Development Review and Planning

The Department of Development Review and Planning's mission is to review development applications and land use changes in an efficient and predictable manner while promoting the health, safety, and welfare of the public. All applications for development and land use activities are submitted to and processed by the Department using our online application portal. We coordinate the review of these applications with appropriate County and State agencies and facilitate the approval process.

We welcome you to contact us with questions about your property, potential projects you have in mind, or if you would like to know more about a development project that is being reviewed in your community.

Development Review Planning

Responsible for the management and administration of the development review function of the Frederick County Planning Commission; review of site development plans, subdivision plans, forest conservation plans, and Adequate Public Facilities applications.

Responsible for the management and administration of the Frederick County Board of Appeals; review of building permits for Zoning compliance; inspections for site compliance; FEMA floodplain administration for the County; zoning administration and enforcement.

Transportation Engineering

Responsible for the review of development plans for adequacy of transportation networks, circulation patterns, and compliance with the Adequate Public Facilities Ordinance; management and administration of the Frederick County Bicycle and Pedestrian Advisory Committee; region transportation initiatives.

Subdivision Plats
Site Plan and Preliminary Plat
Adequate Public Facilities Ordinance (APFO)
Forest Resource Ordinance (FRO)
Development Rights and Responsibilities Agreement (DRRA)
Lot of Record and Subdivision Potential

Additional Information

The Department of Development Review and Planning accepts and processes construction drawing applications. 
For questions regarding application type or stormwater management, please contact Environmental Compliance. 
For questions regarding traffic related aspects, please email Mark Mishler.