Montgomery County Maryland sent this bulletin at 06/28/2024 09:56 AM EDT
July 2024
What's New and What's Next for ePlans
More changes are coming to ePlans software this summer to make the permitting process easier to navigate. These changes will impact Commercial and Residential permit applications and training sessions will be available for customers.
In late May, the Department of Permitting Services (DPS) unveiled improvement to the ePlans software for Fence, Public Right-of Way, Sediment Control, Sign, Stormwater Concept and all Trade permit applications.These changes also included bringing Well and Septic permit applications online for the first time ever.
“We encourage customers to watch the training videos to become more familiar with the updated ePlans software,” said DPS Deputy Director Ehsan Motazedi. “Our focus is on providing the best permitting experience possible and we want our customers to know we are here to help.”
Look for training information about the upcoming ePlans updates to be posted on the front page of the DPS website at montgomerycountymd.gov/dps.
County Executive Marc Elrich is seeking applicants to fill two vacancies on the Sign Review Board for one individual who operates a business in Montgomery County, and one public resident representative. Board members must be residents of Montgomery County.
The five-member Board reviews variance applications and grants variances from the sign regulations of the Montgomery County Code. Members serve three-year terms. The Board currently meets virtually once a month on Wednesday mornings.
Council Public Hearing on ZTA 24-02 Set for July 16
Save the date! The Montgomery County Council is scheduled to hold a public hearing on Zoning Text Amendment (ZTA) 24-02, Agricultural and Rural Zones – Campground, at 1:30 p.m. Tuesday, July 16.
Under the current zoning ordinance, campgrounds are only allowed in the rural and residential estate 2C zones.
ZTA 24-02 will expand the campground use to the AR and RC zones on properties that satisfy the requirements for farming in the zoning ordinance. Additional requirements include a minimum acreage, a maximum number of structures, a maximum number of nights per guest, and limitations on kitchens and sanitation facilities.
Are you considering adding solar panels to your home? If so, you should know that DPS recently launched “eSolar,” and automated permitting application to speed up the permitting process for residential rooftop solar systems by approved installers. Read the news release to learn how this program can save you time and money.
DPS Podcast Focuses on Vendor Licenses
Listen to the latest Permitting Services Podcast episode for information about vendor licenses, including what to know about door-to-door, regular route, sidewalk and site-specific vending activity.
Customer Support and Outreach Division Chief Gail Lucas hosts the podcast, and she is joined by Code Compliance Manager Greg Nichols and Permit Technician Jorge Rueda for a discussion about what is and what is not allowed when it comes to vending activity in Montgomery County.
You can find the podcast on your favorite podcast platform or watch it on-demand on YouTube.
DPS Manager Chris Allen was recently promoted to Special Assistant to DPS Director Rabbiah Sabbakhan.This is a new position at DPS.
“I have worked at DPS for 18 years and during that time I have worked as a permit technician, residential building inspector, commercial building inspector and commercial inspection supervisor,” said Manager Allen. “I am excited about the new position so that I can utilize the totality of my experience at DPS to help our customers succeed with their personal and business goals. For the majority of my time at DPS, I have been involved with inspections. I am excited for the new challenges I will face in my new position in supporting the director and our organizational goals.
Allen said his day-to-day tasks will include assisting customers and representing DPS on several interagency groups.
Wednesday Water Webinar Focuses on Septic Systems
The University of Maryland Extension Office will hold its next Wednesday Water Webinar at noon Wednesday, July 17. The webinar, “Don’t Just Flush and Forget It - Basic Care for Your Septic System,” will address basic practices to keep your system functioning.
Visit the DPS website for permitting information about wells and septic systems, and applications for these permits are now available online.
DPS Advisory Committee Meets July 18
The DPS Advisory Committee meets virtually at 4:30 p.m. Thursday, July 18. Visit the DPS website to learn more about the committee.
Fireworks and Permits
Remember, professional fireworks displays in Montgomery County must have permits from DPS. This is to ensure that the display follows all applicable codes and standards and to protect the safety of the public. The Fire Marshal reminds residents that all other fireworks are illegal in Montgomery County, including sparklers. For information about applying for permits for professional displays, visit the DPS website.
Holiday Closing
The Department of Permitting Services will be closed on Thursday, July 4 in recognition of Independence Day. The office will reopen at 7:30 a.m. Friday, July 5.
DPS is located at 2425 Reedie Drive, Seventh Floor, in Wheaton. The office is open from 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday- Friday. No appointment is necessary to get in-person assistance.
Call 311 (240-777-0311) if you have questions or need more information.
Looking for a Job?
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 the most current DPS job opportunities.
Stay Connected with DPS
Subscribe to Constructive Comments to receive this online newsletter in your inbox each month.
