In this issue:
 
Program Now Assists Bigger Businesses
DPIE Connect is a program that brings together members of the BDS team with applicants in mini pre-design review meetings. BDS coordinates with staff in the Building Plan Review, Inspections, and Permitting and Licensing divisions to assist with specific requirements related to applicants’ projects. Topics of discussion include application requirements, permits, revisions, licenses, inspections, fees and building code-related issues. The goal of the service is to decrease review times and provide guidance through the application process. DPIE strongly encourages applicants to take advantage of DPIE Connect to gain access to important information.
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The scope of projects applicable for DPIE Connect include:
- Projects requesting a straight U&O — no construction
- Projects with a change of occupancy — no construction
- Projects with interior alterations not exceeding 3,000 sq. ft. in area
- Projects limited to one story in height
DPIE Connect gives business owners an advantage in that DPIE experts can familiarize them with issues that they may not realize they need to address. For example, did you know that if your establishment holds a liquor license and you would like to provide entertainment such as karaoke, DJs or bands, you are required to update your Use and Occupancy Permit (U&O)? The BDS and County Liquor Board inspectors recently collaborated on a presentation about permitting and liquor licensing. The presentation delved into the U&O application process, but also covered requirements set by the Liquor Board. For more information, view the Permitting and Liquor Licensing PowerPoint.
As we continue to encourage and support our local businesses, DPIE Connect has increased the square footage requirement from 2,000 to 3,000 square feet for businesses that qualify for assistance. The increase allows more business owners who wish to alter their spaces to utilize DPIE Connect. Gathering information about DPIE requirements allows small business owners to make sound decisions regarding their tenant fit-out, such as plans and permits required, budgeting and a timeline for the project.
For more information, visit DPIE Connect — Mini Preliminary Design Review Meeting.
For more updates, follow DPIE and DPIE BDS events on Facebook and Twitter@PGCountyDPIE.
 The Real Milk & Honey Eatery & Bar offers indoor and outdoor seating with rooftop views and a wide variety of Southern cuisine.
Opening of Burgers@Apollo and The Real Milk & Honey Eatery & Bar Facilitated by Program
The BDS team, Nicole Reece and Charles Cooper, recently assisted The Real Milk & Honey Eatery & Bar and Burgers@Apollo with updating their U&O permits to include entertainment. With direction from the BDS, these two culinary newcomers to the Camp Springs community are on their way to providing family-friendly entertainment for their guests. Located in Restaurant Row Plaza, 4531 Telfair Blvd., Camp Springs, both restaurants are open daily for dine in or take-out service. Burgers@Apollo also offers delivery service.
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The Real Milk & Honey Eatery & Bar is famous for its Southern Lunch Brunch menu. The offerings include specialties such as Chef Mo’s Shrimp and Grits, crab hash, deep-fried salmon, jerk lamb lollipops, adult milkshakes, and basics such as pancakes.
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Burgers@Apollo, inspired by DC’s go-go music culture, specializes in hand-crafted burgers, shakes, fries, and tasty onion rings. The restaurant's interior pays homage to local DMV musicians, politicians, and influencers. “Serving high quality food” is the motto.
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  Burgers@Apollo’s décor pays homage to the DMV music scene.
A landlord authorization/signature is no longer required as part of the permit application submittal. DPIE now requires an attestation that you are authorized to submit the application for the permit and that all statements on the application are true and complete. See DPIE's Use & Occupancy web page.
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Business Development Section Event
Register to Attend!
The BDS team will hold a webinar entitled "Building Permits, U&Os & Inspections for Commercial Businesses” at 12 noon on Tuesday, November 29, 2022. The webinar will answer questions about permit and submittal steps and other helpful information. Register for the webinar at https://event.webinarjam.com/register/108/0v5yka06.
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ICYMI
The BDS has offered several webinars and PowerPoint presentations for the business community covering a wide range of topics in the last year, including Building and Use and Occupancy Permits, Inspections, Special Events, Business Licensing, and more. Customers may access the BDS presentations here.
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