March 2024

Home Projects: When Do You Need a Permit?

Spring is in the air, and many homeowners may be planning home improvements and renovations in the coming weeks and months.

Montgomery County Department of Permitting Services (DPS) staff are available to answer your questions about when you need a permit and when you do not need a permit for your home projects.

In Montgomery County, a permit is not required for caulking, painting, wallpapering, replacing a faucet, installing countertops, installing flooring, replacing siding, replacing the roof covering, and replacing window screens.

A permit is generally required prior to reconstruction or renovation to an existing structure other than a repair. For example, permits are required when installing an accessory structure, deck, fence (unless it replaces a permitted fence in the same location, is the same height and same materials), gazebo, swimming pool, shed, etc.

DPS also provides guidance on its Residential Alterations webpage to help customers know when they may need a permit. Other resources to check out online are posted on the DPS Homeowners webpage.  If you live in a municipality or homeowners association, be sure and check the specific bylaws and regulations.

If you have questions, call MC 311 or 240-777-0311 and get connected with DPS staff or stop by DPS offices at 2425 Reedie Drive (7^th floor) in Wheaton. You may also want to schedule a free virtual design consultation to connect with code officials before applying for permits. You can book that appointment on the DPS website.

DPS Issues U & O for Silver Spring Rec and Aquatic Center

Montgomery Department of Permitting Services staff issued the use and occupancy certificate for the new Silver Spring Recreation and Aquatic Center at 1319 Apple Avenue. In addition to pools and recreation space, the facility also features public use space and is home of the Montgomery County Sports Hall of Fame. Read the news release for details about this exciting new County facility and check out the Montgomery County Recreation website for more information about activities and programs.

Watch the DPS Podcast on Video

The 12^th episode of the Montgomery County Department of Permitting Services Podcast, “Design for Life Property Tax Credit Program” is now available to watch on video as well as listen to on your favorite podcast platform. The podcast is hosted by DPS Customer Support and Outreach Division Chief Gail Lucas who discusses the Design for Life program with DPS Plan Reviewer Mariella Dallas. Read the news release for details.

Technology Modernization Program

DPS is working to elevate and innovate its online permitting services to provide a better customer experience.

“We're thrilled to announce a major leap forward in our technology landscape as ProjectDox/ePlans takes flight into the cloud,” said DPS Information Technology (IT) Chief Henry Mobayeni. “This strategic move is an integral part of our comprehensive Technology Modernization Program.”

The primary objectives include enhancing the customer service journey, elevating application performance, fortifying system reliability and ensuring enterprise-grade security, Mobayeni said.

“With ProjectDox/ePlans in the cloud, get ready for a seamless and faster experience that puts our customer at the center,” said Chief Mobayeni. “We're committed to delivering top-notch service, and this modernization is a significant step towards achieving that. We are excited that we are in the last stage to completion of the project.”

IT Chief Mobayeni said the project is scheduled to be complete in early August.

And the Survey Says: Majority of Responding Customers 'Satisfied'

More than 1,400 customers have responded to the DPS Customer Satisfaction Survey since it began in late 2022. The current customer rating for the email survey is a 4.02 (excellent to good range) and 74 percent of respondents rated service provided by DPS as “satisfied” or “very satisfied.”

The DPS Customer Satisfaction Survey is also posted on the website in English and Spanish.

Take the survey and let us know about your permitting experiences. It only takes a few minutes to fill out the survey, and your feedback is important as DPS continuously strives to improve its programs and services!

DPS Meetings: Save the Dates

DPS Director Rabbiah Sabbakhan and staff are scheduled to attend the Monday, March 11 County Council’s Economic Development Committee meeting to discuss the restaurant sector.

The Sign Review Board meets virtually on Microsoft Teams at 8:30 a.m. Wednesday, March 13.

The Department of Permitting Services Advisory Committee meets at 4:30 p.m. Thursday, March 21 also on Microsoft Teams.

Wednesday Water Webinar Set for March 20

The University of Maryland Extension Office will hold its next Wednesday Water Webinar at noon Wednesday, March 20. The webinar is titled “Answering Your Questions about Septic Systems,” and frequently asked questions will be addressed. 

Register for the webinar online.

Visit the DPS website for permitting information about wells and septic systems.

Register for the Energy Summit

The Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) is hosting the 11^th annual Energy Summit on April 15-16 at the Silver Spring Civic Building and DPS staff will be at the event to answer questions and provide the latest permitting information to attendees. Registration for the event is now underway. 

The summit is an opportunity for the commercial building community to prepare for compliance with energy benchmarking, building energy performance standards and emerging building codes.

Women's History Month Spotlight

Montgomery County Government celebrates Women’s History Month! Follow the County’s Facebook and X (formerly known as Twitter) accounts to meet County employees who are being recognized, including DPS staffers Juliana DeSouza and Tyneisha Thornton-Smith, during the month of March!

Work at DPS

The Department of Permitting Services is hiring inspectors, permitting specialists and more! Consider a rewarding career as a building code official. Check out the County’s website for information about new DPS employment opportunities.

Office Hours and Location

The Department of Permitting Services customer service lobby is located on the 7^th floor of the Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission (M-NCPPC) office building at 2425 Reedie Drive in Wheaton. DPS office hours are 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday-Friday. You do not need an appointment to get in-person assistance. If you have questions, call MC 311 or 240-777-0311.

Stay in the Know

Subscribe to Constructive Comments to receive this online newsletter in your inbox each month. In between issues, follow #MoCoDPS on Montgomery County’s Facebook, Instagram and X (formerly known as Twitter) pages for the latest news and information from the Montgomery County Department of Permitting Services.  Plus, follow the Montgomery County Department of Permitting Services Podcast wherever you listen to your favorite podcasts and stay connected and engaged with DPS code officials!