Montgomery County Maryland sent this bulletin at 08/30/2024 12:26 PM EDT
Sept. 2024
Building, Fire, Energy and Green Codes Update
For the first time ever, the Montgomery County Department of Permitting Services (DPS) is introducing both building and green code updates at the same time this year. The proposal adopts the 2021 editions of the International Code Council (ICC) codes to come in compliance with Maryland laws. DPS proposes the adoption of the International Building Code (IBC), International Energy Conservation Code (IECC), International Green Construction Code (igCC), International Mechanical Code (IMC), International Fuel Gas Code (IFGC), International Residential Code (IRC), International Swimming Pool and Spa Code (ISPSC), and the International Existing Building Code (IEBC) with amendments. The State adopted new regulations in 2023. DPS currently operates under the 2018 edition of these referenced codes.
One of the proposed amendments requires new bars and restaurants, among other establishments, to be protected by an approved sprinkler system as required by the 2021 edition of the Life Safety Code. Additional amendments mandate the installation of sprinkler systems in all new public parking garages. Several amendments propose modifying or adding language to encourage the construction of all electric buildings as required by the Montgomery County Climate Action Plan and Bill 13-22. Other proposed changes include safeguards to protect pedestrians near construction work sites. There are also proposed amendments to the Energy Conservation Code and Green Construction Code. These proposals suggest using computer software to model a building’s energy use.
Building codes are a set of rules and regulations that specify the minimum standards to which buildings and other structures must conform to protect the health, safety and welfare of the public. These codes help ensure the engineering of safe, sustainable, affordable and resilient structures. DPS enforces building codes in Montgomery County.
These national model codes are published by the ICC and then adopted by the State. Montgomery County then reviews, sometimes modifies or makes them stricter, and then adopts these standards. Montgomery County is also adopting the 2021 Fire Code (NFPA 1) and 2021 Life Safety Code (NFPA 101) and updated referenced NFPA (National Fire Protection Association) standards.
Look for more information about the codes update in the Montgomery County Register. Once the proposed codes are approved by the County Council, DPS will host several open houses where customers will be able to ask questions and get more information.
'Septic Smart Week' Set for Sept. 16-20
DPS is reminding homeowners to care for and maintain their septic systems as the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s 12th anniversary of “Septic Smart Week” approaches on Sept. 16-20.
DPS Well and Septic Manager Heidi Benham said there are nearly 20,000 septic systems in Montgomery County and DPS septic permit records date back to the 1950s.
Manager Benham and her staff of five are all licensed environmental health specialists and they review permit applications to ensure that any new or replacement wells or septic systems are installed properly.
When it comes to a septic system, Benham said, there are three things to know: where is it, what is it and what does it do.
“It’s important to have a general awareness about those three things because that knowledge will help you care for the system and notice when there is a problem,” Benham said. “We want our customers to know we are here to help. We can help customers understand where the components of the septic system are located and how they work.”
For more information about maintaining your septic system, see the DPS “A Homeowner’s Guide to Septic Systems,” featuring a maintenance checklist, ways to find your septic system, and signs of trouble. Also, visit the EPA’s “Septic Smart Week” webpage for more resources including “Think at the Sink,” “Don’t Overload the Commode,” “Don’t Strain Your Drain,” “Shield Your Field,” “Protect It and Inspect It” and more.
If you have additional questions about your septic system in Montgomery County, call MC 311 or 240-777-0311.
Making Plans Submission Easier at DPS
DPS recently upgraded its commercial building workflows on the ePlans (ProjectDox) software system to make plan submission easier for commercial customers. The update follows previous improvements to workflows for fence, public right-of-way, residential building, sediment control, sign, stormwater concept, and all trade permit applications.
When using the ePlans software, customers will note several changes including that they can invite others (or remove them) to a project instead of having to contact DPS for assistance; customers will also note a color-coded dashboard that can list up to 50 projects and will alert them when a task is overdue; new reports detail a project’s status; and a new workflow routing slip provides information about how long the project has been with DPS and the applicant; plus there are helpful hints and videos; and, the update includes the ability to create a discussion to ask questions of DPS staff.
Providing excellent customer service is a top priority of DPS, and these updates were designed to help make the permitting process more efficient.
To help customers with the upgrade, five ePlans training videos have been posted on the DPS website to provide additional guidance for customers. If you have any questions or need assistance email dps.eservices@montgomerycountymd.gov or contact MC 311 at 240-777- 0311.
Permitting Outreach
DPS staff provided outreach about DPS programs and services, including the Montgomery County Design for Life Property Tax Credit Program, on "Senior Day" at the Montgomery County Agricultural Fair alongside Montgomery County Fire Rescue Service (MCFRS) employees in August.
Look for DPS and MCFRS outreach staff at the Wheaton Community Recreation Center from 10 a.m-1 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 11. If you would like to schedule outreach at your organization’s next meeting or event, email DPS Outreach Manager Sonya Burke at sonya.burke@montgomerycountymd.gov or call 240.777.6272.
The Sign Review Board meets virtually at 8:30 a.m. Wednesday, Sept. 11. For information about the upcoming meeting agenda and minutes from previous meetings, visit the Board’s webpage or email Zoning Review Section Manager Patricia Wolford at patricia.wolford@montgomerycountymd.gov. For information about current vacancies on the Board, visit the County’s website.
DPS Advisory Committee Meeting Set for Sept. 19
Save the date! The Permitting Services Advisory Committee is scheduled to meet virtually on Microsoft Teams at 4:30 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 19. Committee meetings are open to the public. Visit the Committee’s webpage for meeting agendas and minutes.
Office Hours and Holiday Closing
Have you visited our customer service lobby? DPS is located at 2425 Reedie Drive, Seventh Floor, in Wheaton. Office hours are 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. weekdays. No appointment is necessary to get in-person assistance.
The office will be closed on Monday, Sept. 2 in observance of the Labor Day holiday. Apply for permits and submit construction plans online at any time.
Call MC 311 (240-777-0311) if you have questions or need more information. Remember, we are here to help you!
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 the most current DPS job opportunities.
