Development Review and Planning's Mission

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.

Department Primary Sections:

• 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. 
• Zoning Administration: 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. 

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.

Click Here to Access the Application Portal Electronic Plan Submission Guide