes recommendations to City Council on long-range plans.
Historic Preservation Commission
Reviews exterior changes to properties in the Annapolis Historic District. Issues Certificates of Approval for alterations, additions, and new construction.
Board of Appeals
Hears appeals of zoning and code enforcement decisions; rules on requests for variances and special exceptions. Decisions appealable to Circuit Court.
Ethics Commission
Administers the City's public ethics laws. Issues advisory opinions, reviews financial disclosures, and investigates complaints alleging ethics violations by officials.
Port Wardens / Maritime Advisory Board
Regulates use of the City's harbor, anchorages, mooring fields, and water access. Reviews waterfront permits and mooring assignments.
Environmental Commission
Advises the Mayor and Council on environmental policy, sustainability, climate action, and stewardship of the Chesapeake Bay watershed.
Arts in Public Places Commission
Promotes public art and curates public art installations throughout the City. Reviews gifts of art and recommends acquisitions.
Affordable Housing Advisory Committee
Advises on housing affordability, inclusionary zoning, and partnerships with developers, nonprofits, and the County to expand affordable housing.
Recreation Advisory Board
Advises on recreation programming, facilities, parks investment, and community-driven recreation initiatives.
Transportation Board
Reviews transportation policy, multimodal infrastructure, bicycle and pedestrian improvements, and parking management.
Police Accountability Board
Receives and reviews police misconduct complaints; works in partnership with the Anne Arundel County Administrative Charging Committee.
Maritime Advisory Board
Provides expert advice on Annapolis's maritime industry, working waterfront, marina policy, and harbor stewardship.
Serve your city — apply for a vacancy.
Boards and commissions are made up of Annapolis residents who volunteer their time and expertise. The Mayor nominates members; the Council confirms appointments. Most positions require only a passion for the topic.
Apply to serve →How appointment works
4 steps to serving-
Submit your application
Apply through the online portal. Include relevant experience, your areas of interest, and any conflict-of-interest disclosures.
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Mayor's review & nomination
The Mayor's Office reviews applications and nominates candidates based on qualifications, balance, and current openings.
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Council confirmation
The City Council holds a public confirmation vote on each nomination. Most nominees are confirmed unanimously.
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Take the oath & serve
You'll be sworn in and added to the board roster. Terms range from 2–4 years depending on the body.