Montgomery County Maryland sent this bulletin at 09/05/2025 11:08 AM EDT
Sept. 2025
Safe and Efficient: New Online Portal Streamlines Fire Permit Process
Montgomery County has launched a new online portal for applying for and renewing Fire Code Compliance (FCC) permits, making the process faster, more efficient, and entirely paperless.
All commercial buildings and tenant spaces in the County are required to have an FCC permit issued by the Department of Permitting Services (DPS). These permits ensure that buildings meet established fire safety standards. Business owners and property managers—including those operating childcare centers, group homes, healthcare facilities, hotels, places of worship, restaurants, retail stores, and schools—are responsible for renewing their FCC permits annually.
Effective immediately, all FCC permit applications and renewals must be submitted through the DPS online permitting system, ePlans (ProjectDox). The new process includes creating an online account, uploading required documentation (inspection, testing, and maintenance records) and paying the annual FCC permit fee online
Each permit will include an issuance date and an expiration date for the following calendar year.
This digital transition supports DPS’s goal of going paperless. By submitting FCC reports and records online, applicants and inspectors can avoid the delays and inefficiencies of paper-based documentation. The new system also improves communication by providing a direct channel between DPS staff and customers.
“Annual testing of all fire protection systems in accordance with codes and standards is a condition of the FCC permit,” said DPS Director Rabbiah Sabbakhan. “DPS staff will review the FCC permit and any required inspection, maintenance, and testing documentation. The permit will be issued once the required documentation confirms there are no deficiencies or impairments in the fire protection systems. This cooperation is critical to DPS fulfilling its mission to ensure safety and protection for occupants of all the apartments, restaurants, offices, and places of worship here in the County.”
Documentation is required for both active and passive fire protection systems, including but not limited to automatic sprinkler systems, fire alarm systems, smoke control systems, fire-rated assemblies, and private fire hydrants.
Businesses that fail to apply for or renew their FCC permit will receive a Notice of Violation. If they do not comply within 30 days, they may be issued a $500 civil citation, with additional fines possible for continued noncompliance.
Business owners can check the status of their FCC permit using the data search tool (search by building address) in the Apply Online section on the DPS website.
Did you know there are approximately 20,000 septic systems in Montgomery County?
As "SepticSmart Week" approaches Sept. 15-19, DPS Well and Septic Manager Heidi Benham is encouraging homeowners to learn how their septic system works and how to properly maintain it. Manager Benham recently discussed this topic on the Montgomery Al Dia Spanish-language radio show.
"Your septic system is a vital part of your home’s infrastructure, just like your HVAC or your roof," said Benham. "It’s important for homeowners to be educated about where their septic system is located, how it works, and how to take care of it.”
Proper maintenance is essential to avoid costly repairs and protect the environment. Here are some key tips from the "SepticSmart" campaign:
Pump your tank regularly: Have your septic tank pumped every three to five years to prevent system failure.
Think at the sink: Avoid pouring grease, oil, or harsh chemicals down the drain.
Flush responsibly: Never flush non-degradable items like wipes, paper towels, or feminine hygiene products.
Shield your field: Keep your drain field clear—don’t park, drive, or plant trees or shrubs on it.
Use water wisely: Avoid overloading your system by spacing out heavy water use activities like baths, dishwashing and laundry.
Homeowners can also learn more about the permitting process for septic systems by visiting the DPS website.
New Guidance Available for Demolition and Partial Demolition
Planning a home improvement project that involves modifying or removing exterior walls? DPS has released updated guidance to help homeowners, contractors, and design professionals navigate the permitting process for demolition and partial demolition work.
In many residential improvement projects, the scope of work includes altering existing exterior walls through removal, modification, or repair. Depending on the work, this may require an alteration permit or an addition/alteration permit. If the project involves significant demolition, a demolition permit may also be required.
In 2023, Montgomery County amended Section 8-27 of the County Code to clarify when a demolition permit is necessary. Under the updated law, demolition is defined as tearing down or destroying an entire building or structure, or removing 67% or more of the first-story exterior walls of a one-family or two-family dwelling unit.
This includes converting an exterior wall into an interior wall. Notably, basement and cellar walls are not considered exterior walls for this calculation. If a project meets this threshold, a demolition permit is required along with new home building, land development, and trade permits if the structure is being rebuilt or expanded.
The updated guidance clarifies what constitutes a major alteration versus a full demolition. It also outlines the necessary steps for compliance, including calculating the percentage of exterior walls affected, understanding permit requirements for rebuilding and meeting environmental and safety obligations, such as utility disconnections, pest inspections, and asbestos removal
The DPS outreach team is available to attend community events around the County to provide information about permitting programs, resources, and services. Look for DPS staff at the Public Safety Fair on Saturday, Sept. 13 at Wheaton Local Park. Check out the DPS calendar on the front page of the DPS website for details to find out where the outreach team will be next.
Residential Team Will Expedite Permits for Emergency Electrical Repairs
If your home has sustained electrical damage due to a fire or storm, the Department of Permitting Services (DPS) is here to help. The Residential Inspections Team is expediting permits and inspections for emergency electrical repairs to help homeowners restore power safely and quickly.
If you need assistance or have questions, contact MC 311 or call 240-777-0311 to speak with a member of the DPS residential inspections team.
Wednesday Water Webinar on Microplastics
Save the date! The University of Maryland Extension Office will hold its next Wednesday Water Webinar at noon on Wednesday, Sept. 17, to discuss exposure to microplastics and how to reduce your risk. Join this webinar to learn how to reduce your exposure and to be a better steward for the environment. Register for the webinar online.
Office Hours and Location
The DPS Customer Service Lobby is located at 2425 Reedie Drive, seventh floor, in Wheaton. Office hours are 7:30 a.m.- 4 p.m. weekdays; no appointment is necessary. Customers may apply for permits, schedule inspections, request records, and upload construction plans online at any time.
Work at DPS
The Department of Permitting Services is hiring! Consider a rewarding job at the permitting department where safety, sustainability, and providing excellent customer service are top priorities.
Check out the County’s website for information about recent job openings at DPS and learn about additional career opportunities at Montgomery County Government.
Take the Customer Satisfaction Survey
Complete the Customer Satisfaction Survey and share information about your experience with the permitting department. It only takes a few minutes to fill out the survey, and your feedback is important as DPS continuously strives to enhance and improve its programs and services!
