Building Plan Review
Purpose:  The Office of Plan Review performs the review for building code compliance during the permitting process. The construction plans, or blueprints, are examined by technical staff for such items as properly sized lumber and building materials, adequate light and ventilation, energy conservation, required clearances, and egress (safe exit ways).

Submittal Requirements:  For residential construction, Plan Review Submittal Checklists are available to ensure that plans submitted for a building permit application are adequate for review. In some instances, the Plan Reviewer may ask an applicant to provide more information to help them evaluate safety aspects of the project or demonstrate structural integrity of the proposed work. For complex work or intricate construction features, professionally prepared drawings may be required. Also available are Building Code Checklists that the Plan Reviewers use to determine code compliance. These checklists are attached to the field approved drawings that are returned to the applicant for their convenience. Two sets of plans are required for submittal. One set is retained by the Department of Permits and Inspections, and one set is returned to the applicant with comments.

Residential Plan Review Code Compliance Checklists

• Basement
• Deck Information Guide
• Pool Barrier 
• Residential Review

Details and Handouts
The links listed below will access the following handouts.

• Approved Products for Decking & Railing
• Fire Separation Requirements
• Safety Glazing Locations
• Stair and Handrail Details
• Window Sill Height & Fall Prevention

For non-residential (commercial) construction projects, plans are required to be signed and sealed by a licensed Maryland Architect or Engineer. Three sets of plans are required for submittal. One set is retained by the Department of Permits and Inspection, the Office of Life Safety retains another, and one set is returned to the applicant with comments.

Review Time:  Plans are reviewed according to the established Plan Review Timeframes. During the review, if it is determined additional information is required to complete the review; a “Hold Notice” is mailed to the applicant. When the additional information is received, the review is continued.

Codes in Effect:  To view a list of the current codes in effect:

                           Current Codes

Related Links

• Access to Codes & Standards www.eCodes.biz
• Energy Compliance http://www.eere.energy.gov/

*All details are generated by Frederick County Department of Permits & Inspections.