The first step is completing our Online Permanent Merchant Application Form, which you can find by clicking “Learn More” under any stall listing above.

This application helps our leasing team learn more about your business, products, operational readiness, and long-term goals. You’ll also be asked to submit supporting materials that help us evaluate your concept. 

If your business aligns with current market needs and available space, our leasing team may contact you to move forward in the process. 

Please note that submitting an application does not guarantee placement. 

To complete your application, please be prepared to provide: 

• Completed Online Permanent Merchant Application Form  
• Business plan  
• Three-year financial projections/pro forma  
• Product or menu information with pricing 
• Additional supporting materials requested by the leasing team  

Applications that are incomplete may not be reviewed. 

Our leasing process typically includes: 

1. Online Permanent Merchant Application review  
2. Review of applicants business concept and financials  
3. Follow-up conversations and an in-person interview with tasting (if applicable). Applicants not applying with a food concept will be asked to bring in product samples for the panel sitting in on the interview.  
4. Lease negotiations  
5. Stall design/buildout approvals  
6. Licensing and permitting  
7. Grand opening preparation and coordinating a stall ribbon cutting 

This process can take several weeks or longer depending on business readiness, permitting timelines, and available space. 

Rent varies based on: 

• Market location  
• Stall size  
• Where the stall is located within the market.  
• Lease term  
• Business type  
• Turnkey vs. Buildout  

Rates are negotiated individually and price per square foot.  

Yes. Approved merchants must submit a security deposit to reserve their stall space. The deposit is equal to one months rent and paid at lease signing.  

Leases can be signed either: 

• Electronically via Adobe Sign 
  OR  
• In person with the leasing team  

Before opening, merchants must provide: 

• Business License  
• Certificate of Insurance (COI)  
• Maryland Sales & Use Tax License  
• Food permits (if applicable)  
• ServSafe/Food Manager certification (if applicable)  
• Additional permits based on your business type  

Most merchants customize their stall space. 

Before construction begins, you must submit: 

• Professional drawings  
• Equipment specifications  
• Layout plans  
• Signage proposal 
• Proposed menu or product list 
• Materials details  
• Contractor information  

All plans, menus, and/or product list must receive written approval from the market.  

Yes—but contractors must provide: 

• Licensing documentation  
• Proof of insurance  
• Insurance naming BPMC and the Mayor & City Council of Baltimore as additional insured parties  

Construction must be coordinated with BPMC to avoid disrupting market operations. 

Projects involving noise, odors, or heavy work are required to be scheduled after market operating hours.  

Construction must be coordinated with BPMC to avoid disrupting market operations. 

Projects involving noise, odors, or heavy work are required to be scheduled after market operating hours.  

Depending on your business, you may need approvals from: 

• Baltimore City Health Department  
• Fire Marshal  
• Building Inspector  
• Use & Occupancy Permit approval  

All inspections must be passed before opening.  

While merchants are responsible for paying for and securing permits, the market supports the merchant through the permitting process and can refer you to our preferred permit expediter to help streamline the process.  

After receiving your Use & Occupancy Certificate: 

• You receive a 30-day turnover period to train staff, and prepare for opening to the public.  
• Base rent begins after that 30 day turnover period ends—or 90 days after lease signing, whichever comes first.  

Yes. Once you’re preparing to open, our marketing team helps support your launch through: 

• Website listings  
• Social media promotion  
• Grand opening marketing  
• Ribbon cutting event 
• Community partnerships  

No. Space availability is limited and highly competitive. 

Submitting an application does not guarantee placement, and only selected applicants will be contacted. 

For leasing inquiries, contact leasing@baltimoremarkets.org.